One of the world’s most charismatic cities is his majestic metropolis, which bridges stillness and movement and is the ever-bustling Shanghai. The city’s nickname – Beijing (the capital) of China, is only matched with its contemporaries regarding the fusion of a rich past, culture, delicious food, and ever-evolving technology. Such a blend makes Shanghai the newest pearl of the Orient. This guide provides 30 tourist attractions you should not miss while marveling at the beauty of Shanghai. There are remarkably unique sights to be seen, from The Bund and Oriental Pearl Tower to ancient alleyways filled with deep history. These sights, amongst others, will help to capture the essence of Shanghai, beautifying your experiences with the city. If you are rejuvenated traveler or an ardent visitor, these sites will create unheard of lifelong memories. The Bund and skyscrapers which are the 30 must-see tourist attractions, will be sure to capture the beauty of Shanghai.
What Are the Top Attractions in Shanghai’s Bund Area?
Exploring the Historic Bund: Where Old Shanghai Meets Modernity
The Bund, or Waitan, is an astounding waterfront in Shanghai that evokes a powerful fusion of albatic construction and modern infrastructure. This historic district encompasses a marvelous 52 gothic heritage buildings and a 1.5-kilometer walk along the Huangpu River, where one can appreciate baroque Roman architecture. It shows Shanghai’s strong Western civilization influences during the early 20th century.
Major landmarks include the Customs House dominating the clock tower, the most recognizable landmark of Shangai, and the Fairmont Peace Hotel, famous for its jazz bar and Art Deco architecture. These sights are easily accessible, and the stunning view of the exotic Pudong skyscrapers on the other side of the river, including the Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl Tower, is also a highlight. With the bund tunnel providing a seamless and colorful light show connecting these two parts, the bund exhibits a glamorous contrast of ancient charisma and modern achievement, making it a must-visit place in Shanghai.
Must-See Attractions Along the Huangpu River View
The Bund (Waitan): The Bund is a part of Shanghai that is especially significant to the city’s culture and history. On the west side of the Huangpu River, colonial-style buildings constructed in various architectural forms, including Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco, are some of the city’s landmarks. The romantic illumination aids the Bund’s popularity as a photography area during nighttime.
The Oriental Pearl: Busting with activity, the Oriental Pearl Tower is the city’s most identifiable trademark. It provides a remarkable panoramic overview of the town from its glass-bottomed observatory, 259 meters in the sky, and a marvelous view from the revolving restaurant, 267 meters high. As a bonus, the tower also hosts a museum about the history of Shanghai, the city’s base.
Shanghai Tower: The sleek, shard-shaped, glass-facade building dominating the skyline of Shanghai is the Shanghai Tower. It is not only the tallest building in China, standing above 632 meters, but also the second tallest in the world, with remarkable features like the History Museum at the bottom of the tower, making it a unique architectural marvel. It is an unrivaled view marking point from the city’s 118th-floor deck.
Huangpu River Cruise: Huangpu River cruises showcase the city’s marvelous skyline, which combines the old Puxi side with the new, modernized Pudong region. Travelers can schedule a daytime or evening cruise, each with unique features. However, evening cruises offer a magnificent view of the illuminated skyscrapers and landmarks beside the river banks.
Lujiazui Skyline: The closer a tourist gets to the river in Pudong, the more likely they are to view some of the world’s most notable modern architectural jewels, which are concentrated in the Lujiazui financial district. The Jin Mao Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and Shanghai Tower are landmarks that provide a stunning view of the skyline, reflecting the development of Shanghai’s economy and infrastructure.
This implies that all the attractions above reflect Shanghai’s old legacy and a new era. They stand as a testament to development, allowing tourists to understand and enjoy the Huangpu River better.
Experiencing the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel: Worth Your Visit?
Located in Shanghai, the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel connects the Pudong and Bund areas, offering a distinctive underground ride that compliments the tunnel with beautiful light displays and audiovisual effects. The area’s astounding scenery, paired with the vibrant lights, creates a futuristic and surreal ambiance. Although visitors generally have mixed reviews about the tunnel, the ride only lasts for around 5 minutes, which is considerably short.
