Shanghai often leaves an impression of being a bustling metropolis like Hong Kong, as if only neon lights, fast-paced living, and nightlife define it. The Expo helped more people understand Shanghai. Yet those who resist mediocrity and seek healthy living can always find vibrant green spaces among the concrete jungle—perfect for shaking off work fatigue with a bit of activity. Running is arguably the simplest way to do so.
Break a Sweat Among Green Lungs and Skyscrapers
——Recommended Running Routes in Shanghai
By Ji Xinli
Photography by Xiaomi
The lively and bustling Expo has ended, leaving behind vast open spaces on the south bank of the Huangpu River like a receding tide. These areas have become excellent spots in the city for running and cycling, resembling hidden paradises. Among them, none shines brighter than Expo Park. Built for the Expo, this park is located under the Lupu Bridge in Pudong, bordered by the Huangpu River to the north, covering an area of 29 hectares. In Shanghai’s current urban planning, it plays a key role alongside the Old City, the Bund, and Lujiazui, helping shape Shanghai’s image across the river and reflecting its development through various eras. It has been designated as a permanent urban park and green space. Its beautiful natural environment instantly refreshes visitors, making it a new “green lung” in Shanghai.
The park entrance is right next to the Expo Culture Center. Once inside, you’re greeted by lush greenery, blooming flowers, and refreshing riverside breezes that invigorate the spirit—perfect for runners. On your first visit, you’ll likely fall in love with the place. The park features a mix of vegetation with blooms throughout March to October. It stretches narrowly along the river, about seven kilometers in a round trip, offering diverse paths: asphalt roads, stone trails, forest paths, riverside boardwalks…
You can choose your path freely and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. A mini cross-country run here would be pure joy. However, if you’re running in a group, be sure to wait for slower members—otherwise, a wrong turn could leave them lost in the labyrinth of reeds and woods, as the main group quietly disappears from view. It offers a true off-road feel.
Alternatively, you can jog at a leisurely pace on the park’s well-paved roads or the riverside boardwalks, taking in the serene greenery. During sunrise or sunset, the golden hues reflecting on the river and sky create a magnificent spectacle. Often, people camp here with tents to soak in the oxygen-rich environment all day. Just remember to exit the park before its 8 PM closing time.
It’s rare to find such an ideal running spot in the city center, making life delightful for nearby residents. Morning workouts have never been easier, and the motivation to rise early for a run is strong. Whether jogging alone in peaceful woods or meeting up with friends—planned or by chance—you’ll start your day in high spirits. This park has naturally become a hub for Shanghai’s running community. Occasional mini cross-country runs let everyone fully embrace and unwind amid stunning scenery. For those who’ve had enough exercise, leisurely strolls or walks around the park are great options. Meanwhile, avid runners may choose to complete the 7-kilometer loop a second or third time. With various path combinations, boredom is never an issue, only pure enjoyment.
Beyond the park’s exceptional running conditions, the surrounding Expo area offers smooth roads with minimal vehicle traffic due to its newly developed layout and unchanged traffic routes. As a result, it’s also a cyclist’s paradise. Weekends see cycling clubs gathering here for training rides. This is one of the many benefits the Expo brought to Shanghai’s outdoor enthusiasts.
Darning Lingzhi Park – Rolling Terrain Gathers Runners
Puxi, Line 1 Metro, Shanghai Circus World Station. Admission: 2 RMB.
Darning Lingzhi Park is the largest park in Puxi, a National AAA Tourist Attraction and one of Shanghai’s Top Ten Scenic Spots. Stretching from Gonghexin Road in the east to Hutai Road in the west, and from Lingshi Road & Guangzhong West Road in the north to Daning Road in the south, it covers 500,000 square meters, with a total area of 680,000 square meters. A highlight is the 19-meter artificial hill to the north and a 70,000-square-meter man-made lake, connected by three stone bridges forming a corridor. The lakeside features over 3,000 square meters of artificial sandy beach made from 3,000 tons of fine white sand.
Lingzhi Park is the most popular running spot in Puxi—no contest. Inside, there are two clearly marked running routes: 3.37 km and 2.85 km, both leading to the same endpoint. Every 100 meters, small footprints guide runners, so even first-timers won’t get lost. On weekends, running clubs flock here, with the most popular route being: run the 3.37 km path to the end, then return via the 2.85 km loop—totaling 6 km. The park also offers great terrain with varied elevations, perfect for hill training. The 2024 Shanghai 415 Civic Marathon was also held here.
Shanghai Century Park – Ideal Both Inside and Out
Pudong, Line 2 Metro, Century Park Station (Gate 7) or Shanghai Science & Technology Museum Station (Gate 1). Admission: 10 RMB, annual pass (group): 200 RMB.
Located in Shanghai’s Pudong New Area, Huamu Administrative and Cultural Center, Century Park spans 140.3 hectares. With vast lawns, forests, and lakes, it blends Eastern and Western garden designs and harmonizes human spaces with nature. This creates a modern yet naturally wild recreational park. Rolling paths, undulating hills, evergreen trees, clear lakes, and meandering streams foster tranquility—making it a prime spot for running and relaxation. It’s known as the “Park of Holidays.”
Century Park is also home to many local running clubs. While the park itself is great, most runners prefer the 5 km loop outside the park, which is flat, free of traffic lights, and ideal for timing and training. Most of our tests from 5 km to 35 km were done here. Countless events have been held here too: 3x5 km relays, city single-lap brand races, 12-hour ultra-marathon charity runs… Countless amateur runners have poured their effort and sweat onto these tracks.
Inside the park, the atmosphere is more relaxed and natural, but it’s easy to get lost without guidance. Since it’s a paid park, frequent visitors find annual passes worthwhile. The scenery is worth every penny. Seasonal flower exhibitions, like the recent plum blossom display, are mesmerizing.
With so many beautiful parks to choose from in the city, what excuse do you have to stay indoors? Go out and breathe some fresh air.
Put on your running shoes and weave through the green spaces of this concrete jungle.