Brief information on Jimei Turtle Garden  

Occupying an area of nearly 9,000 square meters, the Turtle Garden was designed and built under the supervision of Mr. Tan Kah-kee in the 1950s and 60s. The architecture and carvings in the garden all reflect his principle of teaching through travel and amusement, and they depict ancient and modern times both in China and foreign countries, taking in the subjects of astronomy, geography, industrial and agricultural production. It is an extensive garden and a profoundly interesting experience.

Situated on the southeastern tip of Jimei Town, the Turtle Garden consists of three parts: the portico, the Monument of Liberation, and Tan’s Mausoleum. The portico is a traditional Chinese style corridor of 20 meters in length, with 58 bluestone carvings of historical figures’ lives studded on both sides. These carvings form the core of the total 633 stone carvings in the garden. There are also 291 carvings on the walls outside the portico, which show a variety of subjects. Many kinds of calligraphy and a charming array of couplets and inscriptions by distinguished persons and masters of these arts also grace the garden, comprising a great treasure trove of Fujian stone carving art.

Passing through the portico, you approach the main building of the garden- the Monument of Liberation. This 28 meter high building was constructed from granite and symbolizes the victory of the Chinese Communist Party after 28 years of fighting. The inscription on the face of the monument was written by Chairman Mao and the back of the monument features calligraphy by Tan Kah-kee. Tan’s Mausoleum is shaped like a turtle’s shell and surrounding the tomb are 15 reliefs depicting scenes from Mr. Tan Kah-kee’s life.
 

*You can download the bilingual note to show it to a taxi driver or someone else to find your way to Jimei Turtle Garden if you plan to visit Jimei Turtle Garden and have language problems.

   

Hours: 8:00-20:00
Location: Jimei District
Address: No. 185, Yinjiang Rd.
Transportation: Buses: 18, 51, 106
Admission: CNY 10