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The Grand Canal Forest Park is perfect for a relaxing day outdoors. Enjoy scenic walks along the canal, rent a bike to explore the park's vast pathways, and take photos of the beautiful landscapes. Birdwatching and picnicking by the water are also popular activities.
Grand Canal Tongzhou Forest Park is located on both sides of the North Canal in Beijing's Tongzhou New Town, also known as the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. Along the river, lush forests, orchards, lotus flowers, and other plants line the park, creating a beautiful environment with fresh air. Camping, picnicking, cycling, and canal boat rides are all great options for a relaxing weekend getaway. The park also offers numerous recreational facilities, making it a great choice for family outings.
In early autumn, the lotus pond is filled with lotus leaves, flowers, and lotus pods; in late autumn, the Grand Canal takes on a completely new look. Near the west gate, the reed marshes turn golden, their stalks dancing in the wind, a truly beautiful sight. For veteran Beijingers, the scenery here is captivating year-round, each with its own unique charm.
temperate continental climate;
You can visit here in spring, summer and autumn, as the air is fresh and pleasant.
It is recommended to play for 2 to 3 hours
free
All day
The Grand Canal Forest Park was created as part of an ecological restoration project along the Grand Canal. It serves to preserve the environment, improve biodiversity, and provide a peaceful escape for urban residents while showcasing the natural beauty of Beijing's waterways.
The park is located in the Chaoyang District, along the Grand Canal. You can take subway Line 6 to the "Grand Canal Forest Park" station. Alternatively, taxis and buses also serve the area.
The park is open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the park when it is less crowded.
Entry to the Grand Canal Forest Park is free of charge. No tickets are required for general entry, but special events or guided tours may have a fee.
For regular visits, no booking is required. However, for special events or tours, it is advisable to check the park's website or contact the administration for any booking requirements.
You will need approximately 2 to 3 hours to explore the main trails, visit the water features, and relax in the park. If you plan to do activities like birdwatching or cycling, it may take longer.
Key highlights include the canal itself, the dense forested areas, the various lakes, and bird-watching zones. The central pavilion offers a great view of the entire park and is a perfect spot for photos.
Guided tours are available, but they are primarily in Chinese. Audio guides in English and Chinese can be arranged for certain visitors. It's best to check in advance for availability.
The best viewpoints are near the canal's bridges, by the large lakes, and at the top of the central pavilion. Early morning and late afternoon light offer beautiful photography opportunities, especially with the reflections on the water.
Start at the main entrance and walk along the canal’s path to the central pavilion. From there, explore the forest trails and relax by the lakes. A circular route around the park is the most scenic and allows for the best views of the water and greenery.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at the Grand Canal Forest Park. However, special seasonal tours or events might be available, especially during festivals or public holidays.
The park is busiest on weekends and public holidays, especially during the afternoons. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning or on weekdays.
The park offers clean restrooms, drinking water stations, and several rest areas for picnics. There are a few small food stalls, but for a larger selection of meals, it’s best to head to nearby restaurants outside the park.
The park is wheelchair accessible, with paved pathways suitable for elderly visitors and children. The terrain is mostly flat, making it comfortable for walking and cycling.
Cash, mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay), and cards are accepted for any purchases within the park, including food and special events.
While there are no major restaurants inside the park, you can find several dining options in the nearby Chaoyang District. From fast food to local Chinese cuisine, there is something for every taste.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants. Halal food can be found in the surrounding areas, particularly near the Asian restaurants and eateries.
There are several hotels nearby, including the Grand Millennium Beijing and the Park Plaza Beijing. These are within a short driving distance from the park and offer convenient accommodations for visitors.
Nearby attractions include the 798 Art Zone, the Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest), and Chaoyang Park. All of these can be visited together in a full-day trip from the Grand Canal Forest Park.
The park doesn't have many souvenir shops, but you can find small stands selling nature-themed items and local crafts. For more diverse souvenirs, visit shopping areas near the park or in the city center.
After visiting the park, you can take the subway (Line 14 or Line 6) to continue your journey to nearby attractions. Taxis and buses are also readily available for further exploration of Beijing.
