{"id":5743,"date":"2026-07-02T03:24:32","date_gmt":"2026-07-02T03:24:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/shanghaihuaximeishihotel.com\/?p=5743"},"modified":"2026-07-02T03:24:34","modified_gmt":"2026-07-02T03:24:34","slug":"step-back-in-time-exploring-the-root-of-shanghai-historical-sites-in-songjiang","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/shanghaihuaximeishihotel.com\/ru\/2026\/07\/02\/step-back-in-time-exploring-the-root-of-shanghai-historical-sites-in-songjiang\/","title":{"rendered":"Step Back in Time: Exploring the “Root of Shanghai” Historical Sites in Songjiang"},"content":{"rendered":"

When most international tourists visit Shanghai, their itineraries are dominated by the futuristic skyline of Pudong, the colonial architecture of the Bund, and the neon-lit energy of Nanjing Road. However, long before the glass skyscrapers of Lujiazui pierced the clouds, the true cultural, political, and historical heart of the region was beating in Songjiang District<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Affectionately known as the “Root of Shanghai,”<\/strong> Songjiang boasts a rich history spanning over 6,000 years, with its urban center serving as the region’s capital for centuries. For history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and cultural explorers, Songjiang offers an authentic glimpse into ancient China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking to uncover the ancient soul of Shanghai, the highly-rated Shanghai Huaxi Meishi Hotel (Songjiang New Town Renmin North Road)<\/strong> serves as the perfect, luxurious basecamp. Here is your ultimate guide to stepping back in time and exploring the magnificent historical sites of Songjiang.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Fangta Garden (Square Pagoda Garden): A Masterpiece of Antiquity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

No historical tour of Songjiang is complete without a visit to the elegant and sprawling Fangta Garden<\/strong>, also known as the Square Pagoda Garden. Originally built during the Northern Song Dynasty (around the 11th century) and later transformed into a classical public park in the 1970s, this site is a breathtaking showcase of Chinese heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Iconic Songjiang Square Pagoda<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The undisputed crown jewel of the garden is the Songjiang Square Pagoda<\/strong>. Standing tall for over 900 years, this magnificent brick and wood structure is one of the best-preserved ancient pagodas in the Jiangnan region. Unlike the octagonal pagodas commonly seen elsewhere, this nine-story square pagoda features a unique, sturdy elegance. Climbing the surrounding pathways offers visitors a chance to admire its intricate eaves and ancient brackets, which have silently witnessed centuries of history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Classical Landscaping and the Glass-Walled Tianfei Palace<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As you wander through Fangta Garden, you will be surrounded by the quintessential elements of classical Chinese landscaping: beautifully carved rockeries, tranquil lotus ponds, winding corridors, and ancient trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the garden also features a fascinating piece of modern architectural preservation. Tucked within the grounds is the Tianfei Palace<\/strong> (Goddess Temple). Originally built during the Ming Dynasty, this precious wooden structure was meticulously relocated to the garden brick by brick. To protect this priceless historical artifact from the elements while allowing visitors to appreciate its grandeur, architects encased it in a stunning, transparent glass-walled building. This brilliant juxtaposition of ancient Ming Dynasty woodwork and modern glass design is a must-see for architecture lovers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Zuibai Garden: The Poetic Soul of Jiangnan Design<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While Fangta Garden offers grand historical monuments, Zuibai Garden<\/strong> provides a more intimate, poetic, and deeply authentic experience. Built during the Ming Dynasty and later expanded in the Qing Dynasty, this classical gem was originally the private garden of a wealthy scholar. It remains one of the finest surviving examples of traditional Jiangnan (south of the Yangtze) garden design<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An Intricate and Harmonious Layout<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Jiangnan gardens are famous for their philosophy of “within a small space, creating a universe,” and Zuibai Garden executes this flawlessly. The layout is incredibly intricate, utilizing the principles of borrowed scenery, zigzagging pathways, and carefully framed “leak windows” to ensure that the view changes with every single step you take.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The “White Drunk” Pavilion<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The garden\u2019s namesake and focal point is the “Zuibai” (White Drunk) Pavilion<\/strong>. Legend has it that the famous Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai (often referred to as the “White Drunk” due to his love for wine and poetry) once visited this area, inspiring the pavilion’s name. Surrounded by weeping willows, blooming plum blossoms in the spring, and koi-filled ponds, the pavilion is the perfect spot to sit, reflect, and imagine the scholars of ancient China composing their timeless verses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For tourists, Zuibai Garden offers a quiet, serene oasis. It is an incredibly peaceful place to escape the modern world, practice mindfulness, or capture stunning, atmospheric photographs of traditional Chinese aesthetics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Why Shanghai Huaxi Meishi Hotel is the Perfect Base for History Buffs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Exploring ancient pagodas and classical gardens involves a lot of walking and deep cultural immersion. After a long day of stepping back in time, you need a comfortable, modern sanctuary to return to. The Shanghai Huaxi Meishi Hotel<\/strong> is perfectly positioned to cater to cultural explorers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  • Strategic Location:<\/strong> Located in the heart of Songjiang New Town, our hotel provides swift and easy access to Fangta Garden, Zuibai Garden, and other historical landmarks, minimizing your travel time and maximizing your exploring time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Modern Comfort Meets Heritage:<\/strong> Following a comprehensive renovation in 2017, our 358 guest rooms offer a stark, welcome contrast to the ancient sites. Sink into plush bedding, enjoy the flawless cleanliness, and relax in a climate-controlled, beautifully designed modern space.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Culinary Fuel for Explorers:<\/strong> Wake up and prepare for your historical tour with our highly-praised breakfast buffet. Enjoy a mix of hearty Western options and authentic, steaming local Chinese dishes to give you the energy needed for a full day of sightseeing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Expert Local Guidance:<\/strong> Our multilingual concierge team is deeply knowledgeable about Songjiang\u2019s rich history. They can help you arrange taxi rides to the gardens, provide historical context, and even recommend the best times of day to visit to avoid the crowds.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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    Practical Tips for Tourists Visiting Songjiang\u2019s Historical Sites<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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    • Best Time to Visit:<\/strong> The classical gardens of Songjiang are most beautiful in the spring (March to May)<\/strong> when the cherry blossoms and peach flowers are in bloom, and in autumn (September to November)<\/strong> when the weather is crisp and the leaves change color.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Pace Yourself:<\/strong> Classical Chinese gardens are designed to be explored slowly. Don’t rush through Fangta or Zuibai. Take your time to read the historical plaques, appreciate the calligraphy, and enjoy the quiet atmosphere.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • What to Wear:<\/strong> Both gardens feature uneven stone paths, small bridges, and thresholds. Comfortable, flat walking shoes are an absolute must.<\/strong> Many tourists also enjoy wearing traditional Chinese clothing (like Hanfu or Qipao) to take beautiful, culturally immersive photos among the ancient architecture.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Getting There:<\/strong> From the Shanghai Huaxi Meishi Hotel, both historical sites are just a short, affordable taxi ride away. Simply ask our 24-hour front desk to arrange your transportation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

