Shanghai, a city full of hustle and bustle with a blend of old and new, offers much to be seen by its visitors. In this guide, we want to show you some interesting places besides the regular tourist attractions to help you discover another side of the city. From vibrant local markets and historical neighborhoods to cutting-edge dining experiences and tranquil retreats, this article highlights Shanghai’s best cultural, historical, and entertainment hubs. Whether you have been here before or not, we have compiled an extensive list of 31 things you must do while in Shanghai to make your visit worthwhile.
What are the must-see attractions in Shanghai for first-time visitors?
- The Bund (Waitan): A stunning waterfront place where Shanghai’s famous skyline and colonial-era buildings stand along the Huangpu River. Great for walking during the day or watching lights in the evening.
- Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden): An ancient Chinese garden with elaborate verandas, serene fishponds, and traditional designs that glimpse Shanghai’s historical richness.
- Oriental Pearl Tower: This city’s most prominent landmark offers panoramic views, a glass observation deck, and a history museum.
- Nanjing Road: This active shopping street combines contemporary retail with traditional food and souvenirs. It is a great place to enjoy the vibrant life of this city.
- Shanghai Tower: China has the tallest construction, offering breathtaking sightseeing platforms above its settlement.
These are the main places, essentially showing Shanghai’s blend of old traditions with new trends, which anyone who visits there will remember forever.
Exploring the iconic Shanghai Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center
I was struck by the Shanghai Tower’s architectural brilliance and record-breaking height, as it is China’s tallest building. The view from the observation deck, with its expansive city skyline, was incomparable. Also, the sleek design and concern for environmental impacts, such as the double-glazed glass walls, were awe-inspiring.
When I saw the iconic trapezoid entrance to the Shanghai World Financial Center, I was blown away by its engineering ingenuity. Walking on a glass floor in Sky Walk that hangs over 1500 feet above ground level was one of those moments that will never be erased from my mind. These two structures epitomize Shanghai’s position as a global innovation hub, merging audacious modernity with breathtaking experiences.
Experiencing the magic of Shanghai Disneyland
Shanghai Disneyland fuses traditional Disney magic with modern Chinese culture to create an epic experience for all ages. It was opened in 2016 and has six themed lands, including Adventure Isle, Gardens of Imagination, Mickey Avenue, Treasure Cove Tomorrowland, and Fantasyland. The grandiose Enchanted Storybook Castle, Disney’s biggest castle worldwide, forms its centerpiece, characterized by stunning architectural details and unique features.
The thrill-seekers will enjoy some of the most advanced rides, such as TRON Lightcycle Power Run, a roller coaster with speeds reaching 60 mph and equipped with the latest technology and amazing stories within it. On the other hand, lovers of pirate films can fully engage themselves in Pirate of Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure, which employs highly developed magnetic levitation systems and projection mapping techniques.
For these families, there are fabulous parades at night that leave everyone wanting more, not forgetting interactive character meet-and-greets. Additionally, Shanghai Disneyland has focused on cultural elements by having unique attractions like the Garden of Twelve Friends, a Chinese zodiac-based garden. Similarly, many themed dining experiences alongside shopping opportunities throughout the park give this place an authentic Disney feel mixed with the local culture.
Discovering Chinese culture at the Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum offers a breathtaking view of Chinese culture. The museum’s magnificent collection of artifacts dates back thousands of years. I visited the museum and explored its well-arranged galleries featuring everything from ancient bronzes and delicate jade carvings to traditional Chinese paintings. Its 39,200m^2 floor area and 120000 works are some of the technical specifications that have helped preserve this institution’s wealth of art and cultural treasures, along with advanced humidity and temperature controls. The attention to detail in how it is presented (and designed), as well as the intricacy of its architecture, was overwhelming; hence, it should never be missed by anyone interested in the most remarkable heritage of China.
Where can I find hidden gems and unusual things to do in Shanghai?