Passengers have differing opinions on whether the ride is worth the ticket price. Some appreciate the convenience of tying together two iconic areas and the special effects, while other visitors deem 50 RMB per adult to be steep for such a short ride. The tunnel caters more to these novelty-seeking tourists rather than those looking to immerse themselves in history and culture.
How to Explore the Modern Pudong District and Its Skyscrapers?
Shanghai Tower: Visiting the Tallest Building in China
A must-visit when exploring Pudong, the Shanghai Tower is a symbol of modern architecture and innovation. It is the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world, standing at an incredible 632 meters (2073 feet) in height. The tower features 128 floors that currently serve as offices, hotels, and various observation decks. Its unusual design includes a twisting fade, which improves the structural efficiency of the tower by 24% due to the reduced wind loads.
For tourists, the tower’s peak highlight is the breathtaking panoramic views from the observation deck on the 118th floor, which is 546 meters (1791 feet). The elevators, some of the fastest in the world, ensure a smooth ascension to the observation deck, traveling at 20.5 meters per second (roughly 45 mph).
It is advisable to visit the observation deck during clear weather; the cost is around 180 RMB per adult, which allows for maximum visibility. In addition to Taiwan’s technological advancements, the tower has wind turbines and a rainwater collection system, showcasing the country’s commitment to eco-friendly development. The Shanghai Tower is an unparalleled blend of urban sophistication and architectural marvel.
Oriental Pearl Tower: Observation Deck and Shanghai History Museum
The Shanghai Oriental Pearl Tower offers visitors spectacular views and insights into the rich history of Pearl City. The observation deck, set at 263 meters high, offers immeasurable city views and is always open during daylight hours. Adults can access the deck for a fee of 160 RMB.
Within the tower, the Shanghai History Museum is available for those willing to learn more about the city’s rich history. It dedicates an entire exhibition section to the metamorphosis the town has gone through over the decades. The tower has a total height of 468 meters, which is achieved through the 11 spheres of different diameters known as ‘pearls falling onto a jade plate’. Its beauty is only enhanced by the surrounding city, proving to be a marvel of modern architecture.
Shanghai World Financial Center and Lujiazui Area Highlights
As one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world, the Shanghai World Financial Center is an extraordinary building that towers 492 meters high. Its unique architectural design is characterized by a trapezoidal opening at the top, which decreases wind resistance and increases the structure’s stability. This well-known icon has hotels, offices, shops, observation decks, and conference halls, making it a multifunctional center in Lujiazui.
The Shanghai World Financial Center’s notable characteristics include its ability to resist strong earthquakes due to its high level of seismic technology and the use of double-deck elevators, which improve the movement of visitors and employees. Its other construction focus is sustainability, and energy-saving systems are available in all building parts.
Apart from the Financial center, other famous sights, such as the Jin Mao Tower and the Shanghai Tower, located in the energetic Lujiazui region, make the area even more spectacular. Combining those buildings contributes to the city’s skyline, showcasing why Shanghai is leading in modern architecture. This place represents Shaghai’s economy and culture, making it a hot tourist spot that attracts millions yearly.
What Are the Best Historical and Cultural Sites in Old Shanghai?
Yuyuan Garden and Bazaar: Ming Dynasty Heritage in the Center of Shanghai
Yuyuan Garden, also called Yu Garden, is a classical Chinese garden in the heart of Old Shanghai. Built in the late 16th century, Yuyuan Garden is an example of a Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty. The ponds in Yuyuan Garden, the overhanging trees, and the surrounding lush landscaping, paired with intricate rock formations, provide a peaceful view to the visitors. Covering an area of approximately five acres, the garden features various sections, such as Sansui Hall, Grand Rockery, and Wanhua Chamber, all created to offer balance and harmony. The features mentioned above provide visitors of bustling Shanghai with a tranquil retreat while giving an example of Chinese landscaping art.
Yuyuan Bazaar is a striking juxtaposition with Yuyuan Garden. It is a cornerstone for traditional Chinese crafts and a historical landmark. Tourists visiting this bazaar will be delighted with a wide range of options, including local pastries, silk goods, jade jewelry, various teas, dumplings, and other souvenirs. The bazaar perfectly combines culture and tradition with Shanghai’s booming commerce and tourism, making it a fantastic stop for cultural exploration.