      Begin Your Historical Journey Today<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

      Discover the true origins of Shanghai by exploring the ancient, tranquil, and breathtaking historical sites of Songjiang District. Let the Shanghai Huaxi Meishi Hotel<\/strong> be your luxurious home away from home as you uncover the deep cultural roots of this magnificent city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Ready to step back in time in ultimate comfort? Contact us today to reserve your room!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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      • Hotel Name:<\/strong> Shanghai Huaxi Meishi Hotel (Songjiang New Town Renmin North Road)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Address:<\/strong> No. 1515 Renmin North Road, Songjiang District, Shanghai, 201600, China<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Phone:<\/strong> +86-21-67752606<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Website:<\/strong> https:\/\/shanghaihuaximeishihotel.com<\/li>\n<\/ul>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

        When most international tourists visit Shanghai, their itineraries are dominated by the futuristic skyline of Pudong, the colonial architecture of the Bund, and the neon-lit energy of Nanjing Road. However, long before the glass skyscrapers of Lujiazui pierced the clouds, the true cultural, political, and historical heart of the region was beating in Songjiang District. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5744,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[29],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5743","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-nearby-attractions-activities"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/shanghaihuaximeishihotel.com\/ru\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5743","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/shanghaihuaximeishihotel.com\/ru\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/shanghaihuaximeishihotel.com\/ru\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shanghaihuaximeishihotel.com\/ru\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shanghaihuaximeishihotel.com\/ru\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5743"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/shanghaihuaximeishihotel.com\/ru\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5743\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5745,"href":"https:\/\/shanghaihuaximeishihotel.com\/ru\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5743\/revisions\/5745"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shanghaihuaximeishihotel.com\/ru\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5744"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/shanghaihuaximeishihotel.com\/ru\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5743"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shanghaihuaximeishihotel.com\/ru\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5743"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shanghaihuaximeishihotel.com\/ru\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5743"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}