A Cultured Vacation in Sheshan, Shanghai: Art Amidst Hills and Waters
I used to love wandering in art galleries, carefully examining the worlds painted by artists. I used to love seeing different ancient buildings, or visiting them in person, feeling the wisdom of the ancients. I used to love stopping in various churches across Europe, listening to hymns and receiving a spiritual baptism... Art brought endless joy to my travels and, as I grew, took on deeper meaning. However, the pandemic brought the world to a halt. I stayed indoors for a long time, continuing my unfinished art journey only through reading and watching films. Just as the domestic pandemic situation improved, I received an invitation from TONG Hecheng Travel for a trial experience, filling me with anticipation. Finally, a new journey was about to begin, and even luckier: this time I could explore in my favorite way—through art. Now, please follow Pandy as we begin this artistic journey to Sheshan, Shanghai!
★ The Sheshan Trip (Itinerary)
In early July, Shanghai still enjoyed cool temperatures, partly due to the recent plum rain season. On such days, going out required being prepared for rain, but otherwise felt very comfortable. I arranged the trip for the weekend so I could share the joyful moments with my family. We chose to drive ourselves, a way I highly recommend. On one hand, driving is the most convenient way to reach Sheshan; on the other, considering the pandemic isn't completely over, driving is the most suitable and relatively safest option for a family. Our itinerary was as follows: Day 1: Depart from Jiading, Shanghai — Yuehu Sculpture Park — Yuehu Art Museum — Yuluxe Hotel Sheshan, Shanghai (a Tribute Portfolio Hotel). Day 2: Yuluxe Hotel Sheshan — Sheshan National Forest Park — Foothills Bookstore.
★ History of Sheshan
Sheshan, located in the southwestern Songjiang District of Shanghai, is the city's highest peak and its backyard garden. Don't be intimidated by the title 'highest peak' — Sheshan is divided into East Sheshan and West Sheshan, with elevations of 72.4 meters and 100.8 meters respectively. Although not lofty, the flat Shanghai plain gains elegant and varied mountain scenery thanks to Sheshan. You might be curious about the origin of the name Sheshan. There are several legends: one says it was named after a she (a surname) hermit who practiced Taoism here; another claims it came from the fief of General She of the Eastern Han Dynasty. The most amusing story involves snakes. Legend has it that two giant pythons, a green one and a yellow one, from Mount Emei cultivated themselves for a thousand years and both ascended to heaven. But they secretly drank the immortal water of the Jade Pool and turned into real dragons. First, they were banished to the East China Sea by the Queen Mother of the West, then they stirred up more trouble, and ultimately the Jade Emperor struck them down to the mortal world, forming East and West Sheshan. Later, people thought the character for 'snake' was unlucky, so they changed it to 'She' (佘), hence Sheshan. Historically, the earliest records of multiple visits to Sheshan can be traced to Xu Xiake's travel diaries, which mention the 'Ancient Shanghai Road.' In September 1536, Xu Xiake recorded his last journey through Qingpu to Sheshan and recalled two previous visits. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, many literati found inspiration in the landscapes of Songjiang and left their marks at Sheshan. Later, French missionaries built a Catholic church here, and an observatory was established, attracting many pilgrims and tourists, including foreigners. Seeing the rich tourism resources and business opportunities, the Songjiang entrepreneur Yin Shisheng began investing at the foot of East Sheshan, developing the Sheshan Scenic Area. Today, Sheshan is a mature 4A-level scenic area with well-developed facilities. The surrounding area includes Sheshan National Forest Park, Yuehu Sculpture Park, Shanghai Happy Valley, Maya Beach Water Park, Chenshan Botanical Garden, Sheshan Golf Club, and Tianma Circuit, among other entertainments. There are also many hotels and guesthouses to choose from. The InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, opened in 2018 as the world's first eco-hotel built in an abandoned quarry, adds even more charm to Sheshan.
★ Sheshan's Connection with Art
Beyond its rich tourism resources and diverse recreational experiences, Sheshan also places great emphasis on cultural and artistic development. It features not only Yuehu Sculpture Park and Yuehu Art Museum but also various places steeped in Zen and literary atmosphere. For instance, Xiyin Shanfang is a tranquil Zen retreat; Foothills Bookstore is a top choice for book lovers and a wonderful creative space; and the Duoyun Academy, set against the Guangfulin Cultural Site, offers a chance to slow down, savor life, and appreciate elegance within ancient Huizhou-style architecture. While researching, I discovered that in recent years, Sheshan has hosted a variety of art events. Exhibitions such as 'These Years, Our Exhibitions,' 'Sheshan with Love — Rose Art Exhibition,' and 'Subjective Reality' have not only brought artistic feasts to Sheshan but also supported contemporary art, drawing greater attention to it.
