Gongqing National Forest Park (共青国家森林公园)

Overview of Gongqing National Forest Park

Gongqing National Forest Park is located at No. 2000 Jungong Road, Yangpu District, Shanghai, covering approximately 1965 mu (~130 acres). It is one of the rare large-scale "true forests" within Shanghai’s main urban area. Its predecessor was a volunteer tree-planting effort by the Communist Youth League in the 1960s and 70s on wasteland by the Huangpu River, hence the name "Gongqing" (Youth League). Over decades of continuous expansion and improvement, it has grown from the original "Youth Forest" into today’s national-level forest park. Locals affectionately call it the "Fairy Tale Forest in the City Center," "Natural Oxygen Bar," and "Recharge Spot for Workers," and it holds collective childhood memories for many Shanghai residents.

The park is divided into two main areas: North Park and South Park:

• North Park is the traditional core of "Gongqing Forest Park," featuring hilly terrain, Ying Lake, large lawns, pine wave valleys, and jungle wilderness. It boasts a very high forest coverage rate, preserving large areas of near-natural forest and simulated primeval jungle wilderness. Tall trees form a dense canopy, with rich layers of shrubs and ground plants underneath, creating a feeling of being completely cut off from the city.
• South Park centers around the "Wan Bamboo Garden," with a Jiangnan water town and cultural garden vibe. It features bamboo groves, a ginkgo avenue, redwood forests, and the ancient-style town "Sizhu Town" (丝竹镇) with white walls, black tiles, small bridges, and flowing water, blending Zen and traditional aesthetics.

The park has a well-developed water system, with Ying Lake, river bays, wetlands, and multiple bridges such as Chengbi Bridge, Huaming Bridge, Fengyu Bridge, Taosheng Bridge, and Qinglan Bridge connecting different scenic areas, creating a spatial experience of "water flowing through the forest, people wandering in a painting." Many areas maintain a "natural, wild, and tranquil" atmosphere, while also offering over 30 recreational facilities including a forest train, children's playground, triple-loop roller coaster, go-karts, pirate ship, rapids ride, as well as barbecue areas, camping lawns, electric boats, and paddle boats. This forms a comprehensive complex of "natural oxygen bar + family playground + childhood memory factory."

Distinct seasonal scenery:

• Spring features over 30,000㎡ of February orchid flower sea, Snowfall Waterfall, Beauty Plum, the Magnolia Avenue’s early blooming magnolias, and the highlight cherry blossom avenue and cherry blossom forest in March–April;
• Summer near the East Gate offers a purple flower sea of Verbena bonariensis, mushroom pavilions, colorful riverside flower borders, combined with large areas of camphor, phoenix trees, and bamboo groves, making it a rare "summer cooling park" in Shanghai;
• Autumn is the park’s "legendary season," with cattails in Pine Wave Valley, the ginkgo avenue in Wan Bamboo Garden, the ginkgo slope in Sanlian Forest, bald cypress/water cypress forests, red maples in Qiulin Aiwan, Lushue She, and the water forest wetlands together creating a "Monet’s spilled palette" fairy tale world;
• Winter has fewer flowers but strong lines, with evergreen bamboo groves, cedars, water cypresses paired with mist, thin ice, and withered reeds, perfect for shooting minimalist "forest atmosphere" photos.

Since 2021, Gongqing National Forest Park has been fully free to enter with no reservation required. Multiple 2025–2026 on-site reports confirm "Tickets: Free" and "No reservation needed," earning it titles from many bloggers as the "top free park in Shanghai" and a representative of "the best places in Shanghai are free." The park hosts annual themed flower exhibitions including the Spring Flower Show, Summer Fragrant Plant Show, Autumn Chrysanthemum Show (October 25–November 30), and Winter Narcissus Show. The autumn chrysanthemum exhibition has become a fixed seasonal event for flower viewing in Shanghai.

For those living in Shanghai, Gongqing National Forest Park is not just a weekend check-in spot but a daily life space for repeated city walks, camping, playing with kids, photography, and birdwatching. It is a rare place where you can "live in the city center yet step into a true forest anytime."

Best Seasons to Visit and Peak vs. Off-Peak Periods

Gongqing National Forest Park (共青国家森林公园) is suitable year-round, but considering flower blooming periods, colors, and overall experience, the best times to visit are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). It’s definitely worth visiting multiple times throughout the year.

Spring (March–May): Flower Exhibition Season, Ideal for Flower Viewing and Portraits

• Comfortable temperatures and moderate humidity mark the park’s “Flower Exhibition Season”.
• Over 30,000㎡ of February orchids create a purple carpet under the trees.
• From mid to late March through April, snowy white flowers hang like waterfalls; plum blossoms, peach blossoms, crabapples, and magnolias bloom in succession.
• The Cherry Blossom Avenue and Cherry Blossom Forest reach full bloom from late March to early April. The route from West Gate (西门) – Monet Garden (莫奈花园) – Cherry Blossom Forest (樱花林) is perfect for photographing the “train to spring” and cherry blossom wedding photos.
• Rain is slightly more frequent during this time; the air is fresh after rain but forest paths can be slippery, so wear shoes with good grip.

Summer (June–August): A Cool Retreat Park, Perfect for Evening Strolls

• Abundant camphor, phoenix trees, dawn redwoods, and bamboo groves provide shade, making it a rare “summer cooling forest park” in Shanghai.
• Near the East Gate (东门), the sea of verbena flowers, mushroom pavilion, and riverside flower beds are most beautiful in June and July. The soft evening light is ideal for photography.
• The park often hosts “Aromatic Plant Exhibitions” featuring mint, lavender, and other fragrant plants.
• Mosquitoes are relatively more numerous in summer, especially near water and at dusk, so take precautions against bites.

Autumn (September–November): The “Ultimate Season” for Colorful Forests and Chrysanthemum Exhibitions

• Widely recognized as Gongqing’s “peak season”, and the time with the most posts on Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book).
• From September to October, the reeds in Pine Valley shimmer golden in the afternoon backlight.
• From late October to mid-November, dawn redwoods, water redwoods, Chinese tallow trees, ginkgo, and maples change color sequentially. Key spots like the dawn redwood forest at the South Gate (南门), ginkgo avenue in the Bamboo Garden (万竹园), ginkgo slope at Sanlian Forest (三联林), red maples in Qiulin Aiwang, and redwood forest at the East Gate (东门) offer layered viewing experiences.
• The Chrysanthemum Exhibition from October 25 to November 30, combined with the “Monet Garden” backdrop, makes Camphor Square (香樟广场), East Gate flower sea, and the Floral Art Exhibition Hall popular check-in spots.
• Temperatures are pleasant, but weekends and holidays see heavy crowds and tight parking, especially near the West Gate. It’s recommended to visit during off-peak times or use public transportation.

