Why Chongming? Just 1.5 hours from Shanghai, this UNESCO-recognized ecological island offers wetlands, ancient towns, and farmlands. With the new metro line (partial operation in 2025), accessibility is now easier than ever!
Must-Visit Attractions
1. Dongping National Forest Park
As the largest man-made forest in Eastern China, this park offers activities like forest bathing, camping, and picnicking.Cycling through metasequoia forests. Try grass skiing!
-Admission: RMB 50
-Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
-Address: 2188 Beiyan Highway
2.Dongtan Wetland Park
A haven for migratory birds, especially during sunrise. Visitors can also explore the specimen museum and participate in bird-watching activities.Rare bird sightings during migration seasons. Best spot: No.2 Birdwatching Tower.
-Admission: RMB 50 (Weekdays), RMB 80 (Weekends/Holidays)
- Opening Hours:
Weekdays: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM; Weekends/Holidays: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
-Address: Eastern Chongming Island, Dongwang Road
3. Xisha Wetland Park
Known for its stunning sunsets and opportunities for crabbing, especially enjoyable for families.17:10-17:40 ‘Salted egg yolk sunset’ and windmill silhouette is the prime time for photography, and you can dig for octopus (small crabs) at low tide.
-Admission: Free
-Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
-Address: Green Lake Town, Green Lake Village, No. 588 (near Sanhua Road)
4.Baozhen Wharf
Located in the south of Chongming Island, Baozhen Wharf is not only an important transport hub, but also an excellent place to enjoy the sunset over the Yangtze River. It was once a film set, attracting many photographers and tourists. On the old street, there are Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings and stone paths, experience Chongming Academy (an ancient building from the Yuan Dynasty) and a handmade printing cake workshop.
- Admission: Free
-Address: Southern end of Baozhen Town, Chongming District
5.Changxing Island
Located in the south of Chongming Island, surrounded by rivers on three sides and the sea on the other side, it has rich natural resources and ecological environment. The island features a number of attractions, such as the Shanghai Orange Garden, the Mongolian Village Racecourse, the Draped Pearl Garden, and the Shanghai Stunt City, which are suitable for families and friends to visit. In late autumn every year, the Shanghai Orange Festival held on the island attracts a large number of tourists to experience the fun of picking and tasting fresh oranges.
-Admission: Most attractions are free; some activities may require a fee.
-Address: Changxing Island, Chongming District
Suggested Itinerary
One Day Highlights
07:30 Departure from downtown → 09:00 Dongtan Wetland → 12:30 Dongping Forest Park (Lunch: Earthen Chicken Casserole + Cao Tou Salt Pieces) → 16:00 Xisha Wetland → 18:30 Return to downtown
Two-day in-depth version
Day 1: Dongtan Wetland → Changxing Island Farmer's Carnival (orange picking) → Night stay in forest cabin
Day 2: Riding in Dongping Forest Park → Old Street of Fort Town → Sunset in Dingba (Netflix Photography Spot)
Local Delicacies
- Chongming Cake: Lu's Cake (South Gate Store, No. 2 Pipe Lane), freshly made and sold, RMB 20/serving.
- White Chopped Family Chicken: a must for island farmhouses, free-range local chicken dipped in soy sauce, RMB 60 per person.
- Shredded Golden Melon with Sesame Oil: Chongming's speciality, refreshingly crispy to relieve the summer heat, RMB 15/serving.
- Noodle Crab: limited to autumn, rich crab, recommended ‘East Beach Fisherman's’ restaurant, 80 yuan per capita.
Transportation
From Shanghai:
By Bus: Take Shen Chong Line 1–6 from various points in Shanghai to Chongming Island.
By Ferry: Board at Wusong, Baoyang, or Shidongkou terminals to reach Nanmen Port on Chongming Island.
By Car: Drive via the Shanghai Yangtze River Tunnel and Bridge.
Pro Tips
Avoid Crowds: Weekends are crowded in Xisha Wetland, it is recommended to arrive after 15:00 on weekdays.
Photography equipment: Birdwatching at Dongtan requires a telephoto lens of 500mm or more; Dingba sunset with a wide-angle lens to capture silhouettes.
Cash Backup: Some farmhouses and ferries only accept cash.
Ecological protection: Drone flights are prohibited in the wetland, offenders will be fined 500 RMB.
Chongming Island is where Shanghai’s soul breathes—a symphony of wetlands, forests, and timeless traditions. Pack your camera and appetite, let’s rewrite your Shanghai story! Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure in the wild, this eco-paradise has something for everyone. Plan your visit to Chongming and discover a different side of Shanghai.