Shanghai is like no other city, encompassing traditional values and street culture in one go. It is known for its rich culture, vibrant adventures, and possession of landmarks that will leave travelers in awe. The insane architecture blended with historical sites makes the city feel alive, which only gives further hope that Shanghai is on its path to becoming one of the greatest cities in the world. This blog post will guide you through the 10 best things to do in Shanghai. This city has everything from the famous Bund and delicious local food to astonishing views from tall towers. This article covers you as it tells you everything you need to know to get the most out of your Shanghai visit.
What are the must-see attractions along the Bund?
The Bund is a magnificent riverside space that shows beautiful pictures of Shanghai’s history and new age. Begin with the well-known colonial-style structures. For example, these include the Customs House and the Shanghai Bank Building, all boasting varied architectural influences. Don’t forget the exciting views of the dazzling Pudong skyline from over the river, which features the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower. To get an even better cultural experience, walk along the Bund pedestrian promenade at night to enjoy the beauty of the city traffic lights, or head out to Huangpu Park, the oldest park in the city. The Bund provides a chance to see what Shanghai used to look like and what it will likely be in the future.
How can I enjoy the best views of Shanghai’s skyline from the Bund?
The best time to be at the Bund and get a fantastic view of Shanghai’s skyline is a little before sunset. This is because this specific time is referred to as the golden hour, and only then does the city come alive with unparalleled beauty. Grab a stroll along the promenade to capture the superb views when landmarks such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower are well-lit at night. Another thing I will suggest is this – why not take a cruise on the Huangpu River in the evening? This time, the skyline is most beautiful, with stunning lights. Bring your camera or smartphone with you; the architecture on the Bund is captivating –combining old buildings with advanced skyscrapers across the river.
What historical buildings can I explore on the Bund?
The Bund features many exquisite contemporary structures with a remarkable historical background, each belonging to a different time frame. Some of the more well-known ones include:
- The Customs House—This neoclassical structure, located in Bund, was built in 1927 and is one of the most recognized sites in the area. Inside the structure, a clock tower chimes every hour and inspires Big Ben, located in London. When Shanghai was on the brink of becoming established as a global trading port, this served as the customs office.
- The Shanghai Pudong Development Bank Building (formerly the HSBC Building) – Founded in 1923, this imposing building is an excellent example of the Renaissance architectural style. This grand edifice was rumored to be the most glamorous in the region; its luxurious interiors once contained a domed ceiling with mosaic murals of the places where the bank operated some time ago.
- Peace Hotel (north building, formerly Sassoon House)—Finished in 1929, this Art Deco building was a benchmark for Shanghai’s financial and cultural growth in the first half of the century. Several famous people once called it home, including Charlie Chaplin, during its golden age. Now, it remains a luxury hotel known for its exquisite ballroom and stunning views from the roof.
These historical places are not only a window into the city’s history but also artistically rich structures, bringing out the beautiful collage of cultures that make up the city. Every building has a great story behind it, which is why the Bund is one of the places to see when in Shanghai from a history or architecture perspective.
Are there any river cruises available along the Huangpu River?
Of course, Huangpu river cruises are also at hand, where you can admire the Bund and the skyscrapers in Pangong. Typically, these cruises last between thirty minutes to two hours, depending upon the selected service, and they usually do it early evenings up till night to show off electric-looking buildings. Prices differ, but basic tickets start at a hundred RMB, while extravagant ones cost more. Since timing and reception depend on the weather conditions, it’s essential to visit the site beforehand, usually Shiliupu Wharf, China’s central river port.
Which Shanghai skyscrapers offer the most breathtaking views?
China’s tallest building, the Shanghai Tower, stands amidst even taller skyscrapers. It is 632 meters tall and has an observation deck on the 118th floor. From here, panoramic views of the sprawling Shanghai city can be enjoyed. Today, a visiting favorite is the Jin Mao Tower, along with its 88th-story observation platform that provides unrivaled views of Shanghai and the surrounding rivers. Then there’s the Shanghai World Financial Center, which people call the ‘bottle opener.’ The observation deck at the 100th story is posh, with glass floors revealing the city below for an exhilarating experience. The views are quirky and epic compared to all other skyscrapers, and each is worth seeing!