Winter (December–February of the Following Year): Most Atmospheric, Great for Photography and Birdwatching

• Fewer flowers but a very strong atmosphere. Many 2025–2026 “Winter at Gongqing” reports emphasize:
  • Dawn redwoods remain vibrant, with rust-red hues contrasting evergreen trees.
  • Areas around Chengbi Bridge (澄碧桥), Huaming Bridge (华明桥), Water Forest Wetland (水森林湿地), and Liao Feng Pavilion (蓼风亭) are perfect for “forest atmosphere” shots, especially with morning mist and thin ice.
• Occasional snowfall highlights the lines of bamboo groves and bridges, offering excellent minimalist composition opportunities.
• Winter temperatures are low, feeling colder near the lake. After 4 PM, temperatures drop sharply, so dress warmly.

Peak and Off-Peak Periods & Time Recommendations

• Absolute Peak Seasons:
  • March–May flower season;
  • October–November colorful forest and chrysanthemum exhibition season.
    Weekends and holidays have very tight parking and noticeable queues at popular spots, especially near the West Gate.
• Relatively Quiet Periods:
  • Summer weekdays;
  • Winter non-holiday periods.
    Ideal for photography, birdwatching, and leisurely deep walks.
• Best Balance of Light and Crowd Levels:
  • Weekday mornings;
  • Afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, offering good light with manageable crowds.

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Transportation and Park Entry Methods

Gongqing National Forest Park is located at No. 2000 Jungong Road, Yangpu District, near the area of Jungong Road – Shiguang Road – Baicheng Road. The surroundings include mature residential areas and the Yangpu Riverside Industrial Heritage Zone. Both public transportation and driving are convenient. Based on multiple field notes from 2025–2026, the following methods are the most practical.

1. Metro + Cycling/Bus (Highly Recommended)

1) Metro Line 8, Shiguang Road Station (市光路站)

• Exit: Exit 2 at Shiguang Road Station;
• Cycling route:
  • After exiting Exit 2, head east along Shiguang Road to the Shiguang Road–Baicheng Road intersection and cross the overpass;
  • After crossing, the West Gate (西门) is diagonally across the road on the right;
  • Cycling distance: about 1.7 km to the West Gate, about 2.2 km to the South Gate.
• Bus transfer option:
  • After getting off at Shiguang Road Station, transfer to Bus 147;
  • Get off at “Forest Park Station (森林公园站)”, then walk about 20 meters to the West Gate;
  • Buses 102 and 124 also stop at “Forest Park Station”.

2) Metro Line 8, Xiangyin Road Station (翔殷路站)

• Exit: Exit 2 at Xiangyin Road Station;
• Transfer to Bus 102, get off at “Forest Park Station”, then walk about 20 meters to the West Gate.

3) Metro Line 4, Hailun Road Station (海伦路站)

• After getting off at Hailun Road Station, transfer to Bus 147;
• Directly reach “Forest Park Station” (West Gate) without complicated transfers.

Tip: During holidays and the peak autumn chrysanthemum exhibition, the “Metro + Bus/Cycling” combination is strongly recommended to effectively avoid traffic congestion and parking difficulties at the West Gate.

2. Direct Bus Access

Outside the West Gate, there is a “Forest Park Station (森林公园站)” bus stop served by multiple lines:

• Buses 102, 124, and 147 all stop at “Forest Park Station”;
• After getting off, walk about 20 meters to the West Gate turnstiles;
• From city center locations like People’s Square (人民广场) or Nanjing Road (南京路), you can first take the metro to Line 8 transfer stations, then follow the above routes.

3. Driving and Parking

1) Navigation and Driving Routes

• For navigation, directly input:
  • “Gongqing National Forest Park West Gate (共青国家森林公园西门)”;
  • or “Gongqing National Forest Park South Gate (共青国家森林公园南门)”.
• Elevated roads/expressways reference:
  • Take the Middle Ring Road (中环线), exit at Minxing Road (民星路), then follow Minxing Road – Shiguang Road – Jungong Road towards the park;
  • Or approach via the Inner Ring Road (内环) and Yixian Road Elevated (逸仙路高架) connecting to Jungong Road.

2) Main Parking Lots and Prices

• West Gate Parking Lot:

  • Location: Adjacent to the West Gate, preferred by most visitors and families;
  • Fee: About ¥5/hour (~$0.7 USD);
  • Note: Extremely congested on weekends and during the chrysanthemum exhibition, described as “completely gridlocked” in many notes. It’s recommended to arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid long queues.

• South Gate Parking Lot:

  • Location: Near the South Gate turnstiles, most convenient for entering the southern route by car;
  • Note: More parking spaces than the West Gate. Multiple field notes indicate availability is still good if arriving before noon, but weekends in autumn can also be tight. Allow extra time.

• East Gate Surrounding Street Parking and Lesser-Known Spots:

  • No large official parking lot at the East Gate, mostly street parking;
  • Reference price: About ¥10/hour (~$1.4 USD);
  • Recommended lesser-known parking spots:
    • Navigate to Baicheng Road Kindergarten (白城路幼儿园); there is a small parking lot diagonally opposite;
    • Street parking on both sides of Gangshui Road (港水路);
    • Nearby RT-Mart/Auchan (大润发/欧尚) parking lots (Auchan offers shuttle service to the park, and some purchases can offset parking fees);
    • Street parking on the left side of the Shiguang Road/Baicheng Road intersection.
  • Some bloggers choose to park at RT-Mart, take a taxi to the park (starting fare), and spend a few dozen yuan at RT-Mart on the return trip to offset parking fees, balancing cost and convenience.

4. Gate Features and Suitable Visitors

• West Gate (西门):

  • Close to the “Forest Park Station” bus stop;
  • Nearby are the forest mini train station, floral exhibition hall, camphor plaza (Monet Garden), children’s playground, and amusement area;
  • Suitable for: Families with children, first-time visitors, those wanting to enjoy amusement rides and flower exhibitions.

• South Gate (南门):

  • Adjacent to the South Gate parking lot;
  • Upon entry, a large bald cypress forest is on the right, amusement area entrance on the left, leading further to the Brave Path, Water Forest Wetland, Huaming Bridge, Reed Pavilion, Pine Wave Valley, etc.;
  • Suitable for: Self-driving visitors, those who prefer forest secrets and long walks.

• East Gate (东门):

  • Immediately outside is the East Gate flower sea and redwood lawn, opposite is the entrance to the Bamboo Garden;
  • Close to bird-watching corridor, Pujiang scenic spots, and other niche locations;
  • Suitable for: Photography enthusiasts, bird watchers, visitors focusing on the Bamboo Garden’s ginkgo and bamboo groves.

5. In-Park Transportation

• Forest Mini Train:

  • Boarding point: Near the West Gate;
  • Route: Circles around the lakeside and chrysanthemum exhibition area, about 8 minutes;
  • Ticket price: Adults about ¥20/person, children about ¥10/person, also a family ticket for about ¥30 (1 adult + 1 child);
  • Suitable for visitors with children, seniors, or those wanting a relaxed tour of the core scenic area.

• Electric Cart/Electric Sightseeing Vehicle:

  • Rental: About ¥60 for the first half hour, then charged by the minute, deposit about ¥198;
  • One hour is enough to circle the park; covered models are available on rainy days;
  • The stone paths can be bumpy, so hold on tight while riding.

