Shanghai Gucun Park: A Year-Round Ecological Paradise in the Urban Oasis

## 1. Park Overview **Gucun Park** is located in Gucun Town, Baoshan District, Shanghai, with a total planned area of approximately 430 hectares, making it the largest suburban forest park in Shanghai—equivalent to three times the size of Century Park. The park is centered around the themes of "ecology, leisure, and entertainment" and is developed in two phases: Phase I covers 180 hectares with a layout of "one axis, one belt, three zones, and seven gardens," while Phase II spans 244.7 hectares, featuring themed areas like "one arc, one axis, two belts, and three districts." The park integrates water systems, wetlands, forests, and pastoral landscapes, creating an ecological space where humans and nature coexist harmoniously. ### Location & Transportation The park stretches from Hutai Road in the east to Chenguang Road in the west, adjacent to Gucun Park Station on Metro Line 7 (exit at Gate 2 for direct access). Drivers can reach the park via the Hutai Road exit on the Outer Ring Road, with nearly 4,000 parking spaces available (¥10 per entry). --- ## 2. Key Attractions ### 1. Seasonal Floral Spectacles - **Spring Cherry Blossoms**: The cherry blossom avenue, spanning east to west, connects nine viewing areas. The annual Cherry Blossom Festival in March–April allows visitors to stroll through a sea of pink blooms. - **Summer Lotus**: The 2.5-hectare lotus pond blooms in July–August, accompanied by family-friendly activities and opera performances, evoking poetic scenes of "endless lotus leaves under the sky." - **Autumn Osmanthus**: Ginkgo Boulevard is carpeted with golden leaves, while the fragrance of osmanthus fills the air, creating a fairytale autumn ambiance. - **Winter Plum Blossoms**: The Plum Garden exudes a subtle fragrance, with magpies perched on branches, showcasing the vitality of winter. ### 2. Themed Zones - **Oriental Bird World**: A 25-hectare avian paradise housing over 80 species and 600 rare birds, including interactive exhibits like Flamingo Bay and peacock performances. - **Dinosaur Valley**: A 100,000-square-meter Jurassic world featuring 60 lifelike dinosaurs, 7D movies, and archaeological experiences, perfect for family adventures. - **Water Sports Base**: Activities like kayaking and jet skiing are available on Yuelin Lake, catering to both thrill-seekers and leisure lovers. - **Forest Leisure Zone**: Facilities such as caged football fields, tennis courts, and a forest theater cater to sports and relaxation needs. ### 3. Nature & Culture Fusion The park preserves original village rivers, showcasing wetland landscapes and wooden boardwalks that attract birds like sparrows and blackbirds, with occasional sightings of small animals like weasels. Bridges are named after historical village names, such as Qinglong Bridge and Wannian Bridge, preserving local cultural heritage. --- ## 3. Practical Guide ### 1. Tickets & Opening Hours - **Admission**: Adults ¥20, students ¥10 (student ID required), seniors aged 60–64 ¥16; free for those 65+, military personnel, and disabled visitors. - **Hours**: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). ### 2. Recommended Routes - **Family Route**: Children's Forest Carnival (carousel, forest train) → Dinosaur Valley → Oriental Bird World. - **Nature Exploration**: Cherry Blossom Avenue → Forest Walk (seasonal flora) → Yuelin Lake water activities. - **Cultural Leisure**: Exotic Gardens (Mediterranean, British themes) → Hengshan Beijiao Hotel (garden-style rest area). ### 3. Amenities - **Dining**: Cherry Blossom BBQ Garden (grill rentals available), Ant Restaurant, Hengshan Beijiao Hotel buffet. - **Transport**: Sightseeing cars (¥10/ride), bike rentals (¥50–100/hour). - **Accommodation**: Recommended stays include Floris Luxury Resort (European style) and Atour S Hotel (Michelin-starred dining). --- ## 4. Visitor Tips - **Best Seasons**: Spring and autumn (March–April for cherry blossoms, September–November for osmanthus). - **Eco-Friendly Reminders**: Picking flowers or capturing animals is prohibited; BBQ is allowed only in designated areas. - **Special Events**: Follow the official WeChat account for updates on Lotus Festival, dinosaur exhibitions, and other seasonal activities. Gucun Park is not only a model of Shanghai's ecological development but also an ideal escape from urban hustle. Whether for family outings, nature exploration, or cultural experiences, it meets diverse needs, serving as a perfect bridge between city life and nature.