Into Songjiang, a Different Shanghai Suburban Charm (2-Day Tour Complete Guide)

What impression does Shanghai give you? Prosperous? Modern? Lively? Westernized? Perhaps we all have[...]

What impression does Shanghai give you? Prosperous? Modern? Lively? Westernized? Perhaps we all have many adjectives to describe the charm of Shanghai’s foreign concessions. But this time, I will go into the suburbs of Shanghai, Songjiang, to uncover a different side of the magic city.

Shanghai Film Park. Nowadays, there are more and more types of tourist attractions in China. From natural wonders to artificially created characteristic scenic spots, they all provide people with a rich variety of scenic spots to choose as travel destinations. And when it comes to artificially created scenic spots, the most popular ones are undoubtedly film and television cities. Not only can you see the scenes that appear on TV with your own eyes, but you might also be able to chase stars. So now, a travel style called pilgrimage to sacred places has become popular.

And when it comes to film and television cities in China, the first one that comes to mind is Hengdian World Studios in Zhejiang. It is the largest film and television shooting base in China and is known as China’s Hollywood. In Shanghai, the magic city, there is also a film and television base that can rival Hengdian World Studios. Many domestic blockbuster movies have been filmed here. This is the Shanghai Film Park.

The Shanghai Film Park is located in Chedu Town, Songjiang. This town has also developed into a film town because of the film park. The Shanghai Film Park was built in 1992. It is not only one of the top ten film and television bases in China but also a 4A-level tourist attraction. It mainly provides film and television shooting services. Now it has also developed into a comprehensive tourist area with functions such as sightseeing tourism, cultural entertainment, and leisure vacations.

Many people’s initial impression of Shanghai comes from the charm of the foreign concessions in ‘The Bund’, ‘Lust, Caution’, and ‘Romance in the Rain’. Most of the scenes of these TV dramas with Shanghai as the background were filmed in the Shanghai Film Park. The film park has the folk customs of old Shanghai and restores the buildings of Shanghai in the 1920s and 1930s. Although there is a gap compared to the real old Shanghai, it has everything it should have, such as trams, Nanjing Road, Paramount Ballroom, Shikumen alleys, Waibaidu Bridge, etc. It is simply a mini version of old Shanghai.

In the Shanghai Film Park, in addition to the ancient Shanghai buildings, you can also see Catholic churches, medieval wineries, German-style villas, British-style villas, and Spanish-style buildings and other European-style buildings of various styles. For example, the famous Kayser Café is the place where Wang Jiazhi waits for Mr. Yi in ‘Lust, Caution’. Many tourists will check in at the seat where Wang Jiazhi sits in the movie.

The scale of the Shanghai Film Park is not very large, but it still takes a long time to walk around. So it is more recommended to take an electric car to tour the film park more comprehensively. For film fans, people who like taking pictures, and people who love the taste of old Shanghai, this is a good place to go. Here you can see many elements of old Shanghai, such as the street billboards in the 1920s and 1930s, which are full of a strong sense of the times. These are already hard to see in the urban area of Shanghai.

In the past ten years, Shanghai has developed rapidly. Many old houses and old neighborhoods have been demolished and various department stores have been built on the original sites. On the contrary, the film park has well restored the charm of old Shanghai. It is more charming than the old houses sandwiched between high-rise buildings in the old city. Wandering on Nanjing Road in the film park, taking a walk in the Shikumen alleys in Shanghai, looking at the European-style buildings, and taking a ride on the old-fashioned tram, it seems as if you have traveled back to old Shanghai in the 1930s.

Of course, when visiting the Shanghai Film Park, there is a high probability of encountering celebrities. Many film crews are shooting here throughout the year, especially around Nanjing Road and the Waibaidu Bridge. Before coming, you can check the filming schedules to possibly catch a glimpse of your favorite actors.

