Written by Catherine |
Eling Park, formerly known as Liyuan, also known as YiyuanĀ or Goose Neck Park, was built in the first year of Xuantong in the Qing Dynasty (1909) . It is 4.3 km away from the centre of Chongqing. Perched high on a ridge overlooking the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, Eling Park is an ancient and secluded place that offers breathtaking views of Chongqing at night. For anyone who plan a Chongqing city tour, Eling ParkĀ is a must visit sight.
Whatās more, the park’s combination of ancient architecture and private gardens is a fine example of China’s garden art. As such, it’s also a great spot to admire traditional Chinese calligraphy, learn about the history of Chongqing, unwind in the cool air, and see the treeĀ andĀ blossoms.
Content Preview
- Eling ParkĀ Facts
- History of Eling ParkĀ in Chongqing
- What to See and Do at Eling Park
- Recommended Visiting Route
- Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Eling Park
- Nearby Attractions
- Plan Your Chongqing Tour With China Xian Tour
Eling ParkĀ Facts
- In Chinese: é¹ å²å ¬å
- Location:Ā No.176, Eling Main Street, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, China
- Area: 66254 m²
- Opening hours:Ā Opening hours: 6:00ā22:00 (Last entry at 21:00); Eling Plank Walkway (é¹ å²ę é): 9:00ā18:00
- Ticket price:Ā free
- Suggested visiting duration: 1ā2 hours (leisure visit: up to 3 hours)
- Best Time to Visit:Ā spring and autumn seasons (See alsoĀ Chongqing Weather & Best Time to Visit)
- Best for:Ā visitors interested in traditional Chinese culture, and Chinese classical gardens
History of Eling ParkĀ in Chongqing
Eāling Park is the villa of the rich merchant Li Yaoting, the first president of Chongqing Chamber of Commerce in the late Qing Dynasty. During the Xuantong period (1909-1911), YunnanĀ salt merchant Li Yaoting, together with his father and son, were drawn to the Goose Ridge’s natural beauty and established “Liyuan Park,” a park in the area. This is the earliest private garden in Chongqing. Zhao Xi, a close friend of Li’s family and a minister of the Qing Dynasty, wrote the “Goose Ridge” and carved a stone monument here.
Many politicians and celebrities have lived in Eling Park of Chongqing. During the Anti-Japanese War, Mr and Mrs Chiang Kai-shek lived in the park for six months in the “Flying Pavilion”. British Ambassador Carr also lived in the Flying Pavilion for five years, and the Australian Embassy was located in the park. After the liberation of Chongqing in 1949, Chongqing Eling Park was the headquarters of the China Southwest Military Region. Comrades Deng Xiaoping, Liu Bocheng, He Long and Li Da lived here.
In March 1958, the “Liyuan” was handed over to the Chongqing Municipal Government. In 1958, the Chongqing Municipal Government extended and repaired the site of the former Liyuan, built new pavilions, planted trees and flowers, and named it Eling Park (Goose Neck Park).Ā In January 2008, Eling Park was merged with the former Fotoguan Park, increasing its area to more than 400 acres.
What to See and Do at Eling Park
When you travel to Chongqing and visit Eling Park, don’t miss its highlights attractions, including Stone Rope Bridge, Artistic Flower Garden, Overlook Victory Tower, Hiroshima Garden, Tongxuan, Martyrs’ Tomb, Three Friends Pavilion, Sunset Pavilion, and Lotus Pond Promenade.Ā There are also 218 species of valuable ornamental plants of 83 families and 159 genera in the garden, totalling more than 80,000 plants. Among them, there are 42 ancient and famous trees. Donāt miss Eling Park during Chongqing tours.
Artistic Flower GardenĀ (čŗåå)
Located at the southern end of the Eāling Park, Artistic Flower Garden has a polygonal pool with a rockery in the centre of the pool. Next to the rockery is a garden of a hundred flowers and a flower terrace of tortoiseshell stones, displaying a variety of seasonal flowers.
Stone Rope BridgeĀ (ē³ē»³ę”„)
Located in the centre of Eling Park, the Stone Rope Bridge is one of the iconic attractions of Goose Ridge Park. It is an S-shaped stone bridge, designed by bridge architect Li Heyang. Banyan Lake in the park is divided into upper and lower levels due to the difference in terrain, and the Rope Bridge is on the upper level of Banyan Lake. There are stalactites imbedded in the lower end of the Stone Rope Bridge. Because of the way the stone parapet is shaped, it resembles two thick, curved ropes, hence the name Stone Rope Bridge.