What’s the experience like at the Shanghai Tower observation deck?
As soon as I entered the fastest elevator to the 118th floor of the Shanghai Tower, which took less than a minute, I was filled with adrenaline at the thought of standing in one of the tallest buildings in the world. The view was mesmerizing, too, spanning from the city’s entire skyline to the serpentine river, adding technology as well, and it was an experience for the ages. That is how I would describe visiting the Shanghai Tower observation deck. If you want to experience the city of Shanghai in all its glory, the observation deck is not something you want to miss out on.
How does the view from the Shanghai World Financial Center compare?
The view from the Shanghai World Financial Center observing point is perhaps the greatest in the world. Atantat 474 meters high, the thousandth floor is home to the ‘World’s Finest Commercial Center’ viewing deck, facing a marvelous sight of the Shanghai cityscape. The Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and the Shanghai Tower, the highest building in China, are easily visible. And, if the weather is clear, a breathtaking view of the city and the Huangpu River can be enjoyed seemingly without a horizon.
One of the SWFC’s popular attractions is its glass-floored Sky Walk, where visitors can step ‘over’ the city’s center and ‘walk’ in the air. Few observation decks worldwide offer such height, engineering, and immersion experience. The Shanghai World Finance Center is an outstanding architectural achievement and cultural instrument for phasing Shanghai into a dynamic economic and creative center of the global arena as opposed to other skyscrapers like the Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the Empire State Building in New York.
Is the Oriental Pearl TV Tower worth visiting for its panoramic views?
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower should be on your list because of its sweeping views. The TV tower is centrally located in the Pudong district in Shanghai. From here, one can see the sprawling metropolis and the Huangpu River at 360-degree angles. It has a height of 468 meters and several observation decks, including the main one at 263 meters, which offers stunning views day or night. In addition, the unconventional glass-bottomed 259-meter Skywalk is strongly recommended. The tower impresses with its iconic design and includes a museum, restaurants, and cafes, so the visit is diverse. It could be the outstanding night view of the city that attracts everyone or the impressive skyscrapers of this unique city, either way it’s an attraction.
What are the top cultural attractions in Shanghai?
Regarding culture within China, Shanghai is home to various rich and culturally profound experiences that allow travelers to view the genesis of Shanghai while providing a modern and luxurious touch. Several structures built during the colonial era line the Huangpu River, along with the Bund, make for a perfect location to visit. Then there is also Yu Garden, a more modern Chinese garden that provides the ideal setting for a relaxing escape in the city’s heart. The town has many other amenities, including the Shanghai Museum, which has an exceptional collection of Chinese artifacts. If one is looking for a more traditional blend with contemporary art and culture, Tianzifang is right for them. It is a labyrinth of alleys stacked with local artisans, art galleries, and several boutiques. Thus, these places provide a brief encapsulation of Shanghai’s cultural divide.
What can I expect to see at the Shanghai Museum?
The Shanghai Museum is located in the heart of the city and offers exquisite collections of Chinese art and artifacts that are historically significant. The museum has opulent bronze pieces, ceramics, jade works, calligraphy, and over 120,000 historical artifacts. If you ever wish to look at detailed sculptures or carved seals representing ancient China’s artistry, this is the place to be, as it houses them all. Equipped with a well-suggested exhibit, one can take a beautiful trip to China in one of the many stunning modernized locations.
How long should I plan to visit Yu Garden?
It will take approximately 90 minutes to two hours to appreciate the hard work put into constructing the Yu Garden at a basic level. If you want to attend a tour guide or would like to shop at the nearby bazaars, we recommend you spend another hour at this captivating site. Due to its large area of 5 acres, approximately 20,000 square meters, the garden has many attractions, including the Exquisite Jade Rock and the Sansui Hall. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early in the morning or during the weekdays to avoid large crowds and fully interact with the pristine ambiance of this heritage site of the Ming dynasty.
What’s unique about the Jade Buddha Temple?
