Overview
Nestled along the serene shores of Dianshan Lake in Qingpu District, the Oriental Green Boat Scenic Area (Dongfang Lüzhou) is one of Shanghai’s largest and most versatile recreational parks. Spanning over 5,600 acres, this AAAA-rated national tourist attraction blends natural beauty with interactive learning, outdoor sports, and cultural exploration. Whether you're a family seeking a relaxing picnic spot, students on a school trip, or corporate teams looking for team-building activities, Oriental Green Boat offers something for everyone.
Iconic Attractions
Upon entering through Gate 4, visitors are immediately greeted by the park’s most iconic landmark: a full-scale replica of a U.S.-style aircraft carrier. This striking structure isn’t just for show—it houses an aviation museum, interactive exhibits, and panoramic viewing decks that offer sweeping vistas of the entire park and distant Dianshan Lake. Kids especially love exploring its decks and imagining themselves as naval commanders. The carrier serves as both an entertainment hub and an educational space, making it a prime example of “edutainment” done right.
Adjacent to the carrier lies Wisdom Avenue, a thoughtfully landscaped promenade featuring over 160 bronze statues of global luminaries—from Confucius and Einstein to Shakespeare and Marie Curie. It’s a favorite stop for school groups and curious travelers alike, offering bite-sized lessons in history, science, and philosophy amid shaded walkways.
Themed Zones & Cultural Experiences
The Earth Village (Diqiu Cun) showcases miniature architectural replicas representing different countries, complete with themed lodgings that allow overnight stays in a “global neighborhood.” While primarily used for student camps and group accommodations, it also adds a whimsical, international flair to daytime strolls.
For nature lovers, the park’s expansive lawns—some of the largest in Shanghai—are ideal for flying kites, playing frisbee, or simply lounging under the sun. Numerous picnic areas invite visitors to unpack homemade lunches or enjoy meals from on-site restaurants and barbecue zones. The barbecue area is particularly popular on weekends, offering rental grills and pre-packaged ingredient sets for hassle-free outdoor cooking.
Water-Based Activities
Thanks to its prime location beside Dianshan Lake—the largest natural freshwater lake in Shanghai—the park integrates water into many of its attractions. A long waterfront promenade invites peaceful walks with lake views, while Green Boat Lake (within the park) offers pedal boats, rowboats, and electric boats for rent. For the more adventurous, the “Brave Path on Water” features a series of challenging rope bridges, log crossings, and floating platforms—a favorite for corporate training and youth development programs where teamwork and balance are tested (and getting splashed is part of the fun!).
Sports & Recreation
Oriental Green Boat doubles as a sports resort, with facilities including tennis courts, beach volleyball courts, a swimming complex, and cycling paths. Bicycles—both single and tandem—are available for rent at the entrance, making them a convenient and enjoyable way to navigate the vast grounds. Many visitors opt for a leisurely bike ride along tree-lined trails, stopping at scenic overlooks or hidden gardens along the way.
Educational & Institutional Role
Beyond tourism, the park plays a vital role in Shanghai’s education system. It serves as the city’s primary outdoor training base for student military drills (commonly known as “junxun”), spring outings, and summer camps. Schools regularly bring thousands of students here for structured programs combining physical activity, discipline, and civic education. Similarly, corporations frequently book the venue for leadership retreats and team-building exercises, utilizing its open spaces and specialized challenge courses.
Visitor Experience & Amenities
The park is well-equipped for international and domestic guests alike. Clean restrooms are clearly marked near major attractions like the Green Boat Theater and Mini Botanical Garden. Free luggage storage is available at the visitor center, and stroller rentals (with a refundable deposit) make it accessible for families with young children. Multiple convenience stores stock snacks, drinks, and essentials, while several full-service restaurants offer Chinese and light Western fare.
With its unique mix of recreation, education, and natural beauty, Oriental Green Boat stands out as a refreshing escape from urban Shanghai—just a short drive from the city center yet worlds away in atmosphere.