Get ready for spectacular views, lush greenery and more flowers than you know what to do with!
Shanghai is China’s biggest city and is known as a buzzing financial hub, but is it possible to find pockets of paradise in this concrete jungle? Of course! The city is a lot greener than you’d expect and is home to a surprising number of parks and green spots.
Parks are a fantastic way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and I spent a significant amount of my spring and summer days in the parks scattered around the city.
I can’t help but reminisce about early morning runs, warm Shanghai days spent soaking up the sun and afternoons spent lazily watching people fly kites. Having lived in the city for a little over a year I’m bound to have my top picks. Here's a list of some of my favourite parks in the city.
1. Zhongshan Park
Located just a 5 minute walk away from the Zhongshan Park metro station this park is incredibly central and convenient. It was built in 1914 and once served as a private garden. Today, however, the 214 200 square meter park is open to the public and one of the best parts is that it’s completely free. This park is on my favourites list because of it’s diverse style. It has the perfect blend of English style landscapes and classical Chinese gardens with twelve scenic spots to check out. The park is stunning and has an impressive variety of plants including peonies, Chinese roses, the fragrant sweet osmanthus and the ephemeral cherry blossoms. Zhongshan Park is a treat for families and friends alike; fly a kite, admire the elderly doing Thai Chi or just soak up some Vitamin D on the Great Lawn. It’s perfect for enjoying a stroll whilst taking in the sights, the sounds and the wonderful aromas of the park.
2. Tianshan Park
This quaint little park is just a stone’s throw away from the West Yan’an metro station. Although small, it really is a little slice of paradise. With a lake surrounded by lots of greenery and a few small hills it’s also great for a short run, jog or walk. Watch as the elderly take on some morning exercise and as little children chase bubbles. This park is full of fun and joy. You’ll be happy to know that Tianshan Park not only offers beautiful views but entrance is also free!
3. Fuxing Park
Fuxing Park is just a quick walk from the Xintiandi metro station, located in Shanghai’s former French Concession. It is an incredibly designed park with a mix of over 140 species of trees. From maples to sycamores, Fuxing literally has you covered when it comes to a lovely, shaded walk in the park. You’ll find the locals playing mahjong, chess, ballroom dancing and picnicking on the lawns. This is one of Shanghai’s most popular parks and you’ll just have to visit to find out why it’s so special. It may be the European influence that’s evident in its Parisian paths and English style gardens or maybe its because of the well manicured flower beds, or both. Hop on to the metro and find out for yourself.
4. Jing’An Sculpture Park
The newest park on this list, the sculpture park is more than just another green spot in the city. This unique park is home to one of the most diverse sculpture exhibitions in the city. Literally right next to the Shanghai Natural History Museum, this park is a foreigners dream. Make a day out of it and see both attractions. But back to the matter at hand, the park. It was built in 2010 as part of the World Expo and features works from artists all over the world. It has a single green spot, perfect for running or relaxing. Entrance into the park is free, so what are you waiting for? The metro is Shanghai Natural History Museum on line 7. You’re welcome!
5. Century Park
Last on my list but by no means the least, is the magnificent Century Park. This may just be my favourite park. This is Shanghai’s largest park located in the heart of the Pudong district. You can find this expansive park close the Century Park metro station on line two. You’ll be spoilt for choice when you arrive, choose between renting a tandem bike or a cycling car to explore or even a sightseeing boat and enjoy some time out on the park’s lake. The park has incredible landscaping, influenced by the Japanese, the British and obviously the Chinese. Features such as the bamboo forest, park maze and amusement park make it well worth the 10RMB entrance fee. The stunning gardens and expertly crafted topiaries are a cherry on top, not to mention the many lawns that a perfect for relaxing, tossing a frisbee and having a picnic. This park kind of has it all!
Well, there you have it. My favourite parks in Shanghai. Good for relaxing on your days off or starting your day with some outdoor exercise. Oh and one last thing, if you’re in Shanghai please tell the parks I miss them!