Shanghai Daily news

With its natural scenery, friendly people, and great mix of activities, Liudao Island Scenic Spot is an ideal place for young and old alike to enjoy.
Unknown to many in the city, the island of 80 hectares is located on the northeastern portion of Tanghang Town in Jiading District.
Here, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike have the opportunity to explore all that the area has to offer, including farmlands, natural forests, a horse-riding ranch and the city's oldest golf course.
Shanghai Liuhe River Youth Activity Camp lies within the area and attracts thousands of students each year. Opened to the public in 1987, the camp offers high-quality outdoor education programs that enable young people to enjoy challenging and unfamiliar experiences.
Various programs cater to youth groups ranging from kindergarten to college students.
"Throughout 18 years of experience, we have developed our activity programs to balance fun, excitement and personal development all within the highest safety standards," said Gu Jianguo, director of the camp office.
"For example, the provision of a well-structured outdoor adventure program brings great educational and personal value to the kids, as it exercises their physical, social and personal skills," he added.
According to Gu, the program is founded on the idea that life skills can be learned through physical challenges such as rope and rock climbing. They are particularly useful to help young people see themselves as capable and powerful.
He added such group activities also build communication and problem-solving skills that are often ignored among today's youngsters.
The camp boasts 5.33 hectares of fields, including a 1.33-hectare orchard and 0.67 hectare of land for vegetable crops. The unique setting offers students hands-on experience in learning farm work, from preparing the soil to harvesting the crops.
To let students know more about the traditional village life, a farm tool exhibition center was set up. Exhibits on display include traditional farm tools and utensils used by locals.
Students will also have a chance to test their skills on a traditional water cart or millstone, which was used by villagers a century ago.
Last year, the camp served 76,000 youngsters around the city with camping programs that vary from one day to a week in length.
"Children benefit from the opportunity to experience active learning, in a positive, stimulating and fun environment," Gu said.
Besides the youth camp, the area is particularly appealing for those looking to get away from the grueling workload to enjoy horseback riding in the fields.
Shanghai Quan Jin Equestrian Club was established last December and has more than 100 members so far.
With an investment of more than 1 million yuan (US$120,481), the club now boasts a 450-meter track and a 250-meter one. The club imported its 20 horses from Russia and Saudi Arabia.
Weekends are often booked solid at the club, with a mixture of advanced riders and beginners taking their first ride.
In order to accommodate people who are not experienced in horse riding, the club has 10 professional coaches who provide riding lessons to the public. Children can also experience horse riding under professional guidance.
For golf lovers, the area is home to Shanghai Golf Club, the oldest course in the city.