When it comes to traveling in Shanghai, where do you think of? The Bund, Yu Garden, and other classic Shanghai attractions? Or the exotic streets like Wu Kang Road and Si Nan Road? Shanghai offers a rich variety of scenic spots, among which amusement parks stand out. As a classic among old Shanghai amusement parks, Shanghai Happy Valley has always been loved by both adults and children. Located in the Sheshan National Tourism Resort in Songjiang, Shanghai Happy Valley features seven major themed areas: Sunshine Harbor, Happy Time, Shanghai Beach,**Welcome to Happy Valley: A Thrilling Amusement Park**

**Roller Coasters and Thrills**

Happy Valley is home to three major roller coasters that cater to all thrill-seekers:

– **Valley Wood Dragon**: The longest wooden roller coaster in China, it winds and twists through the valley like a dragon, making it the most popular attraction in Happy Valley. Due to its popularity, it’s best to head straight to this ride upon entering the park to avoid long queues.
– **Top Wind**: The second tallest roller coaster in China and the second highest vertical drop roller coaster in the world. It climbs a 65-meter high slope and then dives down almost at a 90-degree angle, providing a thrilling experience of weightlessness.
– **Blue Moon Coaster**: The fastest roller coaster in Happy Valley, located in the Shangri-La area with a distinctive Naxi style appearance.

**Entertainment and Performances**

In addition to these roller coasters, Happy Valley boasts over 50 advanced entertainment facilities and more than 20 dazzling performances daily. The park is a paradise suitable for both adults and children, offering a variety of attractions and rides that cater to all ages.

**Bubble Carnival and Fairy Tale Experiences**

One of the recent performances, the Bubble Carnival, brings a touch of childhood nostalgia by blowing bubbles of various sizes with different props, creating a magical, fairy tale-like atmosphere.

**Thrilling Rides and Stress Relief**

For those who love excitement, Happy Valley offers thrilling rides such as pirate ships and pendulums. Walking next to these rides, you can hear the screams and shouts of the riders, making these attractions a favorite for stress relief.

**Shanghai Beach and Old Shanghai Charm**

The Shanghai Beach themed area features thrilling attractions and captures the charm of old Shanghai from the early 20th century, including ancient rock caves and the bustling nightlife of the Bund.

**Go-Kart Track and Hurricane Bay**

Happy Valley also includes a go-kart track for an extra charge, where you can experience the thrill of speed and passion. Beyond the track lies Hurricane Bay, themed around a port ravaged by hurricanes and earthquakes, with the rapids ride being the most exhilarating attraction here.

**Water Rides and Summer Cooling**

The park features water rides like Perfect Storm and Speedy Cyclone, which are essential for summer cooling and fun.

**Shangri-La Themed Area**

The Shangri-La themed area brings the style of the Naxi people from Yunnan, creating an ideal kingdom surrounded by double-layered snow-capped mountains. It contains four main themes: Himalayan snow peaks, Yeti area, adventure area, and the Shangri-La Botanical and Zoological Garden.

**Gold Rush Town Themed Area**

The Gold Rush Town themed area is themed around a North American gold mining town from over 200 years ago, complete with abandoned trains, rudimentary housing, old gold mining machinery, mine shafts, and towers. An observation deck offers a panoramic view of the entire Happy Valley.

**A Must-Visit Destination**

Happy Valley is a sea of joy, with its attractions suitable for all age groups, and different themed areas offer unique happiness for everyone. It is well-equipped with a variety of attractions, making it a popular destination among tourists and a must-visit stop for many visitors to Shanghai.

**Shanghai’s Highest Peak**

In the eastern coastal cities of China, including Shanghai, the altitude is generally low due to the terrain. The highest peak in Shanghai is the Western She Mountain, with an altitude of only 100.8 meters, yet it holds a very tall status in the hearts of Shanghai residents. Whether for climbing to exercise or to visit the natural scenery of Shanghai, She Mountain is the best choice.The entire She Mountain area is very large, divided into Eastern and Western She Mountains. She Mountain is the only natural forest scenic spot in Shanghai and is considered Shanghai’s backyard.

You can choose to climb all the way to the top or drive directly to the summit to overlook the entirety of Shanghai’s Songjiang. You will find the forest lush and verdant below. Behind the prosperity of Shanghai, there is such a natural paradise.

At the top of She Mountain, there is an astronomical museum with telescopes for stargazing and opportunities to learn a lot of astronomical knowledge, making it a very educational place. The rooftop of the astronomical museum is also climbable; scenes for extreme challenges have been filmed there. However, recently due to epidemic prevention measures, the entire museum is closed.