The Jade Buddha Temple is a treasure trove of two Jade Buddha statues from the country of Burma, and it’s one hundred percent made from jade. The white jade statues feature a sitting Shakyamuni and an estimated weight of approximately 2 tons, alongside a height of 6.1 feet. This estimates the amount of effort put into the construction of these statues. In simple terms, these statues are magnificent and peaceful. In addition, a classic architectural template of the Japanese style was also utilized during the construction of the temple, turning it into an oasis in the busy city. For a building where faith and spirituality have a deep connection, its importance is more beautiful, and it has a great history behind it, which is why many tourists visit it.
Where can I experience Shanghai’s vibrant shopping scene?
Shanghai is a city of shopping havens since it offers various shopping options that fit all your needs. Nanjing Road is one of the most commercialized streets in the world, alongside boutique high-ends and a range of global brands. For an assortment of unique Chinese items and interesting keepsakes, you can go to the Yuyuan Bazaar or Tianzifang. If elite malls are what you like, there are plenty in Lujiazui, too. Shopping in Shanghai is a never-ending adventure, so you won’t be disappointed, no matter where you go.
What makes Nanjing Road a must-visit shopping destination?
Nanjing Road combines the rich history of Shanghai with the modern shopping experience; hence, it is a popular place for shopping. The area is 5.5 kilometers long and further divided into two parts: Nanjing Road East, which has a pedestrian walkway with major international brands flagship stores built alongside it, and Nanjing Road West, which comprises luxury retailers and has prominent malls such as Plaza 66 and Hong Kong Tai Koo Hui. This street commenced operations in the mid-1800s. It is an excellent combination of historical buildings and modern establishments and powerfully represents Shanghai’s growth as a city. Apart from the shopping, street shows, local food, plus mesmerizing night views create a great and complete experience for everyone.
Are there any traditional markets worth exploring in Shanghai?
Shanghai is filled with some of the most exquisite traditional markets ever. For example, next to the Yuyuan Garden, the Yuyuan Bazaar is a colorful marketplace with stalls selling traditional crafts, toys, Chinese tea, and refreshments. Another great marketplace that is cherished even now is Dongtai Road Antique Market. Although the marketplace has changed over the years, it remains a brilliant place to hunt for vintage and unique items. Finally, the flower, bird, fish, and insect market on Xizang South Road is also quite interesting, with intricate cultural displays and handicrafts. Markets such as these are part of the legacy of Shanghai and are perfect for one looking to experience the area’s local traditions.
What are the best day trips from Shanghai?
Shanghai has something for everyone regarding day trips. If you want to indulge yourself in history, you can visit the ancient water towns of Zhujiajiao or Tongli, which have beautiful canals and traditional buildings. Also, within an hour by the high-speed train, you can reach Suzhou, renowned for its classical gardens and history of silk. If you enjoy nature, you can check out the tranquil West Lake in Hangzhou or the ecological parks on Chongming Island. Other options, such as Lingyin Temple or the bamboo-covered paths of Moganshan, are a bit eccentric in a good way. These places offer a good chance to change the scenery from the city life in Shanghai.
How do I plan a visit to the water town of Zhujiajiao?
Mono Lake is adventurous and busy, so planning your trip accordingly is vital. There are two main airports to reach Mono Lake, Sacramento International Airport being the closest. Searching for affordable hotels and residences can be tricky and require deep research. However, camping makes your stay much more affordable and fun. However, if you do not enjoy camping, Airbnb provides hundreds of options. Depending on your desired activities, setting aside an ample of time in advance can be incredibly beneficial; there is too much to explore in Mono Lake, from the Tufa castles to captivating fish, so it is important to remember not to fly in during Thanksgiving and Christmas as there are far too many tourists during these days which would ruin the experience. Small family businesses dominate the food scene there and do not cost an arm and a leg, try out Taiyaki on your trip as it is a must eat mono lake fish. Semi-attached beaches neighbor the lake and provide a perfect spot to create memorable snaps for your friends back home. So grab your swimming suits as there is a lot to do at Mono Lake.
Is Shanghai Disneyland suitable for a day trip?
Shanghai Disneyland deserves to be visited and explored on a one-day trip. The place is around 30 kilometers from downtown Shanghai and can be reached using the Shanghai Metro Line 11, taxis, or private cars. The area encompasses roughly 390 hectares and has only so many attractions exclusive to the place, including the world’s biggest Disney castle, Enchanted Storybook Castle, and the other three Adventure Isle, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland. For a single day, the cost of entry to Disneyland ranges from 435 to 769 RMB, which in USD amounts to 60 to 105.
