Shanghai has released its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) for the development of the Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek. The plan outlines key targets and priorities for public spaces, cultural and tourism consumption, transport networks, urban renewal, governance, and services along both waterways.

Key targets by 2030

• Huangpu River: Add 100 hectares of waterfront green and public space and develop 9 kilometers of high-standard waterfront sections in the central urban area.
• Suzhou Creek: Upgrade and revitalize 100 hectares of riverside green and public space.
• Overall: Connect an additional 52 km of waterfront, including 4 km along the main waterways and 48 km along tributaries; add 10 high-standard public facility buildings; develop 10 waterfront areas that integrate multiple cultural and tourism functions; and achieve full online service coverage for connected waterfront sections.

Huangpu River

1. More waterfront green and public space

Key projects include connecting additional waterfront sections at the Sanchagang green wedge in Pudong New Area, Fuxing Island in Yangpu district, and the Zizhu waterfront from Ledaobang to Pujiang First Bay Park in Minhang district.

New waterfront landmarks will be developed around Xupu Bridge, the Minsheng Wharf silos on the Pudong waterfront, the Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal, and the river-center area of Zizhu Peninsula.

The plan also calls for faster development of waterway loops in the Expo area, Nanpu, and Xuhui riverside.

2. More cultural, sports, and nighttime activities

Two new cultural and tourism landmarks will be developed along the waterfront: a performance and events zone in Xuhui and a themed tourism district in Baoshan.

New cultural and sports landmarks, including the Shanghai Industrial Museum and the Shanghai Museum North, will be established. The Qiantan Sports Park on the Pudong waterfront will undergo a comprehensive renovation to create a multi-purpose outdoor complex that combines performance, sports, and leisure.

In connection with the 2028 Olympic Q-Series at West Bund in Xuhui, the facility layout for climbing, skateboarding, and BMX freestyle will be optimized.

Waterfront nightlife areas will be developed in key locations such as the Bund and the Xuhui riverside, while signature events, including the Shanghai Sailing Open and the Head of Shanghai River Regatta, will be further elevated.

3. Better sightseeing and transport

River cruise pier layouts along the Huangpu River will be optimized, while new loop routes and multi-stop services will be explored.

Major metro projects involving lines 15, 19, and 20, and Phase I of Line 23, will be accelerated. The Longchang Road Tunnel and the Jiasong Highway River Crossing Bridge will be completed, while construction of the Longshui South Road Tunnel will move forward.

The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel will be renovated, and the feasibility of a pedestrian and cycling tunnel in the Expo area will be further studied.

Water-based commuting options will be expanded through small and medium-sized scheduled boat loop services at selected locations in Huangpu, Yangpu, and Pudong.

Suzhou Creek

1. Better waterfront space and walking and cycling connections

The appearance of buildings along Suzhou Creek will be improved to create a more cohesive riverside landscape, with enhanced signage and upgraded lighting.

Barrier-free access and wayfinding along connected waterfront sections will be improved, with two to three high-quality, all-age-friendly waterfront hubs to be developed.

Two new bridges will be built across the creek at Baiyu Road and Jingyang Road.

Cycling routes will be optimized along the waterfront, improving walking and cycling connections between metro stations and riverside public spaces.

2. Upgraded public spaces and services

Regular outdoor markets, performances, and other public events will be encouraged at waterfront locations, including Beisuzhou Road and the Waitanyuan area.

Riverside service stations will offer light meals, cultural exhibitions, family activities, and science education, and will be encouraged to extend their operating hours.

The Suzhou Creek Exhibition Center will undergo upgrades, and efforts will be made to improve connectivity between venues such as the Suzhou Creek Industrial Civilization Museum, the Shanghai Children's Library, and the Shanghai Postal Museum and riverside public spaces.

3. Enhanced waterfront tourism experiences

Themed cultural and tourism routes will be developed around industrial heritage, the history of ecological restoration along Suzhou Creek, and urban culture and the arts.

Flagship events such as the Half Marathon Suzhou Creek Cultural Tourism Festival, the Suzhou Creek Dragon Boat Invitational Tournament, and the Suzhou Creek Half Marathon will be further refined.

Existing sightseeing-boat piers and surrounding services will be upgraded, and one to two new piers will be added through urban renewal. The Suzhou Creek cruise experience will be enhanced with customized themed cruises, specialized routes, and regular water bus services.

Source: Shanghai Municipal People's Government