Caoxi Park

Introducing Caoxi Park

Caoxi Park, bordered by Caoxi Road to the west, Caodong Branch Road to the east, Caodong Second Road to the north, and Caodong Third Road to the south, covers an area of ​​31,300 square meters. The southern half of the park, also known as the Cao Family Garden, was the ancestral tomb of Cao Zhonghuang (Qiming), a cotton cloth merchant in Shanghai before liberation. Construction began in 1931 and was completed in 1935.

Climate and best time to travel

Shanghai has a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by mild and humid weather, distinct seasons, ample sunshine, and abundant rainfall. Spring and autumn are relatively short, while winter and summer are longer.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Hexagonal Pavilion

A bridge is built over the pond, with a hexagonal pavilion in the middle. It is a reinforced concrete structure with a glazed tile pointed roof. The east side of the pavilion leads to the octagonal turtle pavilion.

Large rockery

In the northwest of the garden lies a large rockery, approximately 15 meters high and covering approximately 2,700 square meters. Its winding, deep caves are hidden within. Atop the rockery stands the 5-meter-high Changyuan Pavilion, a reinforced concrete structure with a pointed roof of colorful glazed tiles and upturned corners. Inside, stone benches and backrests are arranged on all four sides, with a central stone platform offering panoramic views of the entire garden. South of the large rockery lies a three-curved, flat stone bridge. Beneath the bridge lies a small, ingot-shaped pond, where fish swim. Surrounding the large rockery are lush greenery, including moss nut, camphor tree, privet, cypress, camellia, osmanthus, and boxwood.

Triangular Longevity Pavilion

The triangular Longevity Pavilion to the north of the gate is 10 meters long on each side. It is made of reinforced concrete and covered with yellow flat glazed tiles. It has a pointed roof and a red round stone ball on top.

Veranda

In the middle of the peony garden, there is a corridor, which is 54 meters long, with a mixed structure and a flat roof. The eaves around the roof are covered with chrysanthemum-red flat tiles. The east side of the corridor is a hollow wall with lattice windows of various shapes, and there are stone benches between the columns on the west side for visitors to rest.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00 in spring, autumn and winter, 8:00-19:00 in summer

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Most Popular FAQs for Caoxi Park

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Caoxi Park is a public urban park in Shanghai that provides residents and tourists with a peaceful place to relax and engage in recreational activities. The park is part of Shanghai's ongoing efforts to integrate green spaces into the urban environment. It is well-known for its spacious layout, water features, and lush greenery.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Caoxi Park is located in the Xuhui District of Shanghai. It is easily accessible by metro, with the nearest station being Caoxi Road (Line 1). Buses and taxis are also convenient options, and the park is within walking distance from several residential areas in the district.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Caoxi Park is open every day from early morning until sunset. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when the park is less crowded, and the weather is cooler. Spring and autumn are ideal seasons to visit, as the park is especially beautiful during these times.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee for visiting Caoxi Park. It is a free public park, and no tickets are required to access the park.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No, there is no need to book tickets in advance, as the park is free to access.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It usually takes about 1-2 hours to fully explore Caoxi Park, especially if you enjoy walking around the lakes and relaxing in the green spaces. For those interested in photography or leisurely activities, you may want to spend additional time in the park.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Highlights include the large central lake, the walking paths lined with trees, and the well-maintained gardens. The park also features a number of tranquil corners, perfect for meditation or simply relaxing in nature.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours or audio guides are not typically offered at Caoxi Park, as it is a public park designed for self-guided exploration. However, you can find informal tours available through local tour groups or apps that offer information on Shanghai’s parks and attractions.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots in Caoxi Park include the lake at sunrise or sunset, the walking bridges over the water, and the central fountain area. The park’s greenery also provides a beautiful backdrop for nature photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

It’s recommended to start at the park’s main entrance and take a leisurely stroll around the lake. From there, you can walk through the garden areas, explore the walking paths, and enjoy the peaceful nature. The park is fairly easy to navigate, so it’s best to explore freely and enjoy its natural beauty.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no special night events or light shows at Caoxi Park. However, the park is illuminated in the evening, offering a peaceful atmosphere for a nighttime stroll. The park is open until sunset, so night visits are limited to evening walks.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Caoxi Park can get crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays, especially early in the morning or late afternoon when the park is quieter.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities at Caoxi Park include public toilets, water fountains, and several rest areas where you can sit and relax. There are no major shops or food stands inside the park, but you can find restaurants and cafés nearby on surrounding streets.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Caoxi Park is generally accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with paved paths and wheelchair-friendly areas. The park’s flat layout and easy-to-navigate paths make it suitable for all visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Since Caoxi Park is a public park, there are no direct payment requirements. However, if you choose to buy food or souvenirs from nearby shops, mobile payments and cards are widely accepted in the area.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

While there are no restaurants or cafés inside the park, there are several dining options nearby in the Xuhui District, offering a variety of Chinese and international cuisines.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Nearby restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, and there are halal food choices available in the area as well. Shanghai's diverse food scene ensures there are options for everyone.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near Caoxi Park, including mid-range options like the GreenTree Inn and high-end hotels such as the Xuhui Park Hotel. These hotels are within a short distance from the park.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Shanghai Longhua Temple, Shanghai Stadium, and Xujiahui Park. These can easily be combined in a day trip with a visit to Caoxi Park for a full day of sightseeing.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops inside Caoxi Park, but nearby shopping areas in Xuhui District offer a wide range of souvenirs, including local crafts, Shanghai-themed items, and snacks.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Caoxi Park, you can take the metro from the nearby Caoxi Road Station (Line 1), or you can take a taxi or bus to explore other parts of Shanghai. Walking is also a great option to explore the nearby neighborhoods.