Shanghai - Surroundings

The 60sq.km/23sq.mi Dianshan Hu Lake extends out some 50km/31mi to the west of Shanghai.

The single-arched Bridge of General Wellbeing is situated 54km/33mi from Shanghai. It was built in 1265 during the Song period (960-1279) and all its features are typical of its time of origin - purple bricks, restricted width and a single arch with a long span. The structure is without doubt a magnificent example of bridge architecture of the Song period.

The Freedom Bridge, some 10km/6mi to the southwest of the Pagoda of Longevity, is 71m/230ft long and 6m/19ft wide, the longest stone bridge in Shanghai. It was built in 1571 with funds collected by the monk Xing Chao. He was also responsible for stopping the local people fishing under the bridge, and even suggested to them that they should throw back the fish which they had already caught. The original bridge collapsed in 1814; the present bridge was built a little later at the instigation of another monk.

The Garden of Grand Scenery (Daguan Yuan) is situated on the east bank of the Dianshan Hu Lake. Some of the buildings, including the Guawang Temple and the Aofeng Pagoda have survived through the years. On the east bank of the lake is a large public bathing area.

The Mao Ta Pagoda, built in the second half of the 9th C, stands 20km/12mi to the east of the Bridge of Wellbeing, towering up on a small island in the River Mao. For a long time it served as a lighthouse.

The Pagoda of Longevity was erected in 1743 by the occupants of the town of Qingpu, 31km/19mi to the west of Shanghai, to wish the emperor Qianlong a long life. He did in fact answer their prayers and considerably lowered the taxes to be paid. The pagoda was originally made from bricks and wood, although the wooden section was destroyed by fire in 1883.

Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town, established about 1,700 years ago. This well-preserved town features unique bridges that range from wooden to marble, and houses with courtyards.

North Street is a notable attraction featuring historic buildings, long-established stores, old bridges and many narrow lanes.