Location & Accessibility

Yangpu Park sits in the heart of Yangpu District, Shanghai, surrounded by busy streets and local neighborhoods. It’s bordered by Longchang Road to the east, Shuangyang Road to the west, Liaoyuan East Road to the south, and Kongjiang Road to the north. The park has two main entrances: 369 Shuangyang Road (west entrance) and 681 Longchang Road (east entrance). Both are easy to spot, with clear signs guiding visitors.

To get there, take Shanghai Metro Line 12 to Ningguo Road Station (Exit 1) and walk about 10 minutes. Buses like 22, 145, or 874 also stop nearby. If you’re coming from Xujiahui or Pudong, a taxi ride takes around 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Natural Scenery: A Mini “West Lake”

One of Yangpu Park’s biggest draws is its lake-centric design, inspired by Hangzhou’s famous West Lake. The Pleasant Lake area (Yu Lake Scenic Zone) is the park’s crown jewel, featuring winding bridges, pavilions, and flower-filled walkways. You’ll see lotus blooms in summer and reflections of willow trees in the water—perfect for photo ops!

The park is also packed with greenery. Walk along shaded paths lined with Chinese magnolia trees, ginkgoes, and bamboo groves. In spring, cherry blossoms and azaleas add pops of color, while autumn brings golden maple leaves. Even in winter, the layout feels cozy, with evergreen pines framing the lake.

Cultural Highlights & History

Yangpu Park wasn’t always a park. Before 1957, it was a mix of farmland, ponds, and small villages. The first phase covered 12.47 hectares, expanding over time to its current 22 hectares. The design mimics classical Chinese gardens, with arched bridges, wooden pavilions, and corridors that make you feel like you’re stepping into a painting.

A fun fact: the park’s layout intentionally echoes West Lake’s style, with miniature versions of iconic elements like Three-Pools-Mirroring-the-Moon (a moon-shaped stone arrangement near the lake). While there’s no grand palace here, the Central Scenic Area has a tranquil teahouse where locals play mahjong or chat over tea.

Facilities for All Ages

Yangpu Park isn’t just about scenery—it’s a local hangout spot. Families love the playground near the east entrance, equipped with swings, slides, and a sandbox. For adults, there’s a free outdoor gym with exercise machines and a dancing plaza where seniors practice tai chi or line dancing.

Hungry? The lakeside cafe serves affordable snacks and drinks. During cherry blossom season, vendors sell hot dumplings and grilled squid near the entrance. Clean restrooms and plenty of benches make it easy to relax for hours.

Exploring the Park: Tips & Experiences

Start your visit at the Shuangyang Road entrance to hit the highlights first. Walk straight to the lake, cross the Jade Belt Bridge (a curvy stone bridge), and snap photos of the pavilions. On weekdays, you’ll mostly see retirees playing cards or singing opera; weekends bring families picnicking on grassy lawns.

The Peony Garden (seasonal) bursts with color in April and May, while the Former Animal Area (closed since 2007) now hosts quieter spots for reading or napping. For a full experience, rent a paddle boat on the lake or join a free traditional dance performance hosted by the park on weekends.

End your visit at the Kongjiang Road side, where food stalls stay open late. Yangpu Park won’t wow you with flashy attractions, but its mix of nature, culture, and community vibe makes it a hidden gem in Shanghai’s bustling east. Perfect for a leisurely morning or sunset stroll!