• Shared Bikes:

  • Can be ridden outside the park to each gate;
  • Generally not allowed to ride shared bikes deep inside the park; walking or using park sightseeing vehicles is recommended.

Overall Recommendations:

• During holidays & peak autumn chrysanthemum exhibition: Prioritize metro + bus/cycling to avoid West Gate traffic;
• On weekdays or in winter: Driving is more relaxed; prioritize South Gate parking or lesser-known spots near the East Gate.

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Tickets and Opening Hours

1. Tickets and Reservation Policy

Based on multiple recent notes from 2025–2026:

• Tickets: Free (no purchase required);
• Reservation: Not required, general admission without flow control;
• In case of extreme weather or large events, opening policies may be temporarily adjusted. Please refer to the official WeChat account of "Shanghai Gongqing National Forest Park (上海共青森林公园)" for announcements.

The main scenic areas inside the park are all free to enter, including:

• North Garden and South Garden (Wanzhu Garden 万竹园);
• Xiangzhang Square, Monet Garden;
• Themed flower exhibition areas such as Chrysanthemum Exhibition, Hundred Flowers Exhibition, Aromatic Plants Exhibition, Narcissus Exhibition;
• East Gate Flower Sea, Pine Wave Valley, Jungle Wilderness, Wanzhu Garden Ginkgo Avenue, etc.

2. Opening Hours (Seasonally Adjusted)

Closing times vary by season, with times noted in various articles including:

• 05:00–18:00 (mostly in winter; articles 1, 10, 13, 17, 22);
• 05:00–18:30 (article 21);
• 05:00–19:30 (spring, summer, and autumn long daylight seasons; articles 5, 16, 19).

In summary:

• Winter (approximately November to February): usually 05:00–18:00 or 18:30;
• Spring, Summer, Autumn long daylight seasons: closing time extended to around 19:00–19:30.

Travel Tips:

• Check the official WeChat or map apps for the current day’s opening hours before you go;
• Allow at least 30–60 minutes to leave the park before closing to avoid being rushed out from deep inside the park.

3. Paid Attractions Inside the Park (Reference Prices)

The following prices are based on multiple on-site notes and are for reference only. Please refer to posted prices on-site.

• Forest Mini Train:

  • Adults approximately ¥20 per person (~$3 USD);
  • Children approximately ¥10 per person (~$1.5 USD);
  • Parent-child combo ticket approximately ¥30 for 1 adult + 1 child (~$4.5 USD);
  • One lap around the lake takes about 8 minutes.

• Children’s Playground:

  • Admission approximately ¥30 for 1 adult + 1 child (~$4.5 USD);
  • Unlimited access to slides, mazes, tunnels, ziplines, climbing, and other activities inside.

• Carousel:

  • Approximately ¥30 for 1 adult + 1 child (~$4.5 USD), located near the mini train.

• Large Amusement Rides (Third Ring Roller Coaster, Go-Karts, Rapids, Pirate Ship, etc.):

  • Single ride tickets range roughly from ¥20 to ¥60 (~$3 to $9 USD).

• Boat Rides (Ying Lake 盈湖):

  • Electric boats approximately ¥80 per hour (~$12 USD), seats 4 people;
  • Also available are rowboats and pedal boats with slightly different prices.

• Electric/ Battery-Powered Sightseeing Cars:

  • About ¥60 for the first half hour (~$9 USD);
  • Deposit around ¥198 (~$30 USD);
  • Afterwards charged by the minute; one hour is generally enough to circle the park once.

4. Discounts and Activities

• Since park entry is free, discounts mainly apply to amusement rides and sightseeing vehicles:
  • Some attractions offer child tickets and parent-child combo tickets (e.g., mini train, carousel, children’s playground combo prices);
  • Specific discounts are subject to on-site ticket counters.
• Annual large flower exhibitions (such as Chrysanthemum and Hundred Flowers Exhibitions) are free to view;
• Occasionally, offline check-in activities are held in cooperation with third-party platforms like Dianping (大众点评), with “Dianping check-in boards” hidden in the park. Completing interactions can earn small gifts.

Overall, Gongqing National Forest Park is a highly cost-effective urban forest destination:

• Free admission;
• If you choose some amusement rides and dine inside the park moderately, a family of three adults and one child can spend a whole day for about ¥150 per person (~$22 USD), making it budget-friendly.

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Recommended Visit Duration and Activity Types

The Gongqing National Forest Park (共青国家森林公园) covers a large area with dispersed attractions, so the time needed varies greatly depending on the type of visit. Based on multiple tested routes, the following categories can be roughly outlined:

1. Quick Check-in: About 1.5–2 Hours

Suitable for: Visitors with limited time who mainly want to take photos, or those stopping by briefly.

• Spring Flower Viewing Route (about 1.5 hours):
  Starting from the West Gate (西门), this route connects the floral exhibition area, small train, Monet Garden, fountain, the "small Western-style house" photo spot across from Liao Feng Pavilion (蓼风亭), Huaming Bridge (华明桥), large lawn, and cherry blossom forest. It focuses on popular photo spots featuring flowers, lakes, bridges, and cherry blossoms.

• Autumn Foliage Photo Route (about 2 hours):
  Starting from the South Gate (南门), visit the bald cypress forest, Liao Feng Pavilion, Sanlian Forest Ginkgo Slope, Taosheng Bridge (涛声桥), Hongzhuang Tea House (泓庄茶室), Luxue Cottage (芦雪舍), barbecue area, water forest wetlands, and Monet Garden. This route specializes in colorful foliage and water scenery.

2. Standard Tour: About 3–4 Hours

Suitable for: Weekend half-day trips for visitors wanting a mix of photography, walking, and some family or recreational activities.

• West Gate Family + Chrysanthemum Exhibition Route (about 3 hours):
  Enter through the West Gate, then visit the Golden Triangle Flowerbed, Floral Exhibition Hall, Camphor Square (including Monet Garden and Boutique Chrysanthemum Exhibition), forest small train, Liao Feng Pavilion, Wind and Rain Bridge / Taosheng Bridge, and the sea of flowers at the East Gate (东门花海). Exit from the East Gate or return to the West Gate.

• South Gate Forest Loop (about 2.5–3 hours):
  Enter through the South Gate, follow the Brave Path, small train line, water forest wetlands, Hydrangea Garden (八仙花园), Bamboo Grove Seclusion (竹坞寻幽), Huaming Bridge, Fengle Pavilion (丰乐亭), Liao Feng Pavilion, then return to the South Gate. This route is ideal for those who enjoy quiet hiking and forest atmosphere photography.

3. In-depth Full-Day Tour: About 4–6 Hours

Suitable for: Families with children, camping enthusiasts, photographers/bird watchers, or visitors wanting to "lounge in the forest all day."

• Family Full-Day Loop (about 6 hours):
  Spend the morning near the West Gate experiencing the forest small train, carousel, and children’s playground;
  Have lunch and rest at the forest restaurant;
  In the afternoon, visit the chrysanthemum exhibition, floral exhibition hall, and Camphor Square;
  In the evening, rent an electric cart for a park tour before leaving.

