Shanghai, known for its traditions and modernity, is indeed a breathtaking destination, captivating travelers from all over the globe. Highlighted by its iconic and stunning skyline, rich history, and vibrant culture, Shanghai blends modern experiences with traditional ones in an unbelievable manner that caters to every individual. This list of fifteen attractions is set for 2025 and assists in the most astounding landmarks and new developments compared to other places in the worth-it part of the city. It does not matter if the urban informal traveler or the civilized history professional, the jaw-dropping, carefully placed places illustrate the finest of Shanghai. Prepare yourself to experience the incredible sides of an ever-evolving city.
What are the top attractions along The Bund?
How can you best experience the iconic Shanghai skyline?
To truly enjoy the historic Shanghai skyline, aim to go in the evening when skyscrapers are lit up. The Bund boardwalk gives you an unhindered view of the city’s most beautiful structures, including the Shanghai Tower, Oriental Pearl Tower, and Jin Mao Tower. You can also consider a cruise on the Huangpu River, which lets you see the breathtaking skyline from the water. Things to keep in mind are:
Timing: The buildings’ light displays are active between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., so aim to visit around that time.
Photography Gear: A wide-angle camera (ideally 24mm or below) is necessary, and a tripod should be used to increase stability at night.
Weather Conditions: The skies should be clear so that the buildings’ reflections and lights can be seen perfectly.
Cruise Duration: Most cruises take about 45-60 minutes, giving sufficient time to enjoy the views from various locations.
To improve your experience, plan in advance by avoiding the peak times, which are early weekdays and nighttime.
What historical buildings can you see on The Bund?
Hundreds of historical buildings that mark specific events are on The Bund and come with distinct architectures. Following are some examples of such buildings:
HSBC Building (No. 12, The Bund): Considered one of the most sumptuous banks in the Far East, the neoclassical-style HSBC Building, with its domes and frilly interiors, was completed in 1923.
Custom House (No. 13, The Bund): Constructed in 1927, the Custom House stands out for its clock tower with the most enormous clock in Asia. It represents neo – renaissance art.
Peace Hotel (No. 20, The Bund): Renowned for its Art Deco style architecture and the stunning view of the Huangpu River from its roof gardening, the Peace Hotel especially stands out due to its original name, Cathay Hotel, given upon construction in 1929.
Bank of China Building (No. 23, The Bund): The Bank of China building, completed in 1937, showcases the perfect mix of modern and traditional Chinese architecture. It depicts symmetry and functionality.
These buildings highlight Shanghai’s colonial past and represent the city’s everchanging vibrant history.
Where to find the best Huangpu River cruises?
Huangpu River cruises are best experienced at the Shiliupu Wharf or Pearl of the Orient Wharf, the primary docking area. While cruising through Shanghai’s magnificent skyline, tourists can choose from a budget-friendly cruise to a luxurious cruise of their preference. Cruises span 45 minutes to 2 hours and are available in the afternoon and evening. Evening cruises are a favorite because of the breathtaking views of The Bund and Lujiazui during the night.
Estimated Time: 45 minutes to 2 hours
Schedule: Afternoon and evening; shifts in popularity around sunset
Ticket Prices: Generally ¥100-300, depending on the level of cruise service.
Tourist Information: Breathtaking panoramic views of historic buildings on the Bund and modern skyscrapers in Pudong, as well as landmark descriptions, food, and non-alcoholic beverages.
As with almost every other location, booking in advance is always a suggestion during peak seasons to guarantee ideal time slots and better overall experiences.
Which Pudong skyscrapers offer the best views of Shanghai?
Is the Shanghai Tower observation deck worth visiting?
The Shanghai Tower observation deck, located on the 118th floor of the Shanghai Tower, is worth visiting for anyone hoping to enjoy impressive views and a novel experience. It is 561 meters (1,840 feet) high and provides visitors with unique, never-before-seen views of the city, including its famous historic and modern skyscrapers.
Height: 561 meters (1,840 feet) – The highest observation deck in the globe
Elevator Speed: The elevators are the most rapid worldwide, reaching up to 20.5m per second (74 kilometers per hour), offering visitors an exceptionally pleasurable trip.
Design: Semi-cylindrical glass view panels offer significant interaction with the displays explaining the history and skyline of Shanghai.
