Spring in St. John's

Spring is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, and the former site of St. John's University in Shanghai (now the Changning Campus of East China University of Political Science and Law), not only boasts a rich history and cultural heritage but also offers a beautiful campus environment and a location near Suzhou Creek, making it an excellent choice for a spring outing. Here's a detailed guide to help you explore the spring scenery of this "Oriental Harvard" and the natural beauty of Suzhou Creek. I. Preparation 1. Timing Spring (March to May) is the best time for an outing, especially from late March to early April. The temperature in Shanghai warms up, flowers such as cherry blossoms and magnolias are in full bloom, and the weather is comfortable for outdoor activities. It is recommended to set off on a sunny weekend morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the early morning. 2. Transportation Public transportation: Take Subway Line 2 or Line 11 to Jiangsu Road Station. After exiting the station, walk for about 10–15 minutes to reach the Changning Campus of East China University of Political Science and Law (Address: 1575 Wanhangdu Road, Changning District, Shanghai). Shared bikes: Cycling from the subway station to the campus is a good option, which is both environmentally friendly and allows you to feel the spring breeze in advance. II. Tour Route 1. School Gate: Enter through the main gate, and the first thing you'll see is the iconic red brick building complex. These buildings, built at the end of the 19th century, witnessed the beginning of higher education in China. Today, as the spring breeze blows, magnolias and cherry blossoms in front of the gate bloom in competition, filling the air with a refreshing fragrance. 2. Central Lawn: Walk along the main road to the center of the campus, where you'll see a wide lawn. In spring, the lawn is lush and green, and many students and visitors sit on the grass to enjoy the sunshine. Bring a picnic mat and take a break here to feel the warmth of spring. 3. Si Yan Tang and the Library: Si Yan Tang is one of the classic buildings on campus, with red walls and green tiles, featuring a British style. The nearby old library is also surrounded by vines and spring flowers, making it a perfect spot for taking photos. Standing here, you can almost hear the voices of students from a century ago. 4. Tree-lined Paths: Several tree-lined paths in the campus are planted with plane trees and cherry blossoms. In spring, petals fall with the wind, creating a romantic scene. Take a slow walk along the paths to enjoy the flowers and relax. III. Stroll along Suzhou Creek A 5–10 minute walk from East China University of Political Science and Law will take you to the banks of Suzhou Creek. In spring, the green willows on both sides and the rippling water create a unique charm. Stroll eastward or westward along the Suzhou Creek walkway. It is recommended to walk eastward to the Waibaidu Bridge. Along the way, you can see the weeping willows swaying gently, water birds flying by, and cafes and shops along the river, adding more fun to your journey. The spring breeze is refreshing, perfect for slowing down and feeling the breath of nature. There are many popular cafes near Suzhou Creek, such as the open-air coffee stalls next to the Waibaidu Bridge, or the artistic shops along the river walkway. Ordering a cup of coffee with spring-limited desserts and sitting by the river to enjoy the scenery is a perfect way to relax. IV. Itinerary Suggestions Half-day tour: Arrive at the campus at 9:00 am, tour for about 2 hours, walk to Suzhou Creek around 11:00 am, stroll along the river for 1–2 hours, have lunch nearby, and then return. Full-day tour: Based on the half-day tour, you can continue cycling or walking along Suzhou Creek towards People's Square in the afternoon to experience more of Shanghai's cityscape.