Choose from 62 Fun Things to Do in Eastern China
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Jin Mao Tower
The tallest building in China when it was completed in 1999, Shanghai’s landmark Jin Mao Tower reaches nearly 1,380 feet (420.5 meters). The main draw for most visitors is the observation deck on the 88th floor—the largest in the city—which offers stunning 360-degree views over Shanghai.
The Basics
Also known as the Golden Prosperity Building, Jin Mao Tower combines modern architectural engineering with traditional Chinese design, featuring the auspicious number 8 prominently, from its 88 floors to its octagonal pagoda-like design. The observation deck is the largest in Shanghai, with an area of 16,400 square feet (1,520 square meters) and capacity for 1,000 people. High-speed elevators take only 45 seconds to reach the 88th floor. The tower has numerous dining and entertainment options, as well as a five-star hotel.
Combine a visit to Jin Mao Tower with a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Shanghai, a Huangpu River dinner cruise, or a half-day, full-day, or evening sightseeing tour that includes other top Shanghai attractions. Cruise ship passengers and those on a layover can take a customized private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture stunning Shanghai vistas.
- Visitors to Jin Mao Tower may have to undergo a security check before entering.
- Purchase admission tickets ahead of time to avoid waiting in line.
- The observation deck at Jin Mao Tower is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Jin Mao Tower is located at 88 Century Boulevard, Lujiazui District, in Pudong. By metro, take Line 2 to Lujiazui Station (Exit 6) and walk south. Alternatively, take bus 85, 774, 971, or 992 to Lujiazui Station. Or take City Sightseeing Bus Line 2 and get off at Jin Mao Tower.
When to Get There
Time your visit to Jin Mao Tower’s observation deck, which is open daily from 8am to 10pm, for a clear day for the best views. Or arrive visit just before sunset and stay for the nighttime views, when buildings on both sides of the Huangpu River light up.
Jin Mao Skywalk
Those who dare can now walk on the outside of Jin Mao Tower, on the glass-bottomed skywalk running along the 88th floor observation deck. With a length of 196 feet (60 meters) and a width of 4 feet (1.2 meters), the walk has no guardrails. Instead, adventurous visitors wear hard hats and safety harnesses attached to the building that allow them to walk freely along the skywalk.
Address: 88 Shi Ji (Century) Boulevard, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 18
Humble Administrator's Garden
Of all the Classical Gardens of Suzhou, the Humble Administrator’s Garden is the largest, most famous, and best preserved. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this uniquely-designed garden takes visitors through scenic pathways, quiet pavilions, ancient bridges, calm ponds, and small, forested areas dating back to the Ming dynasty. The Hall of Drifting Fragrance, a traditional Chinese residence at the garden's center, offers views of vast lawns, flowing water, and crape myrtle trees, while the nearby Small Flying Rainbow Bridge is the only bridge in the garden you can walk across.
A great family activity, you can visit the garden on an easy day trip from Shanghai. Combine your ticket with a visit to the famous Zhouzhuang water village nearby or opt for a private tour of Suzhou's classical gardens to visit Tiger Hill and Master of Nets, as well.
Practical Info
Suzhou is located approximately 62 miles (100 km) west of Shanghai, and the two cities are connected by high-speed train. The garden is open 7:30am to 5:30pm daily from March to November, and 7:30am to 5pm daily mid-November to February. Adult admission is 90 CNY in spring and summer and 70 CNY in winter. Some tours utilize the high-speed train rather than road transport.
Did You Know? The Humble Administrator’s Garden was originally the private garden of a government servant named Wang Xianchen. It was said that Xianchen grew frustrated with his work, and built the garden so that he could lead the simple life of a humble man instead, hence the name of the garden.
Address: 178 Dongbei Street, Suzhou, Eastern China, China
Hours: 7:30am–5:30pm daily (March–Nov), 7:30am–5pm daily (Nov–Feb)
Admission: Varies by season
From $ 69
Hangzhou Botanical Garden
At the northwest corner of West Lake and at the foot of Jade Spring Hill, Hangzhou Botanical Garden’s 568 acres (230 hectares) offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Hangzhou. In addition to its extensive collection of flowers, plants, and trees, visitors can also enjoy a number of ponds, pavilions, and promenades.
