Shanghai is a city that blends modernity with traditional Chinese culture. Visitors can start their day with a traditional Chinese breakfast and learn about different teas at a local tea house. Yu Garden, an ancient garden with beautiful pavilions, rock formations, and water features, is a must-see attraction. In the afternoon, visitors can explore the Bund, a waterfront promenade that offers spectacular views of the city skyline and the Huangpu River.
The Bund, a waterfront area, is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and historic buildings. The Shanghai Museum has an extensive collection of artefacts and exhibits showcasing the city’s cultural heritage. The Jade Buddha Temple is another popular attraction with two spectacular jade statues of Buddha and offers visitors a chance to learn more about Buddhism in China.
Modern Attractions
Shanghai Tower
Shanghai Tower is a modern skyscraper located in the Lujiazui financial district of Shanghai. It is currently the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world, with a height of 632 meters. The tower has 128 floors and offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation deck on the 118th floor. Visitors can also enjoy shopping and dining at the tower’s mall and restaurants.
Oriental Pearl Tower
The Oriental Pearl Tower is a landmark of Shanghai that has become an icon of the city’s skyline. This tower is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a unique experience. The tower has 11 spheres of different sizes, with the highest sphere reaching a height of 350 meters. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck on the 263-meter level. The tower also features a revolving restaurant, a museum, and a shopping area.
Shanghai Disneyland
Shanghai Disneyland is a world-class theme park located in Pudong, Shanghai. It is the first Disney park in mainland China and features six themed lands, including Adventure Isle, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland. Visitors can enjoy rides, shows, and attractions based on popular Disney movies and characters. The park also offers a variety of dining and shopping options for visitors to enjoy. Shanghai Disneyland is a must-visit destination for families and Disney fans.
Culinary Experience
Local Street Food
Shanghai is known for its vibrant street food culture. Visitors can find a variety of local delicacies at the city’s bustling street markets. Some popular street foods include steamed buns, pan-fried dumplings, and scallion pancakes.
One must-try street food is the sheng jian bao, a pan-fried pork dumpling filled with soup. Another popular snack is the jianbing, a savoury crepe filled with eggs, vegetables, and crispy crackers.
Tea Houses
Shanghai is also famous for its tea culture, and there are numerous tea houses throughout the city. These tea houses offer a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a cup of tea and some snacks.
Visitors can choose from a wide variety of teas, including green tea, black tea, and oolong tea. Some tea houses also offer traditional tea ceremonies, where visitors can learn about the history and culture of tea in China.
Cultural Insights
Yu Garden
Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden located in the heart of Shanghai. It was built during the Ming Dynasty and is a great example of traditional Chinese garden design. The garden is divided into six main areas, each with its unique features. Visitors can explore the rockeries, pavilions, ponds, and bridges while learning about the history and culture of Shanghai.
Xintiandi
Xintiandi is a trendy pedestrian street located in the centre of Shanghai. It is a great place to experience the modern side of Shanghai while still learning about its history. The street is lined with restored shikumen houses, which are traditional Shanghai-style homes. These houses have been converted into trendy shops, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Longhua Temple
Longhua Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the southwestern part of Shanghai. It was first built in the Three Kingdoms period and has been rebuilt several times since then. The temple is famous for its pagoda, which is the tallest wooden pagoda in China. Visitors can explore the temple’s many halls and pavilions while learning about Chinese Buddhism.
Related
Shopping Destinations
Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is one of the most famous shopping streets in Shanghai. It is a pedestrian-only street that stretches for about 5.5 kilometres, and it is lined with over 600 shops. Visitors can find the range of products, from luxury brands to local souvenirs. The street is also home to several large shopping malls, including the Shanghai Center and the Plaza 66.
AP Plaza Market
AP Plaza Market is a popular shopping destination for tourists looking for bargains. It is located in the underground shopping centre of the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum and is known for its knockoff designer goods. Visitors can find everything from fake handbags to electronics at a fraction of the cost of the real thing. It is important to note that the quality of the products can vary, so it is best to inspect items carefully before purchasing.
Tianzifang
Tianzifang is a charming shopping district located in the former French Concession. It is a maze of narrow alleyways lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes. Visitors can find unique souvenirs and gifts, as well as handmade crafts and artwork. The area has a bohemian vibe and is a great place to explore and discover hidden gems.
Nightlife and Entertainment
The French Concession
The French Concession is a popular area in Shanghai for nightlife and entertainment. It is known for its trendy bars, clubs, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a variety of cuisines, from local Chinese food to international cuisine. The area is also home to many boutique shops and art galleries, making it a great place to explore during the day and night.
Huangpu River Cruise
Taking a Huangpu River Cruise is a popular way to experience Shanghai’s nightlife. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline as they cruise along the river. The cruise usually lasts for about an hour and is a great way to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing. The Huangpu River Cruise is also a great way to see some of Shanghai’s famous landmarks, such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center.
Jazz Clubs
Shanghai is known for its vibrant jazz scene, and there are many jazz clubs throughout the city. Visitors can enjoy live music performances by local and international jazz musicians. Some popular jazz clubs in Shanghai include the JZ Club, Cotton Club, and Heyday Jazz Club. These clubs offer a cosy and intimate atmosphere, making them a great place to enjoy a night out with friends or a romantic evening with a loved one.
Practical Information
Transportation Tips
Shanghai has a well-developed public transportation system, which includes buses, metro, and taxis. The metro is the most convenient and affordable way to get around the city. The metro system has 16 lines, and the fare ranges from 3 yuan to 10 yuan depending on the distance travelled.
Taxis are also readily available, but they can be more expensive during peak hours. It is recommended to use ride-hailing apps such as Didi or Meituan Dache to avoid communication issues with taxi drivers.
For those who prefer to explore the city on foot or by bike, bike-sharing services is available, including Mobike and Ofo. It is important to note that pedestrians and cyclists should exercise caution while navigating the busy streets of Shanghai.
Safety and Etiquette
Shanghai is a safe city, but it’s important to take some basic precautions to avoid becoming a victim of theft. When in crowded areas, be aware of pickpockets and keep an eye on your belongings. It’s also important to respect local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites.
Avoid talking about sensitive topics like politics or religion. When in public places, be mindful of social norms, such as queuing in an orderly fashion and not speaking too loudly. When dining out, sharing dishes and paying for the entire table is customary rather than splitting the bill.
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