Chongming is an island in the Yangtze estuary north of Shanghai, reached by road and rail links across the water. It is the kind of place visitors come to for open country, wetland scenery and a slower pace than the city, rather than for a dense historic centre.
For a visitor, the practical question is where to base yourself on the island, since the places to stay are spread out and the areas serve different kinds of trips. This guide covers the areas worth considering, what each suits, and how to think about budget, mid-range and higher-end stays.
Best areas to stay in Chongming
1. Chongming Island
The island itself is the main setting for a stay, with its rural landscape, wetlands and open space. It suits visitors who want a countryside base and are happy to travel around by road to reach the sights.
Accommodation here ranges from simple local guesthouse-style places to larger resort hotels. Because the island is large and the sights are spread out, plan on having transport arranged, as distances between points are significant.
2. Chongming District
Chongming District covers the island plus the nearby islands of Changxing and Hengsha, so a base within the district gives you access to a wider area than the island alone. It suits visitors who want to combine the main island with the smaller surrounding islands.
This is an administrative area rather than a single neighbourhood, so the exact spot you choose matters more than the district label. Check how your base connects to the places you want to see before booking.
3. Changxing
Changxing is one of the islands included in Chongming District and offers an alternative base within the same area. It suits travellers who want a quieter setting while still being within reach of the rest of the district.
As with the rest of the district, connections between islands and to the mainland matter, so confirm your transport links before committing to a base here.
4. Hengsha
Hengsha is the other island included in Chongming District and is the most removed of the options. It suits visitors specifically interested in the smaller island setting and willing to accept a more isolated base.
Being the furthest out, it demands the most planning in terms of getting there and getting around. Treat it as a deliberate choice rather than a convenient base for seeing the wider district.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: simple local guesthouse-style accommodation, generally in the more rural parts of the island and district.
- Mid-range: comfortable hotels and guesthouses, including larger properties on the main island.
- Splurge: full-service resort and international-brand hotels, such as those found on Chongming Island.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself on Chongming Island. It is the core of the destination and where the main accommodation, including larger hotels, is found. From there you can reach the rest of the district, including Changxing and Hengsha, as day trips or onward stays.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Chongming?
Chongming is an island in the Yangtze estuary, north of Shanghai.
What does "Chongming District" include?
Chongming District is the area of Shanghai that includes Changxing, Hengsha and most, but not all, of Chongming Island.
Which islands can I stay on within the district?
You can base yourself on Chongming Island itself, or on Changxing or Hengsha, both of which are part of Chongming District.
Compare live prices for your dates using the booking tools on this page before you decide where to base yourself.