Hong'en Temple Forest Park

Overview

Hong'en Temple Forest Park stands as a verdant jewel in the heart of Chongqing, located just 7 kilometers from the city center. The park connects to the Guanyinqiao Commercial District to the east, the Songshuqiao area and Jiahua Bridge to the west, Chongqing Paper Mill to the south, and extends to the Flower Garden and Huangjinbao to the north. As a key project in Chongqing's urban forestry development and one of the city's main central parks, it serves as both an ecological sanctuary and recreational destination.

Essential Information

Admission

• Free entrance year-round
• Special exhibitions or activities may require separate fees
• Check on-site notices for current pricing information

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March-May): Peak bloom season featuring peach, cherry, and crabapple blossoms
• Autumn (September-November): Famous for osmanthus flowers, with over 10,000 trees of 60+ varieties
• Summer (June-August): Ideal for shade and cooling off, but bring sun protection
• Winter (December-February): Quieter atmosphere with occasional snow scenes

Transportation

1. By Metro:

   • Take Line 5 to Dashiba Station, Exit 3A
   • Walk approximately 1.1 km (16 minutes)

2. By Bus:

   • Routes 631, 847: Get off at Hong'en Temple Park Station
   • Routes 113, 139: Get off at Sujiawan Station
   • Routes 821, 872, 202: Get off at Daqingcun Station

3. By Car:

   • Navigate to "Hong'en Temple Forest Park"
   • Indoor parking available (200+ spaces)
   • Additional 500 roadside parking spots along Hong'en Road

Park Highlights

Osmanthus Garden

The park boasts China's largest osmanthus collection, featuring four main varieties: Golden, Silver, Dan, and Four-Season Osmanthus, totaling over 10,000 trees. The centerpiece is a 170-year-old osmanthus tree, known as the "Matchmaker Tree," standing 16 meters tall with a trunk diameter of 1.06 meters.

Hong'en Tower

Located at the park's highest point (468 meters), Hong'en Tower offers the best panoramic views of central Chongqing. This seven-story traditional-style building, designed by Professor Du Shunbao from Southeast University, features:

• Traditional Chinese architectural elements
• Dragon stone pillars
• Ornate corridors and pavilions
• Spectacular views of Guanyinqiao, Jiefangbei, and the Two Rivers

Heart Wellness Palace (心灵宫)

The largest psychological health-themed facility in China, offering:

• Professional counseling services
• Mental health workshops
• Team-building activities
• Meditation spaces

Dining Options

Hong'en Square (鸿恩坊)

A 60,000-square-meter dining complex featuring:

• Traditional Chongqing architecture
• Over 20 restaurants including:
  • Two Rivers Hotpot (两江水鲜坊火锅)
  • Wan Zhong Hua Tofu House (碗中花石磨豆花馆)
  • Ama Village (阿妈寨)
  • Maritime Palace (海市盛楼)
  • Fisherman's Song Seafood Restaurant (渔家傲河鲜馆)

Visitor Tips

• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Bring water and snacks for longer visits
• Photography is encouraged
• No pets allowed
• Avoid loud noises and use of amplified sound
• Exercise caution on hiking trails and near water features
• Keep the park clean and protect the vegetation

Essential Information

• Address: Hong'en Temple Forest Park, Chongqing
• Hours: Open daily
• Evening lights: From 19:30 (winter season)
• No entrance fee or reservation required
• Accessible via multiple transportation options