Chengdu’s autumn is a bit of a tease. It looks all cloudy and cool from your window, but step outside and the sun is blazing. Luckily, this “park city beneath the snow mountains” is full of shady trees, and a gentle autumn breeze makes a stroll through the park pretty perfect.
Lately, everyone’s been asking me where to catch the first stunning flower blooms of the season. I’ve got the answer: Qinglong Lake Wetland Park (青龙湖湿地公园). With its swaying reeds, fiery spider lilies, lotus flowers, and water lilies, it completely captures that late-summer, early-autumn mood.
Qinglong Lake Park: What to See
In my books, Qinglong Lake is the largest urban wetland park within Chengdu, sprawling over a massive 10,000 mu (over 1,600 acres). It’s a big deal.
- Lycoris (Spider Lilies): Ready for the main event? These fiery red blooms are the showstoppers. Known as bianshihua in Chinese, they’re also called manjushage. The flowers appear without leaves, creating a striking, slightly surreal look. The best patches are near the Luye Camp (麓也营地) southwest side and Baby Home Photography Studio (宝贝家族摄影馆) in Phase 1.
- Reed Flowers: The lakeside reeds are putting on their own show. The fluffy, pale plumes sway hypnotically in the wind, creating a serene and wistful atmosphere against the clear water.
- Lotus & Water Lilies: The lotus blooms are winding down, but the fading leaves have their own quiet elegance. Water lilies, however, are still floating serenely on the water, looking beautifully delicate.
Phase 1 vs. Phase 2: Which One’s for You?
Qinglong Lake is split into two distinct parts.
- Phase 1 (一期): This is the more accessible section, closer to the metro. You’ll find open lake views, complete facilities, and the big clusters of spider lilies and reeds here.
- Phase 2 (二期): This side is much wilder and more original. It’s densely forested and far less crowded, making it perfect for a longer, deeper nature walk.
Local Tips for the Best Visit
- Pro tip: If you’re not here specifically for a long hike, grab a shared bike at the metro exit. The lake is huge, and you’ll want the wheels. I walked the entire loop and was completely soaked in sweat by the end!
- Best time for photos: The spider lilies are at their peak from late August to mid-September. You’ll want to be there in the morning or around sunset when the light is softer—trust me, your photos will thank you.
Worth knowing: The spider lily is poisonous. Do not pick the flowers or dig up the bulbs, and definitely don’t eat them. They’re stunning from the path, so keep your admiration at a distance.
“Wild Hunting” for Mushrooms
Beyond the flowers, locals love coming here to forage for jijun mushrooms (鸡枞菌). It’s a bit of a local pastime.
- Where to look: In Phase 1, try the big lawns around the Ming Shu King Tomb (明蜀王陵) entrance. In Phase 2, check under the bamboo and pomelo trees near Hua Zui Ge (花醉阁) and Baimiaozi (白庙子), or on shady, gentle slopes with well-drained soil.
Local insight: There are many mushroom species in the park, and not all are safe. If you’re not 100% sure what something is, leave it alone. This is especially important for kids—make sure they don’t play with anything they find.
Getting to Qinglong Lake Park
- Address: Shiling Scenic Area, Longquanyi District (龙泉驿区十陵风景区内)
- Admission: Free
- By Car: Navigate to “青龙湖湿地公园” (Qinglong Lake Wetland Park).
- By Metro: Take Line 4 to Chengdu University Station (成都大学站), Exit B. The park entrance is right there.
- By Bus: Routes 219 (Chengdu University Station), 94 (Shiling Xiaoqu Station), and K6/K7 (Honghe Overpass Station) all stop at various park gates.
As you wander the paths, you’ll see wide-open lake views, hear birdsong, and might spot some white egrets or wild ducks near the reeds. Find a shady spot, sit down, and let the gentle breeze carry your city stress away. It’s the perfect way to unwind.
So, are you ready to spend a day at Qinglong Lake? See you there!