Hidden treasures and unique adventures await you in Shanghai. Among them is Tianzifang; it has many alleyways full of shops, galleries, and cafes, making it a mix of old and new Shanghai in one place. By the way, if you are more interested in non-standard things – I mean, really different from others – M50 Art District is right for you: a happening place where modern art can be found even inside worn-out industrial buildings. Chenshan Botanical Garden is so idyllic that those who love nature have to visit it once, while Lu Xun Park is great as well; it’s such a secret from everybody. Another historical aspect portal for those who desire something deeper than sightseeing is the Shikumen Open House Museum, which will let you discover traditional Chinese culture. Thus, if you like arts, would love to get closer to history, or are tired of nature sights, this city may surprise everyone at some point.
Uncovering the Secrets of Old Shanghai
Discovering Old Shanghai feels like entering a living time machine. From the peaceful alleys of Tianzifang, where the traditional Shikumen buildings are now converted into art studios and tea houses, to the busy boulevards in the French Concession, bordered by lovely old villas, the city invites you to explore its past. I would start by walking along the Bund and admiring its iconic colonial-era architecture, which portrays Shanghai as a global trading hub during the early 20th century. The Shikumen Open House Museum offers a better insight into life between the 1920s and 1930s, whose interiors have been carefully preserved within its historical townhouses. To be more involved, I could drink some tea from an old-style stall around Yuyuan Bazaar and let myself feel transported through time by its atmosphere. Only in Old Shanghai will you find a fantastic combination of custom and change.
Visiting the lesser-known Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum
When I visited the Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum, it touched my heart and broadened my mind. It is a place within the Ohel Moshe Synagogue that pays tribute to 20,000 Jews who were accommodated in Shanghai during the Second World War. The museum displays pictures, historical documents, and personal stories that clearly show their predicaments and strengths through those difficult times. Furthermore, they provide great educational tours that helped me understand this less pronounced section of the world’s past. This museum is located in the Hongkou District and opens daily from 9 am to 5 pm at an entry fee of RMB 50. In conclusion, one should spend at least 60 minutes visiting all exhibits and reflecting on the unquenchable hope for humanity.
Exploring unique parks and gardens in Shanghai
Shanghai has a fantastic range of parks and gardens, each charming. One of my favorites is the Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden with beautiful architecture, calm ponds, and intricate pavilions. It opens daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm at an entrance fee costing between RMB 30-40 depending on the season; it’s a great place to experience traditional Chinese landscape gardening. For a modern feel, try Century Park – hectares upon hectares of green lawns and lakes and cycling and boating opportunities; tickets cost about 10 RMB. Conversely, Chen Shan Botanical Garden allows you to explore hundreds of plant species in different themed areas, including an impressive glasshouse. It opens at around 8 am to 5 pm daily with an entry charge of RMB60 for adults’ fare. All these parks show Shanghai’s many sides across history to present lifestyles and are worth exploring.
What are some fun and unique attractions in Shanghai?
Shanghai is a diverse city with many fun and unique attractions catering to different interests. History lovers will be mesmerized by the colonial architecture juxtaposed with modern skyscrapers at the Bund. The vibrant M50 art district is perfect for people passionate about art. If you want to experience real Shanghai, visit the Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Center or Tianzifang, an enchanting area of tiny lanes lined with small shops, eateries, and various works of art. Also, make time for Zhujiajiao Water Town as it’s not to be missed; this old district has beautiful trees along its canal banks and traditional buildings, which provide visitors with a fantastic opportunity to enjoy some time away from bustling streets.
Marveling at the acrobatic performances at Shanghai Circus World
Is there any experience more breathtaking than the one at Shanghai Circus World? The venue is famous for its “ERA – Intersection of Time” show, which marries the traditional acrobatics of China and modern technology with a fantastic combination of talent and art. The performers do wonders defying gravity, making perfectly synchronized movements, and demonstrating excellent physical strength, which always leaves a person who watches this show in deep awe. Any moment has been crafted to capture audiences ‘ attention, from aerial performances to motorcycle stunts on Globe of Death or even ensemble acts full of poetry. Together with the state-of-the-art music and lighting, this represents an unforgettable experience that showcases peak acrobatic mastery and inventiveness.
Diving into marine life at the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium
China’s largest oceanarium, Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, is a global marvel, offering an exciting journey into world marine habitats. With over 10,000 aquatic animals spanning over 450 species, this state-of-the-art facility features several theme zones highlighting marine biodiversity. Notable zones include the China Zone, Rainforest Zone, and Polar Zone—each built to display species indigenous to these ecosystems. Some rare creatures visitors might encounter are Chinese surgeons, leafy sea dragons, and cute penguins.
