Location & Transportation

Nestled in Chongming District, Shanghai, Great Goose Flying is part of the Pearl Lake Park complex at 333 Sanhua Highway. This serene spot sits on the northern tip of Chongming Island, making it a perfect escape from the city buzz. To get there, take Metro Line 1 to Fujin Road, then transfer to bus Pengzhen Line 2 (direction: Chenjia Town). Get off at Sanhua Highway Chenhai Road, and you’ll spot the park’s entrance just a 5-minute walk away. Driving? Punch “333 Sanhua Highway” into your GPS—free parking is available on-site.

Natural Scenery: A Wetland Oasis

Great Goose Flying isn’t just about birds—it’s wrapped in Pearl Lake’s tranquil beauty. The lake, Shanghai’s largest natural body of water, shimmers with reeds, lotus flowers, and migrating ducks. Walk along wooden boardwalks surrounded by cattails, or rent a paddle boat to glide across the glassy water. Early mornings here feel magical: mist hovers over the lake, and herons stalk the shallows. Even without the geese, this place is a nature lover’s paradise.

Wildlife Show: The Main Event

Here’s why you’re here—Great Goose Flying, East China’s only goose-flying spectacle. Twice daily (10:30 AM and 2:00 PM), trainers whistle, and hundreds of geese take off like a living cloud. They swoop over your head, wings flapping in sync, then land gracefully on the lake. It’s like watching snowflakes fall—but louder! These aren’t ordinary geese: they’ve been hand-raised to trust humans. After the show, they wander freely, letting kids pet them (soft feathers!) and nibble seeds from your palm.

Cultural Touch: Training & Heritage

What makes Great Goose Flying special? The geese are part of a tradition rooted in Chinese wetland farming. Trainers use ancient whistle commands and hand signals (demonstrated before the show!) to guide the flock. You’ll hear fun facts: geese migrate up to 3,000 km annually, and these stars are bred for agility. It’s part wildlife education, part cultural insight—all without boring lectures.

Practical Perks: Food, Rest, & More

The park has you covered. Near the Great Goose Flying area, find:

  • Snack stands: Try local rice cakes (liangpi) or ice cream.
  • Picnic zones: Grass lawns with tables for DIY meals.
  • Clean restrooms: Family-friendly with changing stations.
  • Souvenirs: Geese-themed keychains, plush toys, and photo albums.
    Bring cash or use mobile payments (Alipay/WeChat)—most stalls accept both.

Tips for the Best Visit

  1. Timing: Arrive 30 minutes early for good seating. Geese might start flying before the official time!
  2. Feeding: Buy birdseed (¥10/pack) from vendors. Hold it high—geese love jumping for it!
  3. Photo Hacks: Use burst mode for action shots. The lake’s reflection doubles the drama.
  4. Combine Trips: After the show, explore Chongming Island’s bike trails, strawberry farms, or the Eastern Ghats lighthouse.

Great Goose Flying isn’t just a show—it’s a chance to connect with nature, culture, and playful wildlife. Whether you’re a kid chasing geese or an adult marveling at training skills, this is one Shanghai experience you won’t forget. Pack snacks, charge your camera, and get ready for winged wonder!