Destinations

This is your gateway to discovering China’s beauty! Whether it’s your first visit or a deeper exploration, we’ve got you covered.

Shanghai

Shanghai, that dazzling metropolis on the East China Sea, draws attention from all over the world with its unique charm. It’s more than just towering skyscrapers alongside historic buildings; it’s a place where an international outlook and local culture blend seamlessly, creating something truly innovative. For international visitors, Shanghai feels like a city of the future – one you can “read,” immerse yourself in, and truly connect with.

Table Of Contents

1. Open and Welcoming International Vibe
2. Rich Cultural Stories Everywhere
3. Smart Travel Powered by Tech
4. Live Like a Local
Recommended Attractions and Activities：
Related posts

1. Open and Welcoming International Vibe

As one of the first Chinese cities to truly embrace the world, Shanghai welcomes global travelers with things like its 144-hour visa-free transit policy and easy-to-use multilingual digital services. Here, the historic architecture of the Bund engages in a sort of conversation across the river with the modern skyline of Lujiazui (陆家嘴). Wander through the traditional Shikumen (石库门) alleyways, and you’ll find trendy cafes coexisting happily with vibrant hubs of anime and comics culture. You can soak up the lively atmosphere at an open-air market along Suzhou Creek, or experience high-end living watching an equestrian event at the Expo Culture Park. This effortless switch between tradition and modernity perfectly captures Shanghai’s spirit of “Hǎi Nà Bǎi Chuān” (海纳百川) – embracing everything, like the sea accepts all rivers.

2. Rich Cultural Stories Everywhere

Shanghai promotes the idea that its “buildings are readable” (建筑可阅读), turning historic Shikumen lanes and old Western-style houses (老洋房) into living museums. Just scan a code with your phone, and you can unlock the century-old stories behind the architecture. Urban renewal has also created fascinating cultural spaces, like the bookstore inside a former swimming pool at Columbia Circle (上生新所) or the artsy neighborhood around the Wukang Mansion (武康大楼), weaving history into contemporary creativity. Shanghai nights are a cultural feast: dreamlike lantern displays at Yu Garden (豫园), classic jazz performances at the Peace Hotel (和平饭店), dazzling digital art exhibitions at the Bund Finance Center… light, shadow, and music let you feel the city’s soul.

3. Smart Travel Powered by Tech

Shanghai is a leader in creating a “digital tourism ecosystem.” An AI assistant called “Hu Xiaoyou” (沪小游) can tailor-make an itinerary just for you, and weather services can even tell you the best time to catch a stunning sunset view. Many attractions offer contactless guided tours. You can even use VR technology to “travel back” to Nanjing Road (南京路) in the 1920s or interact with virtual sea creatures at the aquarium. This blend of virtual and real redefines what urban tourism can be.

4. Live Like a Local

Shanghai has pioneered the concept of the “15-minute travel circle,” encouraging visitors to weave travel into everyday life. There are over 200 “great spots right at your doorstep” (家门口的好去处) across the city – from small community parks and riverside walkways to artsy shopping areas and neighborhood libraries – blurring the lines between tourist and resident. International visitors might find themselves joining local seniors for morning Tai Chi practice or learning baking alongside a Shanghai “Ayi” (阿姨 – auntie/local lady) at a corner bakery. This “less like a tourist spot, more like real life” approach lets you truly feel the city’s pulse.

Shanghai’s ultimate allure lies in its constant evolution. It’s not just a place to see sights; it’s a starting point for exploring the future.

Recommended Attractions and Activities：

Classic Landmarks & Modern Cityscapes

The Bund & Lujiazui (外滩与陆家嘴)

The Bund (外滩)

Highlights: Shanghai’s iconic waterfront, often called an “international architecture exhibition,” showcasing diverse historical buildings and offering magnificent views of the Huangpu River, especially its night skyline. Key sights include the Monument to the People’s Heroes and Chen Yi Square. It’s a prime spot to feel the blend of Shanghai’s history and modernity. Consider guided tours to learn about buildings like the HSBC Building and Peace Hotel. The area also features high-end malls and restaurants.

Address: Zhongshan East First Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai.

Lujiazui (陆家嘴)

Highlights: Shanghai’s modern financial hub, home to a spectacular cluster of skyscrapers. Iconic structures include the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower (featuring the “Top of Shanghai” Observatory, the city’s tallest), and Jin Mao Tower (offering a “Cloud Walk” skywalk). Experience the breathtaking modernity and architectural marvels.
Address: Lujiazui, Pudong New Area, Shanghai.