Yuyuan Garden and Bazaar are instrumental in retaining and reflecting the culture of Shanghai. The garden continues to be historic because of the intense restoration work, while the bazaar reveals the region’s cultures and ways of life. For those who want to indulge in classical Chinese architecture, savor authentic food, or soak in the extraordinary character of Old Shanghai, Yuyuan Garden and its vicinity is a breathtaking multi-faceted place that isn’t only beautiful and rich in history.
Jade Buddha Temple: Sacred Artifacts and Religious Significance
One of China’s most quintessential commemorations of Buddhist spirituality and culture remains the Jade Buddha Temple in Shanghai. It was built in 1882 and later replaced when the original temple was destroyed, after which it became the home of two stunning jade Buddha statues brought from Burma (now Myanmar). The white jades are built of whole white quartz cement and are the center of the temple’s iconic artifacts. The captivative 1.95 meters seated Buddha weighs three metric tons, capturing the Buddha in the iconic state of meditation known for his enlightenment, and a smaller reclining Buddha representing the state of nirvana breathtakingly measures 96 centimeters.
The temple is adorned with traditional Chinese architectural folklore and infused with Buddhism. The visitors are welcomed to explore the astonishing halls of the temple, every single one of them richly carved, coated in gold, and with colorful illustrations of Buddhist myths. The one known as Mahavira Hall is one of the temple’s wonders, serving only for the prayer as a meditation hall. Inside the hall, the statues of Buddha with his epitomized disciples routinely remind them of the messages of love, wisdom, compassion, and peace. The peaceful gardens, sculptures of incense burners, and tranquility housing around the temple place the centerpiece to great self-reflection.
The Jade Buddha Temple is a place of worship, but it also attracts tourists because of its cultural and historical significance. People worldwide visit the temple to offer prayers, make offerings, or just experience the place’s spirit. One of its religiously essential celebrations is the Buddha’s Birthday, which attracts many people yearly. Whatever angle the visitor approaches the Jade Buddha Temple, cultural or historical, they will gain a unique glimpse of the powerful influences and traditions of Chinese Buddhism.
Shanghai Museum and Urban Planning Exhibition Center: Understanding the City’s Past and Future
“Showcasing an impressive array of works of ancient Chinese art and artifice spanning bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings, the Shanghai Museum was inaugurated in 1952. The progressively curated exhibits of the museum seamlessly reflect the development of Chinese history and culture, allowing the visitors to step into different galleries designed for particular eras and art forms that offer a rich scope of appreciation for the region’s culture.”
“Equally significant to this collection is the other historic structure, the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, that provides an opposing form of insight into the intense modernization and development in the city over time. This center encompasses a range of models, pieces of multimedia, and other documents that tell the story of the transformation of Shanghai into a modern metropolis. The central focus of the center is the enormous scale model depicting the entire city with special emphasis on the engineering works and areas designated for future development, thus framing the prospects of growth for Shanghai. Together, these centers and institutions serve the dual purpose of preserving history and planning for the future, and simultaneously express that the city is undergoing changes that blend different streams and different streams and folds of culture and history.”
How to Experience the French Concession and Trendy Areas?
Tianzifang: Art Galleries and Boutique Shopping in Shanghai’s Creative Hub
While wandering around Tianzifang, I found a wonderful mix of local charm and the creativity that defines Shanghai. The narrow passageways were bursting with art galleries displaying awe-inspiring works by domestic and foreign artists and boutique stores showcasing intricately crafted goods, garments, and mementos. I was hypnotized by the combination of traditional Shikumen architecture with modern-day artistic design, which gave the area its unique identity.
Here are a few important technical details to consider for those concerned with the specific technical details of the visit.
Accessibility: The narrow and crowded alleys may make it hard for wheelchairs and strollers to navigate, so be prepared.
Operating Hours: Most shops and galleries are open from 10 AM to 10 PM so visitors can visit them day and night.
Optimal Timing: Taking a trip during the week or in the early parts of the morning is ideal for enjoying a slow-paced experience.
Photography: Be warned that some galleries do not allow photos to be taken, so always verify with staff before doing so.
Tianzifang was an outstanding achievement for me because it single-handedly ignited Shanghai’s rich artistic culture and local skills.