The Basics
Hangzhou Botanical Garden is a popular attraction, receiving more than 2 million visitors annually. Highlights include the Bamboo Garden, with over 150 varieties of bamboo; the Linfeng Tanmei area with some 5,000 plum trees; and the Medicinal Garden, with more than 1,200 medicinal herbs and plants, some found only in the Hangzhou area. Fish Jumping at Jade Spring is another popular attraction.
There are also two museums on-site: the Plant Resources Museum and the Han Meilin Art Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Hangzhou Botanical Garden is a must-visit for nature lovers.
- Shaded strollers, umbrellas, and wheelchairs are available free of charge with a refundable deposit. They can be obtained from the Visitor Service Center at the South Gate.
- Public bike rentals are available at the Magnolia and Camellia Garden station and at the Bamboo Garden station.
- There are a number of restaurants and convenience shops throughout the garden grounds.
How to Get There
Hangzhou Botanical Garden is located at the northwest corner of Hangzhou’s West Lake area. Take bus nos. 15, 28, or 82 and exit at the Yu Quan stop, or take bus nos. 7 or 27 and exit at the Botanical Garden stop.
When to Get There
Hangzhou Botanical Garden is open year-round. Seasonal flowers and plants make it worthwhile visiting at different times of the year. Spring is a great time to see plum blossoms and rhododendron, while colorful tropical flowers and lotus bloom in summer. Fall is a great time to see osmanthus and maple leaves changing colors, while winter visitors come for the magnolia and camellia.
Research and Education at Hangzhou Botanical Garden
Opened in 1965, Hangzhou Botanical Garden also includes a research center focused on the cultivation and protection of different plant species. The research center attracts academic visitors and those who wish to learn more about agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and medicine. It offers courses on a variety of related subjects, including tea processing, flower arrangements, plant taxonomy, and landscape design. There are also numerous educational programs for children, including single-day and multi-day camps.
Address: No.1 Taoyuan Ling, Xihu District, Hangzhou, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 152
Huangpu River
The Huangpu River, extending over 71 miles (113 kilometers), flows through the middle of Shanghai’s, dividing the city into two parts – Pudong to the east and Puxi to the west. The port where the river empties into the East China Sea has now become the largest port in China and in 2012 became the world’s busiest container port.
Walking along the Huangpu River juxtaposes the colonial buildings of Old Shanghai with the towering, ultramodern skyscrapers that now dominate the skyline. While it’s possible to experience the Huangpu River from the banks with a walk along the Bund, the best way to see both sides is on a river cruise.
Most cruises start from the Bund and go upstream before turning south towards the Yangpu bridge. Boats depart throughout the day, but after the sun sets and the buildings to either side of the river light up, the Shanghai skyline becomes even more impressive than usual.
Walking along the Huangpu River juxtaposes the colonial buildings of Old Shanghai with the towering, ultramodern skyscrapers that now dominate the skyline. While it’s possible to experience the Huangpu River from the banks with a walk along the Bund, the best way to see both sides is on a river cruise.
Most cruises start from the Bund and go upstream before turning south towards the Yangpu bridge. Boats depart throughout the day, but after the sun sets and the buildings to either side of the river light up, the Shanghai skyline becomes even more impressive than usual.
Address: Shanghai, China
From $ 30
China Art Museum
The inverted scarlet pyramid that towers over Pudong isn’t just an icon of Shanghai. It’s home to one of Asia’s largest art museums, including works previously housed at the Shanghai Art Museum. Spread across several huge floors, the China Art Museum tells the story of the rise of modern art in Shanghai and hosts world-class exhibitions.
The Basics
Tickets to the main galleries of the China Art Museum are free, with charges for exhibitions. However, navigating almost 700,000 square feet (64,000 square meters) of art, much of it labeled only in Chinese, can be challenging. If you’re serious about discovering Chinese modern art, it’s well worth joining a Shanghai art tour, a China Art Museum tour, or hiring a specialist private guide to introduce you to the megacity’s vibrant art scene. The signage at temporary exhibitions is generally more discernible.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The China Art Museum is a must-do for anyone serious about Chinese art—or anyone who wants a selfie with a gigantic building.
- The museum website is rarely updated, so check English language sources like Time Out Shanghai for exhibition information.
- Be prepared to walk a lot; wear more comfortable shoes than you might at a smaller museum.
How to Get There
The museum is easily reached and has its own metro station: China Art Museum (Zhonghua Yishugong) on Line 8. You can also ride Line 7 to Yuntai Road (Yuntai Lu) and walk around 2,300 feet (700 meters). For a more scenic ride, choose a hop-on hop-off bus tour that stops at the museum.
