Explore spring in Shanghai on three stunning cycling routes
With gentle spring sunshine and a light breeze, this is the perfect time to explore Shanghai at a leisurely pace by bike. Take in the fresh greenery, admire blooming flowers, and discover a different side of the city along the way.
Huangpu Riverside Greenway
Route
Waibaidu Bridge (north) to Rihuigang Bridge (south)
🗺️ Distance: 8.3 kilometers
🚴♂️ Time: Approximately 50 minutes
The Huangpu Riverside Greenway (Nanyuan Park section) runs beside the tranquil lake in Nanyuan Park. The path winds past vibrant flower beds, linking the eastern and western parts of the Nanyuan Riverside Green Belt.
In spring, cherry blossoms and tulips burst into bloom along the way. With sweeping river views on one side and colorful flowers on the other, this route offers an ideal way to take in the beauty of the season.
There are also plenty of places to stop and explore along the route, including the Power Station of Art and the World Expo Museum, making for a perfect break during the ride.
Changning Outer Ring Greenway
Route
Suzhou Creek (north) to Huqingping Highway (south)
🗺️ Distance: 6.25 km
🚴♂️ Time: Approximately 35 minutes
This 6.25-km greenway winds through riverside wetlands and is shaded by trees for much of the route. In March, a single ride takes you through leafy canopies, fields of flowers, and scenic waterside landscapes.
The path connects winding waterways, lush forests, and open views of Hongqiao International Airport. Keep an eye out — you might just spot planes flying overhead as they take off or land there.
Plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, and magnolias are in full bloom along the route, creating a dreamy spring setting that is perfect for a leisurely ride.
Pudong Riverside Greenway
Yangpu Bridge (north) to Xupu Bridge (south)
🗺️ Distance: 24 km
🚴♂️ Time: Approximately 2 hours
As Shanghai's only fully enclosed cycling path, this greenway offers 24 km of car-free riding through forested stretches and along a sparkling waterfront.
Starting at Yangpu Bridge, the route passes the Lujiazui area, Nanpu Bridge, Shanghai Expo Culture Park, Lupu Bridge, Houtan Park, Qiantan Park, and Xupu Bridge. Along the way, it captures both the dynamism of modern Shanghai and the tranquility of nature, all from the saddle.
Beyond the stunning Huangpu River views, the route also offers fresh perspectives of the Bund and plenty of photo spots with a cinematic feel.
Sources: Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, administrations of culture and tourism of Huangpu, Changning, and Pudong New Area