Tian Ma Hill Park (Tianma Shan Park)

On the city's west side, about 40kms from central downtown, Tian Ma Hill Park 天马山公园 is one of the four famous hills situated in Songjiang district within the Shanghai Sheshan National Forest Park. The other three hills of the SSNFP are the East Sheshan Park 东佘山园, the West Sheshan Park 西佘山园, and the Xiao Kunshan Park 小昆山园.

Tian Ma Hill is the third highest natural point in Shanghai, at an altitude 99.8m, following behind Jinshan district's Dajinshan Island's 103m, and Songjiang district's West Sheshan's 100.8m.

Four major attractions are nestled snugly across the whole hill, all of which are connected by a pathway meandering between the park's entrance and exit. As long you follow the maps that have been well placed along the entire pathway, you won't miss any of the park's highlights.

Attractions:

Hu Zhu Pagoda 护珠塔 (also named Dagoba), is a leaning pagoda built in 1079. It was built on the hillside, and over time has tilted precariously to one side, even further than the Leaning Tower of Pisa! Next to the pagoda is an ancient spring well accompanied by a ginkgo tree, which is said to be over 700 years old. 

On the hill's upper peak stands Shang Feng Temple 上峰寺. Secluded inside the temple is the bronze statue of Avalokitesvara, filling the hill with an intense Buddhist atmosphere. This feeling is further heightened by another temple, Yuan Zhi Jiao Temple 圆智教寺 that is situated at the hill's southeastern area.

Tian Ma hill is the perfect escape from the city. It offers visitors a sense of history and culture while also allowing them to feel at peace in nature.

A thorough tour of the area will take 1.5-2 hours.