When to Get There
The China Art Museum is closed on Mondays, except on national holidays. Although admission is free, you still have to present ID, obtain tickets, and clear security, so there can be lines at busy times of year, like weekends and national holidays.
The Story of the China Art Museum
The China Art Museum started its life as the Shanghai Art Museum in the center of town in 1956, then moved to the building still known as the Shanghai Art Museum in 2000. It relocated to its current Pudong structure, created for the China Expo, in 2012. The new China Art Museum is more than 10 times bigger than its former home.
Address: Pudong, Shanghai, China
Admission: Free, Special Exhibits ¥ 20
From $ 31
Former Residence of Sun Yat-sen
Get a glimpse into the life of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, founder of the Chinese Republic and the Great Forerunner of the Chinese Democratic Revolution, at his former residence in Shanghai. See where he carried out a large number of revolutionary activities, wrote treatises, and met with members of the Communist Party from 1918 until 1924.
The Basics
The two-story Western-style house contains a number of original artifacts, and the rooms are arranged as they were when Dr. Sun Yat-sen lived here. Walk around and see his personal belongings, original furnishings, books, paintings, photographs, and other memorabilia, including a map hand-drawn by Dr. Sun Yat-sen himself. Don’t miss the house’s lovely garden. Finish up at the museum next door, featuring over 300 items, including manuscripts, historical documents, and audiovisual exhibits on Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s life and the revolution.
A number of sightseeing tours feature a stop at the residence. Depending on the option chosen, tours also include other attractions around the former French Concession; important historical sites, such the former residences of Mao Zedong and Zhou Enlai; or top attractions such as the Bund and Xintiandi.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The admission fee covers both the former residence and the museum next door.
- Photos are not allowed in the residence.
- Audio guides are available for rent.
- Visitors will need to put on disposable covers for their shoes when visiting the former residence.
- A lot of the exhibits are only in Chinese.
How to Get There
The Former Residence of Dr. Sun Yat-sen is located in the French Concession, near Fuxing Park. By metro, take line 13 to Middle Huaihai Road Station (exit 1) and walk south for about five minutes, or take line 10 to Xintiandi (exit 6) and walk west about 10 minutes. A number of buses also stop nearby, including buses 24, 36, 42, 301, 780, 932, and 986.
When to Get There
The Former Residence of Dr. Sun Yat-sen and museum do not usually get that crowded, so they make a good alternative when other attractions in Shanghai are busy. Commemoration activities are held and flowers are presented on the anniversaries of Dr. Sun Yat-sen's birth (November 12) and his death (March 12).
Other Tributes to Dr. Sun Yat-sen
In addition to the former residence and museum in Shanghai, there are a number of museums and memorials to Dr. Sun Yat-sen around the world. Most notable are the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum in Nanjing, the National Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall in Taipei, and the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall in Guangzhou. Museums and memorials dedicated to Dr. Sun Yat-sen can also be found in other cities, such as Hong Kong, Macau, Penang, Chicago, and San Francisco.
Address: 7 Xiangshan Road, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 49
Feilai Peak (Feilai Feng)
Feilai Peak, or Feilai Feng – literally translated as ‘Peak Flown from Afar’ – is a unique, 200-meter tall limestone peak located next to the Lingyin Temple in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.
At the site, ancient tree roots rise above the ground, their branches twisting and winding up the peak. Due to erosion, there are a large number of caves within the mountain, and some of these feature intricately carved Buddha statues that were created during the Song and Yuan dynasties.
The largest Buddha statue here is the Maitreya Buddha, with its exposed belly and beaming smile; this is one of the best-preserved statues of its kind, displaying the artistry of carving in the Song Dynasty. In Longhong Cave, there is a seated statue of Avalokitesvara, while in Shexu Cave, a beam of sunlight pours in through the rock tunnels above – a famous scene known as 'the gleam of the sky'.
Practical Info
To reach Feilai Peak and the Lingyin Temple, take tourist bus K7, Y1, or Y2 and alight at Lingyin Station.
Address: Lingyin Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310000, China
Hours: 7:30am-5pm
Admission: CNY45
From $ 58
Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal
The Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal is the longest and oldest man-made waterway in the world, once covering 1,115 miles (1,794 kilometers) from Beijing to Hangzhou. Dating from the fifth century BC, this engineering marvel is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some sections are still in use today.
