Location & Transportation

Mei Garden sits quietly in Lu Xun Park, Hongkou District, Shanghai. The address is straightforward: No. 2288 Sichuanbei Road. To get there, take Metro Line 3 or 8 to Hongkou Football Stadium Station, then walk about 10 minutes north. Buses like No. 18 or 52 also drop you nearby. It’s nestled between busy streets and the historic Lu Xun Park, making it a peaceful escape in a bustling neighborhood.

Natural Beauty: A Sea of Plump Blossoms

Mei Garden lives up to its name. Every winter-spring, the garden transforms into a sea of plump blooms (梅花), with rows of Korean-style pavilions framing the pink and white petals. Even when the flowers aren’t in season, the traditional Korean architecture—think curved roofs and stone pathways—gives the place a serene, almost poetic vibe. There’s a small pond too, where koi fish swim lazily under willow trees. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet stroll or a picnic on the grassy patches.

Historical Stories: A Tribute to Courage

This garden isn’t just about nature. It’s also a monument to history. In the 1930s, a Korean hero named Yun Bong-gil (尹奉吉) lived and worked nearby. He was part of a group fighting for Korea’s independence, and his story is etched in stones here. After he was executed by Japanese authorities at just 24, China and South Korea built this garden in his honor. His nickname, “Mexuan” (梅軒), inspired the garden’s name and theme. A simple stone tablet in the corner explains his story, reminding visitors of the power of sacrifice for freedom.

The design of Mei Garden leans heavily into Korean aesthetics. The buildings resemble traditional Korean pavilions (亭子), with low roofs and wooden beams. Lanterns hang in the trees, and benches are carved with symbols like magpies (韩国传统中的吉祥鸟) and plump branches. It’s like a tiny piece of Seoul tucked into Shanghai—a nod to Yun’s heritage and a symbol of friendship between China and South Korea.

Facilities for Visitors

Mei Garden is easy to explore. Paths are flat and wide, so no hiking boots needed. There are benches everywhere for resting, and info boards (in Chinese and English) explain the history. Best of all? It’s free to enter. Just note that Lu Xun Park closes around sunset, so plan your visit accordingly. Nearby, you’ll find cafes and street food stalls selling snacks like shengjian bao (pan-fried buns) or sweet soymilk.

What to Expect: Peace, Reflection, Photos

Visiting Mei Garden feels like stepping into a time capsule. Locals come here to practice tai chi, read books, or snap photos under the flowering trees. History buffs will appreciate the plaques, while nature lovers can admire the seasons changing. Bring a camera—the mix of architecture, flowers, and dappled sunlight makes for instagrammable moments. Just remember, this isn’t a loud amusement park. It’s a place to slow down, breathe, and maybe learn a bit of history you didn’t expect in a Shanghai park.

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