Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden

Historical Overview

1992–1998: Conceptualized and constructed as a cultural project to honor the Song Dynasty’s legacy.

2005: Designated a 5A-level tourist attraction by China’s National Tourism Administration.

2010: Hosted the International Forum on Ancient Urban Civilizations, showcasing its role in preserving heritage.

2020s: Expanded with new performances and digital installations, such as the Nighttime Lantern Festival and AR-guided tours.

Structural Layout

The garden is divided into eight thematic zones, each replicating a distinct aspect of Song Dynasty urban life:

Bianjing Imperial Street: A bustling commercial thoroughfare lined with shops, teahouses, and traditional craft workshops.

Hongqiao Pier: A wooden arch bridge over the Bian River, where visitors can watch stunt performances and boat parades.

Folk Customs Quarter: Displays of Song Dynasty clothing, calligraphy, and folk games like shuttlecock kicking.

Royal Enclosure: A palatial area with imperial pavilions, gardens, and daily reenactments of court ceremonies.

Science & Technology Pavilion: Exhibits on Song Dynasty innovations, including movable-type printing and gunpowder.

Festival Square: Open-air theaters hosting martial arts shows, acrobatics, and the signature Grand Ceremony of the Qingming Festival.

Food Street: A culinary haven offering authentic Song Dynasty dishes like steamed stuffed buns and lotus root stew.

Waterfront Promenade: Scenic walkways along the river, dotted with willow trees and traditional pavilion

Major Attractions

Hongqiao Bridge: The park’s centerpiece, a 20-meter-wide wooden bridge where actors stage dramatic “boat collision” reenactments.

Bian River Cruise: Boat tours offering panoramic views of the garden’s waterways and architectural landmarks.

Nighttime Spectacle: A 30-minute light-and-sound show projecting ancient tales onto the river’s surface.

Abacus Museum: A collection of 1,000+ abaci from the Song Dynasty to modern times, showcasing China’s mathematical heritage.

Wangyue Tower: A seven-story observation deck with 360-degree views of the park and city skyline.

Cultural Performances

Morning Ceremony: A reenactment of imperial processions, complete with horse-drawn carriages and costumed actors.

Martial Arts Demonstrations: Daily shows of Song Dynasty swordplay and archery.

Folk Music & Dance: Performances of guqin (zither) melodies and ribbon dances in traditional attire.

Puppet Shows: Shadow puppetry narrating legends like The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl.

Suggested Itineraries

Classic Route (3–4 Hours)

Morning: Start at Bianjing Imperial Street → Visit the Abacus Museum → Watch the Morning Ceremony.

Afternoon: Cross Hongqiao Bridge → Explore the Folk Customs Quarter → Enjoy a Bian River Cruise.

Evening: Dine at Food Street → Attend the Nighttime Spectacle.

Cultural Immersion Route (5–6 Hours)

Morning: Tour the Royal Enclosure → Participate in a calligraphy workshop → Watch martial arts demonstrations.

Afternoon: Visit the Science & Technology Pavilion → Explore Wangyue Tower → Catch a puppet show.

Evening: Stroll the Waterfront Promenade → Experience the light-and-sound show.

All-Day Exploration (Full Day)

Morning: Begin at Festival Square → Join a guided tour of imperial architecture → Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.

Afternoon: Attend a folk music performance → Shop for Handicrafts → Sail on the Bian River.

Evening: Savor a Song Dynasty-themed dinner → Conclude with the grand Qingming Festival Ceremony.

Ticket Purchase

Online: Book via the official website or WeChat mini-program (up to 15 days in advance).

On-Site: Tickets available at the entrance; prices vary by season.

Prices:Standard Entry: ¥120 (peak season), ¥100 (off-season).

Night Show Add-On: ¥80.

Guided Tours: ¥50–100 (1–2 hours).

Free Admission: Children under 1.2m, seniors over 70, and disabled visitors.

Transportation

By Subway: Line 1 to Qingming Shangheyuan Station (Exit A), 5-minute walk.

By Bus: Routes 1, 15, 20, or 30 to Qingming Shangheyuan Stop.

By Taxi: Direct to “Qīngmíng Shànghéyuán”.

Parking: On-site lots (¥10/day); nearby public garages available.

Best Time & Tips

Avoid Crowds: Visit weekdays or early mornings (8:30–10:00 AM).

Peak Seasons: spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) for mild weather and Festivals.

Essentials:Rent a Hanfu (traditional attire) for immersive photos (available on-site).

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone paths.

Check the daily performance schedule upon arrival.

Prohibited Items: Outside food, drones, and large luggage.