The Basics
With traditional buildings and historic sites still lining the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal, it’s best appreciated from water level. Travel through hundreds of years of history and gain a better understanding of how the canal transformed trade and commerce in China during a guided canal cruise, or get a closer look at historical buildings during a walking tour alongside the canal.
Visitors in Hangzhou can take a boat from Wulinmen Pier. Visitors in Suzhou or Shanghai can join an organized day tour, covering portions of the canal in Suzhou, along with other attractions, such as a classical garden and an ancient city gate, or activities, such as a rickshaw ride or a visit to a silk mill.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The canal is open to the public, but canal cruises charge a fee.
- Different cruises travel along many sections of the canal. Be sure you’re clear on your departure and drop-off points, if not traveling as part of a guided tour.
- Full-day tours from Shanghai can last more than 10 hours.
How to Get There
Hangzhou and Suzhou feature two popular sections of the canal for visitors. In Hangzhou, cruises depart from Wulinmen Pier. The best way to get to Wulinmen Wharf is by taxi. In Suzhou, the cruise from Xinshiqiao Dock to Shantang Street is popular. Xinshiqiao Dock is about 4 miles (6 kilometers) from Suzhou Railway Station, and the easiest way to get there is by taxi.
When to Get There
Most cruises are offered year-round. Daytime cruises allow you to better see the details of the buildings alongside the canal, while nighttime cruises offer more atmosphere, as many sights will be illuminated. Visit during spring or fall for the most pleasant weather.
History of the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal
The Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal’s oldest sections date back to the fifth century BC, but it wasn’t until the Sui dynasty in the seventh century that the different sections were first connected. There was an organized approach to connect the five major rivers: the Hai River, Huai River, Yangtze River, Yellow River, and Qiantang River. Once completed, the Grand Canal greatly developed China’s economy and enhanced communication throughout the country.
Address: China
From $ 40
Lupu Bridge
When Shanghai’s Lupu Bridge was completed in 2003, it was the world’s longest spanning steel arch bridge. The bridge with a total length of 12,795 feet (3,900 meters) and a main span of 1,805 feet (550 meters) takes its name from the two districts that it connects, Luwan and Pudong, and it extends across the Huangpu River.
The Basics
Lupu Bridge, built to serve the rapidly developing areas on the southern side of the Huangpu River, is the river’s seventh bridge. Known for its use of cable-stayed, arch, and suspension technology, it was in the 2010 Shanghai World Expo and won the 2008 IABSE Outstanding Structure Award. The bridge accommodates six traffic lanes and allows ships up to 70,000 tons to pass underneath. Some Huangpu River cruises offer views of the bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The observation deck at the top of the bridge is no longer open.
- Pedestrians are not allowed on the bridge.
- The Luwan district was merged into the Huangpu district in 2011.
- Book a cruise for a close-up look at the Huangpu River.
How to Get There
From Pudong, Lupu Bridge can be accessed from the on-ramps to North-South Elevated Road, northbound on Jiyang Road or westbound on Yaohua Road. From Huangpu, the bridge can be accessed from Luban Road interchange. Various buses also lead to the bridge, with the closest access points at Luban Road stop or Lupu Bridge stop. You can also take the metro, Line 13, to Shibo Dadao Station.
When to Get There
The bridge can be crossed as a motorist at any time, although traffic conditions vary depending on time of day. The best views of the bridge are at night, when it’s lit up.
Views of the Bridge
Although the bridge can no longer be accessed by pedestrians, it is still an impressive bridge to see. If driving across isn’t an option, visitors can get good views of the bridge from the site of the 2010 World Expo or on a Huangpu River cruise.
Address: Lu Ban Lu, Huang Pu Qu, Shanghai, China
From $ 142
Duolun Road
Duolun Road, in the Hongkou District, was known as the cultural and literary center of Shanghai in the early 20th century, when a number of famous Chinese writers called it home. Restored and reopened in 1998, today it’s a pedestrian street filled with museums, galleries, studios, antique shops, teahouses, and cafes.
The Basics
Full of historic buildings that have been restored, there’s much to see on the half-mile-long (0.8 kilometer) Duolun Road. Top attractions include the Duolun Museum of Modern Art, the League of Leftist Writers Museum, Hong De Temple (Great Virtue Christian Church), and the 60-foot-tall (18.5-meter-tall) Xi Shi Zhong Lou bell tower. Browse the many galleries and shops, then take a break at the Old Film Café, which plays old Chinese movies from the 1920s and ‘30s.
