Suzhou Creek, with its rich history in Chinese rowing, has undergone significant transformation in recent years as part of Shanghai's waterfront development projects. The integration of green spaces along the waterfront has not only revitalized the area but also provided residents and visitors with serene spaces for recreation and exercise. Participants like Barbara Krause, a Polish who recently relocated to Shanghai from Great Britain, have embraced the city's vibrant rowing community and the abundance of green spaces, parks, and recreational opportunities along the Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek.

"It's impressive how many people you can spot at 5:36 in the morning on the riverside," she said. "It's a very positive surprise how many parks there are and how green Shanghai is."

"There are a lot of international communities and sports activities," Krause continued. "We already found the rowing clubs, the cycling communities and different music groups. It's beautiful for people who are keen to learn and understand the Chinese culture more."