Although the altitude of Western She Mountain is not high, there are still stairs to climb, which is good for those who lack regular exercise. The sides of the mountain climbing steps are covered with dense forests. It is now early summer, and the green leaves have reached the center of the path. Although climbing the mountain, you can also feel the refreshing greenery.

Although Sheshan is not tall, its historical sites are no less remarkable than those of high mountains. On the hillside, you’ll encounter the Sheshan Bell Tower, a place where many people climb to ring the bell for blessings during festivals. This bell tower has also served as a filming location for extreme challenges, hiding important keys to progress, leaving a lasting impression on many.

On the hillside of West Sheshan, there stands the Moon Shadow Tower, built during the Northern Song Dynasty, and still well-preserved to this day. It is a very historic building in Shanghai, with a height of seven stories and eight sides, approximately 20 meters, all built with brick and wood. The tower is slender and elegantly shaped, hidden in the lush forest, standing alone from the world.

The charm of Sheshan lies in its spirit, not in its height or danger. Sheshan provides urban dwellers with an opportunity to get close to nature, allowing us to step out of the concrete fortress and merge with the natural landscape. Sheshan is not the most beautiful among China’s famous mountains; it is like a neighbor’s younger sister, always visible to us.

On the Sheshan trails, there are many thick tree trunks, ancient pines and cypresses that have grown for thousands of years. These towering trees along the shaded trails bestow more spirit upon Sheshan. Even in the hot summer, people walking under them feel the cool and refreshing air. At just over a hundred meters high, Sheshan has become a representative of nature in the metropolis of Shanghai.

People who struggle in the fast-paced city often feel overwhelmed by work. On weekends, they seek a nearby mountain view to exercise and breathe fresh air, and Sheshan provides such an opportunity. So, what do you think is the most attractive aspect of Sheshan?

On Sheshan, there is a Forest Hotel, a guesthouse in the forest with villas scattered in an orderly manner, capable of accommodating more than 160 guests at the same time. The rooms are elegantly styled, offering views of the Sheshan Catholic Church and the swaying bamboo shadows. Walking around Sheshan, you can enjoy a unique vacation life. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, returning to the tranquility of nature, this is what Sheshan Forest Hotel offers.

The hotel has thousands of bamboos above and towering ancient trees below, with babbling brooks and singing birds, making it suitable for living and gatherings. The villas of Sheshan Hotel can be considered quite fashionable, reserved for important figures or leaders. The three-story villas are luxuriously decorated like a dream castle. Of course, the most astonishing aspect is the cuisine at Sheshan Forest Hotel, where events like ‘Two Festivals a Month, the Hundred Bamboo Shoots Feast in March-April, the Cool Moon in July-August, and the Local Dishes Food Festival at the end of the year’ allow you to taste many local mountain dishes.

This curry beef brisket is my favorite, so delicious that I can’t stop eating. Pineapple with fresh shrimp tastes very fresh. The fish soup is very rich. The braised pork rice is a highlight, with each piece of glistening pork so appetizing. Moreover, the cost-performance ratio of this table is really high. For a dozen people to eat, the average cost per person is just over 60, and you can enjoy Michelin-level cuisine. The taste of the white-cut chicken is very fresh, which can be dipped in soy sauce or eaten directly. The braised eggplant is very flavorful. This eel dish is really great, with a rich and dark sauce, a typical taste of Shanghai’s local cuisine, highly recommended.

In the eyes of many, Shanghai is a city with a very fast pace, whether it’s workPerhaps many people’s perception of Shanghai still stays at the bustling Bund and fashionable Xintiandi. But in fact, Shanghai also has five unique Jiangnan gardens.

Speaking of Jiangnan gardens in Shanghai, Yu Garden may be widely known to the public. However, the garden with the longest history and the most poetic charm is not Yu Garden, but Zuibaichi. It is not as famous as Yu Garden, so it naturally retains its purity and is not surrounded by commercialization like Yu Garden. Zuibaichi is also one of the most famous classical gardens in Jiangnan. It has a history of more than 900 years and can be said to be the garden with the longest history among Shanghai’s gardens.

