Shanghai is a unique blend of contemporary development and rich cultural traditions. The city is loaded with memories waiting to be cherished. Tourists worldwide and in various regions flock to the town to see modern enterprises and ancient temples. No matter which part of the world you come from, Shanghai has something in store for everyone. If you are a tourist looking to sample exotic food, eat in world-class restaurants, a history buff wanting to unearth the stories of the past, or a shopaholic seeking new and sophisticated shopping centers, this guide will help you. You can find stores in the very high tendon where world-famous brands have their flagship stores. Shanghai will also offer you cultural treats, such as palaces and temples, where you can witness century-old traditions. The ultimate bucket list guide where you can find out the stars of world charts that visit Shanghai and appreciate the view from their skyscraper residences. These and many other hidden gems are in the proper vertical city of the East.
What are the Top Attractions in Shanghai?
Exploring the Bund: A Must-See Landmark
The Bund is an iconic place in the western portion of the Huangpu River and is one of Shanghai’s most well-known sites of interest. It consists of a remarkable concoction of modern and old architecture, with 52 buildings in different styles, such as Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco. Tourists can take long walks on the promenade, which has amazing views of the Pudong skyline and the wonders within it, like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower.
Location: Zhongshan East 1st Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
Importance: Historical showcase of architecture combined with Shanghai’s modern skyline
The best time to visit is in the evening when the skyline twinkles with lights.
Activities: Tours on foot, photo shoots, sightseeing by yacht on the Huangpu river
Accessibility: It can be reached easily through Metro Line 2 or Line 10 at the East Nanjing Road Station.
The band captures the spirit of the city, preserving its old and futuristic vision while making it an unrivaled place for tourists visiting the city.
Visiting the Shanghai Tower: The Tallest Skyscraper
The Shanghai Tower is one of the most famous tourist attractions in China. It boasts 128 stories and a total height of 632 meters (2,073 Feet) from the ground surface. Apart from being the second tallest structure in the world, the Shanghai Tower has a unique torsional feature that aids in symbolizing high-level technological advancement.
Height: 632 meters (2,073 feet)
Floors: 128
Architectural Design: Twisting form with a 120° rotation to improve wind resistance.
Elevators: Ultramodern elevators with a lift speed of 20.5 meters per second.
Whether you fancy looking at picturesque views or are fascinated by modern technology, the Shanghai Tower is an unmatched experience that boasts unrivaled technology and views.
Discovering the Oriental Pearl Tower
The Oriental Pearl Tower is one of the most stunning attractions in Shanghai. It serves as a masterpiece of architectural beautification and has several diversions. At 468 meters tall, it is the fifth tallest in the world and one of the tallest in China. It possesses 11 spheres, of which the largest, the lower sphere, is 50 meters in diameter while the upper sphere is 45 meters, both of which are supported by three enormous columns.
It serves as both a broadcast center and an observation point, with the observation decks, in particular, being the glass deck at 259 meters and the upper deck at 351 meters. They allow for an astounding view of Shanghai. At 267 meters, the tower has a revolving restaurant and a history museum. All of these features make it a multifaceted destination. The top also seems to have relocated bad weather, as it does not collapse under powerful winds or seismic activity, and it has survived earthquakes of up to 7 magnitudes on the Richter scale.
The Tower and all of its features guarantee to make your visit extraordinary, whether that is through panoramic views, rich cultural showcases, or outstanding dining experiences.
How to Experience Traditional Culture in Shanghai?
Visiting the Jade Buddha Temple
As part of the Taoist Culture Center of Shanghai, the Jade Buddha Temple encapsulates the essence of Chinese Buddhism and spirituality for tourists. Established in 1882, the temple is known for housing two jade Buddha statues brought from Myanmar. One of the sitting Buddhas is a stunning piece weighing a tonne carved from a single slab of white jade. At a height of 190 cm, this masterpiece symbolizes calmness and serenity, embodying the qualities of peace and wisdom.
Visitors admire the temple’s stately construction, which combines a classical Chinese touch with tranquil spiritual elements. Besides the statues, the temple has several halls adorned with historical relics and scriptures, which serves as an insightful point of interest for tourists wanting to learn more about the culture and history of China. With the proper guidelines and structure, the temple is an authentic place for the endless admirers of history and culture.
Discovering the Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum preserves and displays pieces of art and history from China’s past, which are of great value to the culture. It is an architectural magnificence located at the center of Shanghai in People’s Square. It represents the Chinese philosophy of “‘Heaven is round; Earth is square” through its circular dome and square base. The museum has an astonishing area of 39,000 square meters, which includes 11 permanent galleries, some of which are dedicated to the Chinese heritage culture and artifacts.