Oriental Pearl Radio & TV Tower (东方明珠广播电视塔)

Highlights: An iconic symbol of Shanghai, this 468-meter-high tower offers excellent panoramic views of the city and Huangpu River from its observation decks (e.g., “Pearl Hall” at 267m, “Space Capsule” at 350m). It also houses a revolving restaurant and exhibition halls. Its design is inspired by ancient Chinese pearls.
Address: Lujiazui, Pudong New Area, Shanghai.

Huangpu River Cruise (浦江游览)

Highlights: A must-do activity, especially at night, to enjoy the dazzling light shows on the skyscrapers of Lujiazui and the historic buildings of The Bund. Options range from public ferries (e.g., a 2 RMB ferry between The Bund and Pudong) to sightseeing cruises, themed cruises, and private yachts.

Address: Various ferry terminals along the Huangpu River, Shanghai.

Yu Garden & City God Temple Area (豫园与城隍庙)

Yu Garden (豫园)

Highlights: A beautifully preserved classical Ming Dynasty garden, showcasing exquisite pavilions, rockeries, ponds, and a collection of cultural relics (48 scenic spots). It’s a masterpiece of Jiangnan garden art. The surrounding Yuyuan Bazaar (near the City God Temple) is a bustling area to try local Shanghai snacks and find traditional crafts and folk art. The garden also hosts seasonal events like lantern fairs.
Address: 218 Anren Street, Huangpu District, Shanghai.

Shanghai Old Street (上海老街)

Highlights: Located adjacent to Yu Garden, this street recreates the architecture and bustling atmosphere of old Shanghai, offering a glimpse into the city’s past with its traditional shops and teahouses.
Address: Fangbang Middle Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai.

Historical & Cultural Heritage

Ancient Towns & Religious Architecture (古镇与宗教建筑)

Zhujiajiao Water Town (朱家角古镇)

Highlights: Known as the “Venice of Shanghai,” this ancient water town (with history dating back to the Song Dynasty) features traditional Ming and Qing dynasty bridges, old streets, canals, and well-preserved architecture. Enjoy a boat ride to experience its charm, explore ancient water lanes, and visit sites like Kezhi Garden.

Address: Zhujiajiao Town, Qingpu District, Shanghai.

Longhua Temple (龙华寺)

Highlights: Shanghai’s oldest and largest Buddhist temple, famous for its ancient Longhua Pagoda and the traditional “Hundred and Eight Bell Ringings” ceremony on New Year’s Eve for blessings.
Address: 2853 Longhua Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai.

Fengjing Ancient Town (枫泾古镇)

Highlights: A historic water town also renowned for its peasant paintings. Visitors can explore the China Peasant Painting Village and participate in hands-on craft experiences, enjoying both its water town charm and artistic atmosphere.
Address: Fengjing Town, Jinshan District, Shanghai.

Revolutionary & Modern History Sites (红色与近代史遗迹)

Site of the First National Congress of the CPC (中共一大会址)

Highlights: A historic Shikumen (stone-gate) building where the Communist Party of China was founded. Located near the trendy Xintiandi area, offering a contrast and blend of history and modernity.
Address: 76 Xingye Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai.

Sihang Warehouse Battle Memorial (四行仓库抗战纪念馆)

Highlights: A memorial on the site of a significant battle during the Second Sino-Japanese War. The warehouse walls still bear bullet and cannonball marks, offering a poignant and impactful reminder of history.
Address: 21 Guangfu Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai.

Nature & Leisure Experiences

Sheshan National Tourist Resort (佘山国家旅游度假区)

Sheshan National Forest Park (佘山国家森林公园)

Highlights: A scenic area with hills, bamboo forests, and hiking trails. It includes the Shanghai Astronomical Museum (on West Sheshan Hill) and the Sheshan Basilica (Our Lady of Sheshan Church on top of West Sheshan Hill). Offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Address: Sheshan Town, Songjiang District, Shanghai.

Shanghai Happy Valley (上海欢乐谷)

Highlights: A large, modern amusement park with a wide variety of thrilling rides, shows, and entertainment, suitable for families and thrill-seekers.
Address: 888 Linhu Road, Songjiang District, Shanghai.

Riverside & Ecological Parks (滨江与生态公园)

Expo Culture Park (世博文化公园)

Highlights: Built on the former site of Expo 2010 Shanghai, this expansive park features the “Twin Hills” (artificial hills offering views), beautiful gardens like the Shanghai Greenhouse, and showcases a model of industrial heritage transformation into green space.
Address: Expo Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai.