Flying PavilionĀ (é£é)
Located at the northern end of Eling Park, Flying Pavilion has a floor area of 319 square metresĀ andĀ is made of brick and wood. The Flying Pavilion gets its name from its hexagonal shape, which resembles a bird, and its blue tiles and colorful eaves.
Overlook Victory TowerĀ (ē°č愼)
Also known as the Two Rivers Pavilion, the Overlook Victory Tower is located at the north-eastern end of Eling Park. This seven-storey tower-style building is 41.44 metres high and 380 metres above sea level, and offers a great view from each floor.
Night View of Chongqing
Eling Park is the greatest site to take in the panorama of Yangtze river and Jialing River, as well as Chongqing’s stunning night view, which is particularly well-known for the Fotu night rain, one of the Twelve Scenes of ancient Sichuan.
Recommended Visiting Route
For first-time visitors, we suggest you balance the walking experience in Elingās classical garden with a full enjoyment ofĀ ChongqingāsĀ city views without backtracking.Ā So here weāve prepared a suggested walking route for you, consider planning your visit based on this information.
Suggested Route (1.5ā2 hours):
- Artistic Flower Garden (čŗåå): A peaceful introduction to the parkās garden aesthetics. It can becomeespecially beautiful in spring and early summer.
- Stone Rope Bridge (ē³ē»³ę”„): This is one of Eling Parkās most iconic spots. Pause here to enjoy flowing water, fish ponds, and ancient banyan trees, and youāll truly start to understand the essence of Chinese aesthetics.
- Lotus Pond Promenade (č²ę± éæå»): ThisJiangnan-style corridor is perfect for slow walks and photography. Rainy daysĀ can give an extremely dream-like atmosphere.
- Tongxuan Stone Chamber (ę”轩ē³å®¤): Built in 1911, this historic stone structure offers a quiet, timeless atmosphere.
- Flying Pavilion (é£é): This is ahistoric hexagonal pavilion once used as a residence during the wartime period.Ā People like it for its elegant brick-and-wood structure and open views.
- Overlook Victory Tower (ē°č愼): Visitors can climb gradually to the top for a 360-degree panoramic view of Chongqingand alsoĀ the Yangtze River.
- Exit toward Fotuguan / Erling Factory Area (optional)
Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Eling Park
Hot to Get to Eāling Park
- By Subway: Traveling by subway is the most recommended way. UseĀ Chongqing Metro Line 1 and get off at Eling Park Station.Ā Then exit from Exit 2AĀ andĀ walk about 5 minutes to the park entrance.
- By Bus: Public buses 109, 118, 138, 224, 402, 403, 413, 418, 421, and 462 all stop near Eling Park.
Best Time to Visit Eling Park
- Spring (MarchāMay):Spring is the best time to see Eling Park being covered byĀ flowers in bloom. Also, during this time ChongqingāsĀ temperatures are also mild, and the park feels fresh and vibrant.
- Autumn (SeptemberāNovember): This season gives cool airandĀ clear skies, and excellent visibility for city views.
- Summer: Chongqingās summer can be really hot. However, this park will also turn into a heaven with lush greenery providingshade, making it surprisingly comfortable compared to downtown streets.
Best time of day:
- Early morning: Quiet, local life, tai chi and strolling seniors
- After 18:00: Soft sunset light and Chongqingās famous night view gradually lights up
Useful Tips Based on Our Real Experience
- Walking uphill can be a little tiring, so donāt push yourself too much, justtake your time and rest when needed.
- Some staircases and narrow paths require caution, especially after rain.
- If you feel in need of rest, thereareĀ manyĀ shaded areas and benches where you can sit, relax, or have tea.
- Visitors often wear traditional Chinese clothing (Hanfu, qipao, or modern Chinese-style outfits) for casual or photo sessions.But donāt worry, casual, comfortable clothes also work for a relaxed visit.
- Children and elders can comfortably move around if you pace yourself; the route can be adjusted to your energy level.
Attractions
Plan Your Chongqing Tour With China Xian Tour
Chongqing has long been known as a futuristic city with a cyberpunk look. When searching online, people can always be shocked by the pictures of Chongqingās riverside look and maze-like views. And indeed, its 8D terrains do make each step lead to an unknown world. And thatās where China Xian TourĀ stands in. To help you better explore this cityās incredible and unique beauty, our dedicated driver and private tour guide will always be there for you. Theyāll be more precise than navigation, taking you to travel through all the alleys and roads, and get to the most rewarding destination like a true explorer. And now, donāt hesitate anymore, contact us and start your best Chongqing journey.





