The First Bend of the Huangpu River: Where a 90-Degree Turn Reveals Shanghai's Ecological Charm and Millennial Heritage
Along the winding course of the Huangpu River lie the many facets of Shanghai's charm: the Bund is the glittering cover of prosperity, Xuhui Binjiang a haunt for artsy youth, and Yangpu Binjiang bears the marks of its industrial past. In recent years, however, the newly popular Minhang Binjiang has emerged as a new landmark for the city's slow living, distinguished by its unique sense of openness and grandeur—this is the First Bend of the Huangpu River, the only spot where the river takes a sharp 90-degree turn.
This geographical wonder, which alters the river's course, is far more than just a kink on the map. Here, the waters abruptly shift from flowing west-east to south-north, forming the unique landscape known as the "First Bend of the Huangpu River." More importantly, it holds the key to Shanghai's origins. In the early Ming Dynasty, the Wusong River silted up, causing frequent floods. Xia Yuanji, the Minister of Revenue, mobilized a workforce of 100,000 to dredge the waterways, connecting the Huangpu and Wusong Rivers. This monumental "Confluence of the Huangpu and Wusong" project, which reshaped the city's destiny, began right here at the First Bend and culminated at what is now the world-famous Lujiazui.
At the heart of the First Bend today lies a park built around the concept of "natural wilderness." Originally named the Binjiang Wetland Park, it has now been officially designated as the "First Bend of the Huangpu River Park." Developed from a water conservation forest, it lacks the manicured refinement of downtown riverfront parks but retains the most authentic ecological fabric. Rivers, wetlands, and dense woods intertwine here, offering pleasant surprises around every corner for those who wander its soft trails. Surrounded by lush, untamed vegetation and far from the city's hustle and bustle, visitors are accompanied only by the whisper of the wind and the chorus of insects.
This park serves as an "urban oasis" for city dwellers to decompress. Vast lawns make it a perfect weekend getaway, where families pitch tents, picnic blankets are laden with snacks, and children fly kites. Adults fish, cycle, or simply lie on the grass, gazing at the blue sky and white clouds. As a riverside park, the waterfront decks are a must-visit. The broad expanse of the river hides the famous "90-degree bend" from direct view, with only the mighty currents flowing eastward. Cargo ships come and go, set against the backdrop of the Minpu Bridge in the distance. The powerful river scenery contrasts wonderfully with the park's serene lakes and ponds, creating a harmonious blend of movement and tranquility that is utterly relaxing.
The park's rise in popularity is also owed to its limited-edition autumn spectacle. As temperatures drop, vast groves of bald cypress trees shed their emerald green for a vibrant mix of gold and fiery orange. Their blazing colors reflect on the wetland's surface, creating a stunning "floating forest" effect. Countless photography enthusiasts make the trip from downtown just to capture this unique autumn romance of the First Bend. Sunlight filtering through the leaves casts dappled shadows, giving every photo a cinematic quality.
From a geographical marvel to the cradle of the city, from an ecological haven to a social media hotspot, the First Bend of the Huangpu River holds a lesser-known, gentler side of Shanghai. It lacks the crowds of the Bund and the buzz of Xuhui Binjiang, yet with its expansive river views, unspoiled nature, and rich heritage, it has become the most soothing presence on Shanghai's tourist map. If you wish to escape the city's fast pace, come here for a stroll. Amidst the river breeze and lush greenery, you can experience the most authentic beauty this city has to offer.