Zuibaichi is located in Songjiang, not in the urban area. It covers an area of about 70 mu, more than twice as large as Yu Garden, but the ticket only costs 12 yuan. The layout of Zuibaichi is very interesting. Centered around a square pool, it breaks the traditional irregular pool layout and is somewhat similar to the style of Lingnan gardens. On the east side are pavilion buildings, surrounded by various pavilions and winding corridors. The space is relatively closed. On the west side is a large open forest land, like a garden. The irregular pool, together with the pavilions and towers set off by flowers and trees, are arranged in close order and complement each other. The garden layout of Zuibaichi is of two styles. In different places, you can feel different Jiangnan garden charm.

Although Zuibaichi has a history of several hundred years, it is still well preserved. From these garden buildings, you can still see the traces of history. Passing through these classical buildings, what comes into view is a large area of lotus ponds and Zuibaichi. The owner has dedicated a large part of the garden to the meticulous care of Zuibaichi. The garden layout and beautiful scenery of Zuibaichi are attributed to two famous painters in the Ming Dynasty, Dong Qichang, and in the Qing Dynasty, Gu Dashun. The painters’ superb artistic accomplishment and unique aesthetic make the whole garden extremely refined and unconventional, just like moving an ink wash landscape painting into a real courtyard. To commemorate these two painters, a Dong Qichang Calligraphy and Painting Art Museum has been specially built in Zuibaichi, which displays Dong Qichang’s superb paintings in the past.

Most classical gardens are named after gardens, but the Zuibaichi garden does the opposite and is named after a pond, which cannot but arouse people’s curiosity. There are two explanations for the origin of the name Zuibaichi. One is that Gu Dashun was proud of his garden in his later years. He often thought that if Li Bai had come to this courtyard back then, he would have been intoxicated by the beautiful scenery in the garden. Another explanation is that Gu Dashun admired Bai Juyi in his later years, so he named the garden Zuibaichi, longing to have Bai Juyi’s tranquil state of mind.

Today’s Zuibaichi, after nearly a thousand years of wind and rain and several reconstructions, still retains its original appearance. Among many excellent classical gardens in Jiangnan, Zuibaichi has a very unique style. In addition to the exquisite and unique garden landscaping, the literary atmosphere of scholars of past generations contained here makes the whole garden full of profound cultural connotations and makes Zuibaichi a unique cultural attraction in Shanghai. Entering here, the restless mentality in the city will also be soothed.

Yunjian Granary, an old granary has transformed into a new cultural landmark for checking in in Songjiang. Yunjian Granary was originally Shanghai Liangda Warehousing Management Co., Ltd. It is a grain warehouse and factory that has been abandoned for many years and carries the memories of many old people in Songjiang.

Entering straight from the east gate, the dense ancient trees on both sides cannot cover up the traces left by time. Walking a little further in, you can see four large chimneys. Now it has become a Shanghai cultural and creative district. The park’s renovation design, according to the architectural characteristics of the plot, fully integrates Songjiang’s history and culture, such as blue bricks, red tiles, mottled walls, and old doors and windows… Following the principle of restoring the old as it is, here the historical traces of old buildings are preserved to the greatest extent. By improving the internal physical environment of old buildings, it is given a new urban function. Now the park is divided into areas such as the international beer culture area, art exhibition and interaction area, technology and creative office area, riverside life and leisure area, and fashionable internet celebrity check-in area. Here, you can definitely take industrial internet celebrity blockbuster photos. In the childhood of every post-80s and early post-90s, there should be a group of lively Smurfs. At this moment**Shanghai Smurfs Park: A Magical Experience Awaits**

“*They are lively and clever, they are naughty and sensitive*” – these words will echo in your ears as you step into the enchanting world of the Smurfs at the Shanghai Shimao Fantasy City Theme Park – Smurfs Park. Nestled within the picturesque Shanghai Sheshan National Tourist Resort, this Smurfs Park stands as the first of its kind in the Asia-Pacific region.

**Journey Through the Smurfs’ World**

Upon entering, you’ll find yourself in a vibrant and interactive environment. The park is divided into several distinct areas, each with its own unique charm:

– **Forest Area**: Begin your adventure in the dense forest, reminiscent of the Smurfs’ animated home. Here, children can enjoy the forest maze and Berry Swing, a 360-degree pendulum ride perfect for their height and thrill level.

