Grand View Garden (Daguanyuan) – Garden of the Great Dream
Grand View Garden (Daguanyuan, 大观园) is a unique architectural and park complex recreating the luxurious estate from the famous Chinese novel ‘Dream of the Red Chamber’ (Cao Xueqin). Located in the scenic Qingpu district on the shores of Dianshan Lake, the garden covers an area of over 9 hectares and represents a fine example of classical Chinese garden art.
What awaits you: a walk through the pavilions of the novel’s main heroes — Jia Baoyu, Lin Daiyu and Xue Baochai, a visit to the reception hall, elegant bridges, picturesque ponds and traditional tea ceremonies. The guide will tell you fascinating stories and legends connected with this place.
Attractions
What awaits you
- Morning departure from Shanghai — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station or a convenient area, transfer to Daguanyuan (about 1–1.5 hours).
- Tour of the garden — visit the pavilions of the novel’s main heroes, walk through bamboo groves and flowering gardens.
- Tea ceremony — tasting of traditional Chinese teas in an ancient pavilion.
- Lunch at a lakeside restaurant — local dishes with a view of the water.
- Visit to the ‘Dream of the Red Chamber’ museum — learn about the novel’s history, rare exhibits and illustrations.
- Free time for photos — best shots against the backdrop of pagodas and bridges.
- Return to Shanghai — comfortable transfer in the afternoon.
Half‑day tour program
*Times may be adjusted according to the group’s wishes.
| Time | Program stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 09:00 | Meeting in central Shanghai | Meeting with the guide, boarding the car. |
| 10:00–12:00 | Tour of Daguanyuan | Pavilions of Emerald Luck, Xiaoxiang, Grand Contemplation Hall. |
| 12:00–12:45 | Tea ceremony | Tea tasting in a traditional house. |
| 12:45–13:45 | Lunch | Restaurant by Dianshan Lake, Zhejiang cuisine. |
| 13:45–14:30 | Museum and free time | View the exhibition, walk in the garden, photo session. |
| 14:30–15:30 | Departure to Shanghai | Return to hotel around 16:30. |
💡 Important notes:
- The garden is open from 08:00 to 17:00, the best time to visit is spring (blossoms) and autumn.
- Comfortable shoes are a must — the grounds are large, with many walking paths.
- Bring your passport (for ticket purchase), camera, umbrella (rain is possible).
- If desired, you can add a boat trip on Dianshan Lake (extra charge) or visit the ancient town of Zhujiajiao (adds 2–3 hours).
Cost and conditions
Tour cost
Services of a Russian‑speaking guide, transfer from Shanghai and back, accompaniment all day.
Approximate expenses per person
Duration
Additional services
What else you can visit
(周庄) Famous “water town” with canals, ancient bridges and Ming‑Qing houses. (~35 km)
(淀山湖) Largest freshwater lake in Shanghai, perfect for picnics, boat trips and swimming.
(朱家角) Picturesque water town with canals, carved bridges and traditional architecture. (~20 km)
Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a classic novel!
Book your private tour right now
⏱️ We recommend booking 3–5 days in advance to guarantee the best transfer time.
💳 Payment: 50% deposit at booking, 50% on the day of the tour.
Frequently asked questions
Important information
The indicated prices are valid at the time of offer for private individuals. The cost and availability of tickets and guide services may change.
Booking is confirmed only after receiving a prepayment. The conversion rate is calculated at the current exchange rate of the Central Bank on the payment date.
If cancellation occurs less than 7 days before the start of the event, the payment is non‑refundable.
In the event of force majeure that makes the execution of the tour program fully or partially impossible (weather conditions, official events), the organizer reserves the right to make changes to the program and its duration.