A distinguishing characteristic of the aquarium is its underwater viewing tunnel, 155 meters long—the longest in the world. Tourists can experience sharks, manta rays, and schooling fish up close as they are fully immersed in this tunnel, which allows them to view marine habitats from every direction. This tunnel is built with advanced acrylic glass technology to give a unique view of aquatic life while remaining structurally sound.
A critical feature of the aquarium is that it holds approximately 4 million liters of water carefully filtered for marine life support. Moreover, to raise awareness and educate people about the conservation of oceans, Shanghai Ocean Aquarium organizes regular workshops, exhibitions, and interactive activities for visitors of all ages. The combination of advanced technology and diverse oceanic species makes this an aquarium worth visiting by lovers of sea creatures and ordinary families.
Taking a ride on the futuristic Shanghai Maglev
It was a breath-taking experience to ride on the futuristic Shanghai Maglev like no other. As for the distance, this magnetic levitation train moves from Shanghai Pudong International Airport to Longyang Road station in about 7 minutes at a speed of up to 431 km/h (268 mph). This train runs on an advanced electromagnetic suspension system, guaranteeing a smooth and nearly noiseless journey. The total length of the track is 30 kilometers (18.6 miles), and within seconds, this train accelerates phenomenally, making it the fastest commercial speed train worldwide today. Having experienced the seamless combination of cutting-edge technology and practicality in use here, I could fathom the level of creativity and accuracy behind it all as an astounding piece of engineering work.
How can I experience the best views of Shanghai’s skyline?
For the best views of Shanghai’s cityscape, visit the observation decks of famous landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower. Alternatively, enjoy an evening Huangpu River cruise for a view of the city as it is set ablaze with beautiful lights. For a more laid-back experience, go to the Bund, where you can gaze at the skyline backed by historic architecture. All these options afford different angles into this shimmering urban place.
Enjoying panoramic views from the Oriental Pearl Tower
I highly recommend going to Oriental Pearl Tower because it has incredible panoramic views of Shanghai. It stands at 468 meters tall and offers several observation decks, with the most popular being a glass floor viewing platform at 259 meters, which enables you to have a fantastic bird-eye-view over a busy Chinese city. You can obtain tickets via the Internet or on-site; I advise you to choose a visit within an evening that will allow you to enjoy an illuminated sky full of sparkling lights in its actual color. Furthermore, there are other attractions, such as a revolving restaurant and Shanghai History Museum on the ground floor, thus making it quite comprehensive for tourists who spend some time here.
Discovering the city’s layout at the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center
Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Centre: The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center is the place to go for a thorough and immersive look at how the city has developed and what architectural milestones have been reached. It is a must-visit in People’s Square as it helps understand the city’s urban evolution. At its core, it features a massive model of Shanghai, which gives visitors a bird’s-eye view of all existing buildings and plans. Spanning over 1000 square meters, this model uses precise mathematical scaling to accurately display buildings, streets, and landmarks.
The other noteworthy highlights are multimedia exhibitions covering Shanghai’s history, modern design solutions, and projections for future development. By introducing interactive touchscreens or 3D visualizations, the information flows more dynamically and becomes more engaging. In addition, dedicated areas address sustainability issues, including green architecture practices or public transport systems leading to greener cities.
This center is well priced, with tickets usually about RMB30, making entry affordable to many people who may want to visit. Most days, the center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., so tourists or residents can quickly get there during their free time. Whether you’re an urban planning enthusiast or just curious about how Shanghai became a global metropolis, plan your trip to this center for an insightful encounter!
Taking a scenic cruise along the Huangpu River
The Huangpu River scenic cruise was so memorable, providing an opportunity to see the breathtaking skyline of Shanghai. 50-90 minutes is the typical length of a cruise, depending on what it consists of, and costs RMB 100 to RMB 300 per ticket for different times and types of seating. The best time to go is between 6 PM and 9 PM in the evening when bright lights from buildings along the Bund and Lujiazui form a beautiful light show. Some vessels feature multiple language commentaries, while others only provide soft music to create an atmosphere. I suggest getting there at least thirty minutes before your trip starts because you will have enough time to check in and choose a good place, especially if you select open-air decks without obstructions.
