Where to Find It

Bole Fishing Pond is tucked away in the peaceful town of Hangtou, about 40 kilometers southwest of downtown Shanghai. The exact address is No. 1126, Group 9, Shenzhuang Road, Hangtou Town. While it’s off the typical tourist path, that’s exactly what makes it special—a chance to escape the city buzz and explore rural charm.

How to Get There

  • By Metro/Bus: Take Metro Line 16 to Hangtou East Station, then transfer to bus Hangtou 2 or Hangchuan Line. Ask the driver to drop you near Shenzhuang Road—the pond is a 10-minute walk from there.
  • By Car: Drive along Shanghai-Luxu Highway (S4) and exit at Hangtou. The pond has a small parking lot, but weekends get busy.
  • Biking: Rent a bike in downtown Shanghai and pedal through countryside roads—it’s a scenic 1.5-hour ride!

What to See: Nature’s Highlights

Bole Fishing Pond isn’t your average lake. Imagine a glimmering pond surrounded by willow trees, with ducks paddling lazily and dragonflies darting above the water. In spring, peach blossoms and rapeseed flowers create a pink-and-gold backdrop, while autumn paints the banks with fiery red leaves.

The pond is perfectly framed by traditional Chinese pavilions, making it a favorite spot for photographers. Early mornings are magical here—locals say the mist rising over the water looks like a painting. Keep an eye out for herons and kingfishers; they’re regular visitors!

Culture & Stories

The name Bole Fishing Pond comes from a legend. Long ago, a wise man named Bole (known in Chinese history as a talent scout) visited this pond. Locals say he fished here while waiting for a worthy student to appear—a nod to the idea of “patience rewards the diligent.” Today, it’s more of a relaxing spot than a historic site, but the story adds a fun twist to your visit.

Practical Tips

  • Food & Drinks: Bring your own snacks! There’s a tiny teahouse nearby serving green tea and local cakes, but options are limited.
  • Toilets: Basic facilities are available near the parking lot.
  • Best Time to Visit: Weekdays are quieter. Avoid rainy days, as the paths can get muddy.
  • Family-Friendly? Yes! Kids love feeding the fish, and there’s space for a picnic. Just watch the little ones near the water.

Immersive Experience

At Bole Fishing Pond, it’s all about slowing down. Rent a straw mat from a nearby vendor (¥10/hour) and sit by the water, listening to frogs croak and breeze rustle the leaves. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot villagers casting nets at dawn—a glimpse into Shanghai’s rural life.

For a full day trip, pair it with nearby Xinchang Ancient Town (15 minutes away by car). But if you’re short on time, even an hour at Bole Fishing Pond feels refreshing. Just remember: this place is a secret gem, so whisper about it—don’t shout!

(P.S. Say “nihao” to the locals; they’re curious about visitors but super friendly!)