Chongming Island Eco-Drive: Dongtan to Xisha

Cross Chongming Island from east to west, connecting Dongtan Wetlands, Dongping Forest, and Xisha Mingzhu Lake.

A weekend self-drive getaway from downtown Shanghai. Day 1 features the Dongtan Wetlands and Dongping Forest Park, with an overnight stay at a guesthouse near Qianwei Village. Day 2 covers Xisha Wetlands and Mingzhu Lake, with a stop at the Confucian Temple in Chengqiao Town on the way back. This relaxed itinerary is perfect for families and repeat visitors looking to escape the city, bypassing Changxing and Hengsha islands.

Migratory birds can be spotted at Dongtan from late November to March; bring mosquito repellent in summer.

Day by day

Day 1 · Dongtan Wetlands & Dongping Forest

Shanghai（Dongtan Wetland Park、Dongping National Forest Park、Qianwei Eco-Village）

Drive from downtown Shanghai via the G40 Yangtze River Tunnel-Bridge to the island (approx. 1.5–2 hours). It is about 50 km from Dongtan to Dongping, then continue to Qianwei Village.

The Chongming Metro Line is expected to start trial operations by the end of 2026; check official announcements before departure.

Stay: Around Qianwei Village, Chongming

Day 2 · Xisha Mingzhu Lake & Chengqiao

Shanghai（Xisha Mingzhu Lake Scenic Area、Chongming Confucian Temple）

Drive west along Beiyan Highway to Xisha (approx. 40 minutes). After exploring, head to Chengqiao Town, then return to downtown Shanghai via the G40 (approx. 2 hours).

The bridge and tunnel leaving the island can get heavily congested on Sunday afternoons; departing early is recommended.

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