What are some fascinating museums in Shanghai that you can visit?
The fascinating museums in Shanghai are diverse and cater to different interests. Suppose you love ancient Chinese art and history. In that case, you cannot afford not to visit the Shanghai Museum in People’s Square, where incredible collections of ceramics, calligraphy, and bronze artifacts exist. This article looks at Shanghai’s most iconic museums, which offer a wide range of modern and contemporary Chinese artworks housed in the China Pavilion built for the 2010 World Expo. For kids and families who like interactive exhibits that they take part in, then Shanghai Science & Technology Museum is your destination. The Jewish Refugees Museum sheds light on the plight of Jews during WWII. It serves as a memoir of their suffering by displaying pictures and videos taken during that period by refugees. Each museum provides an insight into the city’s culture, history, and innovation.
Exploring ancient and contemporary art at the China Art Museum
The China Art Museum in Shanghai is a go-to place for art enthusiasts with a remarkable collection that links olden customs and contemporary inventiveness. The museums have various exhibits where you can see some of the best works of classical Chinese art, which are representative of its rich heritage and cultural evolution. Furthermore, the museum’s collection also encompasses modern artworks, allowing an insight into contemporary Chinese artists’ inventive and dynamic points of view. This iconic building was initially built for the 2010 World Expo, adding to the immersive experience. This museum combines historical and contemporary aspects, thus reflecting China’s artistic traditions.
Learning about the city’s past at the Shanghai History Museum
On another note, the Shanghai History Museum must be mentioned when exploring this city’s exhilarating history. Founded in 1983, it aims to showcase how Shanghai transformed from a small fishing village into a global metropolis. Its collections span several galleries and include more than 30,000 cultural relics, such as ancient ceramics, historic photographs, architectural models, and maps.
A major draw is an exhibition about Shanghai in the 1920s—1930s, widely considered the municipality’s most prosperous time. The exhibition features authentic tram models, old advertisements, and traditional lanes or alleys (shikumen). The museum also has segments that highlight historical milestones such as the Opium Wars and the worldwide significance of the Bund.
The building itself, situated on People’s Square, is a significant architectural landmark that combines classical and contemporary styles. It occupies about 10,000 square meters with attractive, interactive exhibits and a multilingual staff who can guide international visitors. Whether you are an enthusiastic historian or want to know more about how Shanghai became what it is today, this museum has much to showcase in its exciting exhibitions.
Discovering natural wonders at the Shanghai Natural History Museum
The Shanghai Natural History Museum is an attractive place that made me feel part of the natural world. The museum, which covers over 44,000 square meters, houses various collections, including fossils of almost 290,000 species, such as dinosaurs, rare minerals, and unique plants. One highlight among them was the dinosaur models that were so life-like that they would bring back all prehistoric eras. Also, this institution uses modern technology in its operations by having designs such as interactive exhibitions and 4D movie theaters. It is a complete place—where adults and children can learn about nature and enjoy themselves—giving more than just information but ensuring that it becomes a memorable experience when visiting its facilities.
Where can I experience traditional Chinese culture in Shanghai?
Visiting Yu Garden (Yuyuan) in Shanghai will expose you to traditional Chinese culture. It is a classical Chinese garden reflecting the area’s rich history. Besides, the nearby City God Temple can give you a peek into local customs and religious practices. Additionally, getting lost in Tianzifang’s cultural streets or touring the Shanghai Museum, filled with ancient relics, gives one a deeper bond with traditional Chinese inheritance.
Visiting ancient temples in Shanghai
If you want to visit ancient temples in Shanghai, I suggest starting at the Jade Buddha Temple. This temple has beautiful jade Buddha statues and is very peaceful. The Longhua Temple is the oldest and largest temple of its kind in the city and offers a tranquil environment and a chance to witness traditional Buddhist rituals. An excellent option for those wanting something different from what they have experienced would be the Confucian Temple (Wen Miao), which allows you to delve into Confucian teachings and enjoy its tranquil, educated atmosphere. These temples represent Shanghai’s spiritual heritage and serve as an oasis from the bustling city life.
