Sheshan Mountain: Basilica and Observatory
Sheshan National Forest Park (佘山国家森林公园) is located in Songjiang District, just 35 km from downtown Shanghai. It is the highest point of the city — the peak reaches 100.8 meters. Here you will find two unique attractions: the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Sheshan (the only Catholic basilica in Shanghai) and the Shanghai Astronomical Museum in the former observatory building from 1900.
You will climb a scenic staircase, see the statue of Madonna and Child, the 14 Stations of the Cross, the 40-cm refractor telescope and the rotating dome of the observatory. From the summit you will enjoy a panorama of the city and surrounding areas. An ideal place for lovers of history, architecture and nature.
Attractions along the route
What to expect
- Departure from Shanghai (09:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, comfortable car with Russian guide. The drive to Songjiang District takes 40–60 minutes.
- Arrival at Sheshan National Park (~10:00) — entrance through the North Gate, start of the ascent.
- Xiudaozhe Pagoda and pavilions — first stop on the way, traditional Chinese architecture, shops.
- Shanghai Astronomical Museum — you will see the historic observatory (1900), 40-cm refractor telescope, 10-meter rotating dome, monument to longitude determination and the triangulation point — the highest point of Shanghai.
- Ascent to the basilica — along a winding staircase through the forest, exiting at the viewing platform near the summit.
- Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Sheshan — a 1935 church in Neo-Gothic and Neo-Renaissance styles. Inside: stained glass, statues, an organ. Outside: a 38 m bell tower with a statue of Madonna.
- Lunch at a café at the foot — traditional Chinese dishes or a light snack.
- Stations of the Cross and Middle Church — descent along a zigzag path with 14 altars symbolising the path of Christ. Visit the Middle Church and the Three Saints Pavilions.
- Return to Shanghai (~16:00–17:00) — transfer to Xinzhuang metro station.
Sample tour itinerary (1 day)
*Option by metro (line 9) + taxi from Sheshan station (5 km) is also possible.
| Time | Program stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 09:00 | Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro) | Drive to Sheshan Park ~40–60 min. |
| 10:00 | Arrival, park entrance | Ticket purchase, restroom. |
| 10:15–11:30 | Astronomical Museum | Visit the observatory, telescope, triangulation point. |
| 11:30–12:30 | Ascent to the basilica and its tour | Stairs ~15 min, then tour of the church. |
| 12:30–13:30 | Lunch | Café or restaurant at the foot. |
| 13:30–15:00 | Stations of the Cross and Middle Church | Descent with a visit to 14 stations, pavilions. |
| 15:00–16:00 | Free time / souvenirs | Shops, photos with the pagoda. |
| 16:00–17:00 | Return to Shanghai | Arrival at Xinzhuang metro ~17:00. |
💡 Important notes:
- Comfortable shoes for stairs and dirt paths.
- Services are held in the basilica, keep silence and respect worshippers.
- Bring: water, hat, passport, cash.
- Best time: April–May (blossom) and September–October (golden autumn).
Cost and conditions
Tour cost
Metro + taxi
EconomyGuide meets you at the park entrance. Transfer to the metro station on your own.
By car
ComfortGuide services, transfer from Shanghai by sedan/minivan.
Additional expenses per person
- Entrance ticket to Sheshan Park30¥ (~4.5$)
- Ticket to Astronomical Museum12¥ (~2$)
- Lunch (café at the foot)50–70¥ (~7–10$)
- Shanghai metro (round trip)~16¥ (~2.5$)
- Taxi from metro to park (round trip, per group)~50¥ (~7$)
Duration
Additional services
Frequently asked questions
Important information
Prices valid for 2026. Booking requires a 50% prepayment (PayPal, card). Cancellation 48 hours in advance – full refund, less than 48 hours – 50% refund. The organiser reserves the right to change the programme due to weather conditions. The park is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00 (until 16:30 in winter).