Some main galleries include bronze, sculpture, jade, ceramics, ancient coins, calligraphy, and more. With more than 400 masterpieces from the Shang and Zhou dynasties, the Ancient Bronze Gallery demonstrates the early stages of metallurgy in China. In the same way, the Ceramics Gallery has a historical journey from Neolithic pottery to refined Ming and Qing dynasty porcelain. The museum’s extensive collection of over 120,000 artifacts provides a glimpse of China’s cultural and artistic achievements through the centuries. Each exhibit is carefully labeled and accompanied by descriptive texts to give visitors the best educational experience.
With modern technologies such as multimedia guides and interactive screens, the Shanghai Museum can make such visits pleasant and relaxed. For those wishing to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese history and art, the museum also offers guided tours. Entry to the museum is free, but visitors are advised to come early due to high demand, and there’s a cap on how many visitors the museum can accept each day. The Shanghai Museum combines history, art, and technology – making it a must-visit place for anyone wanting to discover the crux of China’s heritage and civilization.
Exploring the Ancient Water Town of Zhujiajiao
Zhujiajiao, commonly called the ‘Venice of Shanghai,’ is a water town famous for ancient buildings alongside serene canals. The town’s history is believed to stretch for over 1,700 years and is cherished for its beautiful stone bridges, traditional buildings, and quiet waterways. Tourists can visit beautiful sites like the Fangsheng Bridge, one of Zhujiajiao’s largest stone bridges, or the Kezhi Garden, which features classical Chinese landscaping incorporated into it.
Visitors can also enjoy the experience by taking boat rides along the canals, shopping for local crafts and souvenirs, and trying out street snacks and dishes offered by the vendors. The pricing of certain attractions differs. However, general access to the town is often free. Due to its peacefulness, Zhujiajiao is an ideal place to escape from the busy city life while allowing tourists to experience Jiangnan culture.
Where to Go for Shopping in Shanghai?
Nanjing Road: The Ultimate Shopping Street
One of the most renowned shopping avenues in Shanghai is the Nanjing Road, where different types of shopping are offered all under one roof. This street is divided into two sections: East Nanjing Road and West Nanjing Road. The East section is a lively thoroughfare populated with department stores, souvenir shops, and traditional diners entertaining shoppers looking for affordable and amazing deals. The more luxurious side of Nanjing Road caters to high-level shoppers as it boasts flagship stores, Louis Vuitton and Chanel, and other luxury brands, which range from high-end boutiques to different stores.
Length: Over 5 kilometers, stretching from The Bund to Jing’an Temple.
Operating Hours: A 10-hour opening window from 10 a.m. is optimal for various explorations, as most stores close by 10 p.m.
Transportation: Public transport is recommended (Metro Lines 2 and 10 serve East Nanjing Road Station, while Lines 2, 7, and 14 serve West Nanjing Road Station).
Atmosphere: More of a modern worldly setting, West Nanjing Road is more exclusive compared to East Nanjing Road.
On Nanjing Road, everyone can find what they desire, from ancient beauty to prestigious galas, which makes this road essential for any tourist in Shanghai.
Exploring Local Markets in the Former French Concession
The Former French Concession boasts markets that trump all others due to their striking historical beauty and depth of local culture. Some of these are Tianzifang and Xiangyang Flower and Bird Market.
Tianzifang: This market is a great place to shop for artistic boutique pieces and any craft or souvenir from China. Charming old alleys resembling Shikumen-style are extant in the area, providing tourists with a whole immersion experience.
Xiangyang Flower and Bird Market: This market is quite the sight, bursting with incredibly diverse offerings of potted plants, flowers, and exotic pets. It is a must-visit for anybody who is fond of flora and looking for treasures.
In their unique ways, both markets showcase the creative and cultural essence of the Former French Concession, representing the spirit of Shanghai and innovation. Whether stomping for ideas or searching for rare finds, these markets will surely spark inspiration.
What to Find in Tianzifang’s Boutique Shops?
Brimmed with an array of eclectic offerings, the boutique shops Tianzifang musters up to make it a heaven for shoppers and explorers. Visitors can expect local artistry in handcrafted souvenirs, home decor, and enticing souvenirs. Silk goods, hand-painted porcelain, and various ceramic merchandise are particularly popular among tourists. Local artists always enhance the products’ charm and originality, further adapted by the local culture.
Modern fashion enthusiasts do not have to look further; Tianzifang has some indie stores that blend contemporary pieces with Chinese tradition, making them more appealing. Unique and limited pieces of jewelry, embroidered fabrics, and stylish accessories are often found in mainstream outlets. Those who craft for this specific boutique put a lot of thought into every piece, pulling the strings on sustainable craftsmanship by integrating eco-friendly materials and production techniques.
