Location & How to Get There
Kandan Park sits in the southern part of Beijing’s Fengtai District, near the intersection of Keyang Road and West Fifth Ring Road. It’s a hidden gem away from the crowded downtown areas, making it a breath of fresh air for both locals and travelers. To reach Kandan Park, you can take Subway Line 9 to Fengtai East Street Station (Exit D), then grab a taxi or hop on buses 353 or 678 to Keyang Road. If you’re driving, punch “Kandan Park, No.14 Keyang Road, Fengtai” into your GPS—there’s plenty of free parking!
Natural Scenery: A Green Oasis
Inside Kandan Park, you’ll find a mix of lush lawns, flower beds, and towering trees that change colors with the seasons. Spring brings cherry blossoms and bright tulips, while autumn paints the park in fiery reds and oranges. A winding jade belt path loops around a small lake, perfect for morning jogs or sunset strolls. The best spot? A wooden bridge over the lake where you can snap photos of ducks swimming below. Pro tip: Visit after a rain—the air smells amazing, and the plants look extra vibrant!
Cultural Touches: History Meets Modernity
Though Kandan Park isn’t packed with ancient temples, its name has a cool story. “Kandan” comes from a local legend about a place where people watched (or “observed”) red-crested cranes (dan in Chinese). These birds symbolize good luck, and you’ll spot modern art installations of cranes near the entrance. The park also hosts seasonal festivals, like summer night markets with snacks and handicrafts. For a quiet cultural moment, check out the Wall of Wishes near the playground—locals tie ribbons here for good fortune.
Family-Friendly Facilities
Kandan Park is designed with families in mind. Parents will love the shaded picnic areas with tables and grills (bring your own food!). Kids can burn energy at the colorful playground with slides and swings, or test their balance on the stone balance beams near the lake. There’s even a small pet corner where kids can feed fish and turtles. For adults, free workout stations and a ping pong table under a pavilion offer a chance to relax while keeping an eye on little ones.
Dining & Refreshments
The park has a few low-key cafes selling coffee, ice cream, and light snacks like dumplings or buns. Our favorite? The lakeside stall that serves hot sugar-coated山楂 (hawthorn) sticks in winter—tangy and sweet! If you’re craving something bigger, walk 10 minutes to the nearby Wanda Plaza (ask a staff member for directions) for mall food options. Pro tip: Bring a reusable bottle—there are water refill stations throughout Kandan Park.
Ultimate Day-Out Plan
Start your visit at the main gate by the crane sculptures. Walk straight to the lake, take a detour to the wish wall, then follow the jade belt path until you hit the playground. Adults can rest at the ping pong tables while kids play. Around noon, picnic under the big gingko tree (it’s leafy even in summer!). After lunch, rent a paddleboat on the lake or join a free tai chi class at the open广场 (square) near the exit. End your day with sunset views from the wooden bridge—trust us, it’s worth waiting for!
Tips for Visitors
- Best time to visit: Spring (April–May) or fall (September–October) when the weather is mild.
- Entrance fee: Free! Just show your ID if asked.
- Avoid: Weekdays if you want fewer crowds. Weekends get busy with families.
- Hidden gem: The herb garden in the northeast corner has labeled plants—fun for kids to learn about traditional Chinese medicine.
Kandan Park might not be as famous as the Great Wall, but its mix of green space, family fun, and local charm makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience everyday Beijing life. Pack comfy shoes, bring a camera, and get ready to relax—Beijing style!