Geography & Transportation

Muxian Lake Wetland Park is tucked away in the southern part of Chongqing, near the bustling commercial hub of Nanping. The address, Guifu Avenue 6-10, might sound tricky, but it’s easy to reach. If you’re coming from central Chongqing, take Metro Line 3 to Nanping Station, then hop on a taxi or a short bus ride (ask for “Guifu DaDao”—local drivers will know). Driving here? There’s free parking right outside the park entrance, which is a rare treat in Chongqing!

Natural Scenery: A Green Oasis

As soon as you step into Muxian Lake Wetland Park, you’ll feel like you’ve left the city behind. The lake itself is the star—a calm, mirror-like surface surrounded by reeds and water plants. In spring, pink lotus flowers bloom, and dragonflies dance above the water. Walk along the wooden boardwalks, and you’ll spot turtles sunbathing or hear frogs croaking in the evening. The air smells fresh, thanks to the lush bamboo forests and willow trees that line the paths. It’s perfect for a relaxing day out, especially if you bring a camera—the reflections of the mountains in the lake are Instagram gold!

Cultural Gems: Temples & Old-School Charm

Don’t miss the hidden cultural spots near Muxian Lake. Just a 10-minute walk from the park’s east entrance, you’ll find Laozhai (Old Town), a string of traditional houses turned into teahouses and handicraft shops. Try sitting by the window of a teahouse, sip on jasmine tea, and watch locals play Mahjong. For history buffs, the Longmen Lungu Temple is nearby—a centuries-old Buddhist temple with colorful carvings and a giant incense burner. Pro tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds!

Family-Friendly Fun

Muxian Lake isn’t just for nature lovers—it’s a hit with kids too. The park has a huge children’s playground with swings and slides, plus a shallow lake area where little ones can splash around (life jackets provided). Rent a tandem bike to explore the paths, or grab a paddle boat for a lazy ride on the lake. There’s even a picnic zone with BBQ grills, though bring your own charcoal if you want to cook.

Eats & Treats

After working up an appetite, head to the lakeside food stalls. Try grilled river fish skewers (they’re tiny and crispy!) or spicy dumplings. For something sweet, look for the stand selling chrysanthemum jelly—a local dessert made with edible flowers. If you prefer sit-down meals, the nearby Nanping Pedestrian Street has hot pot joints and noodle shops. Just save room for Chongqing small noodles—they’re cheaper than a coffee and way more filling!

Tips for Your Visit

  • Best time to go: Early morning (before 9 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM) to avoid midday heat.
  • What to wear: Comfy shoes! The park has hilly areas, and those wooden boardwalks can get slippery when wet.
  • Hidden gem: Walk to the far end of the lake for a quiet bamboo grove—perfect for meditation or a nap in the shade.
  • Freebies: The park’s admission is free, but some attractions (like boat rentals) cost extra.

Whether you’re a nature lover, culture nerd, or just looking to escape the city buzz, Muxian Lake Wetland Park has something for everyone. Pack a light bag, bring sunscreen, and get ready to fall in love with Chongqing’s wild side!