Art does not only live in galleries; the alleys of Tianzifang are known to hold cultural and culinary treasures. Famous local and foreign artists exhibit contemporary and traditional art in shielded galleries for tourists. One can obtain original paintings, prints, and sculptures for a personal and memorable fragment of the local creative spirit. To fully grasp the essence of Shanghai’s valuable art, culture, and skill mash-up, venturing to boutique shops Straitfab is a must for any traveler.
What Family-Friendly Attractions Are in Shanghai?
A Day at Shanghai Disneyland
My relatives and I found Shanghai Disneyland fun, enjoyable, and exciting. It’s a fabulous attraction that is friendly to families with children of all ages. The park effortlessly caters to older children and adults’ preferences with exciting rides such as the Tron Light Cycle Power Run. In contrast, younger ones are enthralled with Pirates of the Caribbean and the Enchanted Storybook Castle. For our family, meet-and-greets with the Disney characters were unique as they made the kids’ fantasies come true.
Another parameter one should pay attention to is the park’s capacity. Shanghai Disneyland is approximately 963 acres, thus making it the largest Disney park in the world by area. Ideally, managing crowds with the official app while purchasing tickets early and getting Disney Premier Access for coveted rides is best to maximize waiting times. Given the millions of people that visit annually, it is best to try to visit during the week or off-peak season to improve the experience. These measures enabled us to appreciate the magic without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Exploring the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium
Visiting the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium was both fun and educational. It is located in Pudong, and it has an extensive collection of marine life from all over the world in themed zones like the China Zone, Polar Zone, and Deep Ocean Zone. One of the must-see highlights is the longest underwater tunnel in the world, which is 155 meters long. It offers unparalleled views of various marine worlds.
In order to make the most out of our visit, we bought tickets in advance, saving us time on the day as we were not required to wait in extensive lines to gain entry. We also scheduled our weekday visit for the middle of the day, which helped us avoid large crowds. For those interested, the aquarium s operating hours are typically from 9 AM to 6 PM with tickets priced around 160 RMB for adults. Everything from the attention to detail to the stunning exhibits and sharks makes this aquarium the best place for marine enthusiasts and families.
Fun at the Shanghai World Financial Center Observation Deck
The Shanghai World Financial Center Observation Deck was an incredible experience that captivated me. Before our visit, I ensured we ordered tickets online because the observation deck gets crowded, especially on weekends. The prices for a360 360-degree ticket were reasonable, at 180RMB a head, which is understandable considering the views and the overall experience. As a bonus, we could view the city during the day and the night at sunset, which was truly fascinating.
At an elevation of 474 meters, the observation deck is located on the 100th floor and is well known in china for being among the highest. In combination with seeing skyscrapers all over Shanghai, like The Bund and the Oriental Pearl Tower, through the glass-floored skywalk, we were amazed by the vivid culture of the country. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, the glass-floored skywalk is perfect for you. The geometry and design of the building reduce wind pressure at upper levels, which ensures the building’s stability.
In general, the trip was effortless and orderly. If you have a smartphone or a camera, I recommend charging it entirely because there are numerous picture-taking opportunities. The elevators were astounding, as they were a feat of engineering in their own right, and they whisked you to the top in roughly a minute. I’d recommend arriving an hour or so before sunset if you are thinking about when to visit so that you get to see the skyline change during that time. Having visited the Observation Deck of the Shanghai World Financial Center, I can affirm that it is a breathtaking experience. It was the highlight of the trip, and I strongly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.
What are the Best Scenic Spots Along the Huangpu River?
Walking the Promenade: Stunning Views of the City
One of my favorite aspects of walking along the promenade next to the Huangpu River was appreciating the beauty of Shanghai, something I genuinely admire. The views never fail to mesmerize people, as on one side, you have the breathtaking historic Bund, and on the other, it looks like a futuristic skyline of Pudong. Walking casually lets me see the difference between the beautiful colonial-style buildings and modern skyscrapers such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and Jin Mao Tower. The romantic magic of the city lights reflecting into the river and the best time of the day for me, which is early evening, makes it perfect for a stroll.
In the eyes of a visitor, the promenade is beautifully laid out as it has clean, wide paths, making it wheelchair friendly. Your promenade experience will be elevated by well-placed rest areas, public restrooms, and clean signs representing everything. The promenade length will change depending on how far you are willing to go. However, the center section, ranging from the Waibaidu Bridge to the Nanpu Bridge, is around 8.3 miles (13.4 kilometers), which can be done in parts.
Boat Tours on the Huangpu River
There are myriad ways to appreciate the beauty and grandeur of Shanghai’s skyline, but there is nothing like a boat tour on the Huangpu River. During the evening, it was picturesque and peaceful, with the stunningly vibrant city lights reflecting on the water. The boat tour, which lasts two hours at best, beautifies the breathtaking views of landmarks such as the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and the Bund’s historical facades.
