Qingpu District

Introducing Qingpu District

Qingpu District is located in western Shanghai, downstream of Taihu Lake and upstream of the Huangpu River. Situated at the junction of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Luzhou provinces and one municipality, it serves as a vital waterway. Reflecting the rich character of a Jiangnan water town, Qingpu District boasts a vibrant and elegant environment, with waterways crisscrossing its streets and alleys.

Zhujiajiao, Shanghai's best-preserved natural Jiangnan town, is located in Qingpu District. A popular film and television production hotspot both domestically and internationally, with multiple productions often filming simultaneously, it's known as the Hollywood of Luzhou. The town also boasts gardens, historical sites, and traditional local delicacies, making it a prime destination for visiting ancient towns near Shanghai.

Climate and best time to travel

As an international metropolis, Shanghai offers no strict travel restrictions, and its scenery changes throughout the year. While peak seasons and long holidays are typically packed with people, consider avoiding the busiest holiday periods.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

Zhujiajiao Town is rich in tourism resources. The Shanghai Water Sports Field on the shores of Dianshan Lake is an activity center with international modern water facilities; Oriental Green Boat is an extracurricular activity camp for Shanghai teenagers; Shanghai Sun Island International Club and Shanghai International Golf Country Club are entertainment and tourism bases integrating business, vacation and leisure; the ancient town area has developed and opened more than 20 attractions such as Kezhi Garden and Daqing Post Office.

Sun Island Tourist Resort

The island boasts an internationally acclaimed golf course, making it Shanghai's "back garden" for golf-themed leisure tourism. Beyond the typical expanses of lush green lawns, visitors can also admire large and small artificial lakes. Practicing your strokes amidst the breathtaking scenery is truly an immersive experience! There's also a large-scale horse riding track, an open-air go-kart track, an artificial beach, and various conference rooms of varying sizes, making it a truly ideal destination for business travelers, perfect for both work and leisure.

Grand View Garden

It is the filming location of the 1987 CCTV version of the TV series "Dream of Red Mansions"

Located at 701 Qingshang Road, Qingpu District, Shanghai, this large-scale classical garden, designed based on the descriptions of the famous Qing Dynasty novel "Dream of the Red Chamber," served as the filming location for the 1987 CCTV version of the television series. It has won the National Lu Ban Architecture Award and has been recognized as one of Shanghai's Top Ten Tourist Gardens.

Recommended play time 1-2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Qingpu District

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Qingpu District is one of the oldest districts in Shanghai, historically significant as an ancient town with rich cultural traditions, particularly known for the Zhujiajiao Water Town. The area has long been a vital trade route, with canals linking it to various parts of Shanghai. Today, Qingpu combines both its historic charm and modern development.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Qingpu is located in the western part of Shanghai, approximately 47 kilometers from the city center. It is accessible by metro (Line 17), bus, or taxi. The Zhujiajiao Water Town, a major attraction in Qingpu, is also a popular starting point for visitors.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Qingpu, particularly Zhujiajiao Water Town, is an open area with no specific opening hours. However, attractions such as the Qushui Garden and museums are generally open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and weekdays are typically less crowded than weekends.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entry to Zhujiajiao Water Town is free, but there is an entrance fee to specific attractions such as the Qushui Garden (around 30 CNY) and some other temples or museums. Tickets can be purchased onsite or online through local tourism websites.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not required for the general area, but for popular attractions like Qushui Garden or boat tours, it is advisable to book at least a day ahead during peak tourist seasons or weekends.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full exploration of Qingpu, including Zhujiajiao Water Town and nearby attractions, typically takes 3-4 hours. If you want to visit multiple museums or take a leisurely boat ride, plan for a full day.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Zhujiajiao Water Town: Known for its canals, ancient bridges, and traditional architecture.
• Qushui Garden: A historic garden that offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful traditional landscaping.
• The Qingpu Museum: A great place to learn about the district's rich cultural heritage.
• The Fangsheng Bridge: An iconic stone bridge in Zhujiajiao, perfect for photographs.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in English and Chinese, particularly in Zhujiajiao Water Town and the Qingpu Museum. Audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English, for self-guided exploration of the area.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• On the canals in Zhujiajiao Water Town, especially near the ancient bridges.
• From the top of the Qushui Garden's pagoda, where you can capture the surrounding landscapes.
• The Fangsheng Bridge, offering picturesque views of the water and the historic town.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Zhujiajiao Water Town and explore the canals, then head to the Qushui Garden and enjoy a peaceful walk. Follow up with a visit to the Qingpu Museum and then finish your day with a boat ride along the canal to fully appreciate the scenic surroundings.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Zhujiajiao Water Town is beautifully lit at night, offering a charming atmosphere for an evening stroll. There are no major light shows, but the town’s canals and bridges are illuminated, providing excellent photography opportunities.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Zhujiajiao Water Town can get crowded, especially on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are in the early morning on weekdays or during the off-peak months of winter and late autumn.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are public toilets, rest areas, and several shops around the Zhujiajiao Water Town. Numerous local restaurants and tea houses serve traditional dishes. Water and snacks can be found in small shops along the streets.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Zhujiajiao Water Town is generally accessible, but some cobblestone areas and narrow streets may pose challenges for elderly or disabled visitors. Wheelchair-accessible paths and boat tours are available, though some areas may be difficult to navigate.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in the area, along with credit cards at larger establishments. It’s a good idea to carry cash for small purchases in local shops and markets.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local tea houses offering traditional Chinese tea sets and snacks.
• Restaurants serving Shanghainese cuisine, particularly around Zhujiajiao Water Town.
• Small cafes along the canal with views of the water, perfect for a relaxing break.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is widely available, especially at tea houses and local eateries. Vegan and halal options can be found at some specialized restaurants, though they are less common.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Several boutique hotels and guesthouses are located near Zhujiajiao Water Town, offering traditional-style accommodations.
• Budget options such as hostels and inns can be found in the area as well.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Shanghai Grand Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in China, is within a short drive from Qingpu.
• People’s Park and the nearby historical attractions in Shanghai are also easily reachable.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are numerous souvenir shops in Zhujiajiao Water Town selling traditional Chinese crafts, such as silk, tea sets, paintings, and local snacks.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From Qingpu, taxis, buses, or the metro (Line 17) are the best options for continuing your trip to other parts of Shanghai. You can also rent a car for greater flexibility in exploring nearby attractions.