Xintiandi: Modern Attractions in Traditional Shikumen Architecture
Exploring Xintiandi was different from exploring Tianzifang. Its unique Shikumen-style buildings remind me of Shanghai’s story, and the modern vibe is refreshing. Xintiandi is also very straightforward. Its wide modern road supports strolling with baby carts, so infrastructure changes were unnecessary for the area.
This area also makes it easy for people since most businesses open around 10 am and work till very late. She has suggested going there during off-peak hours, late afternoon or evening, and considering the peak season starting at 6, people who appreciate great music and good food will not be disappointed. Be aware after six, it can get a bit busier. From what I’ve experienced, there are no photography limits, and the excellent restoration of buildings combined with the nature around them is significant for anyone to capture.
Accessibility: Completely accessible for modern wheelchairs and portable baby strollers.
Operating Hours: The scope is very flexible, from 10 am until nighttime, providing the best entertainment opportunities in the evening.
Optimal Timing: For a more lively atmosphere, late afternoon or evening is best, but the peak times of weekends are not advised for people seeking to avoid crowds.
Photography: No restrictions were noticed, and the stunning architecture and scenery make it a perfect location for photographers.
Parks in Shanghai: Green Escapes in the Urban Jungle
Based on feedback from my colleagues and clients, the parks in Shanghai are an excellent break from the hectic city as they offer a mixture of peace and community activities. Let us further discuss this:
Accessibility: Most parks in Shanghai are easily accessible. For example, parts of the city have clearly defined pavements for Wheelchair and stroller users. People’s Park and Century Park also exhibit attention to detail in inclusivity.
Operating Hours: The parks open around 6 AM and close between 9 PM and 10 PM, enabling visitors to take leisurely morning strolls or relax in the evening without being pressed for time.
Optimal Timing: Weekday mornings are best if you are looking for peace. Weekends are busier but offer opportunities to appreciate local culture, such as dance classes or tai chi.
Photography: In most cases, photography is not restricted to the parks in Shanghai. Many people are open to admiring local culture if they do not use professional-grade equipment. Traditional pavilions and seasonal floral displays guarantee breathtaking visuals that are appealing to photographers.
These conclusions summarize what I have seen during my visits, and I hope they help anyone who wants to learn more about Shanghai’s beautiful greenery.
What Should I Know About Nanjing Road Shopping District?
Navigating Nanjing Road: China’s Premier Shopping Street
Navigating Nanjing Road can be very exciting, but it can also feel daunting if you don’t plan. I have found it’s easier to explore the street if it is divided into East Nanjing Road and West Nanjing Road. The eastern part is filled with famous international department stores and brands and is for pedestrians only, while the western part has luxury stores and five-star hotels, making it quite posh.
Timing is crucial to maximizing your experience. The mornings and late evenings are less busy, allowing for a more pleasurable shopping or sightseeing experience. Getting to Nanjing Road is easy—two metro stations, East Nanjing Road Station and Line 2 and Line 10, serve it. The pedestrian area is also nicely paved, making it easy to walk.
There are many subjects to capture with your camera, so use the evening as your window of opportunity. However, they fiercely aim to avoid the crowds during peak times. Some neon Stores may frown on using professional equipment without some arrangement. To sum it all up, Nanjing Road is the epitome of modernity and heritage, capturing the commercial essence of Shanghai.
Business Hours: Most shops open doors at 10 AM and close at 10 PM. For evening visits, check individual store hours.
Access by Transport: There is a direct connection with Metro Lines 2 and 10. In the pedestrian zones, one can move around on foot.
Crowd Level: Evenings and weekends are generally more crowded, particularly in the eastern pedestrian street area.
Best Times to Visit Nanjing Road and Nearby Attractions
When to visit Nanjing Road is relative to what you want to encounter. If you prefer to shop with less of a crowd around, mornings and early afternoons on weekdays are best as crowd volume is much calmer. If you are a photographer or enjoy evening lights, then after sunset on the weekdays is perfect, though be ready for more crowds in the pedestrian areas.
From a strategic standpoint, visiting during low-traffic hours provides ample opportunity to get around the area and great views for photographs. Metro Lines 2 and 10 run through the day, but for comfortable travel, try to avoid the peak hours, 7-9 am and 5-7 pm, for better flow. Like most tourist spots, these areas will be busier over the weekends, so if you would like a more relaxing break, plan for the week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What’s your suggested timeline for planning a trip to Shanghai?
