Among the many improvements to the Shanghai running scene in recent years, the paths along the east bank of the Huangpu River in Pudong are among the highlights. It is now possible to run for ~23 km on dedicated paths along the river from the Yangpu Bridge to Xupu Bridge. Below is a description of the route in sections, from north to south. Note: There continues to be work on the paths, and construction in the area. 

KM 0-5. Yangpu Bridge to Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Lujiazui District.  This is a ‘quieter’ section in the Yangpu District for the first few km. Nice wide path with water views.  

KM 5-10. Oriental Pearl TV Tower, to Nanpu BridgeThis is a famous part of Shanghai, in the Lujiazui District. Massive skyscapers on the eastern side of the river, and views of The Bund on the west side. There’s a nice ~2 km section through Oriental Pearl Park, passing the Shanghai International Conference Center and the Aurora Art Museum. The path is quite park-like in this section. 

  • Lujiazui/Bund Add-Ons: It is possible to do a ‘loop’ involving The Bund on the west side, using the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel to cross (fee required) or a quick subway ride. Also, it’s ~1 km inland to Lujiazui Central Green Space, where there are 2-3 km of paths and great skyscraper views. 

KM 10-15. Nanpu Bridge to World Expo Park. The highlight of this section, still in Pudong, is World Expo Park, itself one of our top running destinations in Shanghai, with additional trails.

KM 15-23. World Expo Park to Xupu Bridge. This is one of our favorite sections, passing through numerous green spaces. Great river & skyline views. KM 18-21 pass through the Binjiang Trails & Qiantan Youcheng Park, where there’s a path along the river and additional interior trails. There are two running tracks, on opposite sides of Quintan Blvd., part of Shanghai Oriental Sports Center