"Cao Xueqin poured his lifetime of effort into writing *Dream of the Red Chamber*, and once it was published, it sparked a social craze where 'every household delighted in reading it, and everyone competed to purchase it.' There emerged a saying: 'If one does not talk about *Dream of the Red Chamber*, then reading all the poetry and books is in vain.'
For 200 years, countless readers have dreamt of entering the world of the Red Mansion, singing praises and admiring its brilliance. Many literati have written articles analyzing and exploring its hidden depths, reaching a point where even children and elders who have not read the original work can recount the various love stories between Baoyu and Daiyu. As an ancient person once said, "Wherever there is well water, no one is unaware of *Dream of the Red Chamber*."
In *Dream of the Red Chamber*, Cao Xueqin created a grand and luxurious scene for Jia Yuanchun's return to Rongguo Mansion to celebrate the Lantern Festival, constructing a "Grand View Garden" that possesses "all the splendors of heaven and earth." He designed a large group of young ladies, laughing and talking harmoniously, to enter this "kingdom of daughters."
However, when Cao Xueqin first conceptualized the "Grand View Garden," did he draw inspiration from any real-world gardens? This mystery has intrigued many people to explore and discuss, leading to debates over whether it was purely fictional or based on reality, truly embodying the phrase, "A dream of the Red Mansion spans two hundred autumns, and the location of the Grand View Garden remains elusive."
The Shanghai Grand View Garden, located by the Dianshan Lake in Qingpu, Shanghai, is the first theme park in China built according to the descriptions in *Dream of the Red Chamber*. The garden features more than twenty scenic spots, with pavilions and towers catching the eye, all showcasing the beauty that surpasses literary creation.
Exploring each courtyard, hall, and scenic spot reveals even more marvels. The towering majesty of the Grand View Tower and the lofty rise of its floors inspire awe. The Just Red Courtyard displays opulence and splendor, with flowers blooming in clusters; the Xiao Xiang Pavilion features dense bamboo tails and green reflected on the red gauze windows. The Quick Fragrance Garden conceals scenes with peculiar rocks, exuding a fresh fragrance of ivy and reeds. The Rice Fragrance Village reflects a rustic style, evoking thoughts of returning to agriculture. Each scenic spot offers different experiences—whether it be the small moon under high mountains, the bright moon over clear pools, the red fragrance gathering in the garden, or the stone boat resting on the waves—creating a feeling akin to "the continuous scenery along the Shanyin path, leaving one overwhelmed with wonders."
The Grand View Garden is divided into two major scenic areas: the eastern and western zones. The eastern area mainly features attractions like the Shanghai National Culture Village, Plum Blossom Garden, and Osmanthus Garden.
Ticket Price: Not Available
Opening Hours: Not Available