Excursion Yu yuan gardens & shanghai museum tour at Shanghai

See two true highlights of the city of Shanghai, Yu Yuan Gardens and the Shanghai Museum, on this half-day exploration.

Yu Yuan Gardens

Board the coach and depart from the pier for the brief drive to the gardens. In the crowded maze of cobbled alleyways that comprise the old Chinese city of Shanghai, catch a glimpse of part of this city's rich history. Here, visit the Yu Yuan, or Mandarin Gardens, which inspired the famous willow pattern chinaware. Built for the Pan family, wealthy Ming dynasty officials of the mid-16th century, the garden is surrounded by high walls adorned with huge stone dragons. Inside, numerous halls and pavilions of characteristic architectural style are connected by moon gates and zigzag bridges designed to discourage the entrance of demons who can only move in a straight line.

Next, proceed to the new Shanghai Museum, located at Renmin, or People's Square.

Shanghai Museum

Opened in 1995 and regarded as the world's finest showcase of Chinese art and antiquities, the museum contains an excellent and well-displayed collection of old bronzes and ceramics as well as paintings and scrolls. Documenting 5,000 years of Chinese history, this museum's collections include galleries with ancient sculptures, jade, coins, Ming and Qing furniture, and Chinese seals.

Listen as your guide provides an introduction of the museum. Then, explore independently or if you prefer, follow the guide through the bronze and porcelain exhibits, to the Ming and Qing furniture, calligraphy, and Painting and Chinese seals. Re-group at the appointed time.

As your tour of the museum concludes, re-board the coach and return to the ship.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Yu Yuan Gardens, Shanghia Museum, People's Square

Note

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking, some of which is over uneven terrain at the gardens. There are approximately 30 steps to climb. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Tour may operate in reverse order.