Location & How to Get There

Chen Lushan Quarry, located inside Shanghai’s Chen Shan Botanical Garden (address: 3888 Lushan Road, Songjiang District), is a hidden gem tucked away in the southwestern part of the city. To reach this unique spot, you can take Shanghai Metro Line 9 to Songjiang University Town Station, then grab a taxi or hop on bus 19—it’ll drop you right at the garden’s entrance. If you’re driving, punch “Chen Shan Botanical Garden” into your GPS; the quarry is a short walk from the main visitor center. Pro tip: Chen Lushan Quarry is part of the botanical garden, so you’ll need to buy a ticket to enter the garden first (around ¥60 for adults).

Natural Wonder: A Lake in a Hole

The highlight of Chen Lushan Quarry? Its massive, bowl-shaped pit! Once a granite mining site, this area was abandoned and left to fill with rainwater, creating a steep-sided lake surrounded by lush greenery. The contrast between the deep blue water and the rugged rock walls is straight out of a movie. Fun fact: the lake is 60 meters deep, making it one of Shanghai’s quirkiest natural attractions. Walk around the rim for epic photo ops, or spot birds diving into the water—it’s like nature reclaimed this space!

Human History Meets Ecology

Before it became a tourist spot, Chen Lushan Quarry was a busy workplace. Locals once mined granite here for decades, leaving behind rusty machinery and crumbling structures. Now, these relics blend weirdly with the polished gardens. Look closely: you’ll see old mining tools on display, and info boards explain how this place transformed from a scarred landscape into a symbol of eco-recovery. It’s like seeing Shanghai’s past and future in one spot!

Things to Do Beyond the Quarry

Visiting Chen Lushan Quarry isn’t just about staring into the pit. The surrounding botanical garden offers trails, themed gardens (like a rock garden and bamboo grove), and seasonal flower shows. There’s also a visitor center with maps, clean restrooms, and a café serving snacks. For adrenaline junkies, rent a bike to explore the sprawling grounds—it’s flat and shaded, perfect for a leisurely ride.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

  • Best time to go: Spring (cherry blossoms!) or fall (cool weather, fewer crowds).
  • What to bring: Comfy shoes (lots of walking!), sunscreen, and a camera.
  • Avoid: Weekends if you hate crowds—this place gets packed!
  • Guided tours: Available in English if you book ahead (ask at the info desk).

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

Chen Lushan Quarry isn’t just another park. It’s a mix of wild nature, human history, and artful design. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or just wanting to escape the city buzz, this spot has something quirky and unforgettable. Trust me: standing on the edge of that giant pit, with wind whispering through the trees, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled onto a secret Shanghai treasure.

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