Shanghai Suzhou Creek Ebike Tour: Art, History & Urban Renewal

Suzhou Creek by ebike, another excellent weather day in Shanghai

Destination:ChinaCity:SuzhouPopulation:12.7 million
Suzhou Creek by ebike, another excellent weather day in Shanghai
Tim Chambers2024-04-2616 min

Join me as I travel on a revitalized Suzhou Creek by ebike from the 1000 trees development near the M50 art space all the way to the Bund. The weather was very good again.

Suzhou Creek (or Soochow Creek), also called the Wusong (Woosung) River, is a river that passes through the Shanghai city center. It is named after the neighboring city of Suzhou (Soochow), Jiangsu, the predominant settlement in this area prior to the rise of Shanghai as a metropolis.

One of the principal outlets of Lake Tai in Wujiang District of Suzhou, Suzhou Creek is 125 km (78 mi) long, of which 54 km are within the administrative region of Shanghai and 24 km within the city's highly urbanized parts. It flows into the Huangpu River at the northern end of the Bund in Huangpu District.

Since 1992, the Shanghai Municipal Government has been pursuing a redevelopment of the area. In 1998, authorities launched the Suzhou Creek Rehabilitation Project, a 12-year-program to improve the water quality, mitigate flood impact, introduce wastewater and water resource management and push for urban revitalization and a higher living standard in the desolated areas along Suzhou River. In the meantime, Suzhou River is considered clean enough to host annual rowing competitions.

Due to its location in the former International Settlement, a number of landmarks from that period can be found along or close to Suzhou Creek. Following the river westward from its confluence, important or famous places include: Huangpu Park and the northern end of the Bund, Astor House Hotel, Consulate-General of Russia, Shanghai Mansions (previously Broadway Mansions), Shanghai General Post Office, Suzhou Creek Art District ("M50"), Sihang Warehouse, Fotografiska Gallery, Beer Lady, 1908 Art Space.

--- Tim Chambers
April 26, 2024, Spring in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Suzhou Creek ebike tour starts
  2. 1:04Exploring M50 Art District
  3. 3:26Visiting Beer Lady Shanghai
  4. 5:02Fotografiska & Sihang Warehouse
  5. 7:09Sihang Warehouse history
  6. 9:44Shanghai Post Office visit
  7. 11:05Broadway Mansions & Astor House
  8. 12:46Rock Bund exploration
  9. 14:15Rock Bund Art Museum
  10. 15:30Otto e Mezzo restaurant

Tim Chambers' ebike tour of Shanghai's Suzhou Creek reveals hidden gems, historical sites, and breathtaking views. An unforgettable journey!

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Be aware of wind noise while cycling along Suzhou Creek, especially when crossing between riverbanks. (2:08)
  2. Tip 2In Shanghai, it's acceptable to turn right on a red light, following traffic rules. (2:35)
  3. Tip 3Fotografiska gallery requires an entrance fee of 120 RMB, with various contemporary photography exhibitions. (5:29)
  4. Tip 4The Sihang Warehouse museum commemorates the 450 Chinese soldiers who defended it during the Japanese invasion. (7:25)
  5. Tip 5Explore the former Shanghai General Post Office, now partially operating as a small post office. (9:53)
  6. Tip 6The Garden Bridge offers a scenic view of the city skyline, perfect for photographs. (10:35)
  7. Tip 7Observe the large enamel Fahrenheit thermometer outside Broadway Mansions, a historical landmark. (12:28)
  8. Tip 8The Rock Bund area is a newly developed space with art installations and cafes, perfect for a relaxing stroll. (13:05)
  9. Tip 9Otto e Mezzo is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in one of the Rock Bund buildings, offering a fine dining experience. (15:32)

Explore Suzhou Creek in Shanghai with Tim Chambers as he navigates its revitalized path by ebike. From the 1000 Trees development near the M50 art space to the Bund, witness stunning cityscapes and historical landmarks. Discover hidden gems, local hangouts, and unique perspectives only an ebike can offer. A journey through art, history, and modern Shanghai awaits!

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Suzhou Creek by ebike, another excellent weather day in Shanghai

This video follows Tim Chambers on an ebike journey along Shanghai's Suzhou Creek, offering a unique perspective on the city's revitalized waterfront. Starting at the 1000 Trees development, Tim cycles past the M50 Art District, showcasing its vibrant galleries and hidden bars.

He crosses Suzhou Creek several times, highlighting the contrast between the north and south banks. Along the way, Tim shares insights into historical landmarks like the Sihang Warehouse, made famous by the film "The Eight Hundred," and the Fotografiska gallery.

The journey continues past the Shanghai Post Office, the Astor House Hotel, and Broadway Mansions, each building steeped in history. Tim even takes a moment to explore the Beer Lady, a unique establishment with countless beer fridges.

The video concludes with a visit to the Rock Bund, a newly developed area with art installations and upscale restaurants like Otto e Mezzo, offering stunning views of the Shanghai skyline. Tim's personal anecdotes and observations add a layer of authenticity to the experience, making this a captivating exploration of Shanghai's hidden corners and historical significance. Throughout the video, Tim's enthusiasm is contagious, and his easygoing style makes the journey feel personal and relatable. He points out interesting details, like the nine games that gave Joda Park its name, demonstrating his knowledge and appreciation for the area's rich history and culture. The video is a testament to the transformative power of urban renewal and a celebration of Shanghai's dynamic spirit.

The unique perspective offered by the ebike allows Tim to access areas often missed by traditional tours, giving viewers a more intimate and authentic experience of Shanghai. His casual interaction with the environment and his attention to detail make this more than just a sightseeing video; it's a personal journey through the heart of a modern metropolis.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What kind of bike did you use for this tour?
A: I used my trusty ebike, which I've had for about five or six years now.
Q: What's the Sihang Warehouse's significance?
A: It's where about 450 Chinese soldiers held out during the Japanese invasion of Shanghai, and it's famous because of the movie 'The Eight Hundred'.
Q: What's your favorite spot along Suzhou Creek?
A: I really like Otto e Mezzo, it's a two Michelin star restaurant with a great view.
Q: How easy is it to get to the ferry terminal near the 1000 Trees development?
A: It's a bit tricky at the moment because of the construction for the second phase of the project.
Q: What's the Rock Bund?
A: It's a new development with some cool alleys, shops, and restaurants, including Otto e Mezzo.

Shanghai Suzhou Creek Ebike Tour: Art, History & Urban Renewal

Shanghai ebike adventure along Suzhou Creek, past art galleries and historical sites. A beautiful ride!

Shanghai Suzhou Creek Ebike Tour: Art, History & Bund Views

Embark on a scenic ebike journey along Shanghai's revitalized Suzhou Creek, starting near the M50 art space and ending at the Bund. Enjoy the pleasant weather as you cycle past historical landmarks and modern art galleries. This waterway, once polluted, has undergone a remarkable transformation, showcasing Shanghai's urban renewal efforts. The ride takes you through a blend of historical architecture and contemporary art, offering a unique perspective on this vibrant city.

Attractions in this video: M50 Art District, Sihang Warehouse, Fotografiska Gallery, Shanghai Post Office, Rock Bund Art Museum