Avoid the crowds and head here, a niche travel city just 1 hour from Shanghai

One-day trip to Pinghu: A lazy weekend getaway near Shanghai

Transportation suggestions:

• 🚄 High-speed train + Didi: About 30 minutes from Shanghai Hongqiao to Pinghu, then a 10-minute taxi ride to the city center

• 🚗 Self-driving: About 1 hour via Hukun Expressway to Shenhai Expressway, navigate to "Donghu Scenic Area" parking lot

Food recommendations:

• 🥟 Xian De Lai Shaomai: Thin skin with plenty of filling, shrimp filling recommended (about 25 RMB/steamer basket)

• 🍜 Maogou Rice Noodles: Local specialty snack with delicious broth (15 RMB/bowl)

• 🥢 Lao Pinghu Benbang Cuisine: Try classic dishes like fried eel in fragrant oil and braised bamboo shoots (60-80 RMB per person)

Itinerary:

1. Morning: Wake up naturally and depart, recommended to arrive in Pinghu before 11:30 AM

2. Lunch: Choose a time-honored restaurant in Nanhetou Historic Street, then browse creative shops

3. Afternoon activities:

• ⛳ Jiulongshan Golf: Experience the 9-hole practice course (about 150 RMB/hour)

• 🏇 Horse Riding Experience: Basic riding course (180 RMB/30 minutes)

• 🌉 Iron Chain Bridge Adventure: Thrilling experience on Jiulongshan Coastal Boardwalk

• 🦀 Waipushan Tide Pooling: Catch small crabs at low tide (check tide table for the day)

4. Evening: Watch the sunset at "Nancun Shudui" teahouse by Donghu Lake, with a distant view of Baoben Tower

5. Dinner: Try Pinghu fermented eggs, fried dough sticks, and other local snacks at Nanhetou Night Market

6. Night view: Donghu Light Show (starts at 8:00 PM) or nighttime amusement at Danghu Park

Practical tips:

• Donghu Scenic Area is free to enter, Jiulongshan ticket is 50 RMB (includes Waipushan)

• Golf and horse riding require booking one day in advance

• Best time is September to October, bring sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and comfortable sports shoes

• If driving, bring some snacks as dining options inside the scenic area are limited

Budget reference:

• Transportation: High-speed train round trip 80 RMB/person, or self-driving fuel + toll about 200 RMB

• Food: Lunch 60 RMB + snacks 30 RMB + dinner 80 RMB

• Activities: Jiulongshan 50 RMB + golf 150 RMB + horse riding 180 RMB

• Total about 500-600 RMB per person

This itinerary lets you enjoy a lazy morning while experiencing the mountain and sea beauty and cultural charm of Pinghu. It’s recommended to start your return trip before 9:00 PM to ensure enough rest. Don’t forget your camera—Waipushan Lighthouse and Donghu night views are very photogenic!