After a summer rain, the pocket park near Laotie Bridge in downtown Guangyuan, Sichuan province transforms into a vibrant living ink painting. Along the banks of the Jialing River, a gentle breeze carries a hint of coolness, drawing residents out to enjoy the refreshing air.

A rendering of the pocket park near the Laotie Bridge in downtown Guangyuan, Sichuan province [Photo provided to cngy.gov.cn]

Guangyuan serves as a vital ecological barrier and water conservation area in the upper reaches of the Jialing River. The city's central district is uniquely shaped by four mountains and four rivers encircling one city, forming a typical mountain-valley corridor urban landscape.

However, this geography also means Guangyuan faces multiple challenges to its urban safety and resilience, especially under the combined impact of external floods, mountain torrents, and local heavy rains.

To strengthen its climate adaptability, Guangyuan has become a pilot for sponge city construction. The city has taken a systematic approach, gradually introducing small-scale sponge transformations through water-sensitive residential communities, permeable roads, and pocket parks.

Presently, Guangyuan has created 48 "small yet beautiful" pocket parks across its urban area. These green spaces allow residents to enjoy lush scenery right outside their windows and step into vibrant gardens just beyond their doorsteps.