Nestled in the southwest of Shanghai, Songjiang District is far more than a suburban gem as it's the "Root of Shanghai" where 5,000 years of civilization meet contemporary vibrancy. With a diverse mix of cultural heritage, natural landscape, and trendy attractions, it invites travelers to embark on a journey that spans ancient history, lush nature, and joyful entertainment.

Starting this week and running through the New Year's Day holiday, quite a number of scenic spots in Songjiang are rolling out a wave of discounts and activities, welcoming tourists to explore the root of Shanghai during the first season of the "Discover Shanghai" Tourism Guide Super Competition, which was launched in November.

As a 4A-level tourist attraction, Sheshan National Tourism Resort is divided into east Sheshan and west Sheshan, being the only natural mountain forest resort in Shanghai. Climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of Songjiang.

The Sheshan National Forest Park also houses cultural attractions such as an observatory, making it an ideal destination for people to hike, exercise, and find inner peace.

The annual ascending activity on Sheshan Hill will be held on New Year's Day, inviting people to welcome the new year and embark on a new journey in the traditional way of climbing high. Registrants can enjoy multiple discounts.

Among these, they will enjoy free admission to the Tianma Mountain Scenic Area and the Xiaokunshan Mountain Scenic Area from December 30 to February 23 with the climbing event voucher, and half-price discount on on-site ticket purchase of Shanghai Happy Valley between December 30 and January 3.

Shanghai Yuehu Sculpture Park will offer half-price discount on adult tickets from December 30 to February 23, while Guangfulin Cultural Relics Park will deliver 30 percent off on tickets for the Guangfulin Archeological Site Exhibition Hall and the Ancient Pottery Art Museum between December 30 and January 3.

Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden and Shanghai Zuibaichi Park will also give discounted treats during the New Year's Day holiday.

Meanwhile, diversified activities are being rolled out in Songjiang to celebrate the Year 2026 and enrich visitors' experience.

Between December 19 and February 16, Shanghai Happy Valley is staging a festival that blends animation, hit mobile games, ACG (animation, comics, games) interactions and immersive shows.

Teaming up with Bilibili original animations and China's top competitive game "Game For Peace," it has replicated classic scenes, offering thrilling interactions with cosers.

The amusement park has established five IP-themed zones, and its snow town has been turned into a 10,000-square-meter ice-snow wonderland. Moreover, intangible cultural heritage (ICH) fire dance shows, winter starry sky concerts, drone shows, electronic music parties and over 100 wonderful shows will ignite visitors' passion during the period.

From December 31 to January 3, magnificent fireworks shows and 3D drone light shows will send the first blessings of 2026 to all tourists.

Hailed as the root of Shanghai, Guangfulin showcases the historical evolution of Shanghai's land formation and ancient residents' life. Its underwater museum, cultural exhibition halls, and other facilities integrate archeology, architecture, and natural landscapes.

A new large-scale themed exhibition Guangfulin "Root of Shanghai" Cultural Exploration Tour has been launched, using technological means to revitalize Guangfulin's historical culture and offering tourists a cross-5,000-year cultural root exploration experience.

Yunjian Granary, a new cultural landmark in Songjiang that features creative zones for arts and fashion, has launched the Yunfu garden fair, centered on the Yunjian Market with featured stalls of ICH and cultural and creative products, creating an immersive experience.

During New Year's Day and Spring Festival holiday, events such as New Year's Eve party and Year of the Horse ceremonies will be held, bringing tourists a unique experience through the integration of exhibitions, markets and performances.

The Cangcheng Historical and Cultural Area, known for its classical architecture and ancient relics, includes scenic spots such as the Dacang Bridge, the Songjiang Cloth Exhibition Hall, Du's Carved Building, Xiunan Street, and the Xiuye Bridge.

During New Year's Day, the Cangcheng New Year's Day concert will blend the 600-year-old canal transport culture with diverse musical styles, presenting an audio-visual feast at multiple cultural landmarks in the scenic area.