Century Park

Century Park lays at the heart of Shanghai’s Pudong District and is the city’s largest park. It includes a concert stage, maze, bamboo forest and incredible topiaries in the shapes of goddesses, leaping dolphins and pandas. Rent a tandem bicycle or cycling-car to explore the large, immaculately landscaped areas, laid out in a mixture of British, Japanese and Chinese garden styles. Spring is a good time to visit the park when the fruit trees are in bloom. At any time of year, however, the park is a peaceful spot to enjoy some rare green space amid the steel and concrete of the city.

Rent a boat and explore the many islands of the Lake District. Tee off at the miniature golf area in Century Park West. Golf equipment is available to rent, and the clubhouse lounge and coffee shop are ideal places to rest your feet. When the wind is up, enjoy that centuries-old Chinese pastime, kite flying. You’ll find vendors selling kites throughout the park.

Relax and enjoy the sights and sounds at Bird Island. On this 5-acre (2-hectare) island sanctuary you’ll find about 50 species of shrubs and trees including camphor, privet, poplar, red leaves, peach, plum, acacia and laurel. Early morning and evening are the best times to hear the birds in full voice. At the Shaded Bird Sanctuary, look for the towering 100-year-old ginkgo tree.

Century Park features an imaginative children’s play area that, coupled with the nearby Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, makes for a great day out for families.

The park is open daily and has a small entry fee. You can get to the park on public transport, including bus and rail. If using the metro line, get off at Century Park Station or Yanggao South Road Station.