E’ling Park (鹅岭公园), located near the popular E’ling Factory in Chongqing, is a peaceful and picturesque retreat that’s perfect for a relaxing day out. While many visitors flock to the factory, the nearby park offers an equally charming experience, with lush greenery, historical landmarks, and stunning views of the city. If you’re in the mood for a leisurely stroll, scenic photography, or simply unwinding amidst nature, E’ling Park is the ideal spot—especially during cooler months when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.
Opening Hours and Entrance Fee
- Opening Hours: E’ling Park is open year-round from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Entrance Fee: The park itself is free to enter. However, you will need an ID card to visit the Kansheng Tower (the observation tower). For groups, one ID card per group is sufficient.
Key Attractions and Activities
- Kansheng Tower: The highlight of E’ling Park is Kansheng Tower, a seven-story observation tower standing at 41.5 meters. From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Chongqing. The best time to visit is around 6:00 PM, when the sunset over the city is simply breathtaking. On clear days, you can also catch sight of the Liuziba Light Rail passing through a building, a unique and iconic scene in Chongqing.
- Lianchi (Lotus Pond): At the base of Kansheng Tower lies the tranquil Lianchi, or Lotus Pond. This peaceful area, with its traditional walkways and elegant bridges, feels like a scene straight out of a painting. The E’xiang Mountain Villa, located near the pond, features a beautiful Chinese-style garden that’s perfect for strolling. The scenery is so stunning that it’s hard not to stop and take a few photos!
- Historical Sites: E’ling Park is not just about nature; it’s also steeped in history. The park was originally built as a private garden for a wealthy businessman named Li Zhanyang during the late Qing Dynasty, which explains the strong Chinese architectural influences found throughout the park. You can explore several historical landmarks, including:
- Anti-Japanese War Martyrs Memorial: A tribute to the brave soldiers who fought during the war.
- Stone String Bridge: A beautiful, traditional stone bridge located within the park.
- Yihui Garden: A quiet, artistic space perfect for reflection and relaxation.
Getting There
- By Metro: Take Line 1 of the Chongqing Metro to Exit 2A at E’ling Park Station, and it’s just a 5-minute walk to the park entrance.
- By Taxi: You can also take a taxi directly to E’ling Park for added convenience.
Suggested Itinerary
Upon entering E’ling Park, it’s best to start with a visit to the E’ling Mountain Villa. This area offers a lot to explore and will keep you entertained for a while. Next, head towards the Mountain Corridor to enjoy views of the city before making your way up to Kansheng Tower. Don’t forget to bring your ID to access the tower and enjoy the spectacular views. Afterward, take a leisurely walk down to the Lotus Pond and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the garden and surrounding areas. The entire journey through the park will take approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on how long you linger at each attraction.