• Photography + Bird Watching + Camping Route (about 4–6 hours):
  Enter from the East Gate early morning to photograph the East Gate lawn’s redwood forest, Wanzhu Garden’s ginkgo avenue, and bamboo forest;
  Walk along the bird-watching corridor to Pujiang Lansheng (浦江揽胜), Chengbi Bridge (澄碧桥), and Huaming Bridge to capture birds and river views;
  Camp or shoot wedding/portrait photos on the large lawn near Ying Lake or the cherry blossom forest in the afternoon;
  In the evening, depending on energy, choose a boat ride or amusement area activities before leaving.

4. Combined Itineraries with Nearby Attractions

If time allows, you can combine Gongqing National Forest Park with nearby attractions for a full-day trip:

• Option 1:
  Morning: Gongqing National Forest Park (forest + flower exhibition + family activities);
  Afternoon/evening: Walk along Yangpu Riverside (杨浦滨江), visit industrial heritage sites and riverside trails.

• Option 2:
  Morning: Visit Fudan University / Tongji University campuses or Wujiaochang shopping district;
  Enter the park after 3:00 PM to focus on the "golden hour" lighting for forest, colorful foliage, and chrysanthemum exhibition photography.

First-time Visitors Recommendations:

• Reserve at least 3–4 hours to comfortably complete a full route;
• For the autumn chrysanthemum exhibition or when bringing children to multiple recreational activities, it’s best to plan for a full day.

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Must-See Highlights and Classic Photo Spots in the Park

1. Overall Landscape Structure

• Northern Garden Forest Landscape: Featuring hills, Ying Lake (盈湖), large lawns, pine wave valleys, and jungle wilderness, this area boasts rich forest types, ideal for long walks, jogging, sightseeing bus tours, and camping.
• Southern Garden Wan Bamboo Garden (万竹园): Located in the southeast corner of the park, often called the "Secret Garden," it includes bamboo groves, a ginkgo avenue, redwood forests, and the ancient Jiangnan-style town "Silk Bamboo Town (丝竹镇)." It’s relatively quiet and perfect for classical-style and portrait photography.
• Water Systems and Bridges: The park has numerous river bends, wetlands, and lakes. Bridges like Chengbi Bridge (澄碧桥), Huaming Bridge (华明桥), Fengyu Bridge (风雨桥), Taosheng Bridge (涛声桥), and Qinglan Bridge (晴岚桥), combined with dawn redwood forests, maple trees, and reeds, create many iconic photo spots.

2. Representative Attractions and Photo Spots

1. Southern Gate Dawn Redwood Forest

• Location: Immediately to the right upon entering the South Gate.
• Highlights: Vast clusters of towering dawn redwoods with autumn colors transitioning from orange to yellow to green. The dappled light on forest paths makes it the "first shot" for autumn visitors.

2. Liaofeng Pavilion and "Little Western-style House" Spot

• Location: Riverside area between Camphor Square (香樟广场) and the East Gate.
• Highlights: A pavilion built by the water, opposite a red-tiled, white-walled little Western-style house. Surrounded by maple leaves, ginkgo, and pale yellow branches, with clear reflections on the water, exuding a vintage artistic vibe.

3. Sanlian Forest Ginkgo Slope

• Location: Near the Tree Planting Memorial Forest and Cherry Blossom Avenue.
• Highlights: Known as the "Youth League’s Ginkgo Hill," this slope is covered with ginkgo trees and golden fallen leaves, making it one of the most popular ginkgo photo spots in autumn.

4. Taosheng Bridge and Autumn Forest Love at Dusk

• Location: Near Autumn Forest Love at Dusk (秋林爱晚) and Pine Wave Valley.
• Highlights: Taosheng Bridge is an arch bridge surrounded by maple leaves with clear water reflections. Autumn Forest Love at Dusk is a concentrated red maple area, embodying the poetic scene "Frost leaves redder than February flowers." Nearby boat docks offer winter boating photo opportunities.

5. Luxue Pavilion and Water Forest Wetlands

• Luxue Pavilion:
  • Close to the dawn redwood forest area, this small pavilion is surrounded by large clusters of dawn redwoods and bald cypresses, often praised as a "photo treasure spot."
• Water Forest Wetlands:
  • Located along the West Gate–Mini Train–Floral Art Exhibition Hall line, where water surfaces intertwine with dawn redwoods. Morning mist creates a fairyland atmosphere, making it a top choice for winter mood shots.

6. Monet Garden and Camphor Square

• Location: Around Camphor Square, the core area for the chrysanthemum exhibition and "Monet Garden."
• Highlights:
  • Camphor Square hosts the chrysanthemum exhibition’s central display of exquisite potted chrysanthemums. In autumn, golden leaves and sunlight filtering through branches create a "Monet painting" feel.
  • Monet Garden features flower beds and wooden bridges along the river, with a mini train running along the riverside tracks. Combined with chrysanthemum exhibition decorations, it feels like stepping into an Impressionist painting.

7. East Gate Flower Sea and East Gate Lawn Redwood Forest

• East Gate Flower Sea:
  • Near the East Gate exit, this is a major outdoor chrysanthemum exhibition area with a rich palette of chrysanthemums and zinnias in autumn.
• East Gate Lawn Redwood Forest:
  • In early winter, the redwoods blaze with vibrant red hues, their straight trunks and sunlight filtering through branches create a strong atmospheric effect.

8. Wan Bamboo Garden and Silk Bamboo Town (丝竹镇)

• Location: Southeast corner of the park, opposite the East Gate.
• Highlights:
  • Interwoven bamboo groves, ginkgo avenues, and redwood forests offer year-round scenery.
  • The ancient Jiangnan-style town "Silk Bamboo Town" features white walls, black tiles, small bridges, and flowing water, ideal for classical and martial arts-style photography.
  • The round arch gate and thick bamboo leaf carpet at the "Bamboo Hollow Seclusion" entrance have a cinematic feel.

9. Pine Wave Valley and Jungle Wilderness

• Pine Wave Valley:
  • Located at the park’s highest point, with over 1,700 cedar trees planted. Looking up from the valley floor, you can hear the pine waves rustling. In autumn, the pampas grass glows golden in backlight, making it a great spot for panoramic views.
• Jungle Wilderness:
  • Simulating a primeval forest with tall trees that block the sky and dense underbrush, this immersive forest trail offers a rare "wild" feeling in the city.

10. Large Lawn and Camping Area

• Location: Near Ying Lake and the cherry blossom forest.
• Highlights: Multiple large lawns are available for camping, picnics, kite flying, and soccer. On weekends, tents are commonly seen, and it’s a popular spot for newlyweds’ wedding photos.

11. Children’s Playground and Amusement Area

• Location:
  • The main children’s playground is near the West Gate and Mini Train area.
  • There is also an amusement area entrance on the left side of the South Gate.
• Highlights:
  • The children’s playground includes wooden slides, mazes, tunnels, zip lines, and climbing facilities.
  • The amusement area features a triple-loop roller coaster, go-karts, rapids ride, pirate ship, carousel, and more, making it a "childhood memory factory."