– **Village Area**: Venture into the village where the most exciting attractions await. The Berry Roller Coaster offers a mild yet thrilling ride, while Baking Jam Cup and Painting Magic Brush provide a more immersive and creative experience.

– **Smurfette’s Garden**: A haven for little ones, this area boasts flower-shaped seats and gentle rides that are perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

– **Gargamel’s Home**: Delve into the world of the Smurfs’ notorious villain with a dark laboratory-themed haunted house and Azrael’s Jump Tower, a drop tower designed with safety in mind for young children.

– **Damao Area**: For a blend of education and entertainment, this area offers 8 engaging play items, with the standout being the Wonderful Flight, a 180-degree spherical curtain experience that is both extraordinary and awe-inspiring.

**Interactive Experiences and Souvenirs**

As you navigate through the park, you’ll encounter 17 check-in points that, once completed, can be exchanged for a small gift. Don’t forget to pick up a park map at the entrance to guide you on your quest. The Smurfs are the stars of the show, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities for intimate interactions during the float parade featuring Papa Smurf, Smurfette, and Gargamel.

For those looking to take a piece of the Smurfs’ world home with them, the elf gift world within the park offers a wide array of adorable Smurfs merchandise.

**Chenshan Botanical Garden**

While the Smurfs Park offers a fantastical escape, the Chenshan Botanical Garden provides a natural wonder. Famous for its breathtaking cherry blossoms, the garden is a popular destination for spring and autumn outings. This time, a visit to the tropical greenhouse was the highlight, offering a glimpse into the diverse flora of the region.

**Immerse in a World of Magic**

The Smurfs Park is a place where fairy tale atmosphere pervades every corner. With its colorful designs and enchanting charm, it’s easy to feel as though you’ve stepped into a different era. Here, children can play to their hearts’ content, surrounded by the magic and joy of the Smurfs’ world.**Tropical Exhibition Greenhouse Overview**

The tropical exhibition greenhouse is a complex of three individual greenhouses, each with its unique charm:

1. **Tropical Flower and Fruit Pavilion**
– The largest and tallest at 21 meters, this pavilion is divided into the Exotic Garden, Palm Square, and Economic Plant Area.
– It boasts a variety of flowers and the soothing sound of waterfalls.

2. **Xerophyte Pavilion**
– A showcase for plants adapted to arid environments.

3. **Rare Plant Pavilion**
– Home to a collection of rare and exotic plant species.

Chenshan Botanical Garden, the largest in East China and the second largest in Shanghai, is divided into four functional areas:

– Central Exhibition Area
– Plant Conservation Area
– Plant Areas representing five continents
– Peripheral Buffer Area

**Visiting Recommendation:**
It is advisable to allocate a full day to explore the garden’s vast expanse and diversity.

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**Xiaoye Shu: A Culinary Gem in Songjiang District**

Xiaoye Shu, once known as the famous Farmyard in Songjiang, has been renovated and renamed while maintaining its commitment to traditional Shanghainese cuisine and intangible cultural heritage dishes. Signature dishes include:

– Braised Organic Fish
– Fish Head and Tofu Soup
– Stir-fried Rice Cakes with River Crabs
– Oil-Blasted Shrimp
– Crab Shell Yellow
– Songjiang Soft Cakes

These dishes, along with other delicacies, offer a rich taste of authentic Songjiang flavors.

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**Songjiang New Century Grand Hotel**

Located east of Kaiyuan Plaza in Songjiang New Town, adjacent to Central Park and close to Sheshan National Tourist Resort, the Songjiang New Century Grand Hotel offers convenient transportation and a majestic presence. The hotel combines Eastern culture with international standards, featuring spacious rooms with carpeted floors and expansive views of Songjiang. The bathrooms are among the largest and most mirror-filled, catering to the needs of all guests.

Dining at the hotel offers a taste of fresh, local Songjiang specialties, with standout dishes such as tender and juicy beef cubes and a variety of comforting small pastries.

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**Ticket Prices for Nearby Attractions**

– Shanghai Happy Valley: 230 yuan
– Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden: 60 yuan
– Shanghai Shimao Jingling City Theme Park Smurfs Park: 160 yuan
– Shanghai Film and Television Park: 80 yuan

These prices provide a guide for planning your visit to the area’s popular attractions.