Now the new metro line 12 is open I decided to go to somewhere which sounded really exotic – Fuxing Island. It is an island in the Huangpu river and I thought it might be a little like the island in the river in Nanjing which has a certain charm and was a favourite away-day destination for me. 
As I emerged from Fuxing Island station I knew immediately that this was a different kind of place completely. All around were derelict buildings and cranes. The main road was straight and featureless (almost no vehicles). I looked on my iphone and saw there was park nearby and so, even though it was cold and wet, decided to have a look at it. Surely it had to be better than the surroundings.
And it was – it was quiet and green and although seemingly still under
construction, I think given a nicer day it could be a little oasis in
the desert of dereliction.
construction, I think given a nicer day it could be a little oasis in
the desert of dereliction.
Of particular interest was the sign posted at the entrance to park setting out the rules which visitors should abide. I always read these notices because without exception they contain some fantastic Chinglish and this sign was no exception.
Having spend a few soggy minutes walking around the park, I set off back to the metro station wondering why anybody except the most poverty stricken would ever choose to live in this Godforsaken place.
The whole place was soulless, grey and industrial. Even the cranes stood with their heads sagging with the weight of misery brought about by having to inhabit this piece of flotsam in the Huangpu.