I discovered a rare gem near Shanghai where families don't have to leave their furry friends behind. Sun Island Resort (Tàiyáng Dǎo) became our perfect weekend escape—imagine watching my daughter's eyes light up as she rode a pony, while our golden retriever splashed in a dedicated pet swimming pool, all within an hour's drive from downtown Shanghai. This 2-day journey through lush gardens, ancient waterways, and family-friendly villas revealed a side of Shanghai that most international travelers never experience.
Trip Overview
When: May (Spring)
Duration: 2 days
Travelers: Family with child and pet
Budget: ~1,000 RMB (~$140 USD) per person
Transportation: Self-drive or Metro Line 17 + taxi
Day 1: Arrival and First Impressions
When I first promised my daughter a spring outing, I had no idea we would find such a perfect sanctuary just outside Shanghai. After debating several destinations, we settled on Sun Island Resort near Zhujiajiao (Zhūjiājiǎo) Ancient Town—a place I had heard whispers about but never visited. The decision was sealed when I learned they welcome pets, something nearly impossible to find in Chinese resorts.
As we drove from downtown Shanghai via the Hùyú Expressway, the urban landscape gradually transformed into rolling greenery. About an hour later, we crossed onto the island itself—an ancient settlement dating back to China's Western Zhou Dynasty over 2,500 years ago. It was mid-May, and the island was bursting with life: willows swaying in the breeze, wildflowers carpeting the grounds, and that unmistakable freshness that makes you forget you're anywhere near a megacity.
🎯 Getting There
By Car: Take Hùyú Expressway (G50) from Shanghai, about 1 hour By Public Transit: Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao Station, then taxi (15 mins) or local bus Best Time: Spring (April-May) or Autumn (September-November)
Our Club Family Room
The check-in process surprised me—the main lobby and villa areas are separate, which initially seemed inconvenient but actually made sense once we arrived. After completing the paperwork, we could either drive our car or hop on the resort's internal shuttle bus to our room. As we rode through the sprawling villa complex, I was struck by how the buildings nestled among dense vegetation along the Mǎo River, creating that winding-path-to-secluded-spot feeling that Chinese poetry always describes.
We had booked the Club Family Room overlooking the river, and when I stepped inside, I understood why it's considered one of Shanghai's top family hotels. The 71-square-meter space felt enormous, but what truly delighted my daughter was the cartoon-themed decor. Right at the entrance lay a giant flight chess carpet, surrounded by boxes of Lego, a children's tent, and plush toys. Her eyes went wide—this wasn't just a room, it was a wonderland.
The thoughtful amenities impressed me: a capsule coffee machine, complimentary soft drinks, and even a bottle of wine from the resort's affiliated vineyard. The room featured a parent-child bed setup—one double bed plus a smaller child's bed. The bathroom came equipped with a separate bathtub, child-sized toothbrush and toothpaste, and a toilet seat reducer. Every detail showed they truly understood traveling families.
Pet Paradise
After unpacking, we immediately headed to the Pet Paradise with our 16-month-old golden retriever, Beibei. Before we even arrived, I could hear dogs barking excitedly and see other pet parents gathered around. Beibei started wagging her tail uncontrollably.
The facility split into indoor and outdoor zones. Inside, dogs enjoyed afternoon snacks, climbing structures, and ball pits. Outside stretched vast lawns where dogs could run freely, plus a professional pet swimming pool with both shallow and deep sections. I couldn't believe my eyes—a resort that truly understands pets!
🐕 Pet Services
Pet Boarding: Professional trainers available for daycare Pet Training: Correct behavioral issues, teach new skills Swimming Pool: Dedicated deep and shallow pools for dogs Play Areas: Indoor and outdoor zones with toys and equipment
We left Beibei for boarding one afternoon. She's shy and tends to bark at strangers, but the staff showed incredible patience, offering her cookies and yogurt. When we picked her up, she was calm and happy—truly remarkable service.
The Mermaid Train
After the pet park, we took my daughter on the Mermaid Train—a charming blue-and-white locomotive with colorful murals covering its sides. The train made three stops: the hotel lobby, the Mermaid Pier, and the Little Green Space. With a day pass, we could hop on and off as we pleased, enjoying views of the island's landscapes while my daughter waved at every passerby.
