Spring getaways: Two scenic routes to explore
From shimmering lakes and historic water towns to cultural retreats, these two routes capture the best of Qingpu's spring beauty. Pack your curiosity and take your time discovering each stop along the way.
Route 1: A spring escape for body and mind
This route combines nature, water activities, and serene gardens for a refreshing getaway.
Stop 1: Shanghai Grand View Garden
If you go: No 701 Jinshang Highway, Qingpu district
During this season, a visit to Shanghai Grand View Garden offers both charming spring scenery and a chance to slow down. Inspired by the classic Chinese novel Dream of the Red Chamber, the garden provides a peaceful setting for quiet reflection.
Stop 2: Shanghai Yacht Club & Camp
If you go: No 588 Jinshang Highway, Qingpu district
The yacht club, lined with masts and waiting sails, offers visitors the chance to sail, paddle a small boat, or simply relax by the shore. It is a place to enjoy a different side of Shanghai life, calm and unhurried.
Stop 3: Cenbu village
If you go: Cenbu village, Jinze town, Qingpu district
Cenbu village is a peaceful countryside retreat, where white-walled houses with dark tiles sit among lush greenery. It is a place to slow down, unwind in a rural setting, and truly relax.
Stop 4: Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
If you go: No 555 Kezhiyuan Road, Zhujiajiao town, Qingpu district
Walk along the river in Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, watch rowboats pass by, and taste fresh seasonal dishes from this water town. Between the lively streets and ancient charm, a slower pace helps visitors find the calm and ease that Jiangnan is known for.
Stop 5: Qushui Garden
If you go: No 612 Gongyuan Road, Qingpu district
In spring, Qushui Garden is filled with the scent of flowers. A stroll through its grounds reveals poetic sights at every turn, while a quiet seat in a pavilion offers a moment of pure calm. It is a gentle way to end a spring wellness journey, surrounded by flowers, water, and pleasant breezes.
Route 2: A spring journey across the Yangtze River Delta
This route links several scenic spots across the Yangtze River Delta, offering a journey through spring landscapes and ancient towns.
Stop 1: Jinze Ancient Town
If you go: No 33 Yingxiangjie Street, Jinze town, Qingpu district
Known as the number one ancient town for bridges in Jiangnan, Jinze Ancient Town features stone bridges draped in blossoms and fresh green leaves. Locals chat, visitors wander, and artists sketch by the water, all immersed in the ease of a spring day.
Stop 2: Yuandang Bridge
If you go: G50 Yuandang Bridge, Qingpu district
Yuandang Lake offers vistas of blue water and greenery stretching to the horizon. The Yuandang Bridge connects Qingpu with Suzhou in Jiangsu province, welcoming cyclists and walkers to enjoy open lake views and gentle breezes. Each step feels light and bright, just like the season.
Stop 3: Tongli National Wetland Park
If you go: Northeast of Tongli Ancient Town, Wujiang district, Suzhou, Jiangsu province
Tongli National Wetland Park is one of 23 key national wetland parks in China and the only national-level wetland park within the Yangtze River Delta Ecological and Green Integrated Development Demonstration Zone. A wooden boardwalk leads visitors through lush plants, past shimmering waters, and occasional egrets in flight, like stepping into a living painting.
Stop 4: Lili Ancient Town
If you go: No 30 Hujingjie Street, Wujiang district, Suzhou, Jiangsu province
In spring, Lili Ancient Town lives up to its old name, "village of pear blossoms". Pear flowers bloom like snow, adding a soft, poetic touch that makes the town feel more gentle and graceful than most.
Stop 5: Xitang Ancient Town
If you go: No 258 Nanyuan Road, Jiashan county, Jiaxing, Zhejiang province
In spring, Xitang is a picture of cherry blossoms, lantern-lit walkways, and shimmering water. A gentle breeze flows through the ancient corridors, sweeping past flowers on the riverbanks and sending their reflections dancing across the surface. When mist settles in, boats drift quietly under old bridges, carrying the spirit of Jiangnan with every glide.
Stop 6: Yunlanwan Hotspring Resort
If you go: No 888 Wenquan Avenue, Jiashan county, Jiaxing, Zhejiang province
Yunlan Bay is a national AAAA scenic area centered on the hot spring experience. With a focus on comfort and care, the spring water is renowned for its skin-nourishing qualities. It invites visitors to soak in the warmth and enjoy the soft pleasures of spring.
Sources: WeChat account of Qingpu district administration of culture and tourism at "qptour", scenic spots mentioned above