Yangpu Riverside / Pudong Riverside (杨浦滨江/浦东滨江)

Highlights: Transformed industrial riverfronts now open for public recreation. Ideal for cycling or walking, these areas feature art galleries (like Yuz Museum in Yangpu, formerly an aircraft hangar), creative spaces converted from old factories and shipyards, and pleasant waterfront paths.

Address: Yangpu District / Pudong New Area, Shanghai.

Shanghai Botanical Garden (上海植物园)

Highlights: A large park with diverse plant collections from around the world, themed gardens (such as a peony garden, rose garden, and traditional Chinese garden), and expansive greenhouses. A paradise for nature lovers.
Address: 1111 Longwu Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai.

Shanghai Wild Animal Park (上海野生动物园)

Highlights: A large zoo home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, including giant pandas, golden monkeys, and African wildlife. Offers drive-through and walk-through areas, making it a great destination for families and animal enthusiasts.
Address: 178 Nanliu Highway, Pudong New Area, Shanghai.

Cultural & Artistic Immersion

Museums & Exhibitions (博物馆与展览)

Shanghai Museum (上海博物馆)

Highlights: A large museum of ancient Chinese art, with extensive collections of bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, jade, and furniture, showcasing 5,000 years of Chinese civilization. The main building’s design (round top, square base) symbolizes ancient Chinese philosophy. The newly opened East Branch further expands its exhibition capacity with specialized galleries.

Address: 201 Renmin Avenue, Huangpu District, Shanghai (Main Branch); Century Avenue, Pudong New Area (East Branch).

Museum of Art Pudong (MAP) (浦东美术馆)

Highlights: A contemporary art museum located in Lujiazui, known for hosting major international art exhibitions and its striking architecture, situated near the Oriental Pearl Tower.
Address: 2777 Binjiang Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai.

Suzhou Creek Industrial Civilization Exhibition Hall (苏州河工业文明展示馆)

Highlights: Showcases the history of Shanghai’s industrial development along Suzhou Creek, utilizing VR technology and physical exhibits to tell the story of the city’s industrial past.

Address: 1247 Guangfu Road, Putuo District, Shanghai.

Haipai (Shanghai-style) Architecture & Neighborhoods (海派建筑与街区)

Wukang Road (武康路)

Highlights: A historic and charming street lined with plane trees and beautiful old villas in various architectural styles, many formerly residences of celebrities. Famous for the iconic Wukang Mansion (formerly Normandie Apartments). Great for a cultural stroll and appreciating Shanghai’s unique architectural heritage.
Address: Xuhui District, Shanghai.

Zhang Garden (张园)

Highlights: A historic Shikumen (stone-gate) residential area recently renovated into a high-end commercial and cultural landmark, beautifully blending historical architecture with modern luxury boutiques and dining.
Address: Weihai Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai.

Special Tourist Programs & Unique Experiences

Theme Parks & Trendy Entertainment (主题乐园与潮玩)

Shanghai Disney Resort (上海迪士尼度假区)

Highlights: The first Disney resort in mainland China, featuring classic Disney attractions, six themed lands including the world’s first Zootopia-themed land, spectacular parades, and a must-see nighttime fireworks show over the Enchanted Storybook Castle.

Address: Chuansha New Town, Pudong New Area, Shanghai.

Immersive Theatre “Sleep No More” (沉浸式戏剧《不眠之夜》)

Highlights: An award-winning, interactive, and immersive theatrical experience based on Shakespeare’s Macbeth, set in a multi-story historic building (the McKinnon Hotel). Audiences wear masks and explore the narrative at their own pace.
Address: McKinnon Hotel, 1013 Beijing West Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai.

Intangible Cultural Heritage & Market Experiences (非遗与市集体验)

Qibao Old Street (七宝老街)

Highlights: A bustling ancient water town area known for its traditional snacks like Tangtuan (glutinous rice balls) and Haitang Gao (crabapple cake), and various local crafts, souvenirs, and cultural and creative markets.

Address: Qibao Town, Minhang District, Shanghai.

Gaoqiao Woolen Embroidery Museum (高桥绒绣馆)

Highlights: An opportunity to experience Shanghai’s intangible cultural heritage of woolen embroidery. Visitors can learn about the craft and even try their hand at making their own embroidered handicrafts.
Address: Gaoqiao Town, Pudong New Area, Shanghai.