Additional Highlights: Restaurants facilities, exuberant galleries, and chances to see one of the prominent masterpieces of architecture in China
Shanghai Tower’s observation deck offers extraordinary sights and advanced facilities for tourists and architecture lovers, making it unmissable.
What’s unique about the Oriental Pearl TV Tower?
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower, defined by its unique architecture, features eleven spheres of differing diameters connected by three vertical columns. This singular construction incorporates innovation, functionality, and design. It is still regarded as a main symbol of Shanghai, and at 468 meters, it was once the tallest building in China.
Height: 468 meters (1,535 feet)
Observation Levels: Multiple. The highest sphere, at 351 meters, provides stunning city views.
Revolving Restaurant: Uniquely positioned at 267 meters, which makes for a memorable dining experience.
Broadcasting Function: It also serves an aesthetic purpose as it can transmit television and radio signals.
The combination of cultural scope, advanced technology, and multifunctionality makes the Oriental Pearl TV Tower an incredible masterpiece of architecture.
How do you choose between Shanghai World Financial Center and Jin Mao Tower?
Your priorities will determine whether you prefer the Shanghai World Financial Center or Jin Mao Tower.
Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC): Referred to as the SWFC, it has set a height record of 492 meters owing to its modern construction style and a trapezoidal notch at the peak. It has an advanced observation deck, which can be found on the 100th floor, and is positioned at 474 meters. The views from here are panoramic and breathtaking. For people looking for a high-tech contemporary experience, the SWFC has advanced facilities and a luxurious shopping mall making it ideal.
Jin Mao Tower: At 420.5 meters in height, Jin Mao Tower combines modern engineering with traditional Chinese architecture. Its observation deck on the 88th floor at 340 meters offers fantastic city views and an excellent perspective. The tower also accommodates the Grand Hyatt Hotel, which adds elegant cultural heritage for those fond of luxury and history.
SWFC is the perfect option for anyone seeking a contemporary and high-tech experience. People who admire heritage and classic elegance may choose Jin Mao Tower.
What are the must-visit places in the French Concession?
Why is Tianzifang a popular attraction for tourists?
With a combination of culture, history, and modern creativity, Tianzifang is a vibrant and artistic hub, making it a tourist hotspot. It is located within the former French Concession. This appealing tourist attraction specializes in narrow alleyways filled with traditional Shikumen architecture reminiscent of Shanghai’s historical heritage. Across the alleyways are chic coffee shops, eclectic boutiques, and exquisite restaurants that serve a fusion of mouth-watering delicacies, giving tourists a delightful taste of modern Shanghai energy mixed with old-world charm.
Another reason tourists flock to Tianzifang is the elite artistic and cultural experiences it provides. From handmade crafts to modern art pieces, local designers showcase their work here. As a melting pot of cultures, Shanghai enables tourists to buy various galleries and shops featuring traditional Chinese art and unique souvenirs. The captivating alleyways open the tourists to new, quirky, and delightful designs that reflect the rapid cultural evolution of Shanghai.
In an efficient scenario, Tianzifang combines pickup charm with convenience. It is situated in Luwan District (now part of Huangpu District) and can be reached by Line 9 of the Shanghai Metro at Dapuqiao Station, so it is within easy reach for tourists. Furthermore, it has a lively gastronomic reputation. Be it real Chinese food, foreign dishes, or fusion food, there is something for everyone in Tianzifang’s restaurants and cafes. The mingling of history, art, and cuisine never fails to make Tianzifang a favorite spot for locals and foreign tourists.
What unique experiences does Xintiandi offer?
From what I observed, Xintiandi combines the modern spirit of Shanghai with its history, which forms a stunning perspective. While strolling on the car-free roads, I couldn’t help but appreciate the magnificently refurbished Shikumen buildings containing upscale retail stores, fashionable eateries, and energetic nightclubs. The ease with which old decorative style and modern features were combined was astonishing. This area has a rich history but is equally attractive for rest and entertainment.
The region is conveniently located if we consider the criteria from a structural point of view. Xintiandi is easily accessible for locals and visitors alike through the Xintiandi Metro Station on Lines 10 and 13. Moreover, the layout supports green movement through well-built roadways for a user-friendly, peaceful, and secure walk. These features and particular designs make Xintiandi unique and attractive.