In advance, the recommended strategy is to figure out the spot between all attractions that they would want to cover on the day or any particular attraction they would not want to miss, for example, the TRON Lightcycle Power Run or Pirates of the Caribbean – Battle for the Sunken Treasure. Other essential factors include relying on Disney’s Premier Access or the virtual queue system provided by the app, which would reduce the waiting time. Other than that, Disneyland Park offers a broad range of food options, from traditional Chinese food to Italian and International cuisine. In short and overall, I consider that provided proper caution is taken, and measures are set in place so that the day is not wasted a trip to Shanghai Disneyland would be exhilarating and not disappointing.
Where can I explore Shanghai’s historical areas?
Shanghai is dotted with historical places which reflect its history. The Bund is an excellent place to view colonial buildings towering alongside skyscrapers along the waterfront promenade. Another fine place to visit is the Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden), which also displays traditional Chinese gardening style and buildings of the Ming era. The Former French Concession is a good place to see as it evokes the past with its tree-lined roads, lovely villas, and vibrant culture. These places together portray how Shanghai’s present intermingles with its past and what buildings it inherited.
What are the highlights of the French Concession?
The French Concession is a pleasant balancing point for all history, culture, and modernity. Walking in tree-lined avenues, the European-style buildings and charming cafés struck my eyes. Adding to the artistic feel was Tianzifang – a small, narrow alleyway filled with galleries, boutiques, and artisan shops. In Fuxing Park, the locals practiced tai chi with other traditional activities enjoyed in the area. There is also a thriving restaurant culture, where you can easily find conventional Shanghainese dishes and other international foods, making the area worth seeing in Shanghai.
How can I discover the hidden gems of Old Shanghai?
For a peek into the past, grab a water taxi to Zhujiajiao, a water village filled with canals and traditional buildings mingling with 17th-century stone bridges. There’s a market where villagers perform daily activities, painting an image of life in this region several hundred years ago. You should also explore the Longtang alleys, where people do daily business while admiring the greatly Shanghai-esque shikumen diet homes. If you want something more religious, visit the Jade Buddha Temple, which is famous for bringing white jade figures from Myanmar. Also, the Dongtai Road Antique Market gives perspective on local businesses and sells fascinating antiques and historical relics, among other things.
To make the most of your visit, you should join walking tours as stories are attached to all the sites. Such tours typically cover the Bund and places of architectural significance or lunch tasting tours where they serve xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). When you step outside the typical tourist traps, Old Shanghai’s long-hidden secrets gradually become an adventure to remember.
What unique experiences shouldn’t I miss in Shanghai?
While in Shanghai, hop on a Huangpu river cruise during sunset for some of the best views of the historical bund and South Pudong City’s developed skyline. Explore Tianzifang – an area of complex narrow lanes occupied by artists, boutique shops, and little cafes. Visit a local tea house to participate in Chinese tea culture or ride the fastest commercial train, the Maglev. In search of a quiet getaway? Visit the renowned classical Yuyuan Garden and enjoy the calm atmosphere. Each of them is another window looking into the unique Shanghai tapestry.
Is the Shanghai Circus World show worth attending?
Indeed, it’s an awe-inspiring activity to attend the Shanghai Circus World show, which combines distinctive, stunning acrobatic athletics and choreography with the art of China. The “ERA – Intersection of Time концерт” includes exactly such performances of strength, speed, and skills, but this time, the trimmings are extravagant stage and rich musical interpretation as well. This is a very good thing for all ages and gives a great understanding of Chinese culture and its history of acrobatics. This program is one of the things you should do in Shanghai.
How can I best experience Shanghai’s famous street food scene?
There’s no shortage of iconic snacks that showcase local flavors and culinary traditions in Shanghai’s tremendous street food culture, but first, you want to check out Xu Jiang Road, Shouning Road, and Yunnan South Road. The first dish you must try is soup dumplings, known for their thin skin and juicy filling. However, if you want something more, I recommend pan-fried buns. These can be found on Shouning Road and come with a meaty bottom. Grilled crawfish and barbecue skewers are also available to seafood aficionados. Red bean cakes and sticky rice can be found at Qibao Old Street. These pair well with honey milk or tea; warmer beverages enhance these delicacies.
