Greenhouse: tropical paradise in the heart of Shanghai

Greenhouse Garden (温室花园) is a unique complex of several climate zones under one roof. It is located on the territory of Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden (辰山植物园), one of the largest in China. Here recreated tropical rainforest, desert and Mediterranean landscapes.

You will see more than 3,000 plant species: from giant palms and lianas to rare orchids and giant cacti. The greenhouse features a 45-meter waterfall, hanging bridges, tropical butterflies and even hummingbirds during the flowering season. An ideal place for family holidays and incredible photos.

🌴Tropical rainforest
🌵Desert with cacti
🌸500 orchid species
🦋Butterflies and hummingbirds
💧45 m waterfall

Attractions along the route

What awaits you

  • Departure from Shanghai (09:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, comfortable car with a Russian guide. The road to Songjiang District takes about 40–50 minutes.
  • Arrival at Chenshan Botanical Garden (~10:00) — introduction to the complex, ticket purchase.
  • Main greenhouse "Tropical Rainforest" — palms, giant ficus, lianas, a 45-meter high artificial waterfall and hanging bridges.
  • Orchidarium — a collection of more than 500 orchid species from around the world. During the flowering period (February–April and September–October) it is an incredible spectacle.
  • Succulent greenhouse — desert landscape with cacti up to 5 meters high, agaves, euphorbias and aloe.
  • Lunch at the garden cafe — vegetarian and traditional Chinese dishes, fresh tropical fruit juices.
  • Mediterranean garden and butterfly zone — olive trees, lavender, rosemary, and a special aviary with tropical butterflies.
  • Walk through the open area of the botanical garden — Japanese garden, rose garden, bamboo grove (optional).
  • Free time and souvenirs — you can buy indoor plants, seeds, botany books.
  • Return to Shanghai (~17:00–18:00) — transfer to Xinzhuang metro station.

Sample tour itinerary (1 day)

*Metro+taxi option available (cheaper but longer).

TimeProgram stageDetails
09:00Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro station)Road to Chenshan Botanical Garden ~40–50 min.
10:00Arrival, ticketsRestroom, briefing.
10:15–12:30Exploring the greenhousesTropical rainforest, waterfall, orchidarium, succulents.
12:30–13:30LunchGarden cafe (vegetarian and local dishes).
13:30–15:30Mediterranean garden, butterflies, open areaWalk through the Japanese garden, rose garden, bamboo grove.
15:30–16:30Free time / souvenirsPlant and book shop.
16:30–17:30Return to ShanghaiArrival at Xinzhuang metro station ~17:30–18:00.

💡 Important notes:

  • The greenhouses have high humidity and temperature (~25–30°C), dress lightly.
  • Comfortable shoes (lots of walking, stairs).
  • Bring: water, camera, passport, cash.
  • Best time for orchid bloom: February–April and September–October.

Price and conditions

💰

Tour cost

Metro + taxi

Economy

Guide meets you at the garden entrance. Transfer to the metro station on your own.

$250per group 1–3 pers.
Entrance, lunch – extra

By car

Comfort

Guide services, transfer from Shanghai by sedan/minivan.

$300per group 1–3 pers.
Entrance, lunch – extra
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Additional expenses per person

  • Entrance ticket to botanical garden + greenhouses120¥ (~$17)
  • Lunch at the cafe50–70¥ (~$7–10)
  • Shanghai metro (round trip)~16¥ (~$2.5)
  • Taxi from metro to garden (round trip, per group)~60¥ (~$9)
*Prices for 2026, exchange rate approximate. Children under 1.3 m – entrance discount.
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Duration

~8–9 hours
departure 09:00, return ~17:30

Additional services

🚗
Minivan rental
+$80
📷
Photo session in the greenhouse
+$50
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Airport transfer
+$80

Frequently asked questions

What makes this greenhouse garden unique?
It is one of the largest greenhouses in Asia with four climate zones: tropical rainforest, desert, Mediterranean and orchidarium. Inside there is a waterfall, hanging bridges, more than 3000 plant species.
Is it suitable for young children?
Yes, there is a children's play area, lower humidity in some halls, convenient paths for strollers. Children love watching butterflies and the waterfall.
What is better: car or metro?
The car is much more convenient, especially with children. Metro takes longer (~1.5 hours from the centre) and requires a transfer to a taxi. The guide will still be with you.
Are there places to eat?
Inside the greenhouses there is a cafe and water vending machines. You can also have a picnic in the open area (there are benches).
When is the best time to go?
The greenhouses are open year-round, but are especially beautiful during the orchid bloom (February–April and September–October). In summer it is cool inside, and in winter it is warm, which is pleasant.
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Important information

Prices valid for 2026. Booking requires a 50% deposit (PayPal, card). Cancellation 48 hours in advance – full refund, less than 48 hours – 50% refund. The organiser reserves the right to change the programme due to weather conditions. The botanical garden is open daily from 08:30 to 17:30 (last entry 16:30).