Where to find the best-hidden gems in the French Concession?
Looking for unique places in the French Concession is an adventure in itself. One of my favorite places to visit is Fuxing Park. Fuxing Park is in the middle of the busy streets and has a mix of French and Chinese-style landscaping. It is a peaceful park. It is best to visit early in the morning when locals practice Tai Chi or ballroom dancing, capturing a moment of their daily life. The other plus point is that Fuxing Park is located not far from Jiashan Road Metro Station on Line 9, which makes it both valuable and enjoyable.
Yongkang Road is another one of my favorite spots, which is a bit less known, but it is still a gem at the center of the concession. Yongkang Road is no longer known for having vibrant nightlife, instead it is calmer now, filled with beautiful boutique stores and cafes. The combination of modern and traditional architecture gives a cozy feel to the area, and the richness of diverse cuisines available from all around the world makes it even better. The South Shaanxi Road Metro Station on Lines 1 or 10 is close by, making this place easy to access for tourists and, more importantly, easy to fit into one’s itinerary.
Finally, I suggest visiting Tianzifang, a complex of small corridors filled with boutique shops, art studios, and small restaurants that emanate the charm of the French Concession. The area is beautifully decorated with shikumen architecture, showcasing Shanghai’s heritage. Positioned next to Dapuqiao Metro Station on Line 9, this area is well-connected and provides an enjoyable combination of the past and modern culture. Together, these places round off your trip, steeped in the history and vibrance of modern-day Shanghai.
How to make the most of your visit to Yu Garden and Old Shanghai?
What are the highlights of Yu Garden’s classical Chinese architecture?
The Yu Garden is decorated with a classic Chinese architectural style, which combines magnificence, culture, and detailed workmanship. There is a carefully crafted pavilion as the main attraction, each with lavish engravings and detailed roofed edges. The fully tiled and elegant curved roof eaves serve as an artistic and rational purpose of the building. Using stone and timberworks further ties the garden with nature, fostering a peaceful tranquility. Although these materials have exquisite decor intertwined, demonstrating the skill of Chinese civil engineering in the early days.
The garden’s distinctive element is its rockeries, which are intentionally stacked to resemble accurate topography. The rockeries are made from tailored blocks obtained from Taihu Lake because of their stunning shapes and surficial designs. These block-shaped stones, in combination with the dynamic water feature, demonstrate the artistic skill of feng shui that influences the engineer’s disasters of the garden. The positioning of the stones follows algorithms that capture the energetic withering speed of the flow and stability. The aim is an effortlessly easy, quiet, and relaxing environment that, when harmonized, falls larger than the limits of its bounds.
The segmentation of spaces in Yu Garden may be the most interesting of all, which is further enhanced by using columns, doors, lattice windows, and screen walls. These features give glimpses of beautiful gardens, ponds, and buildings outside, contributing to the intricate illusion of space. This space arrangement is characteristic of the traditional Chinese art of hiding and revealing simultaneously. The garden reflects the symmetry of geomantic and artistic structural design and the equal integration of architectural elements with natural features. All these aspects combine to make the Yu Garden a classical Chinese architectural masterpiece and the embodiment of the philosophy and craftsmanship of an epoch.
Where can you find the best street food in Old Shanghai?
One of the Old Shangaï most excellent spots for tasting street foods is the Chenghuang Miao (City God Temple) area. This ancient part of the city next to Yu Garden is famous for its traditional snacks. While walking the narrow streets, you can find many food stalls selling local delicacies like shengjian bao (pan-fried soup dumplings), jianbing (savory crepes), and tanghulu (candied hawthorn sticks). The people, the freshly made dishes, and the excellent food choices make this place a food lover’s paradise.
The food-cooking processes in Chenghuang Miao can be succinctly explained from the Shanghainese traditional cooking techniques that have developed over the years. Take the case of shengjian bao, one of the best-known Chinese dumplings, which requires careful control of the oil temperature during frying for a perfect crisp golden base that does not compromise on the soft dough and the delicious, rich, and savory soup within. Similarly, nothing less than ideal timing will do for Tanghulu if the syrup coats the fruit while allowing sufficient tartness to dominate for balance. These methods are timeless, just like the aesthetic balance and care seen in Yu Garden. The attention to detail in these dishes is a testament to the region’s rich culture.