Day 2: Adventures and Activities
Horseback Riding
I had heard Sun Island's equestrian club was renowned, so after breakfast on day two, we headed straight there. At first, my daughter hesitated when she saw the large horses, her small hand gripping mine tightly. But when the staff brought out a gentle pony sized just for children, her fear transformed into excitement.
They fitted her with proper safety gear, and an instructor led the pony throughout the ride. Watching her giggle as she bounced along, I felt that pure parental joy that makes every travel hassle worthwhile. I noticed other children taking professional riding lessons in the main arena—perhaps one day my daughter will join them.
🐴 Equestrian Club
Pony Rides: Perfect for children, fully supervised Professional Lessons: Available for all skill levels Safety: Full protective gear provided Duration: Rides typically 10-15 minutes
Creative Workshop
Next, we visited the Craftsmanship Hall for a hands-on activity. An instructor guided us through making soft pottery and leather crafts. My daughter chose to make a small clay figure while I attempted a leather keychain. With toolkits provided and patient instruction, both projects turned out wonderfully—souvenirs more meaningful than anything from a gift shop.
Water Activities
By late morning, the May heat had intensified, and the Mermaid Pier buzzed with activity. Water sports became the obvious choice. We rented a water bicycle—a three-person paddle boat that let us glide across the calm waters while enjoying the island from a different perspective.
Culinary Discoveries
Dinner: Hot Pot Experience
Our first evening, we tried the resort's signature mini hot pot—individual pots for each person. The set included fresh vegetables, meats, fish, and shellfish in a rich pork bone broth. The vegetables came from the resort's own organic garden, and their crispness paired perfectly with the savory broth. If still hungry, unlimited rice and noodles were available.
Breakfast: Buffet Excellence
I must highlight the breakfast buffet—exceptional for a resort. Both Chinese and Western options abounded. The made-to-order noodle station became my favorite, while the DIY yogurt and fresh soy milk impressed my wife. For Western preferences, salads and pastries satisfied every palate. We left completely energized for the day's adventures.
Lunch: Western Restaurant
Our final meal came at the Waterfall Western Restaurant on the first floor. After the hearty breakfast, we weren't very hungry. My daughter ordered the special children's meal—adorable utensils, a freshly made mini burger, and fresh juice that she devoured. My wife and I tried the trendy "dirty milk"—a dessert drink made with fresh milk and fruit. Refreshing and perfect for early summer.
Reflections
Fed, entertained, and thoroughly exhausted—in the best way possible—we packed our bags and drove back to Shanghai. Our time at Sun Island Resort felt like a true escape: unhurried days surrounded by nature, quality family time with both two-legged and four-legged members, and activities that created genuine joy rather than manufactured entertainment.
For international travelers seeking an authentic Shanghai-area experience beyond the typical tourist attractions, Sun Island offers something rare: a glimpse into how local families actually spend their weekends, complete with pet-friendly hospitality that would be impressive anywhere in the world. I know we'll be back.
Quick Reference Guide
🏨 Accommodation
Name: Shanghai Sun Island Resort (上海太阳岛度假酒店) Location: Near Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, Qingpu District Address: 2588 Shenzhuan Highway, Qingpu, Shanghai 上海市青浦区沈砖公路2588号 Room Recommendation: Club Family Room (71 sqm, river view) Pet Policy: Pets welcome with dedicated facilities
💰 Budget Breakdown
Accommodation: ~800-1,200 RMB/night (~$110-165) Activities: Horse riding ~100 RMB, Crafts ~80 RMB, Train ~30 RMB Meals: Hot pot ~200 RMB/person, Breakfast included, Lunch ~150 RMB Total: ~1,000 RMB (~$140) per person for 2 days
📅 Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May): Comfortable temperatures, blooming flowers Autumn (September-November): Cool weather, beautiful foliage Avoid: Summer weekends (crowded), Winter (some activities closed)
🚗 Getting There
From Shanghai: G50 Hùyú Expressway, exit at Zhujiajiao Public Transit: Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao Station, then taxi 15 mins Travel Time: About 1 hour from downtown Shanghai
💡 Pro Tips
Book the Club Family Room well in advance—they sell out quickly Bring your pet's vaccination records (required for pet areas) Arrive early on Saturday to maximize your time The train day pass is worth it for exploring the large resort Don't miss the organic vegetables at dinner—grown on-site