Geographic Location

The Inverted Lion Pavilion sits quietly within the Kezhi Garden, a hidden gem in Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, Shanghai. This town is located in Qingpu District, about 50 kilometers west of downtown Shanghai. To reach it, you’ll first arrive in Zhujiajiao—a water town famous for its canals, stone bridges, and traditional Chinese architecture. The pavilion is nestled in the northern part of the town, making it a peaceful spot away from the busier tourist areas.

Transportation Tips

Getting to Zhujiajiao is straightforward! Here’s how:

  1. By Metro: Take Metro Line 17 (Cyan Line) to Zhujiajiao Station. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk or a short bike ride to Kezhi Garden.
  2. By Bus: Several buses connect downtown Shanghai to Zhujiajiao, including Bus 1207 or the Zhuxia Line. Ask the driver to drop you near Kezhi Garden.
  3. By Car: If driving, park near the main entrance of Zhujiajiao Ancient Town and explore the area on foot. The pavilion is easy to spot once you’re inside Kezhi Garden.

Natural Scenery

Kezhi Garden, home to the Inverted Lion Pavilion, feels like a miniature paradise. The garden wraps around a network of calm ponds, with willow trees dipping their branches into the water. Lotus flowers bloom here in summer, filling the air with a light fragrance. Small bridges arch over the canals, and stone pathways wind through bamboo groves. The pavilion itself sits by a tranquil pool, where reflections dance on the water’s surface. It’s the perfect spot to pause and soak in the harmony of nature and architecture.

Cultural and Historical Features

The Inverted Lion Pavilion gets its name from a unique detail: wooden carvings of lions hanging upside down on its beams. This design nods to the famous Lion Grove Garden in Suzhou, a classic Chinese landscape. The pavilion’s roof curves elegantly, and its wooden frames are carved with delicate patterns. Just next to it stands the Water Moon Arbor (Shui Yue Xie), a small stage-like structure that once hosted traditional Chinese opera performances. Today, this area has been repurposed as a cozy audience seating space, where visitors can relax and imagine the lively shows of the past.

Facilities for Visitors

Kezhi Garden and the Inverted Lion Pavilion are visitor-friendly:

  • Seating Areas: The refurbished “audience seats” near the pavilion offer a quiet spot to rest or enjoy a snack.
  • Signage: Information boards explain the history of the pavilion and garden in both Chinese and English.
  • Restrooms: Clean facilities are available near the garden’s entrance.
  • Dining: Nearby stalls sell local snacks like rice cakes and soup dumplings, though the garden itself is more focused on quiet reflection.

Exploration Experience

Visiting the Inverted Lion Pavilion feels like stepping into a time capsule. Start your day early to avoid crowds. Stroll through Kezhi Garden’s winding paths, stopping at the pavilion to admire its intricate carvings. The upside-down lions are a fun detail to spot—kids especially love searching for them! For a deeper connection, rent an audio guide (available at the garden’s entrance) that shares stories about the pavilion’s links to Suzhou’s Lion Grove.

If you visit on a warm day, bring a picnic blanket to spread near the pavilion’s pond. Watching koi fish swim by while leaning against the pavilion’s railings is a peaceful way to unwind. Don’t miss the nearby Water Moon Arbor, where you can sit under the shade and listen to the gentle lapping of water against stone—a sound that’s been soothing visitors for centuries.

Why It’s Worth a Detour

The Inverted Lion Pavilion isn’t as famous as Zhujiajiao’s other landmarks, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a quieter, more intimate spot to appreciate China’s园林文化 (garden culture) without the selfie sticks and tour groups. History lovers will enjoy the connection to Suzhou’s Lion Grove, while photographers can capture stunning reflections in the pavilion’s pools. Whether you’re a culture buff or just looking for a serene escape, this hidden gem offers a glimpse into old China—with a flipped lion to boot!

(Note: The Inverted Lion Pavilion is open daily, and entry to Kezhi Garden is included in the ticket for Zhujiajiao Ancient Town. Check seasonal hours online before your trip.)