What makes this experience particularly unique is how it complements the culinary exploration. Old Shanghai is a region with a mix of architecture and cultural beauty. The enjoyment of classic Chinese gardens, such as Yu Garden, can be compared to savoring the finesse and texture of crafted street food. Both are parts of a multi-sensory experience, be it the savoring taste of street food or the visual enjoyment of a gorgeously cultivated garden. This combination of cultural landmarks and food makes Old City rich in history and food while showcasing the exquisite skills and traditions of an earlier age.
How do you explore the nearby Yuyuan Bazaar?
To visit Yuyuan Bazaar, which is located nearby, I typically enter through the main gate and take in the sights of the bustling shops and cultural beauty around me. My strategy here is to take things slow, as the bazaar has many sights, sounds, and experiences that all need to be leisurely and carefully explored. I concentrate my visits on specialty shops selling handmade crafts, artwork, and souvenirs representing the region’s art and customs. These shops helped me learn more about local craftsmanship, and I have done my best to appreciate their importance for a long time.
About food, I try my best to sample the popular snacks and dishes the bazaar has to offer. For example, I usually go directly to the dumpling places that serve Xiaolongbao, one of the famous specialties in the area. I analyze how the steaming of these dumplings enhances their taste, considering factors like the portion size, quality of the ingredients, and how long they take to prepare. If I have extra time, I attempt to sample some popular street food options like stinky tofu or penghulu (candied fruit on a stick), which are very flavorful and texturally complex. These gastronomic highlights further enrich my trip.
To maximize the technical and cultural experience, I pay attention to practical things such as time and how easy it is to get to certain places. Most people tend to avoid visiting the bazaar during early morning hours or on weekdays, so this is when I like to see. I also use local maps or GPS to identify particular points of interest, including tea shops or stalls with antiques. Since some vendors do not accept credit cards or digital payments, I make it a point to carry enough cash. The combination of actively engaging with the local culture while strategically planning the logistics of the excursion makes traversing the Yuyuan Bazaar very easy and enjoyable.
What are the top museums and cultural attractions in Shanghai?
Why is the Shanghai Museum a must-visit for history buffs?
The museum is a treasure for historians, with more than 120,000 artifacts documenting thousands of years of Chinese history. Situated in the center of People’s Square, it is famous for preserving and exhibiting China’s elaborate cultural heritage. Its architectural edifice is shaped like a Chinese ding, an ancient cooking vessel representing contemporary culture and ancient history. Hence, the museum is a cultural landmark in Shanghai.
There are 10 galley marking themes, ho each describing a particular chapter of Chinese history and art, and had the Ancient Bronze Gallery for Jades’ ceremonial vessels and of Shang and Zhou Dynasties, the two Gold and Silver Smithing, the calligraphy Gallery and Painting Gallery of China Studios. Also, there is the gallery of Ceramics with jackdaw-like porcelain and pottery dated to the Neolithic period and imperial epoch. Alongside these is a gallery of Jade venerating jade in Chinese culture for thousands of years as a pure stone for the spirit. Through these galleries, these craftsmen with abilities are unrolled in history, with qualities and civilization advancements of the time.
The museum’s modern facilities, including temperature-controlled display cases that preserve artifacts and modern multilingual interactive audio guides, enhance the visitor experience. The typically free admission fee promotes accessibility to local and international visitors. Combined with the expert curation and educational value offered, the Shanghai Museum’s rich collection is unmatched. It serves as a quintessential approach for visitors wishing to learn about the history and arts of China deeply.
What makes the China Art Museum unique?
Regarding its architectural and cultural symbolism, the China Art Museum, located in the China Pavilion during the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, is unlike any other. The structure itself looks like an inverted pyramid with bold red paint, which makes it blend seamlessly with traditional Chinese aesthetics. This building style serves as a monument to age-old wooden structures in China and represents harmony and power, making it a tourist area.
The museum is among the largest in Asia because it collects contemporary Chinese artworks and cultural artifacts. Some of its features include the “Shanghai Impression” exhibit, which integrates multimedia art into its galleries to portray the history of urban culture in Shanghai. Furthermore, the museum carries exceptional works by renowned contemporary Chinese artists and has sections for animation, video photography, and video art masterpieces, displaying innovation and catering to varied interests.
