Yi Hu Park is situated alongside the newly constructed Mian-Yan Expressway near Qingbaijiang in the northern suburbs of Chengdu, approximately 30 kilometers away from the city center, covering an area of about 213 acres, with the lake itself occupying about 70 acres. The greenery in Yi Hu Park is not only distinctive but also harmoniously complements the architecture. The ‘Yi Yuan’ (potted landscape garden) is a garden within the park, located in the northeast corner, offering a tranquil environment with a rigorous structure.
Features such as flower trellises, scenic cave doors, assorted windows, and antique shelves are all imbued with a classic charm. Ponds, rockeries, pavilions, and corridors are artfully arranged. A well-established flower and bird market and a newly established company specializing in flowers and birds are present here, displaying a variety of elegant and unique flower arrangements and bonsai, which are abundant and ever-changing, making one feel as if they have stepped into an artistic realm filled with poetic charm and rich ethnic flavors. The beauty of Yi Hu lies in its lush greenery and innovation. Upon entering through the uniquely structured main gate, a succession of breathtaking views awaits. Serene green trees encircle the clear lake water, covering an artificially created mountain that is split into two by a gorge. The shimmering lake water is managed through a three-tiered high-low level flow exchange, creating waterfalls that cascade with a rushing sound. Green trees, water, and lawns blend seamlessly, offering a unique experience of boating on the lake, bridge-viewing fish, and sipping tea by the shore. The lake area concentrates the main attractions of the park. At the north end of the lake, a Japanese-style music tea garden resembling three connected ‘large drums’ is entirely decorated with tea-colored glass, presenting a fresh and lively architectural style. A distinctive waterside corridor bridge connects the boat dock with the music tea hall, with fish swimming back and forth in the lake and visitors enjoying the sights and sounds on both sides. To the east of the lake lies a meandering willow embankment, with delicate willow branches swaying in the wind like a flowing dress. To the south is a circular, three-sided water-facing Roman-style open-air music platform, with an elegant and upright curved colonnade behind the viewing platform, reminiscent of ancient Greek theaters. Open all year round from January 1st to December 31st, the park is open all day long.