It is advisable to visit those places during the evening if you are trying to alleviate your food experience, as night has a more active atmosphere and options. Carry a few coins with you since some stalls only deal in cash and do not offer online transactions. Additionally, inspect stalls beforehand to ensure sanitary conditions with hand cleaning—all these aid Shanghai street food, which is intensely infused with the local culture and expressive.
What’s unique about riding the Shanghai Maglev train?
Riding the Shanghai Maglev is quite the experience, to say the least. I enjoyed riding it and was shocked at how fast it gets from point A to point B, given that it offers a top speed of 431 km/h or 267 mph. Not only do its speeds exceed expectations, but the ride also does because it is a magnetic levitation train. It took me aback just how easy it was for the train to cover the roughly thirty-kilometer distance within 7 min, making the experience even more extraordinary; it did make sense given how the train uses electromagnetic forces that stabilize it on the track. Its features are all quite impressive, to be honest, with nearly zero emissions due to silent electric propulsion, German Transapid technology, and the fact that it reaches its maximum acceleration in a matter of seconds. Overall, the overall clean and minimalistic design of the train gave the experience a futuristic touch. It’s quite an engineering marvel, which is why I feel like it’s a must-try for visitors to Shanghai.
References
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the top things to see when you explore Shanghai?
A: When you explore Shanghai, some top attractions include the Shanghai Tower, The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Disneyland Park, and the Shanghai Museum. Don’t miss the chance to stroll along Nanjing Road to shop and see the stunning Shanghai skyline from the Pudong area.
Q: Is there a Shanghai Jewish heritage site worth visiting?
A: The Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum in the Hongkou District is a significant site. It commemorates the history of Jewish refugees who found shelter in Shanghai during World War II and is one of the unique things to see in Shanghai.
Q: What’s the best way to experience Shanghai’s old town?
A: To experience Shanghai’s old town, stroll through the Yu Garden and its surrounding bazaar. This area offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture and culture, making it one of the top attractions in central Shanghai.
Q: Can you recommend a comprehensive travel guide or tour of Shanghai?
A: For a comprehensive tour of Shanghai, consider visiting the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center. It provides an excellent overview of the city’s past, present, and future development, making it one of the best museums to understand Shanghai’s urban landscape.
Q: What are some must-see sites around Shanghai Pudong?
A: In the Pudong area, don’t miss the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the Shanghai Tower (currently the world’s second-tallest building), and the Jin Mao Tower. These skyscrapers offer breathtaking views from the top and are integral to the iconic Shanghai skyline.
Q: Is there an ancient water town near Shanghai worth visiting?
A: Yes, Zhujiajiao Water Town is a popular ancient town near Shanghai. It’s often called the “Venice of Shanghai” and offers a stark contrast to the modern city, making it one of the top things to do for those looking to explore Shanghai’s surrounding areas.
Q: What’s unique about the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center?
A: The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center is a unique museum that showcases the city’s urban development. It features a huge-scale model of Shanghai and provides insights into the city’s future plans, making it one of the most interesting places to visit in Shanghai for both tourists and urban planning enthusiasts.
Q: Is Shanghai Disneyland Park worth a visit?
A: Absolutely! Shanghai Disneyland Park is one of the newest Disney parks and offers a blend of classic Disney experiences with unique Chinese elements. It’s a top attraction for families and Disney fans visiting Shanghai.
Q: What’s a must-visit temple in Shanghai?
A: The Jade Buddha Temple is a must-visit temple in Shanghai. It’s famous for its two jade Buddha statues and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. The temple is necessary for its religious significance and architectural beauty.
Q: Where are the best places to eat and experience Shanghai’s culinary scene?
A: For the best culinary experiences, visit the French Concession area for a mix of local and international cuisines. Try xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) at places like Din Tai Fung. The Bund area also offers high-end dining options with views of the Shanghai skyline, making it one of the top things to do for food enthusiasts.
