Location & How to Get There

Hundred Bats Pavilion sits inside the Kezhi Garden of Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, Qingpu District, Shanghai. To reach it, take Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao Station, then a short taxi or bus ride to the town’s entrance. From downtown Shanghai, it’s about a 1-hour drive—perfect for a day trip. The pavilion is nestled in a traditional Chinese garden, surrounded by ponds, ancient trees, and winding stone paths.

Natural Scenery: A Serene Escape

The garden around Hundred Bats Pavilion feels like a hidden paradise. Lotus-filled ponds reflect the pavilion’s roof, while willow trees sway gently by the water. In spring, pink blossoms and lush greenery create a vibrant backdrop, and autumn turns the garden into a golden landscape. Birds chirp loudly, and dragonflies dance over the lily pads—it’s easy to forget you’re just an hour from bustling Shanghai.

Cultural Significance: Bats Bringing Luck

Hundred Bats Pavilion is all about symbolism. The original structure (rebuilt after damage) was carved with 100 bats on its walls. Why? Because “bat” sounds like “fu” (good fortune) in Chinese! The owner of Kezhi Garden poured his heart into creating this space, aiming to leave a legacy of Jiangnan (South Yangtze) beauty. Today, the pavilion still shows off local craftsmanship and old-world charm, even if the carvings are modern replicas.

Architecture & Design: A Blend of Old and New

The pavilion’s roof curls up like a bird’s wing, a classic Jiangnan style. Though the original carvings were lost, the redesign keeps the bat theme alive with wooden engravings and lanterns. Nearby bridges, rockeries, and bonsai plants add to the “step into a painting” feel. It’s a tiny spot, but every detail—from the upturned eaves to the stone benches—feels deliberate, like someone wanted to bottle up ancient China’s elegance.

Practical Visit Tips

  • Tickets: Included in the Zhujiajiao Town admission (around ¥10) or Kezhi Garden’s ticket (¥¥).
  • Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch softer light.
  • Photo Spots: Stand by the pond to frame the pavilion with lotus flowers, or snap the bat carvings up close.
  • Guided Tours: Some guides explain the bat-luck link and garden history, but you can also wander freely.

Dining & Rest Nearby

After exploring, grab zongzi (sticky rice wraps) or shaoxing yellow wine at stalls near the town’s main street. For a sit-down meal, try riverside restaurants serving hongshao yu (fish in soy sauce) or jiaozi dumplings. There’s also a tea house in Kezhi Garden where you can sip longjing绿茶 while watching carp swim.

Why It’s Worth a Visit

Even if you’re not into history, Hundred Bats Pavilion offers peace. Sit on a garden stone, listen to wind rustling bamboo, and imagine the person who designed this place—a mix of artist, philosopher, and nature lover. It’s a mini escape from city noise, plus a chance to learn about Chinese symbols (bats = good luck!). Bring a friend or come solo; it’s hard not to leave with a smile.

Pro Tip: Pair your visit with a boat ride on Zhujiajiao’s canals for a full “Jiangnan water town” experience.