


Qipu Water Park
About
Qipu Water Park is a summer destination offering classic water park fun perfect for families visiting Shanghai with children. With attractions ranging from gentle lazy rivers and shallow play areas for toddlers to exciting water slides for adventurous kids, plus a wave pool that entertains all ages, this park provides a refreshing escape from Shanghai's hot, humid summers.
Highlights
- ✓Wave pool with regular wave sessions that kids find exciting
- ✓Multiple water slides of varying heights and speeds for different age groups
- ✓Lazy river perfect for relaxing family floats
- ✓Dedicated shallow splash areas designed specifically for toddlers and young children
- ✓Large outdoor pools for general swimming and play
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right when the park opens to secure good lounge chairs and avoid peak crowds, especially on weekends and school holidays
- 2.Bring waterproof pouches for phones and cash, as you'll need to pay for lockers and may want to purchase snacks or drinks
- 3.Pack reef shoes or water socks for the whole family, as pool surfaces can get hot and slippery
- 4.Download a translation app beforehand, as signage and staff instructions may be primarily in Mandarin Chinese
- 5.Bring your own towels if possible to save rental fees, and consider packing sunscreen from home as it can be expensive at the park
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings in June or early September for the smallest crowds and pleasant weather. Avoid weekends, Chinese national holidays (especially the first week of October and May), and the peak July-August period when the park gets extremely crowded and temperatures are at their highest.
What to Know
As a seasonal facility, Qipu Water Park typically operates only during summer months (roughly May through September). International visitors should bring cash in Chinese yuan (RMB) as credit card acceptance may be limited, and download WeChat or Alipay ahead of time for easier transactions.
Seasonal Notes
This is a seasonal water park operating only during Shanghai's summer months, typically from late May through early September. The park is closed during fall, winter, and spring. Peak season coincides with Chinese school holidays in July and August.
Nearby Eats
The park has on-site food stalls and restaurants serving Chinese snacks and meals, though options may be limited for picky eaters. For more variety, head to nearby Zhabei District shopping areas where you'll find international chains like McDonald's and KFC alongside local dumpling shops and noodle restaurants that kids often enjoy.
More Activities Near Shanghai
Dino Beach Water Park
Dino Beach Water Park offers a fun summer escape for families visiting Shanghai, featuring multiple water slides, wave pools, and a relaxing lazy river. The park includes dedicated shallow areas perfect for young children, making it an ideal spot to cool off during hot Shanghai summers while giving kids of various ages their own adventures.
Luwan Park
Luwan Park offers a delightful blend of traditional Chinese gardens and modern playground fun in the heart of Shanghai. This free urban oasis near the famous Bund provides families with peaceful walking paths, small amusement rides, and open spaces for kids to play, making it an ideal break from the city's bustling streets.
Shanghai Children's Museum
Shanghai Children's Museum is a hands-on wonderland where kids aged 2-12 can explore interactive exhibits covering science, culture, and everyday life through play-based learning. With dedicated zones for different age groups and activities ranging from role-playing scenarios to science experiments, this museum keeps children engaged while parents enjoy seeing them learn through discovery.
Happy Valley Shanghai
Happy Valley Shanghai is one of China's premier amusement parks, featuring thrilling roller coasters, gentle family rides, colorful themed lands, and daily entertainment shows that cater to all ages. This full-day destination combines Western-style theme park attractions with uniquely Chinese cultural elements, making it an exciting adventure for international families visiting Shanghai.