Shanghai Cultural Experience Recommendations

Cooking & Food Experiences

Chinese Cooking Classes (中式烹饪课程)

Highlights: Participate in classes to learn how to make traditional Chinese and Shanghainese dishes like Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and other dim sum. Often taught by experienced local chefs, these classes cover various cooking methods and introduce Chinese food culture and dining etiquette.

Exploring Shanghai’s Specialty Foods (探索上海特色美食)

Highlights: Venture out to discover Shanghai’s rich culinary scene by visiting specialty restaurants and local snack shops. Taste iconic dishes such as Xiaolongbao, Shengjianbao (pan-fried pork buns), Cong You Ban Mian (scallion oil noodles), and Benbang (local Shanghai) cuisine. Also explore traditional snacks like Wuxiang Dou (five-spice beans), Ligao Tang (pear paste candy), and Bai Zhan Ji (plain chopped chicken). Don’t miss Shanghai’s burgeoning coffee culture, with numerous unique cafes and coffee festivals.

Intangible Cultural Heritage Experiences (非遗与市集体验)

Jingwu Martial Arts (精武武术)

Highlights: Shanghai is the birthplace of the “Jingwu” (Chin Woo) martial arts school, a national intangible cultural heritage. Experience traditional Chinese martial arts culture, which emphasizes both internal and external cultivation. Activities may include basic training, routine learning, and demonstrations.

Traditional Handicraft Experiences (传统手工艺体验)

Highlights: Engage in workshops to learn traditional Chinese crafts such as woodworking (including wood carving and mortise and tenon joinery) or traditional pastry making (like New Year cakes, Qingtuan, and Dingsheng Gao).

Specialized Museums & Cultural Exhibitions (特色博物馆与文化展览)

Shanghai Wood Culture Museum (上海木文化博物馆)

Highlights: China’s only museum themed on wood culture. Offers an all-around experience of playing with, appreciating, and making wood items. Exhibits include various wood specimens, wood carvings, and wooden furniture, with interactive zones for hands-on woodworking.

Shanghai Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine (上海中医药博物馆)

Highlights: Comprehensively displays China’s traditional medicine (TCM) culture. Learn about the history, theories, and applications of TCM through exhibits of herbal specimens, ancient medical books, and instruments. Features a medicinal herb garden.

Ancient Town Cultural Experiences (古镇文化体验)

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town Cultural Experience (朱家角古镇文化体验)

Highlights: Beyond sightseeing, immerse yourself in the living culture of Zhujiajiao. Participate in traditional handicraft making, watch folk performances, or attend local cultural events like lantern fairs and temple fairs. Consider staying in a traditional guesthouse to experience local life.

Special Cultural Events (特色文化活动)

Yu Garden Lantern Festival (豫园灯会)

Highlights: A major traditional cultural event held annually during the Spring Festival period in Yu Garden. Admire thousands of exquisitely crafted lanterns, experience traditional Chinese festival culture with dragon/lion dances and opera performances.

F1 Chinese Grand Prix (F1中国大奖赛)

Highlights: A prestigious event on the Formula 1 World Championship calendar, held at the Shanghai International Circuit. Witness world-class motorsport action, experience the speed and excitement, and enjoy various entertainment activities.

“Peiluomeng Brand Centennial Show” (百里挑衣”培罗蒙品牌百年大秀)

Highlights: A fashion show celebrating the century-long history and innovation of Peiluomeng, a traditional Shanghai clothing brand. An opportunity to appreciate Shanghai’s fashion culture and heritage, blending tradition with modern design.

Nature & Ecological Experiences (Events) (自然与生态体验 – 活动类)

Gucun Park Cherry Blossom Festival (顾村樱花节)

Highlights: One of Shanghai’s most popular spring events. Admire vast seas of pink and white cherry blossoms from late March to early May. The park features various cherry varieties and hosts cultural activities like photography contests and tea ceremonies.

Nighttime Cultural Experiences (夜间文化体验)

The Bund Nightscape (外滩夜景)

Highlights: An iconic Shanghai nighttime experience. Witness the dazzling light show illuminating the historic buildings on The Bund and the modern skyscrapers of Lujiazui across the Huangpu River. The spectacle usually begins around 6 PM.

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street Night Tour (南京路步行街夜游)

Highlights: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Shanghai on this brightly lit, bustling pedestrian street. It’s packed with shops, department stores, restaurants, and often features street performances, offering a lively atmosphere for shopping and dining.

