Yuyuan Garden and Chenghuangmiao (City God Temple Market) are one of Shanghai's classic photo spots that Thai travelers have known from Instagram and TikTok for years. A classical Ming-dynasty Chinese garden combined with an old market of curved rooftops and red lanterns gives photos a clearly classical-China look — and it's easy to reach right in the city center.
What Is Yuyuan Garden
Yuyuan Garden is a classical Ming-dynasty Chinese garden, originally built as a private garden for a court official. Inside are pavilions, ponds, ornamental rocks, and elegantly arranged winding walkways — considered one of the most beautiful classical Chinese gardens in Shanghai.
Opening hours: Daily 9:00am-5:00pm. Plan to arrive at least an hour before closing, since ticket sales and entry stop about 30-40 minutes before the official closing time.
Ticket price: About 50 RMB. Seniors 60+ and children 6-18 get half price. Prices may vary by season or during festivals — check current pricing before you go.
Chenghuangmiao, the Old Market Beside the Garden
Chenghuangmiao, or the City God Temple, is a Taoist temple over 600 years old, located right at the exit of Yuyuan Garden. The market surrounding the temple is packed with shops, restaurants, and classical curved-roof Chinese architecture — a spot where travelers often photograph themselves against shop signs and rows of hanging red lanterns.
Recommended Photo Spots
Nine-Turn Bridge
A zigzagging stone bridge crossing the koi pond in front of the temple — the single most photographed spot in this area. Go in the morning to avoid crowds.
The Red Lantern Market Alleys
Market lanes lined with red lanterns on both sides give a distinctly classical-China feel — bright and lively by day, and richly atmospheric at night.
Inside Yuyuan Garden
The pavilions and winding walkways inside the garden make a premium-looking backdrop, great for editorial-style shots or a classical Chinese costume set.
Is a MY FOTO Photographer Worth It vs. Going Alone?
Even though Yuyuan Garden is central and easy to reach, the best light and lowest crowds are usually in the very early morning, which requires good route planning to not waste time. A MY FOTO photographer familiar with this location can plan the route to cover the Nine-Turn Bridge, the lantern market, and inside the garden within your limited time, while also handling tickets and logistics.
Related Links
View Shanghai City Walk photographers / View pricing
Read next: Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town / Shanghai Trip Prep Guide 2026 / Tian An 1000 Trees
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Yuyuan Garden's opening hours?
Daily 9:00am-5:00pm. Plan to arrive at least an hour before closing, since ticket sales stop before the official closing time.
How much is the entrance ticket for Yuyuan Garden?
About 50 RMB. Seniors 60+ and children 6-18 get half price. Prices may vary — check before you go.
Is there an entrance fee for Chenghuangmiao?
Walking through the market area around Chenghuangmiao is free, but entering the temple itself may require a separate ticket.