It’s best to experience Duolun Road on foot or opt for a bike tour that includes other top Shanghai attractions such as the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, and Nanjing Road.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Duolun Road isn’t a top tourist attraction, but it will appeal to those with an interest in Chinese architecture, art, and literature.
- Duolun Road itself is free to visit, but some of the attractions, including museums, charge an entrance fee.
- This is a great place to pick up antiques, books, art, and Mao-related memorabilia.
How to Get There
Duolun Road is located in the Hongkou District. By metro, take Line 3 to Dongbaoxing Road Station (Exit 1) and walk northwest, or Line 4 or Line 10 to Hailun Road Station (Exit 5) and walk west. By bus, take bus nos. 18, 21, 52, 318, or 939 and get off at Luxun Gongyuan (Luxun Park) Station.
When to Get There
Duolun Road is all day, every day. Both the Duolun Museum of Modern Art and the League of Left Wing Writers museum are closed on Mondays; if you’re interested in these museums, time their visit accordingly.
Famous Writers of Duolun Road
In the 1930s, Duolun Road was home to a number of famous Chinese writers, including Guo Moruo, Mao Dun, Ding Lin, and Lu Xu, many of whom were part of the League of Leftist Writers. You can find out more about them and their works at the League of Leftist Writers Museum; there are also life-size bronze statues of a number of these writers along Duolun Road.
Address: off North Sichuan Road, China
From $ 58
Fairmont Peace Hotel (Heping Fandian)
The Peace Hotel (or Heping Fandian) is an historic art deco hotel located on the Bund and divided by Nanjing Road. Built in 1929, it has recently been restored to its former glory and today operates as two separate hotels, the North Building and the South Building.
As well as beautiful rooms and excellent food, there's a gallery on the first floor that charts all of the historic events that have taken place at the hotel, as well as the famous people that have stayed here. Don't miss the mature jazz band who perform every evening in the lounge bar – these musicians have been performing here for years and have become famous in their own right.
You can enjoy a stop at the Peace Hotel to listen to some classical jazz as part of a Shanghai luxury dinner and nightlife experience, which also includes dinner at Lost Heaven and drinks at Bar Rouge. Explore the attractions and other landmarks of the Bund on a two-hour private walking tour or with a Shanghai hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Practical Info
To reach the Peace Hotel by public transport, take Line 2 or Line 10 of the subway to East Nanjing Road Station. Numerous buses also serve the area.
Did You Know? The Peace Hotel stands at 10 stories high. Victor Sassoon, who built the hotel, once lived on the penthouse on the tenth floor.
Address: 20 Nanjing East Road, Shanghai 200002, China
Hours: 24 hours
From $ 31
Classical Gardens of Suzhou
The classical gardens of Suzhou feature some of the most tranquil and pristine landscapes in China. More than 50 gardens dating as far back as the 6th century BC cast a harmonious network of manicured paths, bridges, ponds, and pavilions over much of the historic city of Suzhou. Nine of the gardens are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites, their Ming- and Qing-era mastery of Chinese garden architecture and design having attracted world visitors for hundreds of years. The Lingering Garden, famous for its garden hall inlaid with ancient calligraphy, and the Humble Administrator’s Garden, the largest of the nine, are the best preserved, but also worth visiting are the Master of Nets Garden and Tiger Hill.
You can visit the gardens on a day trip from Shanghai. Most tours include entrance to one or more of the classical gardens, and can also be combined with a trip to nearby attractions, like the Zhouzhuang water village, Tong Li Old Town, or the Silk Museum. If you wish to see the most famous of Suzhou’s gardens in one day, book a private day trip of Suzhou Humble Administrator's Garden, Tiger Hill, and Master of Nets Garden.
Practical Info
Suzhou is located approximately 62 miles (100 km) west of Shanghai, and the two cities are connected by high-speed train. Most gardens are open daily from 7:30am to 5:30pm, but hours vary slightly by garden and by season. If not visiting the gardens as part of an organized tour, expect to pay separate admission for each garden.
