Zhujiajiaozhen Water Town

The most widely recommended water town nearby to Shanghai, Zhujiajiao is one of eight similar towns that exist on the canal system stemming from Lake Tai.

Easily reachable by bus from Shanghai, the quaint water town is emblematic of these types of settlements and as such is rich in history and culture.

Hangzhou & West Lake

A short 45-minute ride away on the high speed rail is the Charming city of Hangzhou.

One of the main highlights is the West Lake, widely considered to be one of the most well-known natural attractions in China.

You can walk or cycle round its perimeter, seeing traditional bridges and pavillons along the route.

Suzhou

Called “The Venice of The East” with a vast network of interconnected canals and waterways. Traditional horticultural Chinese gardens can be found at Tiger Hill or the Humble Administrator’s Garden.

Changshu

Less touristy than Hangzhou and Suzhou with many of the same features: canals, ancient houses, a lake, and mountains. Take a gondola ride through bamboo-lined waterways or take a bus to the top of Yushan (Mount Yu) to see Xingfu Temple and the neighboring forest.

Shanghai Sculpture Park

Combine nature and art, in this getaway from the city bussle. Have a picnic, or rent a boat, this is great for family time relaxation.

Nanxiang Water Town

One of four famous historical and cultural ancient towns in Shanghai City. The town is also the home to one of Shanghai's five most important classical gardens, the Guyi Garden.

Moganshan

Mountainous area, great for hiking through bamboo forests and tea fields, with routes including rivers and lakes.

Kunshan

Includes Dianshan lake, Shanghai auto museum and Jinxi ancient town.

Anji Bamboo Museum

As seen in the film "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon"

Shanghai Film Park

Spacious amusement park providing film & TV shooting sets, restaurants, a courtyard & kids' games.

Chongming Island National Geopark

These wetlands are home to a migratory bird reserve.