Xuyuan Garden, or west garden, enjoys a good reputation not only for its gardening but also for its significant place in history. It was named after a prince of the Ming dynasty since the place was once his residence. It had been a part of the palace of Heavenly King of Taiping Heavenly Kingdom and temporary office of Dr. Sun Yat-Sun, when he acceded to acting president of Republic of China. So visitors will find many history traces in the garden.

The tiny garden covers merely a space of 1.4 hectares, however, it is a very unique and famous traditional Chinese garden. The stone boat in the garden is also very unique.