★ Yuehu Sculpture Park
Yuehu Sculpture Park was the first stop on my journey. This beautifully landscaped garden was built in 2003 with funding from Mr. Cao Rizhang, president of Taiwan's Jinbaoshan Group, combining natural scenery with modern landscape art as a sculpture park. On the map, Yuehu Sculpture Park looks really large, covering about 1,300 mu (86.7 hectares) around the lake. Since it was a weekday, there weren't many visitors. You can buy tickets at the entrance: adults 100 RMB, children 50 RMB. It's very convenient now—just scan a QR code to buy tickets. Remember to have your Shanghai Health Code ready, as checks are still strict during the pandemic. The entire Yuehu Sculpture Park is arranged seasonally around Yuehu Lake: Spring Bank, Summer Bank, Autumn Bank, and Winter Bank. Each area features distinct landscape and architectural styles, with facilities reflecting the four seasons. I toured in spring-summer-autumn-winter order. With a gentle breeze on my face, every season was beautiful. First, I arrived at Spring Bank, where the Visitor Center is located. Grab a map before setting out. Crossing the Water Curtain Bridge, the entire Yuehu Lake comes into view. On Spring Bank, many teenagers were practicing badminton—truly an excellent spot for outdoor activities. Various boats are docked by the lake; on holidays, it would be so pleasant to go boating with family and friends. Scattered throughout the park are over 80 sculptures, some serene, some leisurely, some heartwarming. As I strolled and admired them, my body and mind felt nourished.
Sculpture: Memory of the River
Some sculptures carry a 'life' meaning, embodying the theme that water is the source of life, encouraging people to care for and protect nature. For example, this work by a New Zealand artist: Memory of the River. It could be a child's notched stick to mark high tides, or a marker for archaeologists discovering ancient ruins. The river's meandering moment is sealed in the eternal memory of stone.
Sculpture: Mermaid
Another sculpture, Mermaid, is by Bulgarian-Italian artist Gheorghe Filin. Inspired by Eastern sailing ships, the work features three sail-like forms floating on the water, symbolizing continuity through time and space. The three pieces also represent different parts of a mermaid's body, as if the sails, after being sculpted by wind and water, gradually transformed into a mermaid. With undulating torso, full lips, and a half-human, half-fish body, viewing it reminded me of the poignant and beautiful tale of The Little Mermaid.
Sculpture: Stone Forest
My favorite sculpture was the 'Stone Forest' on Summer Bank, created by Japanese master Masashi Korita. Twenty-six massive granite blocks resembling relics of a lost civilization were truly awe-inspiring. I learned that this is the largest artistic stone forest in China; the four central stones stand 12 meters tall and each weighs over 100 tons. Stepping inside the Stone Forest feels like being among Manhattan's skyscrapers.
Some other excellent and beautiful sculptures:
The waterfront beach on Summer Bank is also a great spot for family fun. Built with nearly 5,000 tons of sand, it has a strong tropical vibe, reminiscent of a Maldivian beach.
When you're tired, there's a waterside Coffee Station on Autumn Bank where you can rest for a while. Enjoying a cup of coffee while gazing at the lake is a truly relaxing pastime.
By the time I reached Winter Bank, the sky had grown dark, and the rain grew heavier. With no other visitors in sight, I started to feel a bit scared and hurried along. It wasn't until I spotted the sculpture 'Reflective Forest' in the distance that I finally felt relieved. In the pouring rain, a lone angler sat quietly, as if he were the only person in the world. That sense of tranquility moved me deeply for a moment.
Tips: Address: 1158 Linyin Xin Road, Sheshan, Shanghai. Tickets: Adults 100 RMB, children 50 RMB.
