Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Orient,” Shanghai is a fascinating city that skillfully merges its rich traditional heritage with modernity. This article seeks to assist those traveling to Shanghai as it provides tremendous detail for tourists who want to appreciate its ancient temples, colonial landmarks, modern skylines, and markets. Whether you are a history buff, a gastronome, or an architecture lover, you will find this guide an invaluable overview of Shanghai’s experiences. Get ready to enjoy the blend of culture, history, and modern marvels that make Shanghai one of the most iconic city in the world.
What Are the Must-See Attractions in Shanghai?
Reasons to Go to the Bund in Shanghai
One of the notable aspects of Shanghai is The Bund, a waterfront site showcasing a remarkable combination of ancient and modern architecture. Visitors can appreciate the colonial buildings on one side demonstrating Shanghai’s importance as a trading center. The Lujiazui skyline is beyond the Huangpu River, where the oriental pearl tower, the Shanghai Tower, and other skyscrapers evoke stunning admiration. The Bund is also a favorite spot for strolls, especially in the evening when the buildings and skyline are highly set for admiration through light. The atmosphere, the people, the buildings, and the overall views make the Bund the number one location in Shanghai. Combining these with the historical and cultural significance, the Bund becomes a sought-after attraction in the city.
Best Collections of The Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in China, with its ancient Chinese artwork collection and its inclusive appraisal. Best collections include,
- Ancient Bronze Collection: This is one of the most important for ancient Chinese bronze artifacts from the Shang and Zhou dynasties. This collection is indeed comprehensive, one of the bronze relics from ancient China, with over four hundred noted pieces.
- Ceramics Gallery: From various eras of Chinese history, this gallery incorporates renowned artifacts like tri-colored Tang dynasty ceramics and delicate Song dynasty porcelain vessels. The gallery also carries pride in the collection of pottery and porcelain vessels.
- Calligraphy and Painting Exhibits: These exhibits showcase masterpieces from different periods that show the continuity in Chinese aesthetic traditions where brushwork and painting styles evolved in different dynasties, each having their periods and styles.
These exhibits capture the heart of China’s culture and heritage and serve as some of the primary focal points for tourists visiting the museum.
Visit the Oriental Pearl TV Tower
Constructed in the elegant style of the Oriental Pearl, the tower is an unrivaled 468 meters in height. Located in the modernized area of Shanghai called Pudong, the TV tower is an unparalleled tourist attraction for both Shanghai residents and foreigners. The tower comprises approximately fifteen spheres that nest beautifully on a stainless steel stem. Some other attractions include a revolving restaurant, a glass floor observation deck, and a museum with artifacts that view the history of Shanghai. the panoramic view of the entire city and the famous Huangpu River. With the blend of innovation and culture, the tower exudes Shanghai’s ever-evolving modern city.
How Can I Enjoy the Skyline Views in Shanghai?
Ideal Locations for Capturing Skyline Photography
1. The Bund (Waitan)
At night, the overhead views of the skyscrapers from the Bund are phenomenal. This historical area of Shanghai is also a fantastic place where an enthusiast can capture the Oriental Pearl Tower along with the Jin Mao and the Shanghai Towers. To garner the best shot through the Huangpu River, ensure that you arrive earlier than the rush hours.
2. Shanghai Tower Observatory
Since the Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China, it also hosts the Shanghai Tower Observation Deck at the top. It provides the best overhead panoramic views of the city, especially during sunset and sunrise. For most photographers, this spot is considered as the best place for skyline selfies, mainly due to the unrivaled height achieved. The view is stunning and perspective makes it easier to take pictures.
3.Lujiazui Riverside Park
Lujiazui Riverside Park is located close to the financial hub district. This park provides a less frequented and more scenic view of the Bund. Photographers can view amazing reflections of the city on the water, and it’s also the ideal time for pictures in the morning or dusk.
Discovering the Pudong Skyline
Regarded as one of the symbols of Shanghai’s modernization, Pudong is home to arguably some of the world’s culminating architectural structures. The most notable is the Shanghai Tower, which dominates the skyline. It is the world’s second tallest building at 632 meters and is specially engineered to utilize energy while providing a harness to the wind through its design. Next to it stands the Jin Mao Tower, which fuses a modern-day skyscraper with a traditional Chinese pagoda. There is also the Shanghai World Financial Center, which features an eye-catching trapezoidal hole at the pinnacle of the building. Finally, the Oriental Pearl Tower is a landmark and sightseeing spot with a brilliant design supported by numerous spheres. All these buildings greatly symbolize the innovative and dynamic spirit of Pudong, one of the world’s most well-known architectural marvels and economic centers.