Address: Suzhou, Eastern China, China
Hours: 7:30am–5:30pm daily
Admission: Varies
From $ 102
Fengjing Ancient Town
Boasting more than 1,000 years of history, Fengjing Ancient Town is one of Shanghai’s most charming water towns. Black and white houses and scarlet lanterns flank shady canals; ancient bridges, such as Yuan Dynasty Zhihe Bridge, reflect in the water; and folk artists create prized “peasant paintings”. The wedding museum is also charming.
The Basics
Fengjing Ancient Town has a moderate entrance fee, and a few of the attractions within also charge for entry. Many visitors choose to visit as part of a tour, either of Fengjing alone or combined with another ancient Shanghai water town such as Xitang.
Fengjing tours typically cover attractions such as historic Zhihe Bridge and the wedding museum and include a boat ride and stops to sample mooncakes, millet wine, and other delicacies. Fengjing is famous for its folk art, so painting classes or demonstrations are other popular options.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring cash. You can’t assume that Fengjing shops will take credit cards.
- A boat trip through this fabled water town is a must with children.
- Fans of Chinese regional food won’t want to miss out on the “Four Treasures of Fengjing”: millet wine, pork trotter, mooncake, and dried tofu.
How to Get There
Fengjing Ancient Town is about 43 miles (70 kilometers) southwest of Shanghai. To reach it by public transport, catch metro Line 1 to Jinjiang Park station, then ride the bus from West Meilong bus station to Fengjing station. If you don’t speak Chinese, you might find it easier to join a Fengjing tour or hire a private driver and guide.
When to Get There
Fengjing Ancient Town is open seven days a week from morning until afternoon. As with all canal towns, try to avoid visiting during China’s peak domestic tourist seasons, the Golden Weeks in early October and the Lunar New Year period (January or February). In winter, roughly mid-November to mid-March, even subtropical Shanghai can be surprisingly cold.
Southern China’s Water Towns
Built around a canal network that includes the mighty Grand Canal, southern China’s water towns have been drawing domestic tourists for centuries, even since they first grew wealthy on the proceeds of the Silk Road. Famous water towns such as Tongli, Wuzhen, Xitan, and Zhouzhuang, as well as less well-known towns like Fengjing, have been heavily reconstructed to recreate their historic charm.
Address: Fengjing Ancient Town, Shanghai, Jinshan, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 50
Bund Sightseeing Tunnel
Since its opening in 2000, the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel has become one of Shanghai’s most popular attractions among domestic tourists. Contrary to what the name would have you believe, you won’t be seeing any of the Bund’s sights when you ride the automated subway car from the Bund beneath the Huangpu River to Pudong on the other side.
This rather bewildering by nonetheless entertaining trip takes less than five minutes, and along the way, you’ll experience a bizarre LED light show with menacing sound effects and random flailing blowup dolls to complete the trippy experience. If you need to get across the river, taking a cab might be the cheaper option, but the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel is certainly more entertaining, if not perplexing.
This rather bewildering by nonetheless entertaining trip takes less than five minutes, and along the way, you’ll experience a bizarre LED light show with menacing sound effects and random flailing blowup dolls to complete the trippy experience. If you need to get across the river, taking a cab might be the cheaper option, but the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel is certainly more entertaining, if not perplexing.
Address: Shanghai, China
Admission: One-way: 45 RMB; Round-trip: 55 RMB
From $ 31
China National Silk Museum
Located south of Hangzhou’s West Lake, the UNESCO World Heritage–listed China National Silk Museum is the largest museum in the world devoted to silk. In addition to an extensive collection of silk garments, textiles, and relics, the museum covers 5,000 years of silk development, history, and culture across eight galleries.
The Basics
You can easily spend a few hours exploring the China National Silk Museum’s 86,110 square feet (8,000 square meters) of exhibition space, which are set on an area of more than a half-million square feet (50,000 square meters). There is a lot to see, including textiles from the Han and Tang dynasties, modern-day cheongsams, and traditional weaving machines. The museum’s proximity to West Lake and other top Hangzhou sights make it easy to visit the museum and other attractions on the same day, either independently or as part of a guided tour covering other landmarks such as Leifeng Pagoda and Qinghefang Ancient Street. If visiting on your own, guided museum tours are available by appointment.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The China National SIlk Museum is a must-see for fashion and textile lovers, and those interested in the history of the Silk Road.
- Admission to the museum is free.
- Audio guides in Chinese and English are free, though an ID and refundable deposit are required to borrow one.