Exploring traditional Chinese gardens
Traditional Chinese gardens are landscape design masterpieces combining nature, art, and architecture into harmonious spaces that reflect philosophical and aesthetic ideals. Yuyuan Garden is one of the most famous examples in Shanghai. This is a classical garden that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. Spanning about five acres, the garden features distinct zones with rocks, ponds, pavilions, trees, and shrubs connected by meandering paths. The meticulous arrangement here epitomizes the notional element called “borrowed scenery,” where there is an unnoticeable unity between the garden compound and the outside world.
Among them are Taihu rocks, which have a spongy appearance and rugged edges; aquatic plants representing life’s sources; and gates of moons, just beautiful passages. Here, you can find pavilions or pagodas offering peaceful resting places for contemplating moments with their inscriptions written in poetry form. The artistic taste towards these horticultural landscapes highly values symmetry on one hand while displaying respect for natural beauty on another, making this feature an integral part of China’s history and culture.
The gardens are more than a beautiful experience; they enlighten visitors about Taoism, a traditional Chinese philosophy that values harmony and flow. The attractiveness exhibited in these spaces still fascinates tourists, regardless of whether it is Yuyuan Garden or other small hidden gems across Shanghai.
Immersing in local customs and traditions
Indeed, I have always found myself getting more knowledge from the local customs and traditions I have come into contact with. Such interactions enable me to better understand a society’s values and history, from participating in tea ceremonies, which are centuries-old cultural practices, to learning how to write in Chinese calligraphy. This is why whenever I am embarking on an exploration, I make sure that one of the things that I do first is to learn about the festivals’ etiquette or their dining habits. For instance, in China, presenting with both hands indicates respect has far-reaching implications. In such moments, real bonds form with societies, hence a deeper appreciation for their ways of life.
What are some unique day trips I can take from Shanghai?
There are numerous destinations surrounding Shanghai that someone can visit within a day, making the trip quite exceptional. One is Suzhou, often called the “Venice of the East” due to its picturesque canals, classical architecture, and historic gardens. Hangzhou is another suitable option where one can view and admire the beautiful West Lake, visit ancient temples, and drink Dragon Well tea, which has become famous across the globe. For something more traditional, one might want to consider Zhujiajiao; it is an old water village with stone bridges that charm you in their unique way, narrow roads, and tranquil settings. These voyages provide sneak peeks into a vibrant culture and unspoiled nature outside Shanghai’s busy urban panorama.
Exploring nearby water towns and ancient villages
An incredible way of getting a taste of the region’s history and charm is to explore the nearby water towns and ancient villages around Shanghai. For me, however, Suzhou is a must-visit water town with enchanting canals and classical gardens that deserve its title as ‘Venice in the East.’ Another one I have been to many times is Hangzhou, which has a relaxed West Lake surrounded by historic temples. Otherwise, if you need something quieter, consider Zhujiajiao – an old town that feels like going back in time with its narrow lanes, stone bridges, and peaceful atmosphere. All these towns provide unique perspectives on Shanghai’s historical richness.
Visiting the famous West Lake in Hangzhou
One of China’s most famous tourist areas is West Lake in Hangzhou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This lake stretches over an approximately 6.5 sq km area and has a shoreline length of about 15 km. It comprises five sections divided into three causeways: Su Causeway, Bai Causeway, and Yanggong Causeway. It has such iconic sites as Lingering Snow on the Broken Bridge, Leifeng Pagoda, and Ten Scenes of West Lake.
Every season has its beauty of the lake and a different ambiance. In spring, you can see flowers along winding paths; in summer, the lake is full of lotus blossoms. The autumn of West Lake is often tinged with gold, and in winter, one will find icy scenes. Boating slowly around the area, walking along its picturesque paths, or cycling around its well-maintained tracks are all ways visitors can explore the area.
West Lake has inspired poets and painters for centuries, making it a cultural icon symbolizing harmony between nature and man. One does not just go to West Lake for sightseeing but also to experience centuries-old historical monuments and art embedded amidst them.
