Five scenic walking routes to enjoy Shanghai's spring blooms

Spring has arrived, and Shanghai is at its most enchanting. There is no need to venture far. A simple stroll through the city reveals flowers in full bloom at every turn. These five walking routes showcase some of the most captivating spring scenery in the city.
Sheshan and Chenshan: Hills, views, and blooms

Start at the East Sheshan Mountain hiking trail, which offers free entry. Follow more than 300 stone steps winding through the trees to the summit, where sweeping views of the Sheshan hills open up. 
Continue to West Sheshan Mountain. Within the Sheshan Observatory courtyard, centuries-old magnolia trees lend a quiet sense of timeless elegance.
The journey then leads to Chenshan Botanical Garden, where expansive flower fields stretch in gentle waves. In early April, the garden continues to offer a changing mix of spring blooms, with Somei Yoshino cherry trees in flower and baby blue eyes adding fresh color to the garden. 

This route offers three experiences in one: a climb with rewarding views, historic trees, and vast floral displays. April is also bamboo shoot season. You can stop at a local restaurant along the way and try freshly harvested Sheshan spring bamboo shoots. 
Route
East Sheshan Mountain hiking trail → West Sheshan Mountain magnolias → Chenshan Botanical Garden
How to get there
Metro Line 9 at Sheshan Station

Jing'an Sculpture Park: Art meets spring flowers

Walk into Jing'an Sculpture Park, where the last Kanzakura cherry blossoms linger as tulips take center stage in full bloom. Bands of red, orange, pink, and purple stretch across the park. In early April, crabapple and peach blossoms also begin to add soft shades of pink and crimson to the scene.
This free park in the city center is also home to a number of notable sculptures. The interplay of seasonal blooms and artwork lends a creative dimension to your stroll.
From there, head toward Changping Road Bridge along Suzhou Creek. The bridge's pure white arch curves gracefully over the water. By day, sunlight shimmers on the river, and by night, the bridge lights up, casting a glow that adds to the romantic atmosphere.
Route
Jing'an Sculpture Park → Changping Road Bridge → Sihang Warehouse Battle Memorial → Return to start
How to get there
Metro Line 12 or 13 at West Nanjing Road Station 

New Jiangwan City Park: Wetland trails and cherry blossoms

New Jiangwan City Park is a rare wetland right in the heart of Shanghai. In early April, the last Kawazu cherry blossoms give way to later-blooming varieties, helping extend the park's cherry season into mid-April.
Along the trail, orchids spread out like a purple carpet. Weeping crabapple and plum blossoms sway gently in the breeze, their soft pink hues blending with reflections in the water.
The path connects to a two-kilometer water-loop trail that passes through a bird-watching area, ecological lawns, and waterside platforms. Along the way, you may catch sight of egrets in low flight or moorhens gliding across the water. As spring unfolds quietly here, each passing breeze carries a gentle hint of romance.
Route
Zhayin Road entrance → Bird-watching area → Zhengyue Road stream → Zhengcheng Road cherry blossom path → Andersen Paradise perimeter → Return to start
How to get there
Metro Line 10 at Xinjiangwancheng Station

Hongkou: Spring blossoms, old streets, and river views

In early April, Lu Xun Park is one of the city's loveliest places to catch Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms, with more than 700 trees forming a dreamy pink-and-white canopy. Petals drift down in the breeze, and a faint sweet fragrance lingers in the air.
Turn onto Tian'ai Road, where heart-shaped street signs and message-covered walls add to the romantic atmosphere. Old Shanghai alleyways sit alongside cozy indie shops, giving the street a nostalgic feel. As you head down North Sichuan Road, the historic buildings tell stories of old Shanghai.

The final stop is the North Bund waterfront. Cherry blossoms bloom beside the Gothic architecture of the former Lester School and Henry Lester Institute of Technical Education. Across the river, the Lujiazui skyline rises against the horizon. A breeze from the Huangpu River carries the freshness of spring through the air.
Along the North Bund riverside path, seasonal flowers add color to the tranquil scene, where architecture and river views come together. Numerous popular photo spots along the way add an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience. 
Route
Lu Xun Park → Tian'ai Road → North Sichuan Road → North Bund riverside path
How to get there
Metro Line 8 at Hongkou Football Stadium Station

Changning Outer Ring Greenway: A tunnel of wisteria

Step into the Changning Outer Ring Greenway from the North Guangshun Road entrance, and you'll find yourself on one of the most pleasant spring walks in the city, with free access throughout.
In early April, wisteria is just beginning to bloom, with fuller displays expected by mid-April. Along the way, redbuds and azaleas add splashes of color among the native greenery.
The greenway is car-free, making it ideal for both walking and biking. Paved paths wind through wetlands, where reeds sway gently, and boardwalks stretch over the water. 
From flower tunnels to wetland views, this route captures the energy of spring. You might even spot birds flying past, bringing extra life to the scene.
Route
North Guangshun Road entrance → Wisteria tunnel → Wetland area → West Xianxia Road exit
How to get there
Metro Line 2 at Beixinjing Station, then transfer by bus

(Sources: Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, scenic spots mentioned above, district governments of Changning, Hongkou, Yangpu, and Jing'an)
Source: Intl Services Shanghai