Every weekend students will have the opportunity to explore a different city or a famous attraction near Shanghai. In 2012, we invite you to visit two capitals in Chinese history renowned as "Heaven on earth", "Oriental Venice", a famous old town, the largest and most modern amusement park in China and a unique "agritainment" farm in suburban Shanghai. Well, let's start with a quick look from here...
Hangzhou
Hangzhou is one of the most important tourism cities in China, famous for its natural beauty, historical and cultural heritages and modern charm. Both the history and present bear witnesses to the charms of the city. The city was the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty during which time the city's population is estimated to have been as high as one million, making it the largest city in the world. Even Marco Polo, the Italian traveler in the 13th century, gave the highest praise for Hangzhou during his travel in China and applauded it as "beyond dispute the finest and the noblest city in the world". A Chinese saying also has high praise for Hangzhou as "the paradise on earth".
Suzhou
Suzhou, the cradle of Wu culture dominating Yangtze Basin, is one of the oldest cities in southern China and has been traditonally the capital of Wu nations. As early as 2500 years ago, "Great City of Helu", the ancient name for Suzhou was established as the capital of Wu Kingdom during the Spring and Autumn Period in Chinese history. The city is renowned for its beautiful stone bridges, pagodas, and meticulously designed gardens which have contributed to its status as a great tourist attraction. As Chinese saying says"Paradise above, Suzhou and Hangzhou below."
Qibao
Qibao is the epitome of old Shanghai. As the only ancient town forming part of greater Shanghai, with a history spanning over one thousand years, Qibao is more than just a living fossil of ancient Chinese conurbation and urban planning. The town was built in Northern Song Dynasty (960-1126) and grew into a prosperous business center during Ming (1368-1644).
Songjiang Happy Valley
A 1,200-meter-long, 33-meter-high wooden rollercoaster has just been constructed at the Happy Valley theme park in 2009 in Songjiang. Screeeam!
The big dipper is just one of 10 major amusement rides in the 86-hectare park, which is the largest in China. The park also contains a "space shuttle" that sends riders 60 meters into the sky in two seconds flat, plus "modern leisure facilities" and a 4,500-seat theater. While at Happy Valley, you can join in the many exciting games and enjoy a variety of excellent performances which cater to both children and adults.
Chongming Agritainment
This is your chance to explore the rural area in China, to find out what villages look like and how farmers really live in China. As you might suspect, "agritainment" is a blend of the words agriculture and entertainment. We'll go deep into the suburbs of Shanghai in Chongming island. It will be a farm based learning and entertaining tour that allows you discover what city cannot provide. The activities may include you-pick operations, petting zoos, horse ride (extra fee), cooking, etc.
The weekend excursions are included in Full Camp only. However, day camp students and families are welcome to join at an additional fee accordingly.