12. Ying Lake Boating and Birdwatching Corridor

• Ying Lake Boating:
  • Located near Huaming Bridge in the large lake area, colorful boats can be rented for lake rowing. Electric boats cost about ¥80/hour (~$12 USD), seating 4 people, perfect for family weekend outings.
• Birdwatching Corridor and Pujiang Scenic Spot:
  • Situated on the southern line’s eastern part, between the East Gate Flower Sea and Pujiang Scenic Spot, it’s a popular "birding" spot for Shanghai’s wild bird enthusiasts. Common sightings include common kingfishers, moorhens, grey herons, and cormorants.
  • The Pujiang Scenic Platform offers views overlooking the Huangpu River bay and forest together, a hidden photo spot at sunset.

13. Huaming Bridge and Chengbi Bridge

• Huaming Bridge:
  • Mid-section of the southern line, connecting Ying Lake and forest areas. The bridge is wrapped in vines, with daisies below and surrounded by dawn redwoods and grasslands. In the afternoon, slanting light through the treetops often creates a "Tyndall effect."
• Chengbi Bridge:
  • Near the lower part of Pujiang Scenic Spot, the water surface west of the bridge is calm like a mirror, perfect for symmetrical reflections of the dawn redwood forest. It’s nicknamed "Little Jiuzhaigou."

14. Themed Flower Exhibitions and Seasonal Specials

• Spring Flower Exhibition: Showcasing spring flowers like Erythronium, Snow Spray, Plum Blossom, Magnolia, and Begonia.
• Summer Fragrant Plant Exhibition: Featuring aromatic plants such as mint and lavender.
• Autumn Chrysanthemum Exhibition (October 25 – November 30): Held in Camphor Square, Monet Garden, East Gate Flower Sea, and Floral Art Exhibition Hall, displaying exquisite chrysanthemums and creative installations. It’s a fixed autumn event in Shanghai.
• Winter Narcissus Exhibition: Focused on narcissus and winter flowers, combined with water features and bridges to create a cool and elegant winter landscape.

These highlights combine to make Gongqing National Forest Park (共青国家森林公园) not just a simple "park visit" destination but a vast natural studio and urban outdoor living space.

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Practical Tips for Visiting

1. Timing and Crowd Selection

• Best Lighting Periods:
  • Spring and autumn flower seasons: It’s recommended to enter the park before 9:00 AM or between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM for portrait and flower sea photography, when the light is soft;
  • Winter forest atmosphere: On weekdays from 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM or 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, when the morning mist lingers and crowds are sparse, perfect for capturing “moody shots.”
• Crowd Patterns:
  • The West Gate (西门) is easily congested on weekends and during the chrysanthemum exhibition, with parking lots filling up early;
  • Weekday mornings and evenings have the fewest visitors, ideal for quiet walks and photography.

2. Clothing and Gear Recommendations

• Shoes:
  • The park is large with many stone paths and forest trails, so wear comfortable, non-slip shoes;
  • In winter mornings, some trails may have light frost, making slip resistance especially important.
• Outfit Coordination:
  • Spring flower season: White, beige, or light pink dresses or shirts pair best with February orchids (二月兰), cherry blossoms (樱花), and snow-in-summer flowers (喷雪花);
  • Autumn colorful forests: Camel, caramel, and off-white sweaters or trench coats coordinate beautifully with redwoods (红杉), ginkgo (银杏), and chrysanthemums (菊花);
  • Winter: Fleece jackets + knit hats + bright scarves keep you warm and help you stand out against the dark forest background.
• Other Essentials:
  • Mosquito repellent spray or anti-itch cream in summer and autumn, as there are many insects near forests and water;
  • For camping plans, bring picnic mats, folding chairs, small tables; if carrying lots of gear, consider a folding camping cart;
  • For photography, props like straw hats, books, transparent umbrellas, picnic baskets, and small reflectors can enhance the visual layers.

3. Parking and Entrance Strategy

• Parking Tips:
  • The West Gate parking lot is “packed to the brim” on weekends and during the chrysanthemum exhibition season; although the price is about ¥5/hour (~$0.70 USD), long queues are common. It’s best to arrive before 9:00 AM or skip the West Gate altogether;
  • The South Gate (南门) parking lot has relatively more spaces and is the preferred entrance for self-driving visitors, but on autumn weekends, early arrival is still advised;
  • Around the East Gate (东门), roadside parking is available (~¥10/hour, ~$1.40 USD), or use “less popular” options like the small parking lot opposite Baicheng Road Kindergarten, parking spaces along Gangshui Road, or parking at RT-Mart/Auchan with consumption discounts.
• Entrance Choice:
  • To quickly visit the chrysanthemum exhibition and flower seas: prioritize East Gate or South Gate;
  • For a deeper park experience and amusement rides: prioritize West Gate or South Gate.

4. Family and Safety Notes

• Tips for Visiting with Kids:
  • Plan your route in advance: West Gate → Children’s Playground → Forest Mini Train → Restaurant → Chrysanthemum Exhibition → Electric Cart forms a tested, easy family loop;
  • Bring a stroller (some rental points inside the park), snacks, water bottles, and spare clothes to prevent kids from catching cold after playing on the grass;
  • In summer, pay attention to sun protection and hydration, and rest in the shade or indoors as needed.
• Amusement Safety:
  • Rides like the Triple Loop Roller Coaster, Rapids Adventure, and Pirate Ship have height/age restrictions—always follow on-site safety instructions;
  • Electric carts on stone paths can be bumpy; on rainy days or when elderly and children ride, hold the handrails firmly and avoid sharp turns or sudden stops.
• Water Safety:
  • Areas like Ying Lake boating, electric boats, and bird-watching corridors are close to water; always supervise children closely, and prevent climbing on railings or reaching into the water;
  • In winter, some water surfaces may have thin ice—do not step on or let children approach the ice.

5. Weather and Seasonal Pitfalls

• Rainy Days:
  • The forest atmosphere in the rain is excellent, suitable for slow walks or renting covered electric carts to listen to the rain;
  • However, some muddy and stone paths become slippery, so non-slip soles are important; mosquitoes may also increase after rain.
• Winter:
  • Temperatures drop significantly after 4:00 PM, especially near the lake, so bring an extra jacket, hat, and gloves;
  • The park usually closes around 6:00 PM in winter—avoid staying too late deep inside the park.

6. Saving Money and Getting Information

• Money-Saving Tips:
  • Admission is free; snacks like sausages, oden, and electric boat rides are reasonably priced, but costs can add up if the whole family tries many amusement rides, so control the number of activities;
  • You can bring your own snacks and drinks, as prices inside the park are slightly higher than city convenience stores;
  • If driving, consider parking at RT-Mart or Auchan and use consumption discounts to reduce parking fees.
• Information Channels:
  • Follow the WeChat official account “Shanghai Gongqing Forest Park (上海共青森林公园)” for real-time updates on opening hours, temporary closures, flower exhibitions, and crowd alerts;
  • Use map apps for precise navigation to West Gate, South Gate, East Gate, or lesser-known parking spots;
  • During flower exhibitions, watch for linked events on platforms like Dianping; look for “Dianping Check-in Boards” inside the park to participate and receive small gifts.