Discovering the classical gardens of Suzhou
The Suzhou classical gardens are like pictures of life. I was impressed by their elaborate designs that combine traditional Chinese artistic tastes with natural settings. These gardens, such as the famous Humble Administrator’s Garden, Lingering Garden, and Master of Nets Garden, feature rocks, water bodies, plants, and pavilions perfectly arranged to create harmonious equilibrium within them all.
Every garden represents different ideas of Chinese garden design that are so eloquently captured in the garden’s proportion, perspective, and symbols, making every visit to it thoughtful and peaceful. For instance, the Humble Administrator’s Garden covers about 52,000 square meters and is characterized by curved waterways, lush vegetation, and intricate structures. On the other hand, Lingering Garden a UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its beautiful halls and corridors that enclose stunning views of its central pond and rocky landscapes.
These gardens are true masterpieces of Chinese landscape gardening, integrating space utilization concepts with capturing the essence of natural beauty. Suzhou’s classical gardens provide an exceptional chance to appreciate centuries of artistry and tradition. If you plan your visit and check operational hours, seasonal blooming schedules, and entry requirements, such details will significantly improve your experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are some unique things to do in the Shanghai Old Town?
A: Exploring Shanghai’s Old Town is a must for any visit to Shanghai. You can wander through narrow alleys, visit traditional tea houses, and explore the Yu Garden, a stunning example of classical Chinese garden design. Don’t miss the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar for authentic Chinese souvenirs and street food.
Q: What are the best day trips from Shanghai?
A: There are several excellent day trips from Shanghai. Popular options include visiting the ancient water towns of Zhujiajiao or Suzhou, which are known for their canals and traditional architecture. You can also visit Hangzhou to see the famous West Lake or the Lingyin Temple. These day trips offer a glimpse into the history and culture surrounding Shanghai.
Q: What are some fun things to do in the Shanghai French Concession?
A: The Shanghai French Concession is a charming area with interesting things to do. Stroll down tree-lined avenues, visit trendy cafes and boutiques, explore art galleries, or take a guided walk to learn about the area’s history. Don’t miss Tianzifang, a maze of alleyways filled with art studios, cafes, and unique shops.
Q: Is it worth visiting Shanghai Disneyland Park?
A: Yes, Shanghai Disneyland Park is worth a visit, especially if you’re traveling with family or are a Disney fan. It’s the largest Disney park in Asia and features unique attractions like the TRON Lightcycle Power Run and the Enchanted Storybook Castle. The park blends Chinese culture with Disney magic, offering a unique experience you won’t find at other Disneyland parks.
Q: What’s the best way to experience the Shanghai skyline?
A: To best experience the Shanghai skyline, visit the observation deck of the Shanghai Tower, the world’s second-tallest building. Take a nighttime river cruise on the Huangpu River for a different perspective. The Bund waterfront promenade also offers spectacular views of the Pudong skyline, especially when lit up at night.
Q: What are some hidden gems in Shanghai that tourists often miss?
A: Some hidden gems in Shanghai include the Propaganda Poster Art Centre, which offers a unique look at China’s recent history; the 1933 Slaughterhouse, an Art Deco architectural marvel now home to shops and restaurants; and the Jing’an Sculpture Park, a peaceful green space filled with modern art. Also, consider visiting the lesser-known water town of Qibao, within the city limits of Shanghai.
Q: What’s the best time to visit Shanghai?
A: The best time to visit Shanghai is spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the city and its surroundings. If you want to experience the essence of Shanghai during a festive time, consider visiting during Chinese New Year (usually in January or February), but be prepared for large crowds and potential business closures.
Q: Are there any unique shows or performances to see in Shanghai?
A: One of the most popular and unique performances is the show at Shanghai Circus World. The ERA Intersection of Time show combines traditional Chinese acrobatics with modern technology for a breathtaking experience. Another option is to catch a performance at the Shanghai Acrobatic Theatre or enjoy a traditional Chinese opera at the Yifu Theatre.
Q: What are some interesting things to do around Shanghai for technology enthusiasts?
A: Technology enthusiasts will enjoy riding the Shanghai Maglev train, one of the fastest commercial trains in the world. You can also visit the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum or the Shanghai Auto Museum. For a futuristic shopping experience, check out the high-tech shops in the Lujiazui area of Pudong. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the skyscrapers of Shanghai up close, many of which showcase cutting-edge architectural technology.