Skyline Views Along the Huangpu River
The extravagant development of Shanghai as an urban area is epitomized by the skyline along the Huangao River, which features unmatched innovations in construction. The skyline stands out due to various landmarks, including the Oriental Pearl Tower, The Shanghai Tower, and the Jin Mao Tower, which is incredibly designed. Along with the glowing lights from the skyscrapers reflecting off the water at night, these structures give an unparalleled view of the city, which tourists and professionals love. The colonial buildings relieve the sight from the bund area, offering a counter viewpoint when providing an insight into the modern skyscrapers in Pudong. These shifts have allowed the Huangpu River to become a symbol for Shanghai and the immeasurable potential for innovation and brilliance it encapsulates.
What Unique Experiences Does Zhujiajiao Offer?
Exploring the Ancient Water Town of Zhujiajiao
Zhujiajiao, dubbed a “Water Town,” has been nicknamed ‘the Venice of Shanghai’ primarily due to its historical and cultural significance. Zhujiajiao makes history come alive with its network of ancient waterways, stone bridges, and Ming and Qing-era stone carving infrastructure. Tourists can take advantage of historical landmarks like Fangsheng Bridge, boat rides on the calm canals, and shopping in the vibrant local markets. Its local delicacies and lively markets add to Zhujiajiao’s tranquil hill countryside, making the town an ideal holiday destination.
Engaging with the Local Culture of Zhujiajiao
Zhujiajiao provides a town culture that is a world of its own because of its remarkable historical background as a water-disciplined town. The visitors are treated to a collection of ancient buildings, such as the Fangsheng Bridge, constructed in the Ming dynasty. The remnants of the city are vintage passages and fenced internal regions that manifest sophisticated styles of traditional Chinese lifting. Local traditions are also centered at the markets where intricately designed souvenirs, silk, and fine arts are sold. Specific local dishes are also served, such as Zha Zha noodles and other snacks shaped like lotus roots, which are particular to this region. Further, festivals and ceremonies around temples show the region’s spirituality, portraying the community’s historical traditions and beliefs.
What Are Some Family-Friendly Activities in Shanghai?
A Day at Shanghai Disneyland
Families can expect a fantastic adventure at Shanghai Disneyland due to the various activities that can keep everyone entertained. With immersive rides and shows, guests can enjoy six themed lands, including Adventure Isle, Treasure Cove, and Tomorrowland. Features include the Enchanted Storybook Castle, the largest Disney castle, and rides such as the TRON Lightcycle Power Run and Pirates of the Caribbean Battle for the Sunken Treasure. In addition to this, families can attend fireworks displays, parades, and character meet-and-greets. This will allow families to create memories together. Further amenities already include child-friendly dining, stroller rentals, and designated play spaces for kids to ensure family members of all ages are well-catered to.
Visiting the Shanghai Circus World
The Shanghai Circus World, or the “Golden Stage”, is a well-known entertainment world and venue. It is extremely popular for its impressive acrobatics, best seen in the ERA Intersection of Time show. This includes traditional Chinese acrobatics and the latest stage technology, incorporating stunts such as aerial acts, motorbike cage performances, and even highly calibrated dancing. In addition to precise choreography, the lighting, sound, and stage effects do much more than just decorate the venue: they capture the artistry and skill of the performers and leave the audience mesmerized. Situated right by the Shanghai Metro, Shanghai Circus World presents a unique mix of culture and modern entertainment.
Connecting with Nature in the Heat of Shanghai
Shanghai is a modern city, but that doesn’t stop it from having some of the most appealing green spaces. One of the elite spots is the People’s Park, located within Nanjing road, where guests can walk around in the beautiful walking trails or take part in some of the local activities like tai chi. Yanzhong Guangchang Park offers a much quieter spot with the trait of having tree covered walking alleys along with water bodies and some quiet spaces to relax. Also, the Jing’an Sculpture Park is among the favorite spots of the locals and tourists who want to sense nature alongside sculpture as it exhibits modern sculptures within well-kept green areas.
How Can Expats Enjoy Shanghai?
Best Areas for Expats in Shanghai.
Expats in Shanghai tend to prefer specific neighborhoods because of their facilities, good transport links, and active locals.
1. The FFC.
International Expats enjoy this neighborhood primarily due to the picturesque roads filled with trees and developed infrastructure that accommodates various shops, cafes, and restaurants. This neighborhood combines antiquity with modernity, ensuring its residents get the best of both worlds.
2. Jing’an
Jing’an is a premium shopping and business district with shopping malls, international schools, hotels, and clubs. Its residents enjoy a high standard of living and have easy access to famous restaurants, bars, and other clubs. Additionally, it houses the renowned Jin’an temple and major business centers, making it perfect for families and professionals.
