Location & Access

Liaofeng Pavilion sits inside Gongqing National Forest Park, located at 2000 Jungong Road in Yangpu District, Shanghai. This area is part of the city’s “lung,” far from the skyscraper-filled downtown but still easy to reach. The park spans over 1,700 acres, making it one of Shanghai’s largest green spaces. Liaofeng Pavilion itself is nestled near a tranquil lake, surrounded by towering trees and winding paths.

To get here, take Metro Line 8 to Shuangjiangzhai Station (Exit 2), then transfer to bus 147 or taxi (~15 minutes). If driving, park at the park’s entrance—entry fees include parking. For a scenic route, bike along the waterfront from Wusongkou International Cruise Port (~30-minute ride).

Natural Scenery

Liaofeng Pavilion’s charm lies in its blend of nature and architecture. The pavilion overlooks a sprawling lake where lotus flowers bloom in summer, creating a pink-and-green canvas. Walk 5 minutes north, and you’ll find bamboo groves that rustle softly in the breeze. In autumn, maple trees near the pavilion turn fiery red, perfect for photos.

The park’s eco-trails loop around Liaofeng Pavilion, passing wetlands, meadows, and a small heron rookery. Early mornings are magical—mist hovers over the water, and birdsong fills the air. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays; weekends draw crowds picnicking near Liaofeng Pavilion’s steps.

Cultural Highlights

Though Liaofeng Pavilion isn’t ancient, its design reflects classic Chinese garden aesthetics. The roof curves like a bird’s wing, and wooden carvings depict lotus flowers and cranes—symbols of peace. A stone tablet near the pavilion explains its name: “Liao” means calm, evoking a sense of tranquility.

Inside the park, don’t miss the Traditional Garden Area, a 10-minute walk from Liaofeng Pavilion. Here, rockeries, koi ponds, and bonsai exhibits showcase Shanghai’s gardening heritage. During festivals, the pavilion hosts tea ceremonies and guqin (zither) performances, blending sights and sounds.

Facilities & Tips

The park is family-friendly, with rental bikes, paddle boats, and BBQ grills near Liaofeng Pavilion’s lake. Eat at the Forest Café, which serves Western and local dishes—try the rice-wrapped pork (hongshao rou) for a taste of Shanghai. Clean restrooms and shaded loungers line the pavilion’s perimeter.

For a full day, pair Liaofeng Pavilion with the Shanghai Zoo (15-minute walk away) or the Yellow Pu江 Stacked Bridge (photogenic at sunset). Wear comfy shoes—the park’s terrain is hilly, and Liaofeng Pavilion is a 20-minute uphill trek from the main gate.

Visiting Experience

Liaofeng Pavilion feels like a mini escape from Shanghai’s hustle. Sit on the pavilion’s benches, listen to chirping birds, and watch dragonflies skim the lake. Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are prime times, when the weather is mild. Summer brings humidity but stunning lotus blooms. Winter reveals stark beauty, with bare trees and misty mornings.

Whether you’re cycling, picnicking, or just soaking in the view, Liaofeng Pavilion offers a rare chance to reconnect with nature—all within Shanghai’s borders. Bring sunscreen, water, and a camera—you’ll want to capture every angle of this hidden gem.