Shanghai Tour 3 - Sheshan, Songjiang

Embark on an exciting journey through nature and historical artifacts hidden in Songjiang District, western Shanghai.

Total distance: 6.8 km (42 km personally) | Total Hours : 5.5 Hours (Heavy Biking, Heavy Touring)

Main Destinations

1. Chenshan Botanical Garden (辰山植物园)

2. Guangfulin Cultural Relics Park (广富林文化遗址公园)

3. Sheshan National Forest Park (佘山国家森林公园)

Map:

Map of Shanghai Tour 7 Destinations

Main Blog:

On March 2nd, Bike In Shanghai set off on another exciting trip—this time to explore the beautiful natural environment of rural Songjiang, wandering through tranquil parks beneath the scorching sun.

1.     Chenshan Botanical Garden (辰山植物园)

A vast and intriguing park nestled on the outskirts of Shanghai, surrounded by peaceful rural landscapes. It’s the kind of place where city noise fades into birdsong, and every path invites quiet exploration.

It was around 9 a.m. when I finally reached Chenshan Botanical Garden. I hadn’t expected the sun to blaze so fiercely across the clear blue sky so early in the day. Then it hit me—I’d forgotten my sunscreen. I pulled off the road, drenched in sweat, took a few enormous gulps from my water bottle, and wiped myself down with a towel.

My day began with a leisurely walk toward the greenhouse area—a quiet little pocket tucked away from the main path. There were several greenhouses scattered across the space, each with its own charm. Unfortunately, most were closed off for renovation, leaving just one open to visitors. Still, that lone greenhouse stood like a beacon of green serenity, inviting me in with its misty windows and lush promise.

As I stepped through the doors, I was instantly embraced by a burst of tropical beauty. Towering palm leaves swayed gently overhead, while vibrant, colorful flowers painted the space with life. The atmosphere shifted completely—suddenly, it felt like I’d wandered into a lush oasis. This greenhouse brought an entirely different energy to the garden, making it one of the most distinctive and memorable spots in the entire destination.

After wandering through the lush pathways, I came upon a series of overpasses connected by staircases. Naturally, I couldn’t resist climbing up to see what the view had to offer—and it didn’t disappoint. From the top, the entire greenhouse complex unfolded beneath me like a living mosaic. It was the perfect vantage point for snapping stunning photos and soaking in the vibrant diversity of plant life.

What truly captivated me, though, was the sheer variety of flowers. Each species seemed to flaunt its own unique bloom—different shapes, colors, and personalities. It’s fascinating how nature expresses itself in so many beautiful forms.

For the final few moments of my greenhouse adventure, I wandered into the carnivorous plant section—a shadowy corner where nature’s most cunning creations thrive. These fascinating plants, with their trap-like leaves and eerie elegance, felt like something out of a sci-fi story. It was a thrilling contrast to the vibrant blooms I’d seen earlier, and the perfect way to end my visit on a note of wild wonder.

As you can see from the photos, the greenhouse boasts a stunning variety of Nepenthes and Trumpet Pitcher plants. Some of the Nepenthes species grow into small, tree-like structures, their hanging pitchers dangling like ornaments from leafy branches. Others, like the Trumpet Pitchers (Sarracenia), rise directly from the soil—tall, elegant, and shaped like green trumpets poised to catch unsuspecting prey.

It’s fascinating to witness how these carnivorous plants have evolved such distinct forms, each with its own strategy for survival. The diversity here is not just botanical—it’s evolutionary storytelling at its finest.

Now it was time to step out and embrace the sunshine. The park itself is vast, with winding paths that stretch far beyond the main circular road. I ambled along a few of the side tracks, letting curiosity guide my steps. With no set destination in mind, I wandered freely through the greenery, letting the rhythm of nature set the pace. Each turn revealed something new—quiet groves, sun-dappled benches, and the occasional burst of wildflowers swaying in the breeze.

There’s something I’ve been meaning to say. Almost every park or garden I’ve visited in the Bike In Shanghai series has been fantastic for both running and walking—especially when the crowds are light. Even on the sunniest days, there are stretches where the entire path is shaded by a canopy of trees, making the experience not just bearable, but genuinely enjoyable.

That said, I do think botanical gardens could benefit from a bit more tree cover. While they’re designed to showcase a wide variety of plants, a little extra shade would go a long way in making the space more inviting for longer strolls or quiet moments of rest. It’s a small detail, but one that could elevate the experience from beautiful to blissful.

After a bit more aimless wandering, I stumbled upon the most delightful little resting spot—a round, mushroom-shaped shelter nestled among the greenery. Curious, I stepped closer to take a look... and to my surprise, there were books! Tucked neatly inside this quirky nook was a mini library, right in the heart of the botanical garden.

I never expected to find books in a place like this. It was such a creative touch—an invitation to slow down, sit back, and get lost in a story while surrounded by nature. Whoever thought of this deserves a round of applause for blending whimsy with tranquility.

Eventually, I returned to the main road. To my left, a peaceful lake came into view, its surface dotted with lilies. A couple pairs of black swans glided gracefully across the water, adding a quiet touch of magic to the scene.

Just before leaving Chenshan Botanical Garden, something caught my eye—a quaint little stall tucked near the exit. It was selling adorable pots of succulents, each one ready to be taken home as a living souvenir. I loved the idea: a tiny piece of the garden to keep, reminding me of the peaceful hours spent among the greenery.

2.     Guangfulin Cultural Relics Park (广富林文化遗址公园)

An ancient archaeological site that reveals millennia of Shanghai’s rich and layered history. With every excavation, it uncovers stories buried deep beneath the city—fragments of civilizations, cultures, and lives that shaped the region long before the skyline rose.