Mastering these details will help you avoid pitfalls, save effort, efficiently capture great photos, and fully enjoy your visit to Gongqing National Forest Park (共青国家森林公园).

Recommended Dining Options Inside and Around the Park

Gongqing National Forest Park (共青国家森林公园) is mainly known for its natural scenery, so dining options inside the park are not very dense. However, there are still plenty of choices around the amusement area, along Jungong Road (军工路) and Shiguang Road (市光路), which can satisfy hunger and are suitable for families with children to recharge during their visit.

1. Full Meals Inside the Park: Senlin Lixiang Restaurant (森林里香餐厅)

Senlin Lixiang Restaurant

• Location: Near the park’s west gate, around the amusement area and the forest train station; just a few minutes’ walk from the little train stop.
• Cuisine & Features:
  • Mainly Hui cuisine (徽菜), with a lighter flavor profile, suitable for elderly and children;
  • Dishes are mostly home-style, including rice, hot dishes, and soups, ideal for a proper meal.
• Environment & Service:
  • Spacious indoor area with sofa seating, perfect for families with kids;
  • Tested by bloggers: babies can nap for about 2 hours inside while adults enjoy coffee and rest nearby, making it a great spot to recharge at midday.
• Average Cost:
  • Around ¥90 per person (based on actual experience), offering good value within the scenic area.
• Recommended For:
  • Families and seniors planning to stay in the park all day, needing a good lunch and a rest;
  • Visitors who don’t want to bring a lot of food but prefer a comfortable dining experience.

2. Snacks and Tea Drinks Inside the Park

1. Snack Stalls

• Locations:
  • Along both sides of the main road near the west gate;
  • Around the amusement area;
  • Near the lakeside chrysanthemum exhibition area.
• Common Items & Price Reference:
  • Sausages: about ¥6 each;
  • Oden (Guandongzhu): a few skewers for around ¥10–20;
  • Bottled drinks, mineral water, ice cream, packaged snacks, etc.
• Suitable For:
  • Quick energy boosts during activities, not suitable for full meals or long stops;
  • Families with kids can buy some, but watch sugar and fried food intake.

2. Hongzhuang Tea Room (泓庄茶室)

• Location: By the riverside near Liaofeng Pavilion (蓼风亭), Qiulin Aiwan (秋林爱晚), and Taosheng Bridge (涛声桥).
• Features:
  • Built next to the water, with views of maple leaves, ginkgo trees, and the river—an ideal rest spot during autumn walks;
  • Mainly serves tea, light meals, and small snacks, perfect for a break and photo opportunities.
• Recommended For:
  • Visitors who enjoy quiet tea time with scenic views and chatting;
  • Those looking for a place to sit after taking photos at Qiulin Aiwan and Taosheng Bridge.

3. Coffee and Beverage Stands Near the Amusement Area

• Location: Near Senlin Lixiang Restaurant and the amusement area entrance.
• Offerings:
  • Coffee, milk tea, juices, etc.;
  • Simple desserts, cakes, and small snacks.
• Suitable For:
  • Parents waiting near the children’s playground can grab a coffee or milk tea to rest briefly;
  • Afternoon strolls near the chrysanthemum exhibition or Monet Garden with a drink in hand.

3. Dining Options Within Walking or Short Distance Outside the Park

The area around Gongqing is mainly residential, with many local small restaurants and fast-food shops along Jungong Road (军工路), Shiguang Road (市光路), and Baicheng Road (白城路), suitable for meals before entering or after leaving the park.

1. Along Jungong Road (Near West Gate and South Gate)

• Types of Dining:
  • Local stir-fry restaurants, Sichuan cuisine eateries, simple meal shops, small noodle shops, etc.;
  • Mainly serve local residents and self-driving tourists, with modest environments but quick service.
• Average Cost:
  • Mostly ¥40–70 per person, suitable for a simple, filling meal.
• Recommended For:
  • Self-driving visitors who want to eat nearby before entering or after leaving the park;
  • Visitors who prioritize cost-effectiveness over fancy environments.

2. Near the Intersection of Shiguang Road and Baicheng Road

• Transportation Hub:
  • A transfer point for Metro Line 8, city buses, and routes to Gongqing Park; reachable by walking or short bike rides.
• Common Dining Types:
  • Lanzhou hand-pulled noodles, soup dumpling shops, braised chicken rice, rice bowls, fast food, and simple meals;
  • Some chain milk tea and coffee shops where you can buy drinks to take into the park.
• Average Cost:
  • Mostly ¥30–50 per person, good for a quick meal before entering or takeout.

3. Around RT-Mart/Auchan

• Location Features:
  • Popular parking spots for self-driving tourists; some malls offer parking fee discounts with purchases.
• Food & Ready-to-Eat Options:
  • Supermarket deli counters, simple meal stalls, and bakeries offering sushi, fried chicken, salads, bread, etc., suitable for picnic food;
  • Outside the supermarket, there are usually chain fast food options like fried chicken, burgers, rice noodles, and simple meals, with prices around ¥30–60 per person.
• Suitable For:
  • Visitors planning to camp or picnic inside the park can buy all food and drinks here in one go;
  • Self-driving tourists wanting to use purchases to offset parking fees.

4. Dining Strategy Suggestions

• If staying in the park for more than half a day:
  • Choose to have a full lunch and rest at Senlin Lixiang Restaurant, then continue exploring in the afternoon;
  • Or eat well beforehand near Shiguang Road/Baicheng Road or RT-Mart, then supplement with snacks and light food inside the park.
• For families with children:
  • It’s recommended to use Senlin Lixiang as a midday “base” for meals and naps, allowing adults to rest in turns;
  • Prepare some fruits, biscuits, yogurt, and other small snacks to avoid kids frequently buying sugary treats in the amusement area.
• For budget-conscious or picky eaters:
  • Better to have full meals outside along Jungong Road or Shiguang Road, and focus on hydration and light snacks inside the park.

Overall, dining in Gongqing National Forest Park focuses on “satisfying hunger + family-friendly” options. For those seeking more diverse or upscale restaurant experiences, you can visit commercial areas like Wujiaochang (五角场) after leaving the park, but these are beyond walking distance.

Accommodation and Location Recommendations Around Gongqing National Forest Park

The area surrounding Gongqing National Forest Park mainly consists of residential neighborhoods and industrial redevelopment zones. There are no hotels or guesthouses inside the park. When choosing accommodation, it is recommended to prioritize "commute time to the park" and "public transportation convenience," combined with your budget and itinerary.

1. Close and Convenient Area: Around Jungong Road (军工路) – Shiguang Road (市光路) – Minxing Road (民星路)

• Location Features:
  • Closest to Gongqing National Forest Park; most hotels are about 10–15 minutes by taxi to the West or South Gate;
  • The area mainly offers business express hotels and budget chain hotels, with simple but fully functional environments.
• Suitable For:
  • Families or photography enthusiasts whose main destination is Gongqing Forest Park and want quick morning access;
  • Self-driving tourists who can park at the hotel and drive directly to the South or West Gate parking lots early the next day to avoid peak traffic.
• Price Range:
  • Budget chains (e.g., Home Inn, Hanting, 7 Days Inn): around ¥200–350 per room per night (~$28–50 USD);
  • Newly renovated business hotels or mid-range brands (e.g., All Seasons, Jinjiang Metropolo): around ¥300–450 per room per night (~$42–63 USD).

