Summary of Exciting Day Trips from Shanghai
While Shanghai offers a lot in the way of a big city, it lacks the depth of cultural and historical sights that cities like Beijing and Xi’an offer. However, that can work in your favor as you can combine a trip to Shanghai with one or more day trips outside the city and take advantage of the interesting places nearby.
Visit Suzhou’s Ancient Gardens
Address: 178 Dong Bei Jie, Gu Su Qu, Su Zhou Shi, Jiang Su Sheng, China, 215001
Phone: +86 512 6751 0286
Suzhou is famous for many things, including silk production, legendary temples, and its well-preserved traditional gardens. Notably, nine of Suzhou’s gardens are recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage Site List. Therefore, it’s worth an overnight stay in Suzhou to experience multiple gardens effectively.
Suzhou is conveniently located about two hours outside Shanghai and is easily accessed by train. However, you can also hire a taxi from Shanghai, bearing in mind that traffic can be quite congested during peak hours, so allow plenty of extra time for travel.
Enjoy Hangzhou’s West Lake
Address: Xi Lake, Hangzhou, China
Chinese people consider Hangzhou to be one of their most beautiful cities, and it’s easy to understand why. The city was visited by Marco Polo in 1290, who marveled at its beauty. At the heart of this historical town, which once served as the capital of the Song dynasty, is West Lake or Xi Hu. Thankfully, this area remains relatively untouched by modern architecture, offering picturesque views of the wooded hills, pagodas, and temples surrounding the lake.
While you can reach Hangzhou by train within two hours from Shanghai for a day trip, it’s advisable to make it an overnight or weekend excursion to fully enjoy the sights and take your time exploring the surrounding attractions.
Take in a Yangtze River Water Town
Picture narrow canals, round bridges, and charming river boats surrounded by lush willow trees swaying softly in the breeze. This idyllic scene can be found in nearly every “water town” near Shanghai. Each town possesses its own unique appeal, making them worthwhile diversions from the bustling urban atmosphere of Shanghai.
These charming water towns are scattered between Shanghai and Suzhou, typically about an hour’s drive away by car (consider hiring a taxi or arranging private transportation through your hotel). However, expect potential delays during peak traffic times, so it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as most tour groups tend to arrive in the early afternoon.
Relax at the Sheshan Sculpture Park
Address: China, Shang Hai Shi, Song Jiang Qu, Lin Yin Xin Lu, 1158号畲山国家旅游度假区 邮政编码: 201602
Phone: +86 21 5779 8090
Take in modern art at the Sheshan Sculpture Park, located just 45 minutes outside Shanghai. This recreational area features golf courses and a hilltop church, ideal for day trips. The Sculpture Park, opened recently around a man-made lake, offers a vast outdoor environment to explore. Enjoy large-scale sculptures while walking through the park, and consider having lunch at a nearby café or a picnic. Families will especially appreciate the dedicated area for kids, which includes a giant jumping structure and a water feature. Consequently, Sheshan becomes a popular weekend escape for Shanghai families during the summer.
Discover Yixing and the Art of Clay Teapots
Address: Yixing, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
Yixing is a collection of villages about a two-hour drive from Shanghai. Given the difficulty of accessing this area, it’s advisable to organize a private car for the day. Although not particularly picturesque, Yixing is renowned for its clay teapots, which are famous throughout China. These artistic teapots are often fired in traditional “dragon” kilns that are prevalent in the region. As a result, they make excellent souvenirs, illustrating the rich tea culture of the area.
Kunshan Fairmont at Yangcheng Lake
Address: China, Jiang Su Sheng, Su Zhou Shi, Kun Shan Shi, 马鞍山西路3668号 邮政编码: 215347
Phone: +86 512 5780 0888
Located just over an hour from Shanghai is the town of Kunshan, home to the famous Yangcheng Lake known for its hairy crabs. The hotel grounds feature a large park, playground, swimming pool, and an extensive organic garden where guests can pick their own vegetables. Additionally, there are biking paths around the area, allowing for a refreshing outdoor experience. Consequently, this makes for a lovely overnight retreat for families.
The Bamboo Forests of Moganshan
Moganshan is an excellent escape for nature lovers. Just over an hour from Shanghai by high-speed train to Deqin station, this area features an abundance of beautiful hiking trails suitable for all ages and experience levels. Despite its moderate elevation, the landscape is rich with lush bamboo forests and clear streams, providing a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts.