The advanced technologies adopted by the museum add to its distinctiveness. Its exhibition halls have unique lights and climate control features to safeguard the fragile artworks. Artworks may be experienced on large digital screens or through virtual reality technology, where a more interactive approach is encouraged. Furthermore, the museum is remarkably easy to access as it fosters public engagement by providing free entry and support in multiple languages for international guests and tourists, thereby setting the museum as a global center for art and culture.
How do you plan your visit to the Shanghai Natural History Museum?
To plan a visit to the Shanghai Natural History Museum, it is essential to check their official website for the best information concerning operational hours, cost of tickets, and latest exhibitions. The museum is open from 9 am to 5: 15 pm, the last entry is at 4: 30 pm, and it is closed on Mondays except for national holidays. Admission is usually reasonably priced, while students, children, and seniors qualify for discounts.
You should also consider planning your schedule around the key exhibits and areas you want to see, such as the Dinosaur Hall, Evolution Gallery, and immersive Rainforest Experience. The museum is large, so be ready to spend at least 3-4 hours there. Also, don’t forget to enable the mobile app or audio guides, which greatly enrich the experience with detailed information and interactive maps.
Lastly, remember to dress comfortably and bring comforting necessities like water, especially on weekends or holidays when the museum is bound to get crowded. Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long waiting lines.
What are the best family-friendly attractions in Shanghai?
How do you plan your visit to Shanghai Disneyland?
Organizing a trip to Shanghai Disneyland needs prior planning if you want the best out of your experience. Look into purchasing tickets ahead of time and do it online to guarantee entry, especially during peak seasons like holidays or weekends. Select a date that correlates with your timetable, and think about looking at the park’s calendar for special events or anticipated crowd levels. The general advice is to arrive at least slightly earlier than the scheduled opening times, however rides are operated, as gates to the park tend to open in advance of the actual ride operations.
Use the app available for Shanghai Disneyland to get an interactive map and ride wait times so you can familiarize yourself with the park’s layout. For people interested and have specific preferences in attractions, it could be TRON Lightcycle Power Run, Pirates of the Caribbean – Battle for the Sunken Treasure, or even meet and greets for Disney characters. Further, the Disney Premier Access service can cut down the Disney character meet and greet lines for the rides.
Ensure sunscreen and snacks are in your bag, as those are essentials. Remember that outside food is restricted. Dress appropriately for the weather and be comfortable walking. To conclude, anonymous budgeting is necessary for souvenirs, and the park also has plenty of food items to spend money on so you can have a good time there.
What makes the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium unique?
As one of the world’s most modern and stunning aquariums, the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium presents an underwater experience that is second to none. The aquarium’s most remarkable feature is the world’s longest underwater tunnel, which is more than 155 meters (508 feet) long. The tunnel enables a walk through different immersive aquatic environments with a whopping 270-degree view of various marine organisms, some of which are from the coastal reefs, open oceans, and even deep-sea ecosystems. One of the most captivating aspects of this tunnel is that it is divided into several distinct zones, each representing specific ecosystems. This provides deep educational value in an awe-inspiring manner.
The focus on biodiversity conservation is another distinct feature of the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, in tandem with the many exotic animals on display. Focusing on marine animals alone, the aquarium has over 15000 creatures from over 450 unique species. The overarching exhibitors are divided into nine zones, thematically catering to the Yangtze River, South American rainforests, Antarctica, and Africa. These zones allow the observation of incredible animals such as the Chinese giant salamander, weedy seadragons, and even the African penguins. This unified approach will enable people to appreciate the beauty of the ocean while raising attention to the conservation of the environment around the globe.
Moreover, the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium employs cutting-edge technology to improve visitors’ experience while ensuring their animals’ well-being. The center incorporates advanced filtration systems to ensure water remains at the desired temperature and quality. Guests can interact with the marine world through guided tours and multimedia presentations and appreciate the struggles of preserving aquatic ecosystems. These features, combined with integrated architecture and location in the center of Shanghai, make the ocean aquarium popular among tourists and residents interested in marine life.
Why is People’s Square an excellent spot for families?
