Travel in China
The highest point of the old city peninsula - the classic panorama of mountain-city Chongqing where two rivers curve away on three sides.
Eling Park (E'ling Gongyuan) occupies the highest point of the Yuzhong Peninsula, 380 metres above sea level. From its ridge-top pavilions, the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers wrap around the peninsula on three sides, the apartment towers of the peninsula climb both slopes, and on clear days the bridges layer into the distance like ribs of some enormous creature.
The park was created in 1909 by a wealthy merchant as a private garden; it became a public park in 1958. The Liangjiang Pavilion (Two Rivers Pavilion) at the summit is a two-storey Chinese-style tower offering the definitive panorama. The park's terraced gardens, stone staircases and ancient banyan trees make the climb itself an attraction.
Eling is best visited at dusk, when the city lights begin to appear in the apartment blocks and the two rivers reflect the golden hour. The park is quiet compared to Hongyadong or Jiefangbei, making it the preferred viewpoint for photographers who want to set up a tripod without the crowds.
Highlights
The Liangjiang Pavilion
The summit pavilion where the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers are visible on three sides.
The Blue-Hour Panorama
The apartment towers of the peninsula lighting up as dusk falls - the definitive Chongqing photograph.
The Stone Staircase
The steep garden steps climbing through banyan trees to the ridge.
The Park's Terraced Gardens
Qing-dynasty garden terraces with ancient trees and rock formations.
The View of Both Bridges
The Qiansimen and Huanghuayuan bridges spanning the two rivers.
The Quiet Atmosphere
A local park rather than a tourist attraction - few crowds even at sunset.
Photo Gallery
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