2. Riverside + Forest Combo: Yangpu Riverside Area (near Yangpu Bridge – Jungong Road section)

• Location Features:
  • Close to the Yangpu Riverside Scenic Belt, allowing visits to industrial heritage sites and riverside trails;
  • Taxi ride to Gongqing National Forest Park takes about 10–20 minutes, depending on exact location.
• Suitable For:
  • Couples or photography lovers who enjoy riverside walks and plan a combined "Riverside + Forest Park" trip;
  • Visitors who want quiet evening strolls by the river and daytime activities in the forest.
• Price Range:
  • Riverside business hotels, approximately ¥300–500 per night (~$42–70 USD) per person; some high-end hotels are more expensive.

3. Strong Transport and Amenities: Wujiaochang Commercial Area

Although not within walking distance to the park, it is very convenient to reach Gongqing via metro and bus.

• Transport and Amenities:
  • Wujiaochang is the core commercial district of Yangpu, with well-developed metro and bus networks. You can transfer at Metro Line 8 and then get off at Shiguang Road (市光路站) or Xiangyin Road (翔殷路);
  • Taxi or metro + bus combo to Gongqing takes about 20–30 minutes one way;
  • Shopping malls, restaurants, cinemas, supermarkets are all available, perfect for evening shopping and dining.
• Suitable For:
  • Visitors who want to spend the day at Gongqing Forest Park and enjoy lively commercial areas in the evening;
  • Families with children who want to let kids expend energy in the forest during the day and continue playing in malls at night.
• Price Range:
  • Budget chain hotels: around ¥250–350 per room per night (~$35–50 USD);
  • Mid-to-high-end hotels: around ¥400–800 per room per night (~$56–112 USD), depending on brand and quality.

4. Combining The Bund Night View: Hongkou / North Bund – Hailun Road Area

• Transport Advantages:
  • Close to Metro Line 4, Hailun Road Station (海伦路站), with direct transfer to Bus 147 to Gongqing National Forest Park West Gate;
  • Also near The Bund (外滩) and North Bund, ideal for night tours along the Huangpu River.
• Suitable For:
  • Visitors who want to combine "The Bund night view + Gongqing Forest Park" in one trip;
  • Couples or families who have higher accommodation standards and want more dining and nightlife options.
• Price Range:
  • Hostels and budget hotels: around ¥200–350 per room per night (~$28–50 USD);
  • Mid-to-high-end hotels: around ¥400–900 per room per night (~$56–126 USD), with some river-view rooms priced higher.

5. Location Suggestions for Different Groups

• Families with Children:

  • If the main goal is to fully enjoy Gongqing, it is recommended to stay in chain hotels near Jungong Road or Metro Line 8 Shiguang Road Station (市光路站) in Yangpu District for easy early morning park access;
  • If you want more family facilities and dining options in the evening, consider family rooms or serviced apartments in the Wujiaochang commercial area.

• Photography / Camping Enthusiasts:

  • Recommended to stay in budget or business hotels around Jungong Road – Shiguang Road – Minxing Road for easy access before 7 AM to secure good photo spots or lawn camping sites;
  • For multi-day shooting, staying in the same area saves commuting time.

• Budget Travelers:

  • Prioritize budget chain hotels near Shiguang Road Metro Station or Minxing Road area for friendlier prices;
  • Use metro + bus to reach Gongqing, keeping transportation costs low and overall value high.

Overall:

• If Gongqing National Forest Park is the trip’s main focus, it is best to stay in Yangpu District near Metro Line 8 or Jungong Road;
• For half-day visits, staying in more comprehensive areas like Wujiaochang, North Bund, or The Bund is convenient with easy metro + bus access;
• During holidays and the peak autumn chrysanthemum exhibition, it is advisable to book in advance to avoid price hikes or limited availability.

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Suggested Itinerary Routes (Including Half-Day and Full-Day Examples)

All the following itineraries are mainly walking-based, with optional use of park trains or electric carts. You can adjust flexibly according to the season and your stamina.

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1. Classic Half-Day Route (About 3–4 Hours, Enter and Exit via West Gate)

Best Seasons: Spring flower displays, Autumn chrysanthemum exhibitions;
Suitable For: First-time visitors who want to enjoy flower exhibitions, lake views, and classic photo spots.

Route Overview:

1. West Gate → Floral Art Display Area (About 20 minutes)

   • After entering, walk along the main path, passing the Golden Triangle flower beds and the Floral Art Display Area;
   • In spring, enjoy the Hundred Flowers Exhibition; in autumn, see some chrysanthemum arrangements—great for warming up and taking photos.

2. Floral Art Display Hall → Camphor Square & Monet Garden (About 40 minutes)

   • Enter the Floral Art Display Hall to learn about the seasonal themed flower exhibition;
   • After exiting, head to Camphor Square, the core area for the chrysanthemum exhibition in autumn;
   • Walk along the river to Monet Garden, capturing “Impressionist scenes” with chrysanthemum landscapes, small bridges, and the park train.

3. Monet Garden → Liaofeng Pavilion “Little Western-Style House” Photo Spot (About 30 minutes)

   • Cross the bridge and walk along the river to the opposite side of Liaofeng Pavilion;
   • Find the best angle of the red-tiled, white-walled little Western-style house, shooting reflections and portraits.

4. Liaofeng Pavilion → Huaming Bridge (About 30 minutes)

   • Continue walking along the river, passing Fengle Pavilion area;
   • Arrive at Huaming Bridge, wrapped in vines with daisies underneath—afternoon slanting light creates a wonderful atmosphere.

5. Huaming Bridge → Large Lawn & Cherry Blossom Grove (About 40 minutes)

   • Cross the bridge and walk north to the large lawn around Ying Lake;
   • In spring, stroll or picnic under the cherry blossoms; in autumn and winter, it’s great for camping and kite flying;
   • Depending on your energy and time, take a short rest on the lawn.

6. Cherry Blossom Grove → Return to West Gate (About 20–30 minutes)

   • Follow park signs along the main path or lakeside trail back to the West Gate;
   • If tired, you can choose to take an electric cart for a short distance (subject to on-site operation).

Time Allocation Tips:

• Photography enthusiasts can spend 15–30 minutes each at Monet Garden, Liaofeng Pavilion photo spot, Huaming Bridge, and the large lawn;
• If you just want a quick scenic walk, the whole route can be compressed to about 2.5 hours.

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2. South Gate Forest Loop (About 3 Hours, Ideal for Autumn and Winter Colorful Forests)

Best Seasons: Autumn colorful forests, winter atmospheric shots;
Suitable For: Self-driving visitors, those who enjoy quiet hiking and forest ambiance.