Specialty Food Experiences

A. Iconic Dishes & Snacks (招牌菜品与小吃)
1. Xiaolongbao (小笼包 – Soup Dumplings)
* Description: Shanghai’s most famous delicacy; delicate, thin-skinned dumplings filled with savory minced pork and a rich, hot broth.
2. Shengjianbao (生煎包 – Pan-fried Pork Buns)
* Description: Pan-fried buns with a crispy golden bottom, fluffy top, and juicy pork filling, typically sprinkled with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
3. Benbang Cuisine (本帮菜 – Shanghai Cuisine)
* Description: Shanghai’s local culinary style, characterized by its use of soy sauce, sugar, and often rich, savory-sweet flavors. Key dishes include Hong Shao Rou (braised pork belly).
4. Shaomai (烧卖 – Steamed Dumplings)
* Description: Steamed open-topped dumplings, often filled with glutinous rice, minced pork, and mushrooms.
5. Cong You Ban Mian (葱油拌面 – Scallion Oil Noodles)
* Description: A simple yet incredibly aromatic and flavorful noodle dish, where noodles are tossed in fragrant scallion-infused oil and soy sauce.
6. Tangtuan (汤团 – Glutinous Rice Balls)
* Description: Soft, chewy glutinous rice balls with sweet fillings (like black sesame paste or red bean paste) or savory fillings (like minced pork). Often found in Qibao Old Street.
7. Haitang Gao (海棠糕 – Crabapple Cake)
* Description: A sweet, flower-shaped pastry, often with a red bean paste filling, a traditional snack found in old streets.
8. Wuxiang Dou (五香豆 – Five-Spice Beans)
* Description: Savory broad beans (fava beans) cooked with five-spice powder and other seasonings, a popular local snack.
9. Ligao Tang (梨膏糖 – Pear Paste Candy)
* Description: A traditional throat-soothing candy made from pear extract and various herbs, with a long history in Shanghai.
10. Bai Zhan Ji (白斩鸡 – Plain Chopped Chicken)
* Description: A classic Shanghainese cold dish of tender, succulent poached chicken served chilled, usually with a ginger-scallion dipping sauce.

B. Foodie Hotspots (美食集中区域)
* Yuyuan Bazaar (豫园商城) (around Yu Garden), Qibao Old Street (七宝老街), Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街), Wujiang Road Food Street (吴江路美食街), Xintiandi (新天地).

Shopping Recommendations

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街)

Highlights: Shanghai’s premier and most famous shopping street, bustling with a vast array of department stores (like Shanghai No. 1 Department Store), specialty shops, international brands, local food stores, and restaurants. It’s divided into East and West sections and is a vibrant place day and night.
Address: Nanjing East Road & Nanjing West Road, Huangpu & Jing’an Districts, Shanghai.

Huaihai Road (淮海路)

Highlights: Another major upscale shopping street, known for its trendy boutiques, international luxury brands, and department stores (like IAPM Mall). Offers a more sophisticated and fashion-forward shopping experience.
Address: Huaihai Middle Road, Huangpu & Xuhui Districts, Shanghai.

Xintiandi (新天地)

Highlights: An affluent car-free area featuring beautifully restored Shikumen (stone-gate) houses converted into chic boutiques, art galleries, upscale restaurants, cafes, and bars. Great for unique shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Address: Madang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai.

Yuyuan Bazaar (豫园商城)

Highlights: Surrounding Yu Garden, this bustling marketplace is filled with shops selling traditional Chinese crafts, souvenirs, jewelry, tea, and local snacks.

Address: Adjacent to Yu Garden, Huangpu District, Shanghai.

Qibao Old Street (七宝老街)

Highlights: Besides food, the old street offers various small shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and cultural items.
Address: Qibao Town, Minhang District, Shanghai.

Recommended Itineraries

First-time Visit (3-4 days): The Bund → Yu Garden → Lujiazui (Oriental Pearl/Shanghai Tower) → Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street → Shanghai Disney Resort.
In-depth Cultural Tour (5-6 days): Wukang Road & Former French Concession → Site of the First National Congress of the CPC (Xintiandi) → Zhujiajiao Water Town → Longhua Temple → Suzhou River Cruise / Art Galleries.

Family Fun (4-5 days): Shanghai Wild Animal Park → Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park → Expo Culture Park → Shanghai Happy Valley / Shanghai Disney Resort.