Location & Access

Miaozhen Reclamation Area sits on Chongming Island, Shanghai’s northern “green lung.” It’s tucked 50 meters south of Baigang Road, near the meeting point of the Yangtze River and the East China Sea. To get here, take Metro Line 1 to Richang Road Station, then transfer to bus Chongming 3路. Driving? Input “Miaozhen Reclamation Area” into maps—it’s easy to spot, surrounded by rice fields and waterways.

Nature’s Playground

The reclamation area isn’t just a name—it’s a living example of humans working with nature. You’ll see endless green farmland, wetlands buzzing with dragonflies, and rivers so clear you can spot fish. Birdwatchers, bring your binocules! Spring brings migratory birds like herons and egrets. Rent a bike (¥30/day) to explore winding paths through reeds and lotus ponds. At sunset, the sky turns pink over the water—perfect for Instagram!

Human Stories in the Mud

Miaozhen isn’t just pretty—it’s packed with history. Locals still use traditional fishing nets and wooden boats. Visit the small museum (free!) to learn how farmers turned saltwater marshes into fertile land. On weekends, you might catch elderly women weaving reed mats or men mending nets. Don’t miss the old stone bridge near the entrance—it’s been standing for centuries, watching the island grow.

Eat, Rest, Repeat

After exploring, grab lunch at a local farmhouse restaurant. Try xiehu pengda (crabs cooked in rice wine) or sticky rice wrapped in reed leaves. For sweet tooths, fresh watermelon from nearby fields is a must. There’s a simple visitor center with clean restrooms and a rooftop deck for photos. No fancy hotels, but cozy B&Bs like “Riverside Inn” offer river views (around ¥400/night).

Tips for Your Trip

  • Best time: April–October for warm weather and blooming flowers.
  • Wear: Comfy shoes (mud can get slippery after rain) and a hat.
  • Combine with: Nearby Dongtan Wetland (15-minute drive) for more nature.
  • Local etiquette: Be polite to farmers—they’re protective of their land!

Miaozhen Reclamation Area feels like a step back in time, but with modern touches. Whether you’re cycling through rice paddies, snapping pics of bird flocks, or chatting with a fisherman, it’s a chance to see Shanghai’s wilder side. Just remember: this place is about slowing down. Leave your city rush behind!