On the southern shore of Gulangyu Island is the Shuzhuang Garden (Shuzhuang huayuan), named after its original owner and built around 1900. The creators of this pretty garden attempted to create an environment that integrates the Gulangyu Island feel into its design: The Chinese will say that the garden is in the sea and the sea is in the garden. The overall impression here is pleasant. The pavilions, bridges and towers do not contrast against the natural sea views and profusion of trees.
The Shuzhuang can be a great way to while away the day on this pretty and picturesque isle. The garden is full of many species of flowers, a botanist’s delight, and there is also a clean, yellow sand beach that is a good way to brave the Chinese waters, although it can get a little full. Sipping a cup of tea in the garden’s tea house or relaxing with a sea view under the shade of a Gulangyu tree is vacation bliss.
How to get there: Just a stroll down from the second section of the Gulangyu Guesthouse.
Costs: RMB 20.