3. Pudong
The Lujiazui area is now a modern destination for expats because of the luxurious apartments and proximity to many international businesses in the financial district. There is also easy access to schools, parks, and other groceries, providing a comfortable environment for families and working individuals.
These neighborhoods serve various needs from which expats can choose regardless of their preferences within the constantly changing environment Shanghai’s skyline provides.
Experiences of Local Street Food and Dining Cuisine in Shanghai
A feast for the eyes and the taste buds seamlessly meets the culinary passions in Shanghai. From extensive local street food options to high-end restaurants, there is a little something for everyone. Showcasing the heartbeat of this diverse culture is the street food appeal, with specific xiaolongbao, cong you bing for scallion pancakes, and sheng jian bao as fried buns being some of the essentials. Many people further tend to Yuyuan Garden and Huanghe Road, which are famous for serving such delicacies. Michelin-starred fine dining is also available in several Shanghai restaurants uniquely blending old-world Chinese and contemporary international styles. Moreover, Wujiang Jie and Yunnan Nan Lu provide a busy combination of casual dining spots and themed eateries, ideally suited for those eager to dig deep into the fantastic local food.
What Historical Sites Should I Visit in Shanghai?
The Jade Buddha Temple: A Cultural Icon
The Huang Pu district in Shanghai’s Temple of Jewel Buddha boasts beautiful architecture, serene jade statues, and ancient Buddhist rituals all within its walls. It is said that this temple is one of the most precious Buddhist sites in Shanghai, and in the late 1800s, for good reason, two exceptional jade sculptures crafted in Myanmar, a serene reclining and a seated Buddha embellished with semi-precious stones. This temple is not merely an extraordinary piece of architecture and culture but a working place of worship that also showcases Shanghai’s deep and rich spiritual culture.
Shanghai’s Municipal History Museum: A Journey Through Time
An enthralling highlight for students, tourists, and locals alike is the Municipal History Museum of Shanghai, which lies under the Oriental Pearl Tower. Expect to be submerged in the depth of detail displayed through the political, social, and economic structures through painstakingly crafted dioramas and artifacts, alongside the rise of Shanghai as a leading financial city. This museum is not only a fast sprint through Shanghai’s history, it is, as these explorers would argue, a delve deep into the formation of the city’s global identity and modern era.
Walking in the French Concession
Along with the cultural scene, the French Concession in Shanghai boasts tree-lined streets with colonial architecture from a different era. Visitors often admire contemporary art in its many galleries, shop in its stylish boutiques, and sip coffee in trendy cafes, all adding to the charm of the area. The district’s history is reflected in landmarks like Fuxing Park and Tianzifang. Local residents and tourists often explore the district as it has a mixture of pre-modern and sophisticated modern-day Shanghai, making it the ideal place for a stroll and culture immersion.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are some of the top things to do in Shanghai?
A: Some of the top things to do in Shanghai include visiting the Shanghai Tower, exploring Yu Garden, and taking a river cruise along the Huangpu River. You can also discover the Shanghai Municipal History Museum and experience the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel.
Q: How does the Shanghai Tower compare to other attractions in Shanghai?
A: The Shanghai Tower is China’s largest building and offers breathtaking views of the city. It’s worth a visit for anyone interested in modern architecture and panoramic vistas, making it one of the standout things to do in Shanghai.
Q: What historical sites are worth a visit in Shanghai?
A: Many travelers recommend visiting places like the Shanghai Municipal History Museum, which showcases the city’s rich history, and active Buddhist monasteries, where you can learn about Chinese culture and traditions.
Q: Can you suggest a nice park in Shanghai for relaxation?
A: One of the best parks in Shanghai is the Yu Garden, a beautiful classical Chinese garden that provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Q: What can I expect when visiting the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel?
A: The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel is a unique experience that connects the Bund area with Pudong. It’s an exciting ride featuring colorful lights and sound, making it an interesting way to see the city.
Q: Are there any theme parks in Shanghai that are family-friendly?
A: Yes, Shanghai Disneyland is a major theme park that many families enjoy. It offers various attractions and shows, making it a fantastic place to visit within the city.
Q: What is the significance of Nanjing Road in Shanghai?
A: Nanjing Road is equivalent to New York’s Fifth Avenue, known for its shopping and entertainment options. It’s a vibrant area where you can experience the pulse of Shanghai.
Q: How can I learn more about Chinese commerce while in Shanghai?
A: To learn about Chinese commerce, consider visiting the Shanghai Museum or exploring bustling markets where you can see commerce in action. Engaging with local businesses can also provide insights.
Q: Is it easy to find information in English during my visit to Shanghai?
A: Yes, many attractions in Shanghai provide information in both Chinese and English, making it easier for international travelers to navigate and enjoy the city’s rich offerings.