Yueryuan Garden in Dali City
Overview
Yueryuan Garden (玉洱园) is located in the Dali Ancient City (大理古城), specifically on the north side of Yu’er Road (玉洱路中段北侧). Covering an area of 28 acres, this garden was originally a botanical nursery established during the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China. During the Anti-Japanese War, it was named “Zhidan Park” (志丹公园), and after the liberation, it served as a nursery base for the forestry department.
Location
- Geographical Location: North side of Yu’er Road, Dali Ancient City (大理古城玉洱路中段北侧)
- Area: 28 acres
- Original Name: Zhidan Park (志丹公园)
History of Yueryuan Garden
Creating gardens in Dali has been a cultural tradition, with historical gardens like Moyer Garden (默游园), Wu Family Garden (吴家花园), and Yang Family Garden (杨家花园). The Ming Dynasty poet Li Yuanyang (李元阳) wrote a poem about the Wu Family Garden, highlighting the love for flowers in Dali.
Introduction to Yueryuan Garden
To promote the cultural heritage of Dali, the city restored Zhidan Park and renamed it Yueryuan Garden in March 1995. On the opening day, renowned Bai ethnic historian Ma Yao (马耀) composed an inscription detailing the garden’s history.
Yueryuan Garden encapsulates the essence of Bai architecture, featuring elegant structures with upturned eaves, a beautifully crafted three-sided screen wall, and colorful painted walls. The garden showcases Bai-style flowerbeds made of stone, planted with famous flowers from Dali, along with activity areas, tea rooms, pavilions, and ponds, creating a charming atmosphere reminiscent of traditional gardens in Dali. Known for its marble, Dali incorporates stones into its decor with features like Stone Retreat (大石庵), Beautiful Woman Stone (美人石), Stone Cow (石牛), and Stone Horse Well (石马井). The garden emphasizes a natural aesthetic, highlighted by stone walls, pathways, and lamp bases.
The garden comprises seven floral zones with camellias, cherry blossoms, peonies, rhododendrons, plums, roses, and bamboo, adorned with calligraphy and artwork from local scholars.
Visiting Yueryuan Garden
Strolling through the Dali Ancient City, visitors can discover the secret garden of Yueryuan. This peaceful park serves as a sanctuary, quietly vibrant and reminiscent of forgotten poetry.
The lively atmosphere of Dali contrasts with the serene beauty found within Yueryuan Garden. Entering through a small door, visitors are greeted by traditional Bai architecture and picturesque reflections in the pond. The garden features arched gates, stone towers, white walls, and a towering Bai screen wall adorned with vibrant paintings, all evoking a dreamlike quality.
Crossing a stone bridge over the pond reveals rows of wooden buildings and uniquely shaped stones scattered among the flowers, reminiscent of pearls from the ancient city. Here, the cultural essence of Dali is palpable, with history being preserved and celebrated.
Amidst the scenery, ancient trees sway gently in the breeze. Seasonal blooms create a vivid tapestry of color, symbolizing Dali’s diverse culture. A tall banyan tree offers shade, where elders gather to enjoy the tranquility, while its fallen leaves create a golden carpet in autumn.
This garden feels like a living poem, inviting visitors to sit and appreciate the beauty surrounding them. Students often gather here to study, chat, play chess, and enjoy the cheerful atmosphere. Ancient stone tablets emerge from corridors, serving as witnesses to Dali’s history.
At Yueryuan Garden, nature and culture intertwine. Locals dance and play music, showcasing the vibrancy and continuity of Dali’s culture. The park’s layout encourages intergenerational enjoyment, creating a lively scene filled with laughter and song, embodying the essence of Dali.
Conclusion
Yueryuan Garden is a cherished landscape where ancient architecture, serene waters, and vibrant flowers converge to create an enchanting oasis. This hidden gem provides Dali’s residents a retreat from the city’s hustle, offering a tranquil space for introspection.
Every step in the garden resonates with the echoes of history, allowing visitors to forget the chaos of everyday life. Yueryuan Garden is not merely a park; it is a memory steeped in time, a place to relax, listen to ancient tales, and immerse oneself in Dali’s profound heritage.
Travel Information
How to Get There
- Public Transport: You can take local buses from Dali Ancient City to reach the garden. Look for bus stops marked for Yueryuan Garden or nearby attractions.
- Walking: The garden is within walking distance from most areas in Dali Ancient City, making it accessible for those exploring on foot.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the most vibrant blooms and pleasant weather.
- Photography: Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and floral displays.
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy nearby local eateries for authentic Bai cuisine after your visit.
- Cultural Etiquette: Respect the garden’s tranquility; maintain a quiet demeanor to enhance your experience.