Just a short five-minute ride from Chenshan Botanical Garden brought me to the south entrance of Guangfulin Cultural Relics Park. The shift in atmosphere was immediate—lush greenery gave way to echoes of ancient history, waiting to be explored.

If you’ve ever heard the phrase “Songjiang is the root of Shanghai,” this site is one of the reasons why. Guangfulin Cultural Relics Park stands as a testament to the city’s ancient origins, offering a glimpse into the civilizations that laid the foundation for modern Shanghai.

At first glance, the large white statue appeared abstract and mysterious. But as I looked closer, its meaning came into focus—it represents the Neolithic tools unearthed at this site, with a special nod to the bone needle. A subtle yet powerful tribute to the ingenuity of ancient civilizations.

The black decorative structure is a Core Socialist Values display (社会主义核心价值观宣传牌), something you’ll see in almost every park, school, and public square in China. The circles display the 12 official values promoted by the Chinese government: (from the left) prosperity, democracy, civility, harmony, freedom, equality, justice, rule of law, patriotism, dedication, integrity, and friendship.

As I continued through the site, I passed a small group of children visiting with their school or daycare center. They moved from one spot to another, quietly taking in the surroundings. It was a gentle reminder of how early experiences can spark a lifelong interest in history.

Since archaeology was the main focus of my visit, I made my way to the Guangfulin Archaeological Relics Museum (广富林考古遗址博物馆). Inside, I explored a fascinating collection of artifacts unearthed from the site—each piece offering a glimpse into the ancient roots of Shanghai.

The section above showcases unearthed artifacts left in situ, offering a rare glimpse into Shanghai’s deep historical layers. Seeing these items exactly where they were discovered adds powerful context—connecting the present to thousands of years of human activity in this region.

As I continued exploring the museum, I was struck by the wide time range represented in the artifacts. One of the first things that caught my eye was the pottery and porcelain—simple yet elegant pieces that speak volumes about daily life in ancient Shanghai. Each item felt like a quiet messenger from a different era, offering glimpses into the craftsmanship and culture of the time.

The artifacts span an impressive range of eras—from the prehistoric Neolithic period to several major Chinese dynasties, including the Zhou, Han, Tang, Song, Ming, Qing, the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States period. Each piece reflects the evolving craftsmanship, culture, and daily life of its time, offering a layered narrative of Shanghai’s ancient roots.

For much of Shanghai’s ancient history, the eastern part of the city—what we now know as the eastern part of Pudong—was actually underwater. It wasn’t until the 16th or 17th centuries, during the Qing Dynasty, that the land began to emerge. This transformation was driven by the gradual buildup of sediment from the Yangtze River, which expanded the delta and gave rise to the land we see today.

Even now, Shanghai continues to grow in area thanks to ongoing sediment deposition. That’s why most archaeological discoveries are concentrated in western Shanghai—where the land has been above water for far longer.

3.     Sheshan National Forest Park (佘山国家森林公园)

Embedded in one of Shanghai’s only two natural mountains lies a quiet, underrated national park—a true jewel for those who seek serenity off the beaten path. Surrounded by lush forests, the park offers a rare blend of nature, history, and science. You’ll find the timeless presence of a Catholic church nestled among the trees, and just a short walk away, a space observatory adds a modern twist to the landscape. It’s a place where ancient echoes and cosmic curiosity coexist in peaceful harmony.

After biking for 4 kilometers, I reached my final destination. The sun still blazed overhead, relentless and bright. It was time to leave the heat behind and step into the cool, permanent shade of the mountain—where silence, shadow, and serenity awaited.

After climbing a few staircases, I arrived at a quiet platform nestled in the hillside. Here stood three fascinating institutions: the Sheshan Geomagnetic Observatory, the Shanghai Astronomical Museum, and the Sheshan Station of the Shanghai Astronomical Observatory, part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Surrounded by forest, this mountaintop hub blends natural beauty with scientific curiosity—a place where you can reflect on the stars while standing beneath the trees.

Today, the complex serves as a museum, showcasing the history of the observatory and highlighting astronomical discoveries made by renowned scientists. But back in 2011, when I used to visit often as a kid, it was a planetarium. I still remember sitting beneath the dome, watching vivid projections of the solar system and constellations dance across the night sky. It was a magical introduction to the cosmos—one that sparked a lasting curiosity.

Other rooms in the museum showcased a range of instruments once used by astronomers—everything from meridian devices for tracking celestial movements to, most importantly, telescopes. These tools, both intricate and iconic, offered a glimpse into the methods behind the discoveries that shaped our understanding of the universe.

Last but not least, I stepped into the telescope room—a quiet, awe-inspiring space housing a real telescope capable of scanning the night sky. It wasn’t just the instrument itself that impressed me, but the full setup: the control table, the seat, everything arranged as if the next observation could begin at any moment. It felt like standing at the edge of discovery, where science meets the stars.

From the balcony, the views of Shanghai’s landscape are absolutely breathtaking. The city stretches out in every direction, blending urban sprawl with pockets of green. In the distance, you can spot landmarks like Happy Valley amusement park and the iconic Shanghai Tower piercing the skyline. It’s a rare vantage point—one that reminds you just how vast and varied this city truly is.

Standing just beside the observatory is the Catholic Church of Sheshan—a striking presence atop the mountain. Originally built in the 19th century by missionaries, the church carries a quiet grandeur, blending European architectural elements with the serenity of its forested surroundings. Its history runs deep, serving as both a spiritual landmark and a symbol of cultural exchange in Shanghai’s past.

This marks the end of our third Shanghai tour, and I hope you all enjoy it as much as we did. Stay tuned for our bimonthly trip updates!