Wang Manlian, a longtime resident of Fuzhou, tells a story about the inland rivers near her home years ago. [Photo by Liu Xia/chinadaily.com.cn] 

"I can see the water is becoming clearer and the trees greener, more birds live here, and more visitors come here to relax," Wang said with happiness beaming in her eyes.

She said she no longer has to take a detour to avoid the bad odor, or go out with a mosquito net. Instead, she takes a walk in the water park with her family after dinner every day.

The improvement of the river and the environment has also benefited local economy, as a growing number of shops are opening nearby.

Liu Lanfang, 39, who has a 15-year-old son, is also excited about the increasing water quality around Shuishang Park.

"It used to be difficult for us to get to Guangminggang Park from our home, as we had to take an underground path for both e-bikes and pedestrians," she said. "Today Shuishang Park is directly linked with Guangminggang Park, saving us time and energy and making us feel safer."

The park now has more flowers and trees, and more and more people are choosing it as a destination for public square dancing, tai chi, and playing the erhu, a traditional Chinese two-stringed fiddle.

More parks are springing up in Fuzhou, and a new one is being developed next to Liu's house, which is a six-minute walk from Shuishang Park.

It's now easier for residents to find a place to walk and enjoy time with friends and family, she said.

The city of Fuzhou, with over 150 rivers across the city, has made significant progress in improving its water quality and building water parks. By the end of last year, the Fujian capital had completed the treatment of 99 main rivers and 28 tributaries, and all 44 black and odorous water bodies in the built-up area had disappeared. The city also planted trees, built roads and gardens, installed lights, improved landscaping, and connected 270 riverside parks. It also built greenways around the rivers.