Entering a Fairy Tale World in Shanghai's Summer - Huakai Haishang Ecological Park

Blooming sunflowers 🌻 and endless green kochia make you feel like you've stepped into a fairy tale world at first glance. This park is one of the few attractions that I can't forget. If it weren't so far from the city, I would visit at least four times a year to experience the natural beauty of different seasons. Address: Huakai Haishang Ecological Park, Zhujing Town, Jinshan District Time: 8:00-17:00 (Operating hours may be extended during certain periods, so check before you go) Activities: You can bring your own tent for a picnic (it can be very sunny in summer), rent a bike, enjoy the scenery, have a picnic, and take lots of beautiful photos. Tips: Many people visit for the kochia, but it is usually planted from late summer to early autumn. Initially, it is green, and by late autumn, it reaches its best viewing period with a mix of fiery red and golden colors. Wear your white dresses, and you'll look like little angels descended to earth. Additionally, tickets can be cheaper online than on-site. —————————— Here is our simple two-day itinerary in Jinshan. It takes at least an hour and a half to drive from the city, so make the most of your trip by visiting nearby attractions. Day 1: Wake up naturally and drive to Donglin Temple in Zhujing Town. This temple is really magnificent, and photography enthusiasts will love it! After a thorough visit, explore the nearby ancient town. By then, it will be around five or six o'clock. Accommodation: Hengshan Yiju, Huayang Tuohu B&B Although it's a B&B, it's a chain, and I recommend choosing a ground floor room with a small courtyard. The courtyard has tables, chairs, and small lights, so you can order takeout and chat under the stars at night. Moreover, this B&B is right across from the entrance of Huakai Haishang Ecological Park, just a three to five-minute walk away. Day 2: Have a leisurely breakfast at the B&B, then take a stroll to the park and enjoy the early morning when it's not crowded. Take deep breaths of fresh air. By the time you finish exploring, you'll encounter the crowd entering the park. Check out at noon and drive to the Pujiang First Sight attraction (from Jinshan to Songjiang), which takes about 35 minutes. This attraction is currently free and is the zero-kilometer starting point of Shanghai's mother river, the Huangpu River, adding to the knowledge of your hometown for the kids. Follow me for more weekend and holiday travel ideas