★ Yuehu Art Museum
Yuehu Art Museum is located on the Autumn Bank of Yuehu Sculpture Park. It's a round building with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, almost blending into nature from a distance. At the entrance stands a sculpture titled Cat by British artist Laura Ford. Its inspiration comes from Masaccio's fresco 'The Expulsion from the Garden of Eden,' where Adam and Eve are envisioned as tall, thin black cats. Interestingly, the six cats' humorous poses happen to align with Confucius' teachings in the Analects: 'Do not look at what is contrary to propriety; do not listen to what is contrary to propriety; do not speak what is contrary to propriety; do not make movement which is contrary to propriety.' I think that's the most fascinating aspect of art: it knows no borders, and everyone can interpret it in their own way. The Yuehu Art Museum does not charge a separate admission fee—it's included in the sculpture park ticket, so don't miss it. To protect the artists, photography is not allowed except for some exhibits, but that doesn't prevent us from experiencing the artworks up close and appreciating the architectural beauty of the museum. To preserve the park's overall visual harmony, the museum was built using a double-helix landscape engineering method, with most of the structure hidden underground. The above-ground part features transparent glass facades. Whether sunny or rainy, inside the museum you can enjoy the most beautiful views of the lake area. Half of the building is below ground. Currently, Yuehu Art Museum is hosting an exhibition of works created in 2007 by over fifty renowned sculptors from the mainland, Taiwan, and Hong Kong at the Yuzi Paradise in Guilin. Back then, the artists not only gathered and sparked off each other's creativity, but through living together, exchanging ideas, and being inspired by the beautiful landscape, they generated new inspirations, offering us a feast for the soul and eyes.
★ Sheshan National Forest Park
Since we're in Sheshan, after enjoying contemporary art, we naturally shouldn't miss Sheshan National Forest Park. Covering 401 hectares, the park's mountain range runs from southwest to northeast for 13 kilometers, all covered with evergreen broad-leaved forests, making the air extremely fresh. We entered the forest park through the north gate. No ticket is needed, but you need to make an online reservation in advance. During the pandemic, temperature checks and health code verification are also required. Climbing up the stairs, the first thing you see is Xiudaozhe Pagoda, an octagonal seven-story pagoda with a brick-and-wood structure that stands 20 meters tall. You might not imagine that this pagoda has stood for over 1,000 years; it was built during the Taiping Xingguo era of the Northern Song Dynasty (976–984). Each story originally had a surrounding veranda, with north and south doors for access. Unfortunately, due to long years of neglect, the stairs inside are ruined, so visitors can only admire it from the ground floor. The eaves and base are also gone, but thankfully the body remains firm and upright, standing tall after ten centuries—a testament to ancient wisdom in construction. Continuing up following the signs, you reach two important spots in Sheshan: the Observatory and the Catholic Church. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic and heavy rain, the observatory was closed, and the church was under renovation. Speaking of Sheshan Catholic Church, it was originally built in the 13th year of the Tongzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty (1871) by French missionaries. After several renovations, the current structure was expanded in 1925. The church is Baroque in style, blending Greek, Roman, and Gothic elements, with some materials and decorations using traditional Chinese architectural techniques—it really makes one want to go inside and explore. Unfortunately, with the maintenance and rain, the mountain paths were blocked, so I'll have to come back on a clear summer day. Even though we couldn't visit the main church, there are two ancillary buildings near the viewing platform, with the same red bricks and Baroque window lattices, giving an instant sense of being transported to Europe. Stroll around the mountain and breathe in nature's scent! East Gate of Sheshan National Forest Park. However, a friendly tip: in summer, remember to protect yourself against mosquitoes when visiting Sheshan.
Tips: Sheshan National Forest Park: Admission: Free. Opening hours: 8:30–16:30 all year. Transportation: Take Metro Line 9 to Sheshan Station, then transfer to Qingsong Line, Huchen Line, Songchen Line, Songjiang Bus 92, Shiqing Line, Songzhong Line, or the Shangshe Line (a shuttle to Sheshan).
★ Yuluxe Hotel Sheshan, Shanghai (a Tribute Portfolio Hotel)
A perfect vacation requires a comfortable and memorable hotel stay. This time, I chose the Yuluxe Hotel Sheshan, Shanghai, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel (formerly a Marriott Le Méridien, now part of Marriott's Tribute Portfolio). Even before arriving, I learned that as a family-oriented hotel, it offers many parent-child activities and a huge back garden for various recreations. As for location, it's nestled among three hills, making it very convenient to reach Yuehu Park or Sheshan Forest Park within about a five-minute drive. Guests also enjoy free parking. The hotel features a New Chinese style of decoration. The spacious lobby and lighting create a very comfortable atmosphere. I love finding design-oriented corners to photograph: The fireplace in the lobby is lovely, though in warmer weather it's only lit occasionally. This time, the hotel upgraded us to a large semi-circular room with a semi-open bathroom, a separate walk-in closet, and a wet/dry separated bathroom—very convenient, and no disturbance when staying with family. The