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📍Location: Changning District
🚌 Getting there: Metro line 2
🕐 When to visit: Evening
One of our favourite places when visiting Shanghai turned out to be Zhongshan Park. It was recommended to us by a friend from Shanghai as a good place to hang out where the locals do.
We visited it after a failed attempt of getting a seat in one of the Shanghai‘s famous restaurants (followed by a successful Shanghai noodle dinner at another, more local place) — and it was the highlight of our day.
Zhongshan Park offers an interesting blend betweek a traditionally Chinese park — for us a synonim of dancing ladies get-together spot — and a Western-style park, with people sitting on the grass and having picnics (which is very uncommon in China).
Why Zhongshan Park Should Be on Your Shanghai Itinerary
Shanghai can be overwhelming, with lots of crowds in every corner of the city, especially in the busy summer season.
As a first-timer, you might struggle to find places that are not dominated by the tourists — I know we did.
If you miss a the authentic, friendly atmosphere and wish to pause for a minute, Zhongshan park is perfect for that.
It is a place where locals meet to dance and have picnics, and it is super nice to come there in the evening and just soak up the atmosphere.
Visiting Zhongshan Park with Kids
There is a small theme park with various rides located in the north-west — for sure worth including in your park walk during the day.
I recommend bringing some games you can play in the park — like kites or a ball as there is plenty of space to run around and have a picnic.
Perfect Day Itinerary with Zhongshan Park
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): French Concession & Fuxing Park Start your day wandering the tree-lined streets of the former French Concession when it's peaceful and cool. End at Fuxing Park where kids can play while you enjoy the morning tai chi sessions and rose gardens.
Lunch (12:30 PM - 2:00 PM): Wukang Building & Jesse Restaurant Walk to the iconic Wukang Building for photos, then head to nearby Jesse Restaurant for their famous Shanghai cuisine. Make sure to book in advance - this popular spot fills up quickly!
Afternoon (2:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Jing'an Temple Visit this stunning Buddhist temple during the quieter afternoon hours. Kids love spotting the golden Buddha statues, and the air conditioning is a welcome break from Shanghai's heat.
Evening (5:30 PM - 7:30 PM): Zhongshan Park End your day in Zhongshan Park — the parks in China always get busy at dusk when locals come out for evening exercises, dancing, and socializing. It's the perfect time to experience authentic Chinese park culture and let kids play while you soak in the atmosphere.
Transportation: All locations are connected by Line 1 and Line 2 metro, or pleasant walks through the city.
Practical Tips for Visiting Zhongshan Park
- Best Time to Visit: While the park is beautiful year-round, spring and autumn are particularly pleasant when the weather is mild. In the summer the park offers an escape from the hear
- Entry: Zhongshan Park is free to enter, making it an accessible spot for everyone.
- Facilities: There are restrooms and cafes within the park, so you can easily grab a drink or take a break during your visit
- What to Bring: Unlike most Chinese parks we have been to, there is plenty of space where you can sit on the grass, and people do! So bring a picnic blanket with you, snacks and games for kids
