People's Park

If you are looking for the heart of Chengdu, then People's Park is the perfect choice. Founded in 1911 as Shaocheng Park, it is the city's oldest public park. This 11-hectare green space is more than just a place for a stroll; it's a living open-air museum with a prestigious national "AAAA" rating.

People's Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Located in the bustling center that represents China in all its diversity, the park harmoniously blends exquisite garden art, historical monuments, and recreation areas. Here you can find rare plant species, elegant lotus ponds, and unique architectural forms reflecting the spirit of the old city.

People's Park is the quintessence of the Sichuanese lifestyle. Time seems to slow down here, allowing visitors to enjoy the quiet in the shade of exotic trees or watch as centuries-old traditions intertwine with the modern rhythm of the metropolis. It is a must-see on the map of any traveler wishing to see "the real" China.

To make your visit as smooth as possible, it is helpful to have the official contact information at hand. You can always ask locals for directions or use navigation apps by entering the exact address in the Qingyang District.

Below is the up-to-date contact and location information:

The main attraction here is immersion in tea culture. Visit the famous Yongju Tea House on Goldfish Island or the cozy Zhenliu Garden. Traditional teas are served here, while hundreds of prize goldfish swim in the clear waters nearby—a sight you can watch for hours. It’s the perfect place to practice the art of contemplation or play a game of mahjong with the locals.

Nature lovers will appreciate the magnificent Orchid Garden, which houses about 900 bonsais and rare flower varieties across 880 square meters. The Rock Garden is equally impressive, featuring a monumental artificial waterfall: a 43-meter-wide cascade falls from a height of 12 meters, providing a refreshing cool even on the hottest days.

For those who prefer active recreation or cultural observation, the park offers endless possibilities. You can join groups practicing tai chi, watch "water calligraphy" on the pavement tiles, or simply walk along the lotus ponds, enjoying the view of more than 70 species of exotic trees that keep the city center air remarkably clean.

Located in the heart of the metropolis, this green oasis sits at the intersection of major cultural routes. Thanks to its central position in the Qingyang District, getting there is easy from anywhere in the city using the well-developed transport network.

The most convenient way is to use the metro. The "People's Park" station is located in the immediate vicinity of the main gates. Numerous bus routes also run along Shaocheng and Zudong streets, connecting the center with the outskirts. If you prefer comfort, a taxi will take you right to the entrance (address for the driver: 9 Ci Tang Jie).

For those already walking through the central neighborhoods, a stroll on foot will be a great addition to the itinerary. Use the coordinates POINT(104.057246 30.657132) in your navigator to quickly find the east gate or other convenient entrances to the park.

The history of this place dates back to 311 BC, when the foundations of the "Small City"—Shaocheng—were laid in what is now Chengdu. It was here, on the site of a former Qing Dynasty banner garrison, that the city's first public park was founded in 1911, becoming a symbol of a new era.

A special place in the architectural ensemble is held by the majestic Railway Protection Movement Memorial. Standing over 30 meters tall and decorated with images of locomotives, this monument was erected in honor of the patriots whose struggle in 1911 sparked the Xinhai Revolution. Walking along the paths, you can literally feel the breath of early 20th-century Chinese history.

Interestingly, the park has preserved a layout inspired by traditional garden art while integrating elements of modern urban space. It has survived decades of transformation, turning from a closed military compound into a cultural venue open to all, where every stone serves as a reminder of Sichuan Province's rich past.

To fully experience the unique rhythm of life in Chengdu, you should set aside 2 to 3 hours for this location. This is enough time for a leisurely tour of the main gardens and monuments, as well as for people-watching.

If you plan to go beyond a simple walk and want to join the famous Sichuan tradition of tea drinking in one of the tea houses, budget half a day for your visit. Immersing yourself in the atmosphere of tranquility over a cup of aromatic tea is exactly why many tourists return here.

The park is a public space and is open to visitors daily. Usually, entry is possible from early morning until late evening, allowing you to enjoy both the morning exercises of the locals and the evening lighting of the alleys.

Since the exact opening hours of individual pavilions or tea houses may vary by season, it is recommended to check the latest information on official city resources or ask the park administration for details directly before your visit.

A walk around Chengdu reveals the contrasts between historical heritage and the modern entertainment industry. In the immediate vicinity of the park and further afield within the city are locations that will interest both families with children and outdoor enthusiasts.

Here is a list of notable sites you can visit nearby: