Have you heard of the Yili garden? This pure marvel, nestled in the heart of Saint-Rémy-l’Honoré in the Yvelines, is the only privately-owned traditional Chinese garden in France. With its sculpted gardens, bonsais, bridges and pagodas, you’ll be totally immersed in the Middle Kingdom.
A huge traditional Chinese garden on the outskirts of Paris
Who would have thought that Île-de-France could hide such a curiosity? Just 1 hour from Paris, you’ll discover a truly beautiful traditional Chinese garden! Here, tranquility and serenity are the watchwords. The landscapes have been designed to respect the balance between yin and yang and the fundamentals of feng shui. The five essential elements are water, wood, fire, earth and metal.
You’ll discover magnificent cedar kiosks from China, granite sculptures, a garden dedicated to bonsais and peonies… Each plant has been scrupulously chosen to reinforce the harmony of the site. You’ll be able to admire sturdy bamboos whose green remains vibrant all year round, or lotus flowers blooming in the basins… Depending on the season, you can bask in the shade of the wisteria, whose sweet fragrance lulls the place. Here, you’ll lose yourself in the beauty of the grounds, where every corner resembles a painting…
This spirit-filled place also hosts activities throughout the year: initiation to traditional music, bonsai cultivation, tai-chi-chuan… Soon, a traditional tea room will open its doors. A great way to spend an afternoon away from the hustle and bustle of Paris.
Open from May to November, on public holidays and weekends, the Yili garden receives no subsidies, as it is run by a family. So, if you too would like to discover this unique place and participate in its conservation, don’t hesitate to visit!
📍 Location: 12 Rue d’Yte 78690 Saint Remy l’Honore
💶 Price: €7, free for children under 5