The boat tours operate with great precision and a variety of vessel types. Most tours last approximately 50 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the route. Std sightseeing vessels have indoor seating, air conditioning, and outdoor decks, while semi-continental luxury cruise vessels may add dining and entertainment. With time of day and the choice of boats significantly affecting ticket price, basic tours start around 120 RMB and exceed 400 RMB for premium experiences. Regardless of the choice, all cruises equip professionally trained crews and modern navigation systems for utmost safety.
Understanding that some may still be concerned about certain factors, this is to inform you that the vessels are well cared for to enable a smooth ride. The channels are generally protected from strong water range currents, which help even the most susceptible visitors to motion sickness. Vessel capacity is usually from the smaller boats accommodating 50-100 passengers and large ones catering for over 300 guests. Moreover, providing clear signs and easy access to the docks makes sailing convenient for tourists of all mobility levels. In sum, tours on the Huangpu River are a harmonious blend of beautiful sights and orderly engineering, which everyone is catered for.
Capturing Sunset Views of Pudong’s Skyline
Witnessing the Pudong skyline during sunset is a sight to behold. The best time to take in these views is a few moments before the evening sun fully descends, as it softly illuminates the area. The golden colors of the sunset provide balance with the modern creation of the incredible skyscrapers, enhancing the beauty of nature and construction. For the best experience, I recommend setting boat departures for approximately 30 – 45 minutes before the sunset. This way, you can capture the skyline view as the sun sets and the city lights start to glow.
If we analyze a bit deeper, the lighting at this time can also be great for photography due to the low exposure in extremes of light and shadow. Towers glowing in the night sky are usually set against harsh sunsets, but a camera with a wide dynamic range can balance the two quite well. The unobstructed view means you can position yourself on an open deck, which is also great for sky view composition. Zero tilt or motion from the craft also aids in reducing blurring in the photo as well. With these factors in mind, you can enjoy and truly capture the Pudong skyline’s magic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Which attractions in Shanghai are famous for that first-time visitors would like to see?
A: Visitors making their first trip to Shanghai should mark their calendars for the Statue of the Bund, which is in the frame of Shanghai’s well-known skyline. They should also make their way to the Oriental Pearl Tower situated in Pudong and the olden region known as Xintiandi, which is famous for its vibrant nightlife and Shikumen architecture.
Q: Do you know what places should be included in a one-day trip around Shanghai?
A: A day trip to Shanghai can be one for the books if it includes a stop at the ancient town of Zhujiajiao, which is also referred to as the “Venice of Shanghai” because of its gorgeous canals. This enriching experience also includes a walk through the elegant Yu Garden with Chinese pavilions and the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center.
Q: Where can one go to experience the essence of Old Shanghai?
A: Tianzifang is the place the way exclaimed for experiencing Old Shanghai. It is a charming arts and crafts district that boasts the city’s history with its ancient relics. The region is filled with stores, cozy cafes, and art galleries that display traditional Chinese painting, calligraphy, and much more.
Q: How can I explore modern Shanghai architecture?
A: For modern architecture, the skyline of Shanghai is best viewed from the top of the Shanghai Tower and the observation deck of the Shanghai World Financial Center. That’s why these two towers are so prevalent in Shanghai. The observation deck on the second tallest building in the world, the Shanghai Tower, also provides breathtaking views of the city. The futuristic skyscrapers located in Lujiazui in the Pudong area are also a must to be seen.
Q: What cultural experiences should I include when visiting Shanghai?
A: The China Art Museum showcases the diversity of cultures, and the Shanghai Museum, with its collection of ancient Chinese artifacts, is suitable for those wanting to explore ancient cultures. While also comforting to the spirit, visiting Yuyuan Garden helps one grasp the view of a traditional Chinese Garden and enhances one’s memory of Shanghai’s rich history.
Q: Which areas are recommended for shopping in Shanghai?
A: Shopping in Shanghai shopping centers is a wonderful opportunity to effortlessly buy popular high-end and local brands. Nanjung Road is one of the busiest places for shopping in Shanghai and China. Tianzifang is perfect for buying unique arts and crafts. The New World Shopping Center is developed and modern while maintaining a classic old Shanghai mood.
Q: What landmark in Shanghai is a must-visit?
A: The Bund is, therefore, a must-visit place in Shangai. It symbolizes the city’s glory and dreadful history. The promenade runs along the Huangpu River, which divides Shanghai. From this, we can see various kinds of buildings, both modern and historic. The colonial grandeur is impressive.
Q: How can I experience Shanghai’s water town culture?
A: To learn about the water town culture of Shanghai, a trip to Zhujiajiao is highly suggested. With canals bordered by old buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, it’s hard not to fall in love with this ancient town. It can get very crowded and busy, so this town offers a calm disguise from the busy city.