Seven tours are being launched in Songjiang to lure expo tourists to the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the suburban district.
To the east lies the wonderful sight of the World Expo park; to the west a joyful holiday awaits at a beautiful resort. The top attraction of this tour is Happy Valley Amusement Park, as well as Sheshan National Tourism Resort. After seeing the amazing architecture on display at the Expo Park, guests can enjoy the thrilling rides and stage shows of the city's newest amusement park.
This tour focuses on Songjiang's natural beauty. Recommended scenic spots include Sheshan National Forest Park, Wushe Farming Leisure Park, Chenshan National Botanical Garden (to be opened in April), and Qingqing Tourism World, where visitors can go horse riding, row a boat and enjoy a barbecue. This fun trip back to nature is fit for people of all ages and is recommended for a family outing.
If you enjoy a leisurely stroll in the woods, this tour is the perfect choice. You can visit the Moon Lake Sculpture Park, which showcases more than 30 works by international artists. There is also a caf offering beautiful views of the lake, and a local fishermen's village where you can subsequently feast on your catch. If you have time the following day stop by Thames Town, a community designed in emulation of a traditional British town.
This route targets business and conference clients, who may choose to spend the night at one of Sheshan National Tourism Resort's five-star hotels (Le Meridien or Sofitel), if not one of its three-star hotels. There are plenty of historical scenic spots and an amusement park nearby for guests to enjoy once the business day ends. More hotels can be found in the downtown area.
This tour provides a trip through Songjiang's history. People may climb to the top of the Square Pagoda in the morning and enjoy some tea at Helouxuan teahouse. In the afternoon they can go to Shanghai Film Studio and ride trams among houses built in the style of 1930s Shanghai. Guests can also visit Zuibai Pond Park and the Cangcheng area, where the city's old buildings are well protected.
Those interested in farming may like to visit Wushe Farming Park, where they can stay in the home of a local farmer, tuck into some nutritious homemade food and enjoy picking fruit and vegetables from his garden. The park also includes a vineyard and a tomato farm. Shanghai Film Park is located nearby for those hoping to catch a day's shooting. Alternatively visitors can let off some steam go-karting at Tianma Automobile World.
This route is designed for science lovers and groups of young people. They can visit the Astronomy Museum and Earthquake Museum, both located in Sheshan National Tourism Resort, or head to Songjiang University City then brush up on their botany at Wushe Farming Entertainment Park. Starting from April, guests will also be able to check out Chenshan National Botanical Garden.
(China Daily 09/12/2009 page14)
