Bamboo Forest Park is tucked in the heart of Dazhulin Town, Yubei District, Chongqing. If you’re coming from downtown, it’s about a 30-minute drive north. The park sits right across from No. 5 Nanzhu Road, near the bustling Two Rivers New Area. To get there, take Metro Line 6 to Dazhulin Station—it’s a short walk (or a quick taxi ride) from the exit. If you’re staying in Jiangbei or Yubei, it’s perfect for a half-day trip!
Natural Landscape: A Bamboo Wonderland
This park is all about bamboo—and not just any bamboo. It’s Chongqing’s first privately owned park and the city’s only bamboo-themed oasis. Covering 5 hectares (that’s about 12 acres), it’s packed with over 10,000 bamboo plants. You’ll spot crazy varieties like striped golden-edge bamboo, super-thin Ceratophyllum bamboo, and even square bamboo (yes, the stalks are actually square!). The turquoise-stemmed bamboo looks like something out of a fairy tale, and the little Buddha’s belly bamboo is so cute you’ll want to pinch its leaves.
The park divides bamboo into zones: there’s a dry bamboo area (for drought-resistant types), a water-loving bamboo zone next to the ponds, and even a seasonal flower garden that changes with the months. Spring brings peonies and azaleas, while summer explodes with sunflowers and lotus.
Cultural Touches: Bamboo Beyond Plants
Bamboo isn’t just a plant here—it’s a cultural star. Chongqing’s love for bamboo shines through in the park’s design. You’ll see traditional bamboo weaving art displayed in pavilions and even catch workshops where locals craft bamboo baskets or tea trays. The park also hosts temporary exhibits, like bonsai sculptures or calligraphy on bamboo leaves.
Fun fact: In Chinese culture, bamboo symbolizes strength, flexibility, and integrity. At Bamboo Forest Park, they make this tangible by pairing bamboo groves with poetic plaques and Zen-style rock gardens.
Practical Perks: More Than Just Pretty
The park is surprisingly family-friendly. Shaded picnic spots line the paths, and there’s a kid’s play area with bamboo-themed swings. For Instagram addicts, the bamboo-framed pond (with koi fish!) and the zigzag bamboo arbor are perfect backdrops.
If you get hungry, a local teahouse inside sells bamboo-leaf-wrapped rice snacks and Chongqing-style tea. Pro tip: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and snap photos of dew-covered bamboo shoots.
Exploration Tips: Make the Most of Your Visit
- Best time to go: Spring (March-May) for blooms or autumn (September-November) for cool weather.
- What to bring: Comfy shoes (some hills!), sunscreen, and a camera.
- Hidden gem: The bonsai nursery zone has miniature bamboo forests in ceramic pots—great for souvenir ideas.
- Local vibe: Many Chongqingers practice tai chi here dawn, so mornings feel extra peaceful.
Whether you’re a plant nerd, culture buff, or just looking for a quiet escape, Bamboo Forest Park packs big charm into its compact size. It’s proof that sometimes the most magical spots are hidden right in the city!