Sheshan National Tourist Resort: Your Ultimate Sheshan Shanghai Travel Guide
Escape the city bustle and discover Shanghai’s hidden green gem: Sheshan National Tourist Resort. Located in Songjiang District, this 40.1 km² oasis combines lush forests, scenic hills, ancient temples, and even European-style towns—earning its nickname “Shanghai’s Backyard Garden.”
Whether you’re hiking, exploring history, or enjoying a family outing, Sheshan offers something for everyone.
Top Attractions at Sheshan National Tourist Resort
1. Sheshan National Forest Park: Nature & Heritage Combined
Location: Core area of Sheshan National Tourist Resort, spanning 401 hectares with a forest coverage rate of 80.04%, making it Shanghai’s only natural mountainous retreat.
- Highlights:
- West Sheshan: Climb to the summit (100.8m) for panoramic views and visit the Sheshan Observatory, home to a 1900 double-barrel refracting telescope. Don’t miss Our Lady of Sheshan Basilica, East Asia’s largest Catholic church.
- East Sheshan: Enjoy bamboo forests, streams, and the Forest Trail, ending at the historic Xiudaozhe Pagoda.
- Tip: Pack a picnic for a relaxing mountain-style afternoon tea.
2. Chenshan Botanical Garden: Seasonal Flower Paradise
Location: Within Sheshan National Tourist Resort, Songjiang District, Shanghai; covering 207 hectares
- Largest botanical garden in East China (207 ha) with year-round highlights:
- Spring: Cherry blossoms & tulips
- Summer: Water lilies & Victoria lilies
- Autumn: Maple & tallow trees
- Greenhouses: Tropical plants at a constant 25°C
- Family Fun: Children’s Botanical Garden offers interactive plant activities.
3. Guangfulin Cultural Site: Shanghai’s Ancient Roots
Location: North of Sheshan National Tourist Resort, Songjiang District, Shanghai; covering 57 hectares
- Highlights: Explore Shanghai’s history at this heritage site with an underwater museum of Tang and Song dynasty relics.
- Bonus: Free cultural shows like tea ceremonies and Guqin performances.
4. Thames Town: A Touch of Britain in Shanghai
Location: Adjacent to Sheshan National Tourist Resort, Songjiang District, Shanghai; covering ~1 km²
- British-style streets, red phone booths, Gothic churches, and the Zhongshuge Bookstore with mirrored ceilings.
- Grab a London Fog at Starbucks Reserve or a craft beer at “Beer Auntie.”
- Perfect for photography and a unique urban escape.
Food & Shopping Recommendations
- Local Flavors:
- Songjiang Perch (steamed, ¥288)
- Cangqiao Crystal Pear (¥15/500g)
- Caolu Restaurant: Songjiang Pork Skin Soup (¥68), Pan-Fried Wontons (¥22)
- Souvenirs:
- Sheshan Orchid Tea (¥80/box)
- Guangfulin relic models (¥120)
- Thames Town DIY pottery (¥150/person)
Plan Your Trip: Practical Tips
- Address: No. 9258 Waiqingsong Highway, Sheshan Town, Songjiang District
- Transportation:
- Subway: Line 9 → Sheshan Station → Bus Songjiang 92
- Taxi: ~50 min from downtown (~¥120)
- Operating Hours & Tickets:
- Forest Park: 8:30–17:00, Free
- Chenshan Garden: 9:00–17:30, ¥60 (students half price)
- Guangfulin: 17:30–21:00 (summer), combined ticket ¥60
Tip: Bring mosquito repellent, comfortable shoes for hiking, and a light jacket for the greenhouses.
Why Visit Sheshan?
Sheshan National Tourist Resort condenses the best of Shanghai’s nature, culture, and exotic flair in one accessible destination. Hike to the summit, wander botanical gardens, immerse in ancient history, and snap Instagram-worthy shots in Thames Town. Perfect for a weekend getaway or a day trip from Shanghai. And if you’re planning more places to see in the city, check out my page on Shanghai Tourist Attractions for more ideas.
