Location & How to Get There

Wetland Botanical Garden sits inside Shanghai’s Chen Shan Botanical Garden, tucked away at 3888 Luxu Road, Songjiang District. To reach it, take Shanghai Metro Line 9 to Yonggu North Station, then transfer to Songjiang Tourism Line 1—the bus drops you right at the garden’s entrance. If driving, punch “Chen Shan Botanical Garden” into your GPS; parking is free and super convenient. The wetland area is a 5-minute walk from the main gate, so wear comfy shoes!

Natural Landscape: A Watery Wonderland

Wetland Botanical Garden isn’t just a pond with lily pads—it’s a carefully designed ecosystem split into 8 themed zones. Each “pool” (locals call them 泡) showcases plants that thrive in different water depths, from shallow marshes to deep pools. You’ll spot 125 types of aquatic plants here, like lotus with giant leaves, iridescent water lilies, and cattails that sway like green ribbons.

What’s cool? The zones mimic natural wetland layers. For example, one pool starts with floating-leaved plants (like water hyacinths), transitions to tall reeds (think bamboo-like Ceratophyllum), and ends with underwater species like vast, feathery-looking Myriophyllum. It’s like watching nature’s “layer cake” come alive! Visit in summer for blooming flowers, or autumn when reeds turn golden.

Hidden Human Touches

Don’t think this wetland is “wild”—it’s part science, part art. Wooden boardwalks snake through the zones, so you never get muddy. Signs in English and Chinese explain quirky facts: “Did you know? These lotus leaves can hold 70 grams of water!” Kids love the interactive touchscreens near the entrance, where you can zoom in on plant details.

At night, some pools glow softly thanks to solar-powered lights—perfect for a romantic stroll. The garden even hosts seasonal workshops (think: making lotus-leaf crafts) if you check their schedule online.

Practical Vibes: Food, Rest, and More

After exploring, grab matcha ice cream or red bean buns at the garden’s cafe—they’re cheaper than downtown prices! Clean restrooms and shaded pavilions dot the route, so you can take breaks while admiring koi fish in the ponds. Rent a audio guide device (¥20/hour) if you want deeper info, or just snap photos—every corner looks like a postcard.

Tips for the Best Visit

  • Go early: Opens at 8:30 AM, but morning light makes photos magical.
  • Bring binoculars: Dragonflies and kingfishers hang out here!
  • Rainy days: The wetland still looks stunning—just pack a poncho.
  • Family tip: Let kids dip their hands in the shallow pools (signs say it’s safe).

Wetland Botanical Garden proves that science can be beautiful. Whether you’re a plant nerd or just want a peaceful walk, it’s worth every step. Oh, and did I mention? Free entry with your Chen Shan Botanical Garden ticket—score!