Shanghai Botanical Garden

Shanghai Botanical Garden, established in the early 1950s and situated in the Xuhui District along Longwu Road, is one of China's oldest and most prestigious botanical institutions, governed by the Shanghai Municipal Greens and Urban Appearance Management Bureau. The garden cultivates and conserves over 6,000 plant species and varieties from around the world, featuring specialized collections including a Peony Garden, Osmanthus Garden, Orchid Collection, and large tropical conservatory complexes that house exotic flora from multiple continents. Each year the garden organizes major seasonal flower exhibitions including the Shanghai Flower Show in spring, the Cherry Blossom Festival, and the Osmanthus Autumn Festival, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors from across China. On the scientific research front, the institution focuses on endangered plant species conservation, ornamental plant breeding programs, urban ecological restoration, and has published numerous academic papers in botany and horticulture journals. The garden operates an "AI Shangzhi" intelligent guide system accessible via its website and mobile interface, helping visitors identify plants and navigate the grounds using augmented reality technology. Educational programming includes the "One Orchid Per Ten Days" column, seasonal guided tours, plant identification workshops, and family-friendly science activities designed for children and students. Annual visitor attendance exceeds 2 million, making it one of the most visited green spaces in Shanghai. Ticket pricing is affordable, with discounts available for students and senior citizens, and the garden is easily accessible by public bus and Metro Line 3.