The Sheshan National Forest Park – located in the Songjiang district of East China's Shanghai – saw the recent debut of the visitor walking exploration event called Follow Xu Xiake to Explore Sheshan.
Xu Xiake (1587–1641) was a renowned Chinese travel writer and geographer who visited the Sheshan area five times from 1624 to 1636.
The aim of the event is to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the natural landscape and historical culture of the region.
There are seven designated spots for the event – namely East Sheshan Mountain, West Sheshan Mountain, Chenshan Mountain, Tianma Mountain, Hengyun Mountain, the Guangfulin Relics Park and Moon Lake Sculpture Park.
Anyone who visits all these places during the event has the chance to win a prize.
At the beginning of Xu Xiake's Sheshan journey in the early 17th century, East Sheshan Mountain was known for its bamboo shoots and the wafting orchid fragrances to be experienced at the mountain.
The park features historical attractions such as antique pavilions, the Qilong Dam and the Buddhist Fragrance Spring.
West Sheshan Mountain appeals to visitors with its natural scenery and religious culture. Visitors can enjoy views of the local cathedral and the astronomical museum from the mountaintop.
The cathedral is enveloped by the serenity of lush trees. [Photo/WeChat account: sheshanlvyou]
Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden is another part of the Sheshan National Tourist Resort. It has been established as the largest botanical garden in the East China region and features a great array of attractions, including the Quarry Garden.
Tianma Mountain – a small, but steep-sided hill – has a visually striking terrain. It also has a long recorded history and is home to ancient ginkgo trees.
Guangfulin Relics Park is an important historical and cultural site that dates back over 5,000 years, providing valuable insights into the region's ancient civilization. The park showcases excavated artifacts and remnants of the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods.
Moon Lake Sculpture Park boasts more than 80 sculptures created on the theme of "Moon Lake" and "Four Seasons", embodying the concept that water is the source of life and the expectation that people will protect nature.
