Location & How to Get There
Changyang Park, also known as Fangshan New City Waterfront Forest Park, is tucked away in Changyang Town, Fangshan District, Beijing. It’s a hidden gem for those who want to escape the city hustle! To get there, hop on Metro Line Fangshan (the one that looks like it’s heading into nowhere) and get off at Changyang Station. From there, a short taxi or bus ride (like Bus 35) will drop you right at the park’s entrance. Trust me, the journey is worth it—you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a nature oasis!
Nature’s Playground: Rivers & Scenery
Changyang Park revolves around two rivers—the crystal-clear Xiaoqing River and the calm Yaba River—which shape the park’s vibe. These rivers divide the area into two main parks: Changyang Park (where you’re heading) and the nearby University City Park.
The park is divided into three zones:
- City Mix Zone: Perfect for picnics or people-watching.
- Wetland Showcase: Duck-filled lakes, lotus flowers in summer, and wooden boardwalks for strolling.
- Wild Eco Zone: Think endless grassy fields, ginkgo trees that light up in gold in autumn, and wildflowers dotting the paths.
Must-see spots include Huaqiu Shi (a colorful flower field), Huancui Island (a tiny river island covered in green), and the Green Maze—a fun hedge labyrinth for kids (and adults who still love games).
Human Touch: Local Life & Culture
What makes Changyang Park special? It’s where locals come to chill. You’ll see families flying kites, students from nearby universities studying under trees, and elders practicing tai chi by the river. The park even hosts seasonal festivals—cherry blossoms in spring, lotus festivals in summer, and chrysanthemum displays in fall.
Don’t miss the riverside trails, where you can rent a bike or just walk. In autumn, the ginkgo forest turns golden, and the whole park smells like fresh air mixed with fallen leaves. It’s Instagram heaven!
Facilities: Practical but Fun
Changyang Park isn’t fancy, but it’s got everything you need:
- Free entry (yes, no tickets!).
- Picnic spots with tables and shaded areas.
- Kid-friendly zones: playgrounds, a small petting zoo, and shallow river spots for splashing.
- Bicycle rentals if you’re too lazy to walk.
- Snack stands for ice cream, grilled corn, and local snacks.
Pro tip: Bring a blanket! The grassy fields are perfect for lying down and watching clouds float by.
What to Do: Adventure Ideas
- Riverside Walk: Follow the Xiaoqing River’s path for a peaceful hike.
- Photo Hunt: Snap flowers at Huaxiu Fengqing (a flower garden) or catch sunset views at Ningxia Quse (a bridge with a pretty name).
- Season Spotting: Cherry blossoms in March, lotus in July, and red maples in November.
- Local Vibe: Join retirees dancing to traditional music near the pavilion—they might even teach you a move!
Why You’ll Love It
Changyang Park feels like a mini vacation from Beijing’s chaos. It’s not crowded (even on weekends!), and the mix of rivers, woods, and flowers makes it feel like a fairytale. Whether you’re here to jog, take photos, or just breathe clean air, it’s a no-frills, all-fun escape.
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. And yeah, bring bug spray—it’s all part of the outdoor charm!
Keywords: Changyang Park, Fangshan, rivers, picnic, ginkgo trees, free entry, local life, Beijing escape.