With sunnier weather ahead, there are a few things better than visiting Gongqing Forest Park in Yangpu with family and friends. As the second largest public park in Shanghai it boasts more than 100 acres of green space, an intricate network of waterways and abundant recreational activities, perfect for a day out.
The Venue
Gongqing Park has plenty of space for families to manoeuvre around, which is a luxury for anyone living in Shanghai who wants to enjoy a day in the great outdoors. When the weather is warm, many arrive with their tents and picnic blankets and search high and low for a perfect camping spot.
The site also encompasses two fun fairs to keep the kids busy. The one located at the southwest corner is more comprehensive and includes a rollercoaster, bumper cars, merry-go-round and a miniature steam train circuiting the entertainment area. Alternatively, opt for horseback riding on the ranch, or bring your own soccer ball to play on the field.
There are also many ways to explore the different areas of the park. The intricate network of lakes and waterways makes it the perfect setting for an enjoyable boat ride (RMB40 per hour), or for land-lovers, rent a tandem bike (RMB30 per bike per hour) for a leisurely ride.
These days, Gongqing Park serves as more a recreational venue, however it does boast plenty of botanical features to relish in. Having been used as a tree nursery since the 50s, the area was finally converted into a park in the 80s to increase accessible green areas for the public. In fact, much of its vegetation dates back to the nursery project 60 years ago, and bear labels in Latin and Chinese which allow children to acquaint with the plants and their growth habits.
Food & Drinks
Unlike the neighborhood parks in Shanghai, food and drink options at this suburban park are quite scarce. That said, the convenience shops sell bottled water, soft drinks, as well as steam stacks of readymade baozi, fried noodles and rice.
There’s also a wildly popular barbecue area on the northwest corner of the park. Bringing food to cook is permitted - just be sure to secure a spot as early as possible. All that being said, the most common and safest practise is bringing your own picnic basket to enjoy on the grass.
Services
Maps and signposts are in place to help visitors navigate different parts of the park. Public toilets are scattered across the property and are generally well maintained.
Access
RMB7.50 (children); RMB15 (adult). No. 2000, Jungong Lu, by Minxing Lu. 军工路2000号, 近民星路. Exit 2, Shiguang Lu (Line 8), 30mins walk to the North Gate. Open 8am-5pm daily (ticket kiosk closes at 4pm).
