Whispers of “Citrus Town” drift on the breeze here in Changxing Town. Changxing Town isn’t just a name; it’s a testament to the island’s agricultural heritage. Changxing Island itself, nestled between Chongming Island and Pudong New District, is a slender stretch of land, 31 kilometers long and a mere 2 to 4 kilometers wide. Imagine a sandbar, sculpted by the Yangtze River’s currents, evolving over centuries. In the Daoguang period, these shifting sands coalesced into six distinct islands. It wasn’t until 1972 that they finally merged, forming the single entity we know as Changxing Island.
Changxing Town, under the governance of its People’s Government, oversees 24 administrative villages. The island is a blend of permanent residents and a transient population, totaling around 120,000 people, with about 40,000 registered inhabitants and approximately 80,000 temporary residents. This dynamic creates a unique atmosphere. It’s a place where the rhythm of rural life intersects with the pulse of industry. While industry forms the bedrock of Changxing Island’s economy, and water is its lifeblood, the true essence of the island lies in its delicate ecology.
Changxing Town is synonymous with oranges. Twenty square kilometers are dedicated to citrus cultivation, a sea of green dotted with the bright hues of ripening fruit. The Shanghai Orange Grove is a must-see. Here, the famed “avant-garde tangerine” thrives – smooth, bright, and bursting with sweet juice. Picture yourself strolling through the grove, the air thick with the fragrance of orange blossoms in the spring, or the sight of branches laden with golden fruit in autumn. This grove isn’t just about the oranges. It also boasts rockeries, promenades, a bonsai garden, a Mongolian Village, and even a Conch House. Every autumn, the Orange Art Festival transforms the grove into a vibrant celebration of art and agriculture, attracting thousands of visitors.
Beyond the orange groves, Changxing Town offers a surprising diversity of experiences. From the thrill of the Mongolian Village Race Track to the serene beauty of Hanging Beads Park (Chuizhu Yuan), there’s something for everyone. Those seeking adventure can explore the Shanghai Stunt Center, while nature lovers can immerse themselves in the Shisha Wild Animal Park or navigate the Green Island Reed Marshes Maze. Changxing Town is more than just a stop on a map. It’s a place where the story of Shanghai’s growth and transformation unfolds, a testament to the harmonious coexistence of industry, agriculture, and ecological preservation.