- The museum is accessible to wheelchairs, which are available for free.
- A teahouse and gift shop are located on the museum grounds.
How to Get There
The museum is located at the southern side of West Lake, at No. 73-1 Yuhuangshan Road in the Shangcheng district. A number of buses stop at the museum, including 4, 12, 31, 42, 87, and 133. Alternatively, take a taxi or ride a bicycle around West Lake to the museum.
When to Get There
The museum is open from 12pm to 5pm Monday and 9am to 5pm Tuesday to Sunday year-round. The exhibition halls are cleared out 15 minutes prior to closing. On weekends and national holidays, the Textile Conservation Gallery is closed.
The Galleries and Exhibitions of the China National Silk Museum
After an extensive renovation in 2016, the museum reopened with impressive updates to its permanent galleries, including the Story of Chinese Silk, Sericulture and Silk Craftsmanship in China, the Textile Conservation Gallery, and the Xinyou Archive Center. These galleries are complemented by a variety of changing exhibitions covering various topics related to silk, textiles, and relics—particularly those of Chinese origin.
Address: 73-1 Yuhuangshan Road, Hangzhou, Shangcheng District 310002, China
From $ 54
Lingering Garden (Liu Yuan)
One of the four most famous classical gardens of Suzhou, the Lingering Garden (Liu Yuan) has World Heritage status and also showcases two UNESCO Intangible World Heritage Arts: Pingtan and Guqin music. The garden makes fantastic use of space, with a harmonious layout of temples, statues, rockeries, halls, bridges, and ponds.
Covering almost six acres, the garden is divided into four areas: the east, west, central, and north sections, all of which are connected via a half-mile (700-meter) corridor featuring calligraphy carved into its stone walls. The central area features many buildings surrounding a pond and grotto, while the east garden includes a miniature mountain modeled after Tiantai Mountain, as well as the Celestial Hall of Five Peaks, the largest hall in the garden. The west section is mostly natural, with a large rockery built during the Ming Dynasty, while the north garden, once used to grow vegetables, now showcases a range of potted plants.
Popular among families, the Lingering Garden is often visited on day trips from Shanghai that also include other famous classical gardens in Suzhou. It's common to combine a trip here with visits to the famous water towns of Zhouzhuang and Tongli, but other options include visits to Shantang Old Street and Tiger Hill. For a unique day out, book a Suzhou culture and art tour, which includes a Suzhou opera performance at the Master of Nets Garden.
Insider Tip: There are many classical gardens in Suzhou. Aside from the Lingering Garden, you shouldn't miss the Humble Administrator's Garden or Lion Grove Garden.
Practical Info
Suzhou is located about 62 miles (100 km) west of Shanghai and is connected by high-speed train. Some tours include the high-speed train, while others use road transport. Suzhou can also be reached by bus; take Tourist Bus No. 1 and alight at the Liuyan stop.
Address: 338 Liuyuan Road, Suzhou, Eastern China 215004, China
Hours: Daily 7:30am–5pm
Admission: CNY 45–55
From $ 55
Leifeng Pagoda
Leifeng Pagoda is a five-story tower located on Sunset Hill in Hangzhou, providing panoramic views over West Lake. The original pagoda was built in 975AD during the Five Dynasties and Ten States Period on orders of King Qian Chu to celebrate the birth of his son. However, after a tumultuous history, the structure collapsed in 1924. The pagoda was eventually rebuilt and opened to the public in 2002.
The original Leifeng Pagoda was a five-story octagonal structure too. However, unlike the modern version that stands today, it was built almost entirely from brick and wood. The new pagoda is instead made from 1400 tonnes of steel with 200 tonnes of copper parts. At the entrance there are two escalators to carry visitors to the base of the pagoda, and there are a number of viewing platforms to climb up to in order to marvel at the views. The new pagoda also features such modern amenities such as air-conditioning and speakers, although the ruins of the original building, along with a number of historical artifacts, can still be seen at the site.
Practical Info
To reach Leifeng Pagoda, take the tourist bus Y2 and alight at Jingsi Station.
Address: 15 Nanshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310007, China
Hours: 8am-8pm daily
Admission: CNY40
From $ 54
Jade Buddha Temple (Yufo Si)
Jade Buddha Temple (Yufo Si) is a working Buddhist monastery—one of the few in China. The star attractions of the Jade Buddha Temple are two figures brought to Shanghai from Singapore by a monk from Burma in the 19th century: a 6.5-foot (2-meter) seated jade Buddha encrusted with semiprecious stones and a smaller white jade reclining Buddha.
