Jiufeng Park （Southwest Gate）

Description

Jiufeng Park (Southwest Gate) is one of those places that quietly sneaks up on you. It doesn’t shout for attention with flashy attractions or fancy signs—it just sort of sits there, calm and confident, waiting for you to wander in. Located in the heart of Taizhou’s Huangyan District, this park is a favorite among locals who crave a break from the city’s hum. The moment you step through the gate, there’s this subtle shift—the air feels fresher, the noise fades, and suddenly you’re surrounded by greenery that feels almost endless.

It’s not the biggest park you’ll ever visit, but that’s part of its charm. Everything feels manageable here, like it’s designed for you to slow down. The paths weave gently through groves of trees, and on early mornings, you’ll spot elderly folks practicing tai chi near the ponds while kids chase each other along the stone walkways. I remember visiting once on a slightly misty morning—there was this faint smell of rain lingering in the air, and a few locals were sweeping leaves off the paths. It felt like stepping into a painting that was still being finished.

Jiufeng Park is well-maintained, clean, and surprisingly accessible. The entrance is wheelchair-friendly, which isn’t always the case with older parks in China. There are public restrooms that are actually kept in decent condition (a small victory for travelers everywhere), and you can even pay for small services or snacks with a credit card—something I wish more parks offered. It’s also a great place for families. Kids seem to love the open spaces, and parents can relax knowing there’s plenty of shade and safe walking areas.

What makes Jiufeng Park stand out, though, is its sense of balance. It’s peaceful but not dull, simple but not plain. You can come here to think, to walk, or just to sit and watch life go by. And sometimes, that’s exactly what a traveler needs—no big crowds, no rushing, just a quiet corner of the world doing its thing.

Key Features

• Wheelchair-accessible entrance and pathways, making it friendly for all visitors.
• Clean and convenient public restrooms located near the main walking trails.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with open spaces for children to play safely.
• Accepts credit card payments for small purchases and park amenities.
• Beautifully landscaped gardens, scenic ponds, and shaded seating areas.
• Popular spot for morning exercise, tai chi, and local community gatherings.
• Peaceful walking trails that wind through natural scenery and quiet corners.

Best Time to Visit

If you ask me, spring and autumn are the sweet spots. In spring, the park bursts into life with blossoms that seem to appear overnight. The air feels lighter, and the energy of the place just shifts—you can almost sense the locals’ moods lifting along with the flowers. Autumn, though, is my personal favorite. The trees turn into a patchwork of gold and amber, and the cool breeze makes walking the trails a real pleasure. Summer can get humid, and while the trees do offer shade, you’ll probably be reaching for your water bottle more often than you’d like. Winter isn’t bad either—just quieter, more introspective. If you’re someone who enjoys solitude, that might be your season.

Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times of day. The light hits the park in a way that makes everything look softer, almost cinematic. Plus, you’ll catch more locals out and about—stretching, chatting, or just enjoying the calm before the day fully begins. There’s something about sharing that moment with them that makes you feel like you belong, even if just for a little while.

How to Get There

Getting to Jiufeng Park (Southwest Gate) is pretty straightforward once you’re in Taizhou. If you’re staying in the city center, a short taxi ride will get you there in under twenty minutes, depending on traffic. Public buses also stop nearby, and if you’re the adventurous type, renting a bike is a great option—the ride itself can be part of the experience. The roads leading to the park are in good condition, and there’s usually enough signage to guide you along the way.

For those who prefer local experiences, hopping on a shared e-bike or a rideshare service is common and affordable. Just make sure you have your payment app ready since most drivers prefer mobile transactions. Once you arrive, the Southwest Gate is easy to spot—it’s a wide, welcoming entrance framed by greenery and a quiet sense of anticipation that something peaceful lies beyond.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s the thing about Jiufeng Park—it rewards those who take their time. Don’t rush through it like you’re checking boxes on a sightseeing list. Bring a bottle of water, maybe a light snack, and just wander. If you’re into photography, the soft morning light is your best friend here. The reflections on the ponds, the way the mist hangs around the trees—it’s the kind of setting that makes even an amateur photographer feel like a pro.

Wear comfortable shoes. The paths are well-kept, but you’ll probably end up walking more than you expect. And if you’re traveling with kids or elderly family members, the park’s accessibility makes it one of the more stress-free outings you can plan in the area. I’d also recommend bringing some cash, even though credit cards are accepted—sometimes the small local vendors prefer cash for quick transactions.

One more thing—try visiting on a weekday if you can. Weekends tend to draw more locals, especially in the mornings. Not that it’s ever overwhelmingly crowded, but if you want that extra bit of quiet, a Tuesday morning stroll might just be perfect. And if you happen to strike up a conversation with a local, don’t be shy. People here are friendly and often curious about where you’re from. I once chatted with a retired teacher who told me stories about how the park looked decades ago, before all the renovations. It was one of those small, unexpected moments that made the visit stick in my memory.

Lastly, take a few moments to just sit. Find a bench under one of the older trees, listen to the rustle of leaves, and let the world slow down. Jiufeng Park isn’t about grand attractions—it’s about those quiet, reflective moments that remind you why you travel in the first place. Sometimes, that’s worth more than any postcard view.