Gongqing National Forest Park

Historical Overview

• 1950s Origins: The site began as a Pujiang River beachland, reclaimed in 1956 for limestone mining.
• 1958 Transformation: Hu Yaobang, then Secretary of the Communist Youth League, led youth volunteers to plant fruit trees, establishing the "Youth Experimental Orchard."
• 1986 Opening: Renamed Gongqing Forest Park, it became Shanghai’s first large-scale urban forest.
• 1995 Expansion: The southern "Wanzhu Garden" added, featuring bamboo groves and water towns.
• 2025 Updates: Added eco-education zones and smart parking systems.

Structural Layout

The park is divided into two main zones with distinct styles:

1. North Park (Gongqing Forest Park):
   • Forest Core: 1631 acres of rolling hills, lakes, and dense woodlands.
   • Key Features:
     • Songtao Valley: A 15-meter-high cedar forest with winding trails.
     • Qiulin Aiwan: Maple and ginkgo groves for autumn foliage.
     • Yinghu Lake: Boating, fishing, and a 126,700㎡ waterfront promenade.
2. South Park (Wanzhu Garden):
   • Jiangnan Water Town: Bridges, pavilions, and bamboo groves reflecting southern China’s charm.
   • Key Features:
     • Bamboo Sea: 239.6 acres of moso bamboo and rare species.
     • Shuixiang Yingxiu: Lotus ponds and willow-lined streams.

Supporting structures include adventure towers, BBQ pits, and a 2.5km cycling loop.

Major Attractions

1. Cherry Blossom Grove: 500+ cherry trees blooming late March–early April.
2. Ginkgo Avenue: 11km of golden ginkgo trees in November.
3. Adventure Forest: Zip-lines, climbing walls, and a 300-meter "Brave Road" obstacle course.
4. Horseback Riding: Stables offering trails through cedar forests.
5. Forest Train: A 2km mini-train winding through maple and pine groves.
6. Wetland Boardwalk: Observe herons and kingfishers in restored marshes.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Family Fun Route (3–4 hours):
   Entrance → Forest Train → Cherry Blossom Grove → BBQ Pits → Yinghu Lake → Exit
   Highlights: Seasonal blooms, lake views, and kid-friendly activities.

2. Adventure Route (5–6 hours):
   Entrance → Adventure Forest → Horseback Riding → Zip-line Course → Qiulin Aiwan → Exit
   Highlights: Thrills, autumn foliage, and forest trails.

3. Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
   Entrance → North Park (Songtao Valley/Yinghu Lake) → South Park (Wanzhu Garden) → Adventure Zone → Exit
   Highlights: Full ecosystem immersion and cultural contrasts.

Ticket Purchase

• Entrance Fees (2025):
  • Standard Ticket: ¥15 (adults), ¥7.5 (students).
  • Free: Children under 1.2m, seniors aged 65+, and disabled visitors.
• Activity Tickets:
  • Adventure Forest: ¥50–80 (varies by project).
  • Horseback Riding: ¥30 (15 mins).
• Online Booking: Reserve via WeChat mini-program “Gongqing National Forest Park” (up to 7 days in advance).
• On-Site: Tickets sold at all gates; queues peak 10:00–12:00 AM.

Transportation

From Downtown Shanghai:

• By Subway: Line 8 to Shiguang Road Station (Exit 2), then 10-minute taxi/ride-share.
• By Ferry: Take Dongnen Line ferry to Dongtang Road Ferry Terminal, then 10-minute walk.
• By Bus: Routes 102/124/147/325 to Gongqing Forest Park Station.
• By Taxi: 30-minute ride from People’s Square (¥40–50).

Parking: South Gate parking lot (¥5/hour, limited spaces).

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: Spring (March–May) for cherry blossoms; autumn (October–November) for maple/ginkgo.
• Avoid Crowds: Visit weekdays before 10 AM or after 2 PM.
• Essentials:
  • Insect repellent (wetland areas).
  • Reusable water bottle (drinking fountains available).
  • Sun protection (hat/umbrella).
• Photography Tips:
  • Golden Hour: Capture maple reflections at Yinghu Lake (5–6 PM).
  • Macro Mode: Detail shots of cherry blossoms or bamboo textures.
• Prohibited Items: Drones, loudspeakers, and outside food (BBQ pits allowed).