Route Overview:

1. South Gate → Bald Cypress Forest (About 20 minutes)

   • Park your car at the South Gate parking lot and enter the park from the South Gate;
   • On your right is a large bald cypress forest, with orange-yellow gradient colors in autumn—a highlight to start the route.

2. Bald Cypress Forest → Brave Path → Water Forest Wetland (About 40 minutes)

   • Follow the forest trail into the “Brave Path,” feeling surrounded by near-natural woods;
   • Enter the Water Forest Wetland area, enjoy the bald cypress and reflections on the wooden boardwalk—especially dreamy with winter morning mist.

3. Water Forest Wetland → Hydrangea Garden → Bamboo Grove Seclusion (About 40 minutes)

   • Continue eastward, passing Hydrangea Garden (great for photos when hydrangeas bloom in summer);
   • Enter “Bamboo Grove Seclusion” in the Wan Bamboo Garden, pass through the round arch gate, with a thick carpet of bamboo leaves underfoot and a deep bamboo forest atmosphere.

4. Bamboo Grove Seclusion → Huaming Bridge → Fengle Pavilion (About 30 minutes)

   • Exit the bamboo forest and walk northwest along the river;
   • Arrive at Huaming Bridge, capturing the multi-layered scenery of the bridge, daisies, and bald cypress forest;
   • Continue to Fengle Pavilion for a short rest.

5. Fengle Pavilion → Liaofeng Pavilion → Return to South Gate (About 40 minutes)

   • Walk along the river to Liaofeng Pavilion; the “little Western-style house” photo spot on the opposite bank is the highlight to end this route;
   • After shooting, return to the South Gate via the main path or forest trail to finish the trip.

Tips:

• Enter the park between 14:00–16:00 in autumn to capture backlit colorful forests and soft light;
• In winter, arrive at the Water Forest Wetland before 9:00 AM to catch morning mist and thin ice.

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3. Family-Friendly Full-Day Loop (About 6 Hours, Enter and Exit via West Gate)

Best Seasons: Spring, autumn, and sunny winter days;
Suitable For: Families with 1–2 children, especially preschoolers.

Sample Timeline:

1. 09:50 Enter via West Gate

   • Recommended to drive or take metro + bus, try to enter before 10 AM to avoid peak times at the amusement area.

2. 10:00 Forest Train Ride (About 30 minutes)

   • Walk along the main path from West Gate; the forest train station is on the right;
   • Buy tickets and take a round trip, enjoying lakeside and flower exhibition views—kids usually get very excited.

3. 10:30 Carousel & Amusement Area (About 30 minutes)

   • Near the train station is the carousel and some amusement rides;
   • Choose 1–2 rides based on the children’s interests.

4. 11:00 Children’s Playground Playtime (About 1.5 hours)

   • Walk to the entrance of the children’s playground, buy tickets for one adult and one child;
   • Let kids freely play on slides, mazes, tunnels, zip lines, and climbing facilities while parents relax on nearby benches.

5. 12:40 Lunch & Rest at Forest Aroma Restaurant (About 2 hours)

   • A few minutes’ walk from the playground to Forest Aroma Restaurant;
   • Order some family-friendly Anhui cuisine and enjoy a slow-paced meal;
   • After lunch, let kids nap on the sofa while adults take turns drinking coffee, browsing phones, or organizing photos.

6. 15:00 Chrysanthemum Exhibition / Floral Art Display Hall & Camphor Square (About 1 hour)

   • After resting, walk to the Floral Art Display Hall and Camphor Square;
   • In autumn, focus on the chrysanthemum exhibition; in spring, enjoy the Hundred Flowers display—great for family photos.

7. 16:00 Electric Cart Ride Around the Park (About 1 hour)

   • Rent an electric cart near the amusement area; choose a model with a roof for comfort;
   • Slowly circle the park along the ring road, passing lakes, forests, and lawns—kids can continue enjoying the scenery from the cart.

8. 17:00–17:30 Return Cart & Exit West Gate

   • Return the cart before park closing time depending on the season; walk back to the West Gate to leave;
   • If kids still have energy, grab some snacks from nearby stalls as a “final reward.”

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4. Photography + Birdwatching + Camping Comprehensive Route (About 5–6 Hours, Enter East Gate, Exit West Gate)

Best Seasons: Clear autumn and winter days;
Suitable For: Photography enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and camping lovers.

Route Overview:

1. 08:00 Enter East Gate → East Gate Lawn Redwood Forest (About 40 minutes)

   • Enter early morning from East Gate, shoot backlit portraits and forest trails in the redwood forest on the East Gate lawn;
   • Early winter is when redwood colors are richest, perfect for wide-angle and portrait photography.

2. 08:40 East Gate → Wan Bamboo Garden Ginkgo Avenue & Bamboo Grove Seclusion (About 1 hour)

   • Cross the road into Wan Bamboo Garden, enter the bamboo forest through the “Bamboo Grove Seclusion” round arch gate;
   • Shoot ancient-style or forest-themed portraits using the bamboo leaf carpet and ginkgo leaves for layered effects.

3. 09:40 Wan Bamboo Garden → Birdwatching Corridor & Pujiang Scenic Platform (About 1 hour)

   • Follow park signs to the birdwatching corridor, bring a telephoto lens to shoot common kingfishers, moorhens, herons, etc.;
   • Continue to Pujiang Scenic Platform for wide-angle shots of the Huangpu River Bay and forest together.

4. 10:40 Pujiang Scenic Platform → Chengbi Bridge → Huaming Bridge (About 1 hour)

   • Walk west along the river to Chengbi Bridge, shoot symmetrical reflections of bald cypresses;
   • Then head to Huaming Bridge, wait for early afternoon slanting light to capture “Tyndall effect” and bridge scenery.

5. 11:40 Huaming Bridge → Ying Lake Large Lawn Camping (About 1.5–2 hours)

   • Set up a tent on the large lawn near Ying Lake or the cherry blossom grove;
   • Bring your own picnic or simple snacks, rest, take photos, and watch wedding photoshoots.

6. 14:00 Lawn → West Gate (About 40 minutes)

   • Pack up camping gear and walk along the main path or lakeside trail toward West Gate;
   • If tired, you can choose an electric cart for part of the way, depending on daily operation.

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5. Tips: How to Adjust Routes According to Seasons

• Spring:
  • Prioritize Cherry Blossom Avenue, February Orchid Flower Sea, and Snowfall Waterfall; end at the large lawn and cherry blossom grove;
• Summer:
  • Avoid midday heat, concentrate activities in the morning and evening; increase time at East Gate’s Verbena flower sea and shaded trails;
• Autumn:
  • Focus on linking South Gate Bald Cypress Forest, Sanlian Forest Ginkgo Slope, Wan Bamboo Garden Ginkgo Avenue, East Gate Redwood Forest, and Chrysanthemum Exhibition areas;
• Winter:
  • Make Water Forest Wetland, Chengbi Bridge, Huaming Bridge, and Liaofeng Pavilion the main route; schedule visits in the morning or early afternoon to utilize mist and soft light for atmospheric shots.

Using the above examples, you can easily create a half-day or full-day itinerary that suits your own pace and enjoy a “true forest experience in the city” at Gongqing National Forest Park.