Hidden Gems in Songjiang: Zuibai Pool Park & Dong Qichang’s Artistry

Location & How to Get There

Nestled in Songjiang District (a 30-minute metro ride southwest of downtown Shanghai), Dong Qichang Calligraphy And Painting Art Museum shares a tranquil corner with Zuibai Pool Park. The address is straightforward: 64 Renmin South Road, right next to She山 Metro Station (Line 9). Buses 松梅线 or 松江1路 drop you steps away. If driving, free parking is available near the entrance—just watch for weekend crowds.

Nature’s Canvas: Zuibai Pool Park

Before diving into art, stroll through Zuibai Pool Park, a classic Chinese garden inspired by Ming Dynasty scholar gardens. Rockeries, koi-filled ponds, and bamboo groves create a “painting-in-real-life” vibe. The namesake Zuibai Pool (“Drunk White Pool”) reflects lotus flowers in summer, perfect for photo-worthy moments. Bring a picnic—there are shaded pavilions where locals play mahjong or practice erhu. Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat.

Art Deep Dive: Dong Qichang’s Masterpieces

Inside the park, Dong Qichang Calligraphy And Painting Art Museum shines as a cultural treasure. Dong Qichang was a Ming Dynasty art superstar—think Michelangelo meets calligraphy. The museum houses his brushworks, ink scrolls, and theories on “Southern School” painting (focused on softness vs. rigidity). Even if you’re not an art nerd, the minimalist galleries and interactive screens explaining “qi” (energy flow) make it engaging. Bonus: Staff sometimes host calligraphy workshops—try writing your name in stylized Chinese characters!

More Than Just Art: What Else to See

  • Ancient Architecture: The museum’s buildings mimic Dong’s era, with carved wooden doors and courtyards.
  • Seasonal Events: Cherry blossoms in spring, chrysanthemum exhibitions in fall, and lantern festivals add color to your visit.
  • Quirky Details: Hunt for hidden carvings of Dong’s pet dogs (he loved them!) in the garden’s rocks.

Practical Stuff: Food, Restrooms, etc.

  • Eat: Nearby “Old Street” has snacks like xialongbao (soup dumplings) and hongshao rou (Shanghai-style red-cooked pork). The park’s own teahouse serves green tea and mooncakes.
  • Facilities: Clean restrooms, English-friendly staff, and rental audio guides. Rent a hanfu (traditional dress) for photos—it’s a thing here!
  • Tickets: Around ¥20 for the park (free for locals), ¥40 for the museum. Combo tickets save money.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

Unlike crowded The Bund or Yu Garden, this spot feels authentic. You’ll get “third eye” moments—like spotting a Tang-dynasty-style pagoda reflected in the pool—without tourist hoards. Art lovers, history buffs, and Instagrammers all find their jam here. Pro tip: Pair this with a day trip to Sheshan (Shanghai’s “hill station”) or Gongqing Forest for a full Songjiang adventure.

Note: Check opening hours online, as museums may close weekly or during holidays.