Shanghai: East Sea Bridge & Yangshan Port Private Day Trip

Summary

Crossing the East Sea Bridge to Yangshan’s vast port then Dishui Lake

You’ll cross the East Sea Bridge with a local guide, watch massive ships at Yangshan Deep Water Port, hike up for panoramic views, and relax by Dishui Lake’s calm waters. Expect salty air, sweeping horizons, and moments that stick with you long after you’re back in Shanghai.

What’s the experience like?

We were barely out of Shanghai when our guide, Li, grinned and pointed ahead — “That’s the Donghai Bridge.” It looked endless, just a pale ribbon vanishing into the sea mist. I pressed my forehead to the window. The bridge curves in this gentle S-shape, which Li said was for safety but honestly made it feel like we were gliding over water forever. The air smelled faintly salty even inside the car, and I kept thinking how strange it was to be driving above open sea for so long — 32 kilometers, apparently. There were a few cargo trucks thundering past but otherwise it was quiet, almost meditative.

The real surprise hit at Yangshan Deep Water Port. I mean, I’d read it was huge — world’s largest artificial island port — but nothing prepares you for seeing those cranes lined up like metal giraffes against the sky. Ships looked tiny from where we stood. Li explained how they built all this because Shanghai’s river is too shallow for big ships. He pointed out where international waters start (I couldn’t see any line, obviously) and told us about container ships from everywhere docking here. There was a low hum of engines and a weirdly sweet diesel smell in the air; not unpleasant, just… industrial life? We hiked up a little hill nearby — not much shade, bring a hat if you’re sensitive — and from there you could see the whole sprawl of containers stacked in neat rows. My phone photos don’t do it justice.

After that we headed to Dishui Lake. It’s this huge round lake right in Lingang New City — artificial but somehow peaceful anyway. People were fishing along the shore or just wandering with umbrellas against the sun. The breeze off the water felt good after all that concrete and machinery at the port. There aren’t many restaurants around (Li warned us), so we just grabbed snacks from a shop near the lake and sat watching kids chase each other along the path. It wasn’t what I expected from a “Shanghai day trip” but maybe that’s why I keep thinking about it now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore East Sea Bridge and Yangshan Port

• Meet guide at hotel 9:00 a.m.
• Transfer to Donghai Bridge
• Cross Donghai Bridge to Yangshan Island
• Visit Yangshan Deep Water Port
• Short hike in Yangshan scenic area
• Visit Dishui Lake
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long does it take to get from Shanghai to Yangshan Deep Water Port?

It takes about an hour by car from central Shanghai to reach Yangshan Deep Water Port via Donghai (East Sea) Bridge.

Is lunch included on this private day trip?

No, lunch is not included as there are very few restaurants in the area; travelers should arrange their own meals or bring snacks.

What is special about Donghai Bridge?

Donghai Bridge is China’s first sea-crossing bridge and stretches 32 km across open sea connecting Shanghai to Yangshan Island.

Can I visit Dishui Lake on this tour?

Yes, Dishui Lake is included as part of this private day trip itinerary after visiting Yangshan Deep Water Port.

Is hotel pickup provided for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your private tour package.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

The tour is wheelchair accessible and infants or small children can ride in prams or strollers.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Shanghai, entry fees to all indicated attractions like Donghai Bridge and Yangshan Deep Water Port, plus guidance throughout from a knowledgeable local guide using an air-conditioned vehicle—just remember meals aren’t included due to limited options near Dishui Lake.