CHINA – Chengdu Renmin Park is the oldest and perhaps the most crowded park in Chengdu, also known as Renmin Park. Despite some people being wary of crowded areas, one of the appealing aspects of Renmin Park is the vibrant atmosphere with numerous people and activities taking place.

Overview

Situated on Shangxi Street in the bustling center of Chengdu, Renmin Park seamlessly blends local culture with entertainment.

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Covering an area of 112,639 square meters, it has existed since 1911 when it was initially called Thiethang Park, reflecting Chengdu’s historical division into the Great City and Small City. As Chengdu’s inaugural park, it now provides a tranquil escape for the locals.

On sunny days, you’ll find residents under the cool tree canopies, sipping green tea, chatting, reading, and playing mahjong.

Activities, from dancing to chess, are organized by the local residents, especially the elderly, bringing a lively local atmosphere to the park.

Renmin Park Chengdu is not just a tourist spot; it is an integral part of the local life.

Highlights of the Park

Natural Scenery

Nestled in the city center, Renmin Park takes pride in its meticulously crafted natural landscapes. The 355-meter-long Jinshui Stream stands out with its peaceful water surface adorned with cobblestone lining the riverbed and adjacent pathways.

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The eastern gate of the park is adorned with a 43-meter-wide, 12-meter-high waterfall, creating an artificial hill. The Bonsai Garden showcases over 200 landscape trees, providing an in-depth look into Chinese bonsai art. A 1.5-hectare artificial lake invites visitors to rent boats and immerse themselves in its enchanting beauty.

Amidst the city’s bustle, Renmin Park stands out like a fresh green gem, a sanctuary enhancing its allure.

Blossoming Flower Exhibitions

Renmin Park allures visitors with a variety of captivating flower exhibitions, with the Autumn Chrysanthemum Display being the crowning event. Honored for over 3000 years in China, chrysanthemums take center stage during the autumn season.

Chengdu’s role as a chrysanthemum-growing center adds significance to the exhibitions. These displays, typically taking place from late October to late November, culminate in a flower feast.

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Apart from the chrysanthemum displays, the park also hosts lotus exhibitions in summer, providing a serene oasis to enjoy the serene lotus blooms.

Spring, with its myriad of blossoms, becomes the perfect time for flower exhibitions, making the park burst with vibrant colors and bask in the warm sunshine.

Cultural Tea Experience

For tourists, both domestic and international, an authentic Renmin Park experience includes savoring tea and unwinding in its tranquil atmosphere. This activity reveals the essence of Chengdu’s local life, conveying the spirit of the “Land of Leisure.”

The park boasts several tea houses, each offering an enticing cup of green tea at affordable prices. Among them, Heming Tea House (鹤鸣茶社) stands out as the oldest and largest tea house in the park, with a history spanning nearly a century.

In addition to tea, Heming Tea House provides cultural experiences such as Mahjong and Traditional Ear Cleaning, along with renowned Chengdu snacks like Zhong’s Steamed Buns and the House’s Special Pancakes.

Blend with Local Daily Life

Renmin Park emerges as a dynamic stage where local senior citizens freely engage in entertainment activities. Observing people of all ages participating in special recreational activities adds a fresh touch to the scene.

From young women dancing to elderly individuals practicing Tai Chi, chess, calligraphy, mahjong, music performances, and fan painting, the park overflows with vitality.

A unique service is traditional ear cleaning, reflecting traditional healthcare practices.

The “Chinese Matchmaking Corner” is a popular social spot, where parents post photos and profiles of their unmarried children in search of suitable partners, using age-old methods instead of modern dating apps—a distinct Chinese phenomenon.

Getting to Renmin Park Chengdu: Location and Transportation

Renmin Park is conveniently located in the city center, making it easy to reach various other attractions within Chengdu’s downtown.

If you are in the city center, getting to Renmin Park is straightforward by city bus, Chengdu Metro Line 2 (get off at Renmin Park Station), or taxi.

  • Around 20 km/40-50 minutes by car from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport.
  • Approximately 12 km/33-40 minutes by car from Chengdu East Railway Station.
  • About 1.5 km/20 minutes on foot to Tianfu Square.
  • About 1 km/15 minutes on foot to Kuanzhai Alley.
  • About 2 km/15 minutes by car to Jinli Ancient Street.
  • About 5 km/20 minutes by car to Du Fu Thatched Cottage.
  • About 6 km/20 minutes by car to Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuary.

Address: 9 Citang St, Qingyang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/XqnurUSiAV6R1QJS6

Nearby Attractions

The proximity and convenient transportation have made exploring the beautiful gems of the city along Renmin Park incredibly popular.

This dual experience provides a rich variety of websites, allowing you to delve deeper into the local culture and history.

Kuanzhai Alley

Renowned for its historical significance, Kuanzhai Alley consists of three parallel alleys dating back to the Qing Dynasty. Nestled in the bustling city center, it is a tranquil oasis with ancient-style buildings offering a glimpse into the local life of Chengdu.

Here, you can savor the flavors of Sichuan’s delicious snacks, admire exquisite handcrafted items from Sichuan, and immerse yourself in other typical aspects of local culture.

Jinli Ancient Street

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Jinli Ancient Street

Similar to the Hui Muslim Quarter of Xi’an, Jinli Ancient Street serves as a vibrant hub where locals and tourists gather to enjoy a variety of local delicacies.

As dusk falls and lanterns light up, the streets transform into a spectacular nighttime scene. Besides culinary services, the street also features souvenir shops and souvenir stalls, enhancing its appeal.

Du Fu Thatched Cottage

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Du Fu Thatched Cottage in Chengdu

The former residence of the famous Tang Dynasty poet, Du Fu, this thatched cottage is evidence of the poet’s humble life. During his four years here, Du Fu wrote over 240 poems, enriching Chengdu’s cultural landscape.

A visit to the thatched cottage provides a profound insight into Chinese poetry while enveloping you in the tranquility of a simple home.

Sichuan Museum

As a national museum, the Sichuan Museum introduces a range of remarkable cultural relics that showcase Chengdu’s deep history and flourishing civilization.

This institution is a testament to the city’s vibrant past, offering a notable window into its historical journey.

Learn more about: Travel Tips for Chengdu.

Explore further: Must-Visit Attractions in Chengdu.