Refer China: Suzhou Creek to Open for Public Water Sports This Summer

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Suzhou Creek to Open for Public Water Sports This Summer

Shanghai has just made a big splash: Suzhou Creek is officially open for public water activities this summer! After years of environmental restoration and urban redevelopment, the iconic river is ready to welcome city residents for safe and exciting water sports.

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From July 11 to 13, the Suzhou Creek Water Sports Center in Putuo District hosted the Shanghai Summer 2025 "Half-Marathon Suzhou Creek" City Rowing Elite Regatta, featuring nearly 400 rowers from China and abroad. The event was more than a competition — it marked the official pilot launch of regular water sports on Suzhou Creek, symbolizing the transformation of this historic industrial waterway into a modern fitness and leisure destination.

A Waterway Reborn for the People

Suzhou Creek has long held a special place in China's rowing history. Since the return of the Shanghai Rowing Open to Suzhou Creek in 2021, the waterway has become a symbol of the city's waterfront revival. As part of the ongoing "One River, One Creek" initiative, Shanghai is repurposing its waterfront spaces to serve both environmental and recreational goals.

Putuo District is leading the charge. With the new Suzhou Creek Water Sports Center as its anchor, the district aims to create a network of water sports zones across the creek, offering residents access to activities such as rowing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and dragon boat racing. This aligns with the city's broader vision to make Suzhou Creek a "living ribbon" — a space for community, fitness, and enjoyment.

Opening to the Public: This Summer!

According to Wang Hua, Deputy Director of the Putuo District Sports Bureau, the pilot section for water sports stretches from Changfeng Park Pier to Danba Road Pier. This segment will soon be available for clubs, youth training teams, and the general public to engage in water sports, attend training programs, and participate in competitions.

"The Suzhou Creek Water Sports Center will serve not only as a training base but also as a public experience venue," said Wang. "Courses will be offered for beginners, and the site will include both historical exhibits and dryland training facilities."

Although Suzhou Creek is no longer open to commercial navigation, it still sees limited boat traffic, meaning public access requires strict safety and regulatory coordination. Fortunately, Wang confirmed that inter-departmental discussions have gone smoothly, and the final approvals are underway. The public can expect access to the water later this summer.

Safety First, Fun Always

Safety is a top priority. The city will deploy professional rescue teams and boats and offer mandatory safety training for all participants before they're allowed "in the water." This ensures a secure and enjoyable environment for all levels of water sports lovers.

A Cool Urban Escape

As temperatures soar across the city, interest in water activities is rising rapidly. Sports like stand-up paddleboarding have exploded on social media and become trendy alternatives to traditional summer pastimes. Yet, many natural water areas still pose safety risks. By opening Suzhou Creek as a regulated, city-supported venue, Shanghai provides a safe, clean, and accessible space for people to cool off and get active.

Whether you're a rowing enthusiast, a curious beginner, or just looking for a refreshing way to enjoy the summer — Suzhou Creek is ready for you.

This summer, Shanghai invites you to dive into a new kind of urban adventure — right in the heart of the city.

Source: 上观新闻