Shanghai is a city located on a flat delta plain in east-central China. It is one of the world’s largest seaports and a major industrial hub]. The city is bordered by Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces and is connected to other regions through canals and waterways.
Here are the top 15 things to do in Shanghai, some of which you may choose to do on your first trip to Shanghai.
1. The Bund
Walk along the iconic waterfront and enjoy the stunning skyline view. The Bund is a historic waterfront area located in central Shanghai, China. It stretches along the western bank of the Huangpu River and is one of the city’s most iconic and recognizable landmarks.
he Bund is renowned for its impressive architectural diversity. On one side, you’ll find a collection of historic buildings representing various architectural styles such as Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Deco.
The Bund offers a spectacular view of Shanghai’s modern skyline across the river in the Pudong district. This view has become synonymous with the city itself, with skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower prominently visible.
2. Yu Garden
Yu Garden, also known as Yuyuan Garden, is a classical Chinese garden located in the heart of Shanghai, China. Explore this classical Chinese garden with intricate architecture and ponds. Yu Garden is situated in the Old City of Shanghai, near the City God Temple in the Huangpu District. Its central location makes it easily accessible to both locals and tourists.
he Inner Garden, also known as the Lingering Garden, is a serene and secluded space within Yu Garden. It features meandering pathways, small ponds, and beautiful pavilions.
One of the highlights of Yu Garden is the Grand Rockery, which is a massive artificial mountain made from rocks and boulders. It’s meant to evoke the natural beauty of mountain landscapes.
3. Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum is a renowned cultural institution located in Shanghai, China.Discover ancient Chinese art, calligraphy, and artifacts. The museum is home to a vast and diverse collection of over 120,000 artifacts that showcase China’s rich history and culture. The collection includes ancient Chinese art, calligraphy, paintings, ceramics, jade artifacts, sculptures, furniture, and more.
Basic admission to the Shanghai Museum is typically free of charge, making it an accessible cultural destination for both residents and visitors.
The museum’s opening hours and availability of exhibitions can vary, so it’s a good idea to check the official website or local information before planning your visit.
4. Oriental Pearl Tower
The Oriental Pearl Tower is a distinctive landmark and TV tower located in the Pudong district of Shanghai, China.Visit this famous TV tower for panoramic city views. The Oriental Pearl Tower is situated in the Lujiazui area of Pudong, near the banks of the Huangpu River. Its strategic location provides panoramic views of both the historic Bund area and the modern Pudong skyline.
The Oriental Pearl Tower is renowned for its nighttime lighting displays. The tower is often illuminated with colorful LED lights and patterns that change regularly, creating a visually captivating spectacle against the night sky.
The tower is not only a functional structure but also a symbol of Shanghai’s rapid modernization and development. It represents the city’s transformation from a primarily industrial and commercial hub to a global metropolis.
5. Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is one of the most famous shopping streets in Shanghai, China. Shop and stroll down one of the world’s busiest shopping streets.
Nanjing Road stretches across the Huangpu District in central Shanghai. It’s divided into two main sections: Nanjing Road East and Nanjing Road West.
Nanjing Road is a shopper’s paradise, offering an array of shopping opportunities that range from upscale international brands to local boutiques. You’ll find department stores, fashion outlets, electronics shops, and souvenir stores.
Nanjing Road’s combination of shopping, dining, entertainment, and historic attractions makes it a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals, offering a glimpse into Shanghai’s dynamic urban lifestyle.
6. Xintiandi
Xintiandi is a trendy and upscale entertainment district located in the heart of Shanghai, China. Experience a blend of historic and modern architecture with shops and restaurants.
Xintiandi was originally a residential area with traditional shikumen (stone-gate) houses that date back to the early 20th century. In the late 1990s, the area underwent redevelopment to create a modern entertainment complex while preserving the unique architectural heritage.
The preserved shikumen houses are a distinctive feature of Xintiandi. These traditional structures combine Western and Chinese architectural elements, reflecting Shanghai’s historical and cultural diversity.
Xintiandi represents a successful fusion of history and modernity, offering visitors a chance to experience Shanghai’s evolving urban lifestyle while appreciating its cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in shopping, dining, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Xintiandi provides a unique and vibrant destination within the city.
7. Jade Buddha Temple
The Jade Buddha Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Shanghai, China. Admire the intricate jade statues and serene atmosphere. The temple is most famous for its two jade Buddha statues, both carved from a single piece of white jade. The larger statue, known as the “Recumbent Buddha,” depicts the Buddha in a reclining position, while the smaller statue is the “Seated Buddha,” portraying the Buddha in a meditative posture.
There is an admission fee to enter the Jade Buddha Temple complex. The fee contributes to the maintenance and preservation of the temple.
The Jade Buddha Temple offers a serene and spiritual escape from the hustle and bustle of Shanghai’s urban environment. It’s a place where visitors can experience a sense of tranquility and gain insights into Buddhist culture and traditions.
8. Tianzifang
Tianzifang is a charming arts and crafts enclave located in the French Concession area of Shanghai, China. Wander through narrow alleys filled with artsy boutiques, cafes, and galleries.
Tianzifang is situated in the Luwan District of Shanghai, within the former French Concession area. It’s known for its narrow alleyways and traditional shikumen (stone-gate) architecture.
Tianzifang was originally a residential area with shikumen houses, similar to Xintiandi. However, instead of undergoing extensive redevelopment, Tianzifang’s buildings have been creatively repurposed into shops, galleries, studios, cafes, and boutiques.
Tianzifang is a hidden gem within Shanghai, offering a glimpse into the city’s artistic community and a chance to discover one-of-a-kind creations in a charming and picturesque setting.
9. French Concession
The French Concession is a historic and culturally rich area located in Shanghai. Enjoy tree-lined streets, boutiques, and cafes in this charming area.
The French Concession was a designated area in Shanghai that was controlled by the French government from the mid-19th century until the early 20th century. It was established following the Treaty of Nanking and the Treaty of Tientsin, which ended the First Opium War.
The French Concession is renowned for its blend of architectural styles, including colonial-era mansions, European-style villas, and traditional Chinese shikumen houses. These structures reflect the area’s multicultural history.
Visiting the French Concession offers a glimpse into Shanghai’s past, its dynamic present, and its cultural diversity. It’s a neighborhood where history, architecture, and contemporary lifestyle seamlessly converge.
10. Shanghai World Financial Center
The Shanghai World Financial Center is a prominent skyscraper and iconic landmark in Shanghai, China. Explore this ancient water town with canals and traditional buildings.
Designed by the architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox, the building is known for its unique and distinctive shape. It features a trapezoidal aperture at the top, giving it a striking appearance often likened to a bottle opener or a giant’s pearl. The Shanghai World Financial Center stands at a height of approximately 492 meters (1,614 feet), making it one of the tallest buildings in the world and a dominant feature of the city’s skyline.
The observation decks and the unique architecture make the Shanghai World Financial Center a popular destination for tourists seeking panoramic views of the city’s skyline and the Huangpu River.
11. Zhujiajiao Water Town
Zhujiajiao is a charming water town located on the outskirts of Shanghai, China. hujiajiao is situated in the Qingpu District of Shanghai, approximately 47 kilometers (29 miles) west of the city center. It’s easily accessible by public transportation or by car.
The town is crisscrossed by numerous canals, rivers, and waterways, earning it the nickname “Venice of Shanghai.” The charming stone bridges that span the water add to the town’s picturesque beauty.
Zhujiajiao water town offers a peaceful escape from the bustling urban environment of Shanghai, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a quaint and historic setting that captures the essence of traditional Chinese life.
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