Location & How to Get There

Si Lu Garden is tucked away in the Songjiang District of Shanghai, near the intersection of Xilin South Road and Zhongshan West Road. If you’re coming from downtown Shanghai, it’s about a 40-minute metro ride (Line 9 to Songjiang University Town, then a short taxi or bus ride). Driving here is easy too—just navigate to Si Lu Garden, and you’ll find parking nearby. The garden sits by a quiet river, surrounded by trees, so it feels like a hidden gem away from the city buzz.

Natural Beauty: A Peaceful Escape

Stepping into Si Lu Garden feels like entering a traditional Chinese painting. The garden wraps around a calm pond, with bridges, rockeries, and willow trees that sway in the breeze. In spring, pink blossoms and lotus paddies cover the water, while autumn paints the maple trees red. But the real star here is the four-gilled lufish (songjiang si sha liu), a rare fish found in the nearby river. Locals say this area has been their home for centuries—visit the west side of the garden near Sanxiu Bridge to see where these fish swim!

Culture & History: Why “Si Lu”?

The name Si Lu Garden comes from an old story. Long ago, scholars in Songjiang would miss home when eating fish in faraway lands. They called this fish “lu” (mandarin for “perch”) and wrote poems about it. Today, the garden celebrates this history with carvings and pavilions that honor local traditions. Even if you don’t speak Chinese, the peaceful vibes and pretty landscapes tell their own story.

What to Do Here

  • Walk the Paths: Shaded trails loop around the garden, perfect for slow strolls.
  • Fish Watching: Bring some bread to feed the koi in the pond—kids love this!
  • Tea Time: There’s a tiny teahouse by the water where you can sip green tea and rest.
  • Photo Spots: The red bridge near the lotus pond is Instagram-famous!

Tips for Your Visit

  • Best Time: Early morning or weekdays to avoid crowds.
  • Food Nearby: Try “si sha liu” dishes at local restaurants—it’s a Songjiang specialty!
  • Accessibility: The garden is flat, so it’s stroller-friendly. Just watch your step on rainy days.

Si Lu Garden isn’t flashy, but its quiet beauty and fresh air make it a must-visit if you want to escape Shanghai’s hustle. Pack a light snack, wear comfy shoes, and get ready to relax!