Location & How to Get There

Guilin Park sits in Xuhui District, Shanghai, at No. 188 Caobao Road. It’s super easy to reach—just walk 98 meters from Exit 2 of Guilin Park subway station (Line 12). If you’re coming from downtown, a quick ride on the metro will drop you right near this hidden gem.

Natural Scenery: A Sea of Sweet Osmanthus

Guilin Park is famous for its osmanthus trees—over 1,000 of them! From golden to silvery varieties, the park bursts into fragrance during autumn, especially around Mid-Autumn Festival. The air here smells like sweet honey, and you’ll see families picnicking under the trees, soaking in the scent. Besides flowers, there are craggy rock formations, winding ponds, and ancient pines that make you feel like you’re in a traditional Chinese painting.

Cultural Highlights: Classical Garden Design

This park isn’t just about nature—it’s packed with traditional Chinese architecture. Think twisting nine-turn corridors, a boat-shaped pavilion called Bungalow of Wisdom, and bridges arching over lily ponds. The layout uses old Jiangnan garden techniques, with hidden paths, fake mountains, and walls shaped like dragons. My favorite? The Eight Immortals Terrace, which feels straight out of a fairy tale. Every building has a story, from the Hall of Four Teachings to the Fragrance Hall, all blending perfectly with the landscape.

History Lesson: A Century-Old Legacy

Guilin Park dates back to 1929, built by a wealthy businessman who spent 3.5 million silver dollars (a fortune back then!) and took three years to finish. It’s crazy to think people have been enjoying this garden for almost 100 years. The design mixes Southern China’s delicate styles with bold structures, making it a mini masterpiece of Chinese gardening art.

Practical Tips: What to Expect

  • Entrance: Super affordable—just ¥15 for adults.
  • Food: There’s a small café inside, but many bring their own snacks for picnics.
  • Best Time: Visit in late September to early October for the osmanthus bloom. At night, the park sometimes hosts light shows or traditional music performances.
  • Photo Spots: The Nine-Bend Bridge and Fragrance Hall are Instagram gold, especially when the flowers are in full swing.

Exploring the Park: A Walking Guide

Start at the Gongyin Pavilion near the entrance, then follow the stone path past the Haha Pavilion (great for people-watching). Cross the Double-Rainbow Bridge to see the pond with koi fish. Don’t miss the Guanyin Pavilion, a quiet spot for photos. End your trip at the Wisdom Boat, where you can rest while pretending you’re floating on a lake.

Why You’ll Love It

Guilin Park is perfect if you want a break from Shanghai’s busy streets. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and full of chances to snap amazing photos. Whether you’re into flowers, history, or just chilling under a tree, this place has something for everyone. Just go before sunset—the golden hour light makes the garden glow!