A: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons are the most appealing for a trip, considering the mild weather and pleasant temperatures. April is charming as flowers bloom during those times, and the average temperature ranges from 15-20°C. Summers (June to August) get scorching hot and humid, averaging around or above 35°C, while the winters (December to February) tend to be cold and damp. There is also a short early summer rain season. Remember that big holidays such as National Day (October 1) and Chinese New Year (January/February) should be avoided. Around these times, attractions are more likely to be crowded and expensive.
Q: How can I visit Zhujiajiao while in Shanghai?
A: Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town that is perfect for a day trip from Shanghai. It is 50 kilometers from downtown Shanghai, which can be visited by public buses that take around an hour and a half or taxis that take about 40 to 60 minutes. In Zhujiajiao, you can appreciate the magnificent architecture of the Ming and Qing dynasties and go on wooden boat rides in canal systems. Zhongzhen and Fangsheng bridges are also must-sees. Don’t forget to visit Kezhi Garden, its splendid pavilion, North Street for local delicacies (especially dumplings), and the numerous calligraphy shops and crafts stores for authentic souvenirs. Spending half a day is ideal. However, a full day is preferred to appreciate the ancient town fully.
Q: What are the top places to visit in Shanghai for those interested in art and culture?
A: For art and culture lovers, Shanghai is a paradise. The Shanghai Museum has a generous collection of ancient Chinese art comprising bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings in Toofab, China. China’s contemporary art stadium and M50 Creative Park (an old factory turned into a creative park with many art galleries) are also a must-see. China Art Museum, located in the former China Pavilion from Expo 2010, is a paradigm of modern Chinese architecture and contains modern Chinese art. The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center portrays the history of architecture in Shanghai. The Propaganda Poster Art Centre offers a glimpse of China’s pictorial history of politics, while the Jade Buddha Temple serves as a religious centerpiece of art and architecture. Alongside the temple, they both greatly beautify the culture of Shanghai.
Q: What part of Shanghai is ideal for tasting real local cuisine?
A: The Old Town area around Yu Garden is great for authentic Shanghai food. The locals there are known for their xiaolongbao, shengjianbao, and Shanghainese smoked fish. Xintiandi and Tianzifang in the Former French Concession provide more upscale local dining. Qibao Ancient Town has reasonable street options, and Huanghe Road Food Street near People’s Square is famous for Jia Jia Tang Bao and its soup dumplings. There is no local food shortage in the Hongkou area, and Suzhou Creek has authentic Shanghainese seafood.
Q: What day trips from Shanghai are best recommended?
A: Aside from Zhujiajiao, the remaining water towns offer interesting day trips from Shanghai. Suzhou, easily accessible via a thirty-minute high-speed train, features classical gardens and is the center of silk production. Longjing tea plantations and the beautiful West Lake are one to a half hours away from Shanghai by high-speed train. Wuzhen Water Town is more commercially developed, but it still retains an ancient canal town atmosphere. The Tongli water town is renowned for its canals and contains several ancient bridges and residences dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Chongming Island, located in the county-level rural area of Shanghai, is more of a country’s ecological paradise for those searching for alternative tourism. Nanxiang, near Shanghai, is famous for xiaolongbao dumplings. Every region visited possesses distinct features of Chinese culture and serves as a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of Shanghai.
Q: What places in Shanghai offer the most entertainment during nighttime?
A: The nightlife of Shanghai is lively and caters to almost everyone. Like other parts of Shanghai, The Bund features several high-end rooftop bars, such as Bar Rouge and VUE Bar, which provide excellent customer service and stunning views of Pudong’s skyline. If you enjoy craft beer, there are plenty of brewpubs in the Former French Concession area. For others who want to go clubbing, head to Found 158, an underground structure with many nightclubs and bars. If you enjoy cultural shows, the Shanghai Circus World has acrobatics shows, and the Shanghai Grand Theater has performances. The Cool Docks area along the South Bund has casual dining and drinking spots. The Huangpu river cruise, where you can see the stunning illuminated sides of the city, gives you a view like no other. You can also walk along the Nanjing Road Pedestrian street.