Bicycle tours are the latest trend on Shanghai's streets, Xu Junqian reports.
Cycling through the city's quiet, tree-line streets and parks is a great way to spend a summer's day with friends or family. And the idea is catching on, with many choices of bikes and routes now available through a number of bike clubs, district tourism offices, entrepreneurs and park authorities. So, get on your bike!
1. Chongming Island
Chongming Island's beautiful scenery and winding roads have made it a favorite venue for international cycling races. And it is equally ideal for recreational riding. There are plenty of scenic stops to cycle around, including Dongping Forest Park, Xisha Wetlands and the Yangtze River embankment. You can try some country cooking along the way at small family restaurants. It usually takes one day to tour the island, but if you want to take the time and enjoy the country life, there are many private family hotels on the island to spend the night. Remember to make a reservation in advance.
Where to rent a bike: Dongping Forest Park, Xisha Wetlands, Nanmen Dock (Yimi Bicycle Rental)
Tel: 021-5967-5785
Cost: 500-800 yuan deposit; 75-100 yuan each bike for one day
Transportation: Metro line 3 to Baoyang Pier and then take a ferry
2. Former French Concession
Only a few steps away from bustling Huaihai Road, the former French Concession is the best part of town for a casual pedal. With the largest number of magnificent, historical buildings, tree-lines streets, slow moving traffic and an extensive route of wide bicycle lanes, you can easily explore this charming and surprising part of Shanghai. You can even visit the former residence of historical figures including Sun Yat-sen, the founder of modern China, his wife Soong Ching Ling, and leader of the Kuomintang, Chiang Kai-shek.
Where to rent a bike: 393A Wukang Road (Wukang Road Tourism Information Center)
Tel: 021-6433-5000
Cost: 300 yuan deposit; 2 yuan each bike for the first hour, and 4 yuan each hour after (Remember to bring an ID card or passport.)
Transportation: Metro line 1
3. Sheshan Mountain
Located in Songjing district, on the outskirts of Shanghai, Sheshan Mountain is actually more of a hill, but the only one in Shanghai. It is home to the city's observatory and She Shan Basilica. Nearby, there are a number of new parks and Happy Valley, the largest amusement park in Shanghai. If you are more interested in the area's history, you can also ride into the center of the district, home to some ancient and historical buildings.
Where to rent a bike: Sheshan station on Metro line 9
Cost: 200 yuan deposit; free rental (Remember to bring an ID card or passport.)
Transportation: Metro line 9
Expo: Shenzhen's painting village
Say it in Shanghai-Lesson 18
