A Forest Secret in Downtown Shanghai! Autumn and Winter Light and Shadow Photography Guide at Gongqing

In the heart of the magic city lies a forest beautiful in all seasons—Gongqing Forest Park. At the turn of autumn and winter, the dawn redwood, phoenix tree, and ginkgo change colors one after another, like a spilled palette. Bring your kids for a light urban hike and capture exclusive light and shadow masterpieces! 📸 Must-Visit Stunning Photo Spots Highlights: Along Ying Lake and the Dawn Redwood Forest (near "Pine Wave Valley") In autumn and winter, the pond cypress and bald cypress by the water turn rusty red, reflecting in the clear lake with strong layering. Walking along the lakeside, every corner is a scene. It’s best to shoot in the morning or when the afternoon light is soft. Forest Railway and Mini Train (near East Gate Flower Sea) The abandoned railway and the slowly passing forest mini train are full of fairy tale and storybook charm. Let the kids walk on the tracks or take photos with the mini train for great shots. Golden Phoenix Tree Avenue (Main Road) Tall phoenix trees line the park’s main road. In late autumn, the leaves turn golden and cover the ground, making a stroll feel like walking through a movie. Near Huaming Bridge: This area has many types of cypress trees with rich colors, and the bridge itself is a great compositional element. 🚂 Fun Parent-Child Activities Ride the Forest Mini Train: Travel through the woods with a unique perspective that kids love. Children’s Playground: Features classic attractions like rapids, electric slides, and go-karts, with affordable prices. Rent a Boat on the Lake: Electric or pedal boats let you enjoy the colorful shoreline from the water, offering a special experience. Run on the Big Lawn: Find a sunny patch of grass, bring a picnic mat, and let the kids run and play freely. 🏨 Nearby Quality Rest Stops After playing, if you want a good place to rest or stay overnight, we recommend: Hyatt Place Shanghai Wujiaochang: About a 20-minute drive, a high-end business hotel with new facilities and excellent service. Shanghai Yangpu Riverside Innovation Hotel: Stylish design, close to Yangpu Riverside, and near the newly developed riverside walkway. 🍁 Best Viewing Period and Route Dawn Redwood/Pond Cypress Turns Red: Late November to mid-December. Ginkgo and Phoenix Tree Turn Golden: Mid to late November. Recommended Route: Enter from the South Gate → turn right to walk along Ying Lake (for photos) → walk to the forest mini train station → take the mini train to near East Gate Flower Sea → visit the children’s playground or rent a boat → exit from East or West Gate. 🥘 Dining Suggestions There are snack stalls and fast food restaurants (like KFC) inside the park, but the taste is average. It’s recommended to bring some snacks and water. After leaving the park, you can head to Wujiaochang shopping area or University Road for countless food options. 📌 Practical Information ✅ Admission: Free, but real-name reservation is required via the “Shanghai Gongqing Forest Park” WeChat official account. ✅ The park is very large; for families with kids, renting a sightseeing car or bicycle inside the park is recommended to save energy. ✅ Weekends are crowded; try to visit on weekdays. The best light is in the morning or after 3 PM. ✅ Wear suitable hiking shoes and warm clothing, as the forest temperature is slightly lower than downtown. No need to travel far—enjoy a splendid forest color feast right in the city. This is the most cost-effective parent-child natural beauty education trip.