Location & How to Get There
Yueyuanyuan Sculpture Park sits in the Sheshan National Tourist Resort of Shanghai, nestled in the lush suburbs of Songjiang District. The address is straightforward: 1158 Linyin New Road, Sheshan Town. To reach it, hop on Metro Line 9 and get off at Sheshan Station—from there, a short taxi or bus ride (like Songjiang Tourism Line 1) drops you right at the park’s entrance. If you’re driving, there’s plenty of parking, and the park’s signage is easy to follow. It’s a breath of fresh air just an hour’s ride from downtown Shanghai, perfect for a day trip!
Natural Scenery: Lakes, Bridges, and Seasons
At the heart of Yueyuanyuan Sculpture Park lies Yuehu Lake, a calm body of water surrounded by landscaped shores. The park is divided into four themed areas—Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter—each with its own vibe. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the lake; summer brings shaded walkways; autumn paints the grounds in red and gold; and winter wraps everything in quiet snow (if you’re lucky!).
Two standout features are the Water Curtain Bridge, a sleek, wave-like structure spanning the lake, and the Crystal Palace, a glassy pavilion that glimmers in the sun. Walking around the lake, you’ll spot little islands, reed beds, and bridges that feel straight out of a painting. It’s a mix of natural beauty and clever design, with no loud crowds—just you and nature (plus some amazing art, which we’ll get to next!).
Art & Culture: Sculptures and Architecture
This isn’t just a park—it’s an outdoor art gallery! Yueyuanyuan Sculpture Park hosts over 30 sculptures by big-name artists from Europe, the US, Japan, and China. These pieces are tucked across the park, so you might stumble upon a towering metallic installation one minute or a quirky stone carving the next. My favorite? The giant, looping metal rings near the lake—great for Instagram shots!
The park’s architecture is equally eye-catching. The Water Stage, Shanghai’s largest floating performance space, hosts concerts and shows (check their schedule!). Nearby, the Children’s Intelligence Plaza blends playful sculptures with interactive games, keeping kids entertained for hours. For a fancy meal, Autumn Moon Boat (a lakeside restaurant) serves up views along with its dishes. Every corner here feels designed to inspire—whether you’re into art or just love pretty spaces.
Practical Stuff: Food, Kids, and More
Yueyuanyuan Sculpture Park has all the comforts of a modern resort. The Visitor Center offers maps, snacks, and restrooms. Families will love the Children’s Plaza, which mixes climbing structures with brainteasers (think: math-themed slides!). There’s also a paddle boat rental if you want to explore the lake up close.
Hungry? The park has casual cafes and upscale dining. Try the lakeside Autumn Moon Boat for a splurge-worthy meal, or grab ice cream near the playground. Even the snack stands serve decent coffee—trust me, you’ll need it to fuel your walking!
What to Expect: A Day in the Park
A visit to Yueyuanyuan Sculpture Park feels like a mini-adventure. Start by walking the lake’s perimeter—it’s flat and stroller-friendly. Bring comfortable shoes; there’s a lot to see! Early morning or late afternoon is magic here—soft light makes the sculptures glow, and the crowds thin out.
If you’re with