Tianjin Shuishang Park is the largest urban park and recreation area in Tianjin, China. The park is one of Tianjin's leading tourist attractions, which was officially acknowledged when it was listed in the National Tourism Administration 4A Level List of Scenic Sites in 2004.
The facility is not actually a 'waterpark', and another name for the park is Shuishang Leyuan Amusement Park. Tianjin Shuishang Park consists of five islands (Chun Islet, Xia Islet, Qiu Islet, Dong Islet and Ying Islet) and three lakes (East Lake, West Lake and South Lake). Surrounding the waterways are pathways, pagodas and gardens, such Anlan Bridge, Hubin Pavilion, Tiaoyuan Pavilion,Wolong Bridge, Yishou Bridge, Xiexiu Veranda, etc.. The gardens showcase both Chinese and foreign architectural styles. Ornate pavilions and towers occupy each islet.
Except for the natural scenery in the park, the amusement facilities are the most thrilling things to do. The recreation area of the Tianjin Water Park has one of the city's highest ferris wheels. Visitors are also encouraged to travel on the lakes via rowing boats and high speed water shuttles. The park changes its theme according to season, for example, during spring there is the Tulip Show, and in autumn there is the Chrysanthemum Show.
History
Prior to its official establishment, Tianjin Shuishang Park is formerly known as "Green Dragon Pond". Its history can be traced back first century AD. Historically, the site was known for its lush vegetation and natural ecosystems, particular in summer and autumn. With the establishment of Beiyang University and Nankai University at the turn of the 19th century, the waterways of the park became popular for swimming among academic staff and students during the hot summer months. The ground-breaking for the Tianjin Water Park occurred on 26 August 1950. It covered 125 hectares at that time. And it was officially opened to visitors on July 1, 1951. In 1991, it was recognized as one of ten best attractions in Tianjin. In 2004, it was listed as an AAAA Tourist site by the National Tourism Administration. In 2009, it went through a large-scale transformation and became a comprehensive park.
How to Get
Take Bus No. 2, 52, 643, 668, 685, 857, 862, 871, 872, 879, 904 to get there
Here is a series of ponds and water features that make for a nice getaway in the summer. You can rent boats on the "lake" or just walk around. You can catch fantastic views of the city while walking over bridges, with pagodas, boats etc.