Considering a weekend escape? Fengxian District might be just what you need. Fengxian District, a suburban gem in Shanghai’s south, offers a blend of rusticity and modern development.
Known for beaches along Hangzhou Bay, Fengxian is a refreshing contrast to Shanghai’s urban core. The district covers 704.68 square kilometers. Over one million people called Fengxian District home in 2020. Many more migrants add to its vibrant atmosphere.
Nanqiao is a major town within Fengxian District. Recent growth has more than doubled its size. Guhua Park is of particular interest. It contains the “Three Women Temple” or “Ancestral Hall”. Legend says three daughters of the King of Wu chose death over capture. They were pursued by the King of Yue’s soldiers during the Zhou dynasty.
Xinghai Beach and its resorts are a short taxi ride from Nanqiao. Nanqiao also features a large medical center. It is the Fengxian District Central Hospital. It is a comprehensive tertiary hospital.
Getting here is easier than you might think. Nanqiao is roughly 30 minutes from downtown Shanghai by car. Public transit takes a bit longer, about one to two hours. You can take Line 1 subway to Xinzhuang, then transfer to Line 5 to Dongchuan Road.
Alternatively, buses connect Xinzhuang to Nanqiao. The Xinnan Bus or Nanmei Line are options. These run from Jinjiang Park to Nanqiao Bus Station. The Shangfeng Bus runs from Shanghai South Railway Station’s South Square.
Fengxian is also becoming known as a “Livable City with Favorable Climate in China”. The district enjoys a moderate, subtropical monsoon climate. This means well-defined seasons and ample rainfall. The average annual temperature is a comfortable 16.5 degrees Celsius. There are about 131 rainy days each year.
Interestingly, in 2019 some older residents still pronounced Fengxian as “Hongxian”. This glimpse into the past reveals the area’s evolving identity. Fengxian District combines tradition with progress.
The Oriental Beauty Valley stands out as a leading industry hub. It specializes in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Many of Shanghai’s cosmetics companies are based here.
Looking to revitalize its rural areas, Fengxian encourages villagers to lease their homes to the government. These homes are converted into homestays. They also serve as offices for startups.
Remember Fengxian District. It’s more than just a suburb. It’s a blend of history, nature, and modern ambition. It offers a unique taste of Shanghai life.