Yuandang Lake Travel Guide!

Yuandang Lake is located at the junction of Qingpu District in Shanghai and Wujiang in Jiangsu Province. It is one of the core lakes in the Yangtze River Delta Ecological Green Integrated Development Demonstration Zone. The water area is about 12.9 square kilometers, with a 23-kilometer waterfront shoreline fully connected, making it an excellent spot for cycling, hiking, and sightseeing. Here is the travel guide for Yuandang Lake:

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**1. Recommended Cycling Routes**
The cycling paths around Yuandang Lake are well-paved, with some sections having dedicated bike lanes. The scenery along the way is beautiful, suitable for visitors with different needs:
- **Family Leisure Route (5 km)**
Route: Yuandang Small Restaurant → Yuandang Slow Walk Bridge → Yuandang Bay Visitor Center
Features: Flat roads, ideal for family cycling, enjoy the lake views, and stop at the popular photo spot Yuandang Slow Walk Bridge for pictures.

- **Lake Loop Challenge Route (23 km)**
Route: Yuandang Phase III Flower God Square → Fanghong Bridge → Yuandang Village → Yuandang Small Restaurant → Yuandang Slow Walk Bridge → Yuge Post Station → Peony Pavilion → Return to Flower God Square
Features: Suitable for cycling enthusiasts with some experience, passing through multiple unique attractions including wetlands, villages, and post stations.

**Cycling Tips**:
- Currently, there are no shared bikes available; it is recommended to drive plus cycle ("4+2" mode) or rent a bike.
- It can be windy by the lake, so wearing windproof gear like a magic scarf is advised.
- Food and drinks are scarce along the route, so bring your own water and snacks.

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**2. Main Attractions Recommended**
- **Yuandang Slow Walk Bridge**
Spanning Shanghai and Jiangsu, shaped like a ribbon, offering a unique experience of "stepping across two provinces." The bridge provides a wide view, with a distant sight of the Shanghai-Suzhou Lake High-Speed Rail.

- **Flower God Square**
Inspired by the "Twelve Beauties of Jinling" from *Dream of the Red Chamber*, featuring twelve flower goddess sculptures and poetic pavement, perfect for photos and check-ins.

- **Lake Bay Wetlands and Birdwatching Spot**
Composed of 12 ecological wetland islets, you can observe egrets, wild ducks, and other birds up close, experiencing the natural ecology.

- **Yuge Post Station**
Surrounded by lake water, with a large lawn outside ideal for resting and photography. The interior is modern, offering charging stations, first aid, and other services.

- **Qushui Shanwan**
A lakeside resort inspired by dawn redwood forests, blending modern design with natural ecology, perfect for a short rest.

- **Peony Pavilion**
A classical garden building, most beautiful when peonies bloom in April, offering tea breaks inside.

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**3. Suitable Ways to Enjoy**
- **Cycling**: The most popular way to freely explore the lakeside scenery.
- **Hiking**: The wooden boardwalk along the lake is perfect for a slow walk, enjoying wetlands and lake views.
- **Photography**: Yuandang Slow Walk Bridge, wetland birds, Flower God Square, and Peony Pavilion are excellent photo spots.
- **Family Activities**: Participate in educational activities such as birdwatching and nature exploration.

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**4. Transportation and Accommodation**
- **Transportation**:
- Metro Line 17, Dianshanhu Avenue Station, about a 15-minute bike ride to Yuandang East Shore.
- Driving: Parking available at Yuandang Bay Visitor Center or nearby P+R parking lots.
- **Accommodation**:
- Designer homestays are available around Yuandang, booking in advance is required.
- Qushui Shanwan offers a lakeside resort experience.

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**5. Best Time to Visit**
- **Spring (April)**: Peonies bloom, Flower God Square is stunning.
- **Autumn**: Pleasant weather, active wetland birds.
- **Winter**: Dawn redwood forests turn red, peaceful lake views.

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**6. Notes**
- Some waterside trails may be temporarily closed during the rainy season.
- Please do not disturb migratory birds while birdwatching.
- Be cautious of motor vehicles when cycling around the lake; some sections require yielding.

Yuandang Lake combines natural ecology with cultural landscapes, making it an excellent choice for cycling, hiking, or relaxing. Take advantage of the good weather, invite friends or family, and enjoy a lakeside trip!