Sheshan National Forest Park (佘山国家森林公园) is located in the southwestern suburbs of Shanghai, within the jurisdiction of Songjiang District. The mountain is densely covered with pine and bamboo, offering picturesque views. In addition to the well-known East Sheshan and West Sheshan, there are 12 other peaks, including Tianma Mountain and Little Kunshan. While the peaks are not particularly high, they are a valuable resource in Shanghai, making Sheshan a popular destination for local residents seeking outdoor activities, mountain climbing, and leisure.
During its prosperous period, Sheshan was adorned with numerous gardens, villas, pavilions, and temples. The mountain hosted a total of 1,048 buildings, reflecting the vibrant religious activities of that time. Renowned traveler Xu Xiake visited Sheshan five times, attesting to its historical significance. Unfortunately, many of these ancient sites and scenic spots gradually disappeared after the early Qing Dynasty.
In 1993, restoration efforts were initiated to revive some of the historical landmarks, and new attractions were added to enhance the park’s appeal. Sheshan National Forest Park has since become a cherished destination for both nature enthusiasts and those seeking a retreat from urban life.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Sheshan Forest Park
- Map and Recommended Route
- Best Time to Visit Sheshan Forest Park
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Sceneries in Shanghai
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 – 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | The park is free. But you need to pay 6 – 10 RMB for various galleries. |
| Opening Hour | 8.30 – 17.00; Last admission: 16.30 (1st May – 7th October) 8.30 – 16.30; Last admission: 16.00 (8th October – 30th April the next year) |
| Telephone Number | 0086-021-57657231 |
Location and Transportation
Sheshan Forest Park is located in the western part of Shanghai, China, at the foot of Sheshan Mountain. It is situated approximately 30 kilometers from the city center, and can be easily accessed by public transportation, such as buses and the metro.
Bus: Take bus 194, 199, Qingche Express, Songjiang 33, Songjiang 92, Songjiang 94, or Songqing Express, get off at Sheshan Stop (佘山), and you will be standing at the entrance to the park.
Subway + Bus: The nearest subway station to Sheshan Forest Park is Sheshan on line 9. After getting out of the station, transfer to Songjiang 92 or Songjiang 94 to reach the entrance.
Highlights of Sheshan Forest Park
Sheshan Observatory
The Sheshan Observatory is a 25-meter-tall tower that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area, including the city skyline and the mountains. The observatory was built in 1900 by French Jesuit missionaries and was used for astronomical research until 1988. Today, it is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, who climb to the top of the tower to enjoy the stunning views. The observatory is also home to a number of astronomical instruments, including a 20-cm refractor telescope and a meridian circle, which can still be used for astronomical observations.
Sheshan Basilica
The Sheshan Basilica is a Roman Catholic church located on the top of Sheshan Mountain in Shanghai, China. It was built in 1863 by French Jesuit missionaries and is known for its stunning Gothic-style architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows. The basilica has become a popular pilgrimage site, attracting many visitors from all over the world. The church is surrounded by a peaceful garden and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Inside, visitors can admire the intricate decorations and murals, as well as attend Mass and other religious services.
Shanghai Astronomical Museum
The Shanghai Astronomical Museum is dedicated to astronomy and space exploration, featuring a variety of interactive exhibits, displays, and planetarium shows. Visitors can learn about the history of astronomy, telescopes, and space technology through the exhibits, which are designed to educate and inspire people of all ages. The museum also features a dome-shaped planetarium where visitors can attend shows that simulate space travel and explore the wonders of the universe.
Nature Walks and Hiking Trails
Sheshan Forest Park is home to a variety of nature walks and hiking trails, offering visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the park. There are several trails of varying difficulty levels, making it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. The trails wind through lush forests, rolling hills, and scenic valleys, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, visitors can spot wildlife and rare plant species that are native to the area. The nature walks and hiking trails are a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the peace and tranquility of nature.
Map and Recommended Route
East Sheshan:
South Gate (Entrance) – 368 Mountain Path – Forest Café at South Peak (65.5m) – Fire Lookout Tower – Qianlong Pavilion – General Pavilion – Wooden Fish Stone – Observation Platform – Climb to the top to reach North Peak (72.4m) – Return to Wooden Fish Stone and General Pavilion – Buddha Incense Spring – Qi Long Dam – West Gate (Exit)
West Sheshan:
North Gate (Entrance) – Wooden Path – Our Lady Chapel (Entry is free) – Shanghai Astronomy Museum (Ticket price: ¥12 per person) – Observation Platform – Tiger Tree Pavilion – Bell Tower – Xiu Dao Zhe Tower – East Gate (Exit)
Best Time to Visit Sheshan Forest Park
The best time to visit Sheshan Forest Park is during the spring season. In spring, the park is in full bloom with pleasant weather and moderate temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The natural beauty of the park is at its peak, providing a rich visual experience and enjoyable outdoor adventures. For those interested in natural landscapes, it’s best to start early in the morning. If you’re more interested in cultural attractions, visiting in the afternoon is a good option.
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Easy Hiking Trails: The park offers hiking trails suitable for all fitness levels. You can reach the mountaintop within 30 minutes without feeling tired. Take your time to enjoy the scenery along the way. And weekends usually don’t see overcrowding.
Two Peaks: The park has two main peaks:
- West Peak: This area is known for its scenic viewpoints. It takes about 30 minutes to hike to the top, where you’ll find a charming church that makes for picturesque photos.
- East Peak: This area is more focused on hiking, with many stairs along the way.
- Recommended Route: Start from the east entrance of East Peak and walk westward. You can then descend from West Sheshan Peak.
Insect Repellent: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially during warmer months. Bring insect repellent to protect yourself from bug bites while exploring the park.
Public Transportation: If you’re taking public transportation, get off at Sheshan Metro Station and transfer to a bus. There are several bus routes available, and you typically won’t have to wait long for a bus, usually around 10 minutes.
