Yu Yuan is a 400 year old classical Chinese garden in the Old Town of Shanghai. It was built by a man who wanted to give his elderly parents a beautiful place where they could meditate and enjoy the last years of their lives. In 1956 the Shanghai government began restorations on the garden and it was reopened to the public in 1961. There are over 30 halls and pavilions, and many ancient trees, ponds, bridges and sculptures. The huge rock sculptures are made by artisans who give a basic shape to large rocks, then place them in a river. Nature refines the work, and after many years the rock sculptures are removed and placed in gardens. I was surprised at the peace and quiet I found in this garden, in the middle of chaotic Shanghai.
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