Huanhuaxi Park: A Blend of Nature and Poetry

Learn more at Chengdu Municipal People's Government.

Learn more at GoChengdu.

The park is famous for its deep connection to the famous poet Du Fu. You can see many statues and poems carved into the rocks along the river. It is a great place to learn about local culture while enjoying the outdoors. Check this Huanhuaxi Park visiting guide for more details on the layout.

The wetlands inside the park attract many species of local and migratory birds. Photography fans often gather here to capture images of white herons in the trees. The lush bamboo forests provide plenty of shade during the hot summer months in 2026. It is a wonderful spot for a morning jog or a slow afternoon stroll.

Families often visit the park to enjoy the large open grassy areas and playgrounds. You will see many locals practicing Tai Chi or playing traditional Chinese instruments here. The entrance is completely free and the park stays open until late in the evening. It truly offers a serene escape from the modern skyscrapers surrounding the area.

• Poetry Path
  • Type: Cultural walk
  • Best for: History buffs
  • Where: Central park area
  • Cost: Free
• White Heron Island
  • Type: Bird watching
  • Best for: Photographers
  • Where: Wetland section
  • Cost: Free

Qinglong Lake Wetland Park: The City's Green Lung

Qinglong Lake is a massive ecological reservoir located on the eastern side of Chengdu. It serves as a vital green lung for the city and its residents. The park features a vast lake surrounded by thick forests and flower fields. It is one of the most popular free nature spots in Chengdu today.

The park is famous for its extensive network of cycling and running tracks. You can rent a bike or bring your own to explore the long loops. Many locals come here on weekends to enjoy the fresh air and exercise. Discover more about Qinglong Lake wetland park activities before you head out.

During the spring and autumn, the park explodes with colorful seasonal flowers and plants. You can see cherry blossoms in March and golden leaves in late November. The open spaces are perfect for setting up a picnic with your friends. It is a great place to relax away from the urban noise of downtown.

Bird watchers will find plenty to see near the quiet edges of the lake. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded in this protected wetland area. Make sure to bring your binoculars to see the rare ducks and herons. The park is easily accessible by the Chengdu Metro line four for your convenience.

• Cycling Loop
  • Type: Exercise track
  • Best for: Active travelers
  • Where: Lake perimeter
  • Cost: Free entry
• Viewing Decks
  • Type: Scenic spots
  • Best for: Panoramic photos
  • Where: Various locations
  • Cost: Free

Longquan Mountain: Hiking Above the Clouds

Longquan Mountain offers some of the best hiking opportunities near the city center. This mountain range forms a natural barrier on the eastern edge of the Chengdu plain. It has become a favorite destination for those seeking adventure and high-altitude views. Hiking here is one of the top free nature spots in Chengdu.

The mountain features several well-maintained trails that cater to different fitness levels and ages. You can choose a steep climb or a gentle walk through the fruit orchards. The air is noticeably fresher as you move higher up the mountain slopes. Follow this Longquan Mountain Chengdu hiking route for a safe trip.

One of the main highlights is the City Eye observation deck located at the peak. From here, you can see the entire sprawling metropolis of Chengdu below you. It is especially beautiful at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle. Many young people visit at night to see the stars and the city glow.

During the spring, the mountain is covered in beautiful pink peach blossoms and flowers. This seasonal display attracts thousands of visitors who want to take stunning nature photos. There are many small villages on the mountain where you can see local life. The mountain remains a peaceful retreat for anyone looking to escape the heat.

1. The City Eye
   • Type: Observation deck
   • Best for: City views
   • Where: Mountain summit
   • Cost: Free
2. Peach Blossom Valley
   • Type: Flower viewing
   • Best for: Spring visits
   • Where: Lower slopes
   • Cost: Free

Walking Along the Scenic Funan River

The Funan River flows through the heart of Chengdu and offers beautiful walking paths. These riverside routes are lined with willow trees and colorful flowers all year round. It is a great way to see the city's nature while staying central. This route is among the easiest free nature spots in Chengdu to access.

Walking along the river allows you to see both modern and traditional architecture. You will pass by historic bridges and modern glass towers during your stroll. The path is very flat and suitable for walkers of all ages and abilities. Check this Funan River walking route itinerary to plan your afternoon.

There are many small parks and seating areas located along the river banks. You can stop at a local teahouse to watch people play mahjong or cards. The sound of the flowing water creates a very relaxing atmosphere in the city. It is a perfect spot for people-watching and enjoying the cool river breeze.

At night, the river walk is beautifully illuminated with colorful LED lights and lanterns. The reflections on the water make for some of the best photos in Chengdu. Many locals take their evening walks here after dinner to stay active and healthy. It is a safe and pleasant environment for solo travelers and families alike.

• Anshun Bridge
  • Type: Historic bridge
  • Best for: Night photos
  • Where: Near Jiuyanqiao
  • Cost: Free to view
• Riverside Teahouses
  • Type: Cultural experience
  • Best for: Relaxing
  • Where: Along the banks
  • Cost: Varies

Baihuatan Park: Bonsai Gardens and Ancient Trees

Baihuatan Park is a hidden gem located near the famous Qingyang Palace temple complex. This park is famous for its stunning collection of bonsai trees and rockeries. It offers a very traditional Chinese garden experience that is completely free to enter. It remains one of the most serene free nature spots in Chengdu.

The park is home to several ancient trees that are hundreds of years old. One of the most famous is a massive ginkgo tree that turns gold in autumn. You should check the best time for ginkgo in Chengdu to see this beauty. The fallen leaves create a thick golden carpet on the park ground.

The bonsai garden inside the park features hundreds of miniature trees in various styles. These living artworks are carefully maintained by expert gardeners throughout the whole year. It is a very quiet area that is perfect for meditation or reading a book. Read our Baihuatan Park bonsai garden guide for more information.

The park also features traditional pavilions and winding corridors over small koi fish ponds. You can see many elders playing chess or practicing traditional calligraphy on the ground. The atmosphere is much slower and more relaxed than the surrounding busy city streets. It is a wonderful place to experience the authentic soul of old Chengdu.

• Bonsai Collection
  • Type: Botanical display
  • Best for: Garden lovers
  • Where: North section
  • Cost: Free
• Ancient Ginkgo
  • Type: Heritage tree
  • Best for: Autumn photos
  • Where: Central plaza
  • Cost: Free

How to Plan Your Free Chengdu Nature Trip

Planning a trip to these free nature spots in Chengdu is very straightforward and simple. The city has an excellent public transport system that connects all major green spaces. You can use the metro or local buses to reach almost any park easily. This makes exploring the city very affordable for budget-conscious travelers in 2026.

Most parks do not require any tickets or advanced bookings for general entry. However, you should always carry your passport or ID just in case it is needed. It is also helpful to check the Chengdu park entrance fees and budget guide. This will help you identify which specific attractions might have small costs.

The best time to visit these nature spots is during the spring and autumn seasons. The weather is very mild and the natural colors are at their most beautiful. Summer can be quite hot, so morning or evening visits are much more comfortable then. Winter is often misty, which adds a mysterious atmosphere to the mountain and lake views.

Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking. Bringing a reusable water bottle is also a great way to save money and stay hydrated. You can find more tips on how to access Chengdu nature spots in our detailed transport guide. Enjoy your time exploring the lush and green side of this amazing city.

• Travel Essentials
  • Item: Comfortable shoes
  • Item: Water bottle
  • Item: ID/Passport
  • Item: Power bank
• Transport Options
  • Mode: Chengdu Metro
  • Mode: Public Bus
  • Mode: Shared Bikes
  • Mode: Walking