oversized terrace lets you feel the fresh air of Sheshan and enjoy views of the pine-covered hills up close. The spacious room and user-friendly amenities made the stay truly pleasant. I recommend checking in early, because the hotel's back garden is truly vibrant! For example, have you ever imagined feeding lambs, chasing piglets, or catching little fish at a hotel? Walking through the long lounge, lush woods come into view, and occasionally little squirrels scamper overhead. Soon you arrive at the hotel's farm, which feels like a natural zoo. Guests can get close to all sorts of cute animals here. You can feed the goats and take photos with them. The big pigs are kept in pens, while piglets run around the yard—super cute! There are also rabbits and guinea pigs. Even with rain, many parents were taking their kids fishing, creating a lively atmosphere. On the other side of the farm, a variety of vegetables are grown, making it a large kitchen garden within the garden. Strolling along the main building, you’ll be amazed by the hotel’s vast garden. A tranquil lake mirrors the hotel architecture and the serene surrounding valley. Not far away, a giant yellow duck stands, looking adorably clumsy, perfectly complementing the family-friendly atmosphere. Continuing forward, your eyes sweep across a sandy beach. Guests must be eagerly looking forward to summer, when they can swim, play in the sand, build sandcastles, or even play beach volleyball. From the beach, a 'secret path' leads to the outdoor swimming pool. This stone path seems to 'float' on the lake's surface. From a distance, it looks like people are walking on water with light-footed skill; walking it myself, I found it safe and fun. Crossing the overwater path, you reach the outdoor pool area, which has three pools of different sizes—one is a children's pool, and another resembles an infinity pool. An observation deck opposite the pool overlooks the entire main building of the hotel. In the expansive back garden, there's actually a highlight—a stunning small chapel. Unfortunately, part of the garden was under maintenance, so I couldn't visit it and must leave that opportunity for next time. This beautiful and fun garden isn't reserved just for hotel guests; regular visitors can also enter and explore for 50 RMB per person. On the day we stayed, the rain was particularly heavy, so we didn't plan to dine out. We opted for the hotel's Western-style buffet dinner. Those who prefer Chinese cuisine can order à la carte in the Chinese restaurant, which offers quite special dishes. The buffet selection was very diverse, from appetizers, main courses, soups, and desserts to fruits and vegetables; from Chinese, Western, to Japanese cuisine, the variety was abundant. It was a pleasant surprise to find crayfish and malatang, showing that the hotel truly understands local guests' preferences and has thoughtfully catered to them! Of course, alongside indulging in food and fun, don't neglect your weight. The hotel's gym is on the first floor, with well-maintained equipment. You can work out while gazing at the lush woods during the day, or enjoy entertaining TV shows at night, so exercise is never lonely.
★ Foothills Bookstore
If you ask me: Where is the best place to go on a rainy day? I'd think of a bookstore or a café. Through the window, the pattering rain wets the streets, revealing the world at its quietest and cleanest. People standing in the rain often feel bothered and seek shelter, but sitting by the large windows of a bookstore or café gives you more leisure to appreciate the changing weather. And in Sheshan, there happens to be a wonderful bookstore—Foothills Bookstore. Foothills Bookstore—what a fitting name. For a city like Shanghai with only one mountain, this place is truly unique. As soon as I walked in, my eyes were drawn to the combination of 'woods' and a plant wall: on one side, a plant wall stretches from the first to the second floor, with the bookstore's name seemingly 'floating' on it; on the other side, bookshelves that look like tree trunks form a 'forest.' I find the forest design very creative; it could also symbolize a 'book forest.' As you wander amid the trees, just pick up a book and immerse yourself in a lovely reading moment. In the children's experience area on the other side of the first floor, there are bright floor-to-ceiling windows. Finding a corner to sit and flip through a couple of books is also a great experience. The Coffee Workshop on the basement floor is another spot I love. The room is filled with the aroma of coffee, and outside one of the floor-to-ceiling windows, an outdoor plant wall brings a view of lush greenery. Order a cup of coffee or tea—slow living definitely needs the company of a good drink. The second and third floors are mainly activity spaces and experiential areas, with the same design sense and cozy comfort. There's even a baking classroom; I imagine it must be bustling on weekends. At the foot of Sheshan, far from the city, such a warm and artistic bookstore gave me, a traveler, a wonderful afternoon during Shanghai's plum rain season, adding a lovely experience to this cultured journey. Address: Culture Oasis, 3770 Sichen Highway, Sheshan Town. Opening Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 10:00–17:30.
Hear, see, experience, feel—during the trip to Sheshan, I used all my senses to get close to the art I love, time and again. In this time when I can't travel abroad, I've paid more attention to what's around me and discovered more beauty in life. As an international metropolis, Shanghai continuously shares resources with the world—cutting-edge art, enriching exhibitions, fascinating books, and soul-cleansing experiences. I enjoyed all of this on my artistic journey to Sheshan. Once again, thank you to TONG Hecheng Travel for the invitation! Everyone, come spend a weekend getaway in Sheshan!
