Discover Shanghai's scenic greenways on two wheels
Looking to escape the city's bustle? A ride along one of Shanghai's greenways offers fresh air, open views, and a slower rhythm.
We've selected three distinctive cycling routes for you to explore: the Huangpu Riverfront Greenway, the Changning Outer-Ring Greenway, and the Pudong Riverfront Greenway.
Take to the greenways on two wheels and discover a new side of the city.
Route: From Waibaidu Bridge in the north to Rihui Port Bridge in the south
Length: 8.3 km
Duration: About 50 minutes
This greenway winds past some of the city's iconic attractions, including the Bund area with its historic architecture, the South Bund waterfront, and the Shanghai World Expo area. The continuous riverfront path enhances the landscape, blending greenery with inviting leisure routes.
The South Bund section stands out for its wave-like coastline and lively riverside attractions, including a modern cruise terminal.
Cyclists will also find well-planned amenities along the way, such as restrooms, free drinking water stations, showers, and shaded rest areas.
Route: From the Suzhou Creek in the north to near Huqingping Highway in the south
Length: 6.25 km
Duration: About 35 minutes
As the first high-standard greenway in Shanghai's green belt system, this route is renowned for its scenic beauty and biodiversity.
Designed to integrate with the city's slow-traffic network, it emphasizes a "natural" experience by preserving most of the original vegetation.
Abundant water features, seasonal foliage, and diverse plantings, including submerged aquatic plants, make it a destination of beauty throughout the year. Forests, lawns, and wetlands merge into a continuous natural landscape.
In some sections, ginkgo trees and other native plants lend a poetic calm. Even in the height of summer, cyclists can ride in the cool shade, while in the autumn, the fallen leaves turn the path into a "golden avenue".
Route: From Yangpu Bridge in the north to the Minhang district boundary in the south
Length: 24 km
Duration: About 2 hours
The Pudong Riverfront Greenway has dedicated walking, running, and cycling lanes throughout. The greenway offers a diverse experience that ranges from modern urban glamour to tranquil natural retreats.
Along the route, riders can explore revitalized industrial heritage and newly restored green spaces.
For added comfort, rest stations are placed at one-kilometer intervals. Each station provides public restrooms, shaded seating areas, vending machines, lockers, cold and hot drinking water, basic medical services, and even book-lending facilities.
As the weather cools, pick a route that suits you best and enjoy a city ride that lets you experience Shanghai's rhythm and atmosphere in an entirely new way.
Source: Shanghai Landscaping and City Appearance Administrative Bureau
