Shanghai's Urban Oasis: Peace Park's Hidden Gardens & Lakeside Serenity

Step into a living Monet painting where lotus ponds mirror crimson pavilions, ancient trees cradle secret animal islands, and journals from 20 countries await by mist-kissed windows—this is Peace Park, a 264-acre sanctuary blooming in Hongkou’s heart.

Originally established in the 1920s as “Hardoon Park” , this green oasis in Hongkou District was part of a private estate owned by Silas Aaron Hardoon , a wealthy Jewish businessman of the late Shanghai International Settlement era. In 1951, after the founding of the People’s Republic of China , the park was renamed “Peace Park” (和平公园) to commemorate the nation’s aspirations for peace after years of war and occupation.

Today, it blends shaded pavilions, lotus ponds, and historic sculptures with a distinctly local rhythm—where mahjong players, tai chi groups, and morning opera singers keep Shanghai’s living heritage alive.

• Where : Central Lake (near Tianbao Road Gate)

• Magic : June’s rain transforms lotus ponds into impressionist canvases. Dawn (5-7 AM) reveals dragonflies skimming water lilies —prime photo time!

• Hidden gem : Find the "Rainbow Bridge" at sunset—its reflection paints a perfect circle on still waters .

• Wild in the city : Shanghai’s only urban animal sanctuary! Spot rescued tigers , golden monkeys, and peacocks roaming freely across a 10-acre forested isle.

• Access : ¥10 entry (free for kids <1.2m); 9 AM-4 PM daily. Pro tip: Feedings at 10 AM—tigers roar inches from glass viewing walls! 

• World in a window : Flipping through 1,500+ global journals (from Vogue Japan to National Geographic) beside the lake. Sip osmanthus oolong (¥38) as swans glide past.

• DIY touch : Bind your own "travel zine" using vintage presses (Sat 2-4 PM, ¥60).

• Futuristic glow : Solar-powered plaza near Gate 2 illuminates paths with bioluminescent stones after dusk.

• Classic charm : Hunt for "Maple Stop at Dusk" —a pavilion framed by 50-year-old maples that blaze crimson in November.

1. Lotus Pond in Full Bloom

From late June to August, the central lotus pond becomes a dreamy canvas of pink and white blossoms. Stroll the curved bridges for panoramic views and photo-worthy reflections.

2. Morning Serenity (Best Time: 7–9 AM)

Catch the blooms at their freshest in the early morning when petals unfold in the sunlight and the air is still cool—perfect for peaceful walks or photography.

3. Lotus-Watching Pavilion

Near the pond’s northern edge, a traditional pavilion offers shaded seating and the best spot for sketching or sipping tea while enjoying the view.

4. Local Lotus Culture

Elderly locals gather near the pond for tai chi and fan dancing, often wearing lotus-printed outfits—adding an authentic, graceful touch to the atmosphere.

5. Hidden Viewing Angle

For a quieter view, take the small path behind the children's playground—the lotus pond peeks through willow branches, creating a secluded nature frame.

1.Golden Hour Route : Enter at Gate 3 (Tianbao Rd) → Animal Island (9 AM) → One Drop Café (11 AM tea) → Central Lake bridges (3 PM light beams).

2.Rainy-Day Perk : June drizzles amplify the "Misty Bookstore" vibe—read journals to soundtrack of raindrops on lake 5.

3.Free Souvenir : Collect leaf-print postcards at bookstore with any drink purchase.

4.Avoid : Weekends 10 AM-2 PM—tour groups flood animal island.

Peace Park isn’t just greenery—it’s where Shanghai’s soul breathes. Leave with lotus pollen on your sleeves, tiger roars in your memory, and a handmade journal holding the city’s quietest secrets.  Here, concrete fades, but magic lingers.