People’s Square in Shanghai is great for family excursions because it offers recreational, cultural, and educational options in one location. Its green areas—including parks and gardens—allow families to unwind and have fun with their children as they interact and enjoy the fresh air outdoors. The square is conveniently located in the city’s heart, making it easy for families to access anytime.
The square’s highlights include its nearness to other family-centered sites. The Shanghai History Museum, located inside People’s Square, is immensely engaging for almost every family member because of its history and interactive displays, making different aspects of the city’s history come alive. Families can admire the renowned Shanghai Museum next to the square, which has many Chinese artworks and handicrafts that would incredibly motivate and educate the children. For even more fun, the nearby Shanghai Grand Theatre also often puts on shows for the whole family, making it possible to enjoy a family outing while appreciating cultural education.
In addition, the surrounding amenities at People’s Square are family-friendly. Numerous restaurants cater to the diverse tastes of both adults and children. Another appealing aspect is transportation; the square is a transit hub fully equipped with multiple metro lines, making it easy for families to travel. All these factors make People’s Square an ideal place for families visiting Shanghai to have fun and learn simultaneously.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Which attractions are the most famous ones in Shanghai?
A: There is a significant number of marvelous places that can be visited, such as Bund and Yu Garden, which are some of the top places to visit in Shanghai, while the oriental pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Nanjing Road are also alluring places to visit. Tourists should see these monuments because they combine the spectacular modern buildings of the city with the spirit of traditional Chinese fare.
Q: Should I see the Jade Buddha Temple?
A: Yes, the Jade Buddha Temple is one of a kind in China. It is a primary point of interest and tourism and includes two unique jade-filled Buddha statues. Visitors also gain insight into how traditional Chinese Buddhism operates. Locals and tourists also visit because of the temple’s beautiful atmosphere and intricate architectural work.
Q: Where can I go for some nice trips from Shanghai for the day?
A: Shanghai has several fantastic places to visit for day trips. Zhujiajio is the most prominent as it is a well-known water town with old channels surrounded by classical Chinese buildings, adding to its charm. The other two optional cities are Suzhou, known for its beautiful garden, and Hangzhou, home to the stunning West Lake.
Q: What is Nanjing Road and what makes it worth visiting?
A: Nanjing Road is incredibly famous in Shanghai. It is the number one shopping street and one of the busiest areas in China. Nanjing Road is a must-visit for all shopping lovers, as it has many stores, from luxurious brands to local shops. Even if spending money isn’t on your agenda, you can walk along this road, which gives a snapshot of Shanghai’s urban life and consumerism.
Q: Which parks offer the best recreational opportunities in Shanghai?
A: If you wish to escape the daily hustle and bustle of Shanghai, the city is home to several beautiful parks that will serve you greatly. People’s Square, Fuxing Park, and Century Park are some of the top choices. These parks are beautifully maintained with a combination of Chinese and Western landscaping. They also offer people watching, tai chi playing, and relaxing in the center of nature.
Q: What is remarkable about the Bund, and when is the prime time to be there?
A: The Bund is a notable waterfront region in Shanghai. From across the Huangpu River, one can enjoy the sight of the Lujiazui skyline. The Bund features several historic buildings with different architectural designs. The best time to visit is at sunset or night when the buildings on either side of the river are lit up. A walk along the Bund is one of the must-do things in Shanghai.
Q: Would it be better to tour Shanghai, or would it not be more beneficial to explore the city alone?
A: Although it depends on the preference, both sides of the argument are acceptable. Using a guided Shanghai tour helps tourists understand the city’s history and culture more as they are able to understand more of the city’s major attractions within a short period. However, when exploring alone, a tourist has more room to be creative and can come across many unknown places. Think about how you prefer to travel, how much time you have, and what you would like to focus on to choose between a guided tour and self-exploration.
Q: What less-frequented activities can one indulge in while in Shanghai?
A: One could visit the M50 Art District to view modern Chinese art, sign up for a cooking class focused on Shanghai’s cuisine, or stroll around the former French Concession with its beautiful tree-lined streets. There are many things to do in Shanghai. One could also explore the Shanghai Museum to learn about Chinese history and art or go for a pleasant stroll around Old Town, an area with traditional lane houses and local activities.