The Basics
While fairly new by Chinese standards—it was completed in 1918—the Jade Buddha Temple remains one of the city’s most popular attractions thanks to the jade Buddha statues within. Just about every Shanghai sightseeing tour stops at the temple, along with other popular points of interest, such as the Bund, Yu Garden, the French Concession, and the Shanghai Museum, depending on the option chosen. Shanghai’s hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus also stops at the temple.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The temple is a must-see for first-time visitors and those interested in Chinese religion.
- Leave yourself about an hour to enjoy the temple grounds, a bit more if you plan to eat at the on-site vegetarian restaurant.
- The temple charges separate entrance fees for the temple itself and for the hall where the sitting Buddha is housed.
- Shanghai tours that visit the Jade Buddha Temple often last about eight hours.
- Photography is not permitted within the Jade Buddha Chamber.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to the temple is to take the Shanghai Metro (Line 13) to Jiangning Road Station and leave through exit 4. From there it’s about a 5-minute walk to the temple along Anyuan Road.
When to Get There
Since the temple is a popular stop on guided tours, those visiting independently should arrive first thing in the morning when the temple opens. Avoid visiting during the Lunar New Year when tens of thousands of Chinese Buddhists come to pray for prosperity.
Halls of the Jade Buddha Temple
The temple is divided into several different sections, the most notable being the Jade Buddha Chamber and Reclining Buddha Hall where the two famous statues are housed. Before you get there, you’ll pass through the Hall of Heavenly Kings, where four statues look toward the four cardinal points, and the Grand Hall with its copper-colored statue of Guanyin. The Grand Hall leads to a quiet courtyard, where stairs lead to the jade Buddha chambers.
Address: Anyuan Lu, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 31
Lingyin Temple
Lingyin Temple is one of the oldest and most famous Buddhist temples in China and a top attraction in Hangzhou. Situated at the foot of Lingyin Mountain and surrounded by forest, Lingyin Temple is known for its tranquil setting, spiritual atmosphere, and numerous pagodas, grottoes, and Buddhist relics.
The Basics
Lingyin Temple, aka the “Temple of the Soul’s Retreat,” was founded in AD 326 and has been rebuilt many times since then. First, pass through Feilai Feng, or Flying Peak, which has hundreds of Buddhist statues carved into the hillside, along the river, and inside caves and grottoes. Be sure to visit the main halls of the temple, including the Hall of the Heavenly Kings, the Grand Hall, and the Hall of the Buddha of Medicine.
Lingyin Temple can be visited independently, but many visitors appreciate the extra insight offered by a guided tour. Most day tours of Hangzhou, including those from Shanghai, include Lingyin Temple and other top attractions, such as West Lake and Leifeng Pagoda. Customize which attractions you visit with a private day tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You must enter Flying Peak before you can access Lingyin Temple. Admission fees are required for both.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of ground to cover for both Linyin Temple and the Flying Peak area.
- Flash photography is not allowed inside the temple.
- There is a vegetarian restaurant inside the temple and a number of restaurants nearby.
How to Get There
Linyin Temple is located at No. 1 Fayun Lane, Lingyin Road in the Xihu District of Hangzhou. From Hangzhou Airport, take the shuttle bus (departs every 30–40 minutes) to Hangzhou Railway Station. From there, take bus nos. Y2 or K7, and get off at the Lingyin stop. Taxis are the most direct way of getting to the temple.
When to Get There
Lingyin Temple is extremely popular, especially during weekends and public holidays, and can see thousands of visitors a day when busy. Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat.
Lingyin Temple Highlights
Find the Maitreya (Future) Buddha, manifested as the Laughing Buddha, and the Skanda Bodhisattva, the temple’s oldest statue at more than 800 years old, in the Hall of the Heavenly Kings. The ornate ceiling has paintings of dragons and phoenixes. Gaze at the giant gold-plated statue of Shakyamuni on a lotus flower in the Grand Hall. It's one of the largest wood-carved Buddhist statues in the world at more than 80 feet (24.4 meters) tall.
Address: China
Admission: Varies
From $ 54
Lion Grove Garden
Built by a Buddhist monk in 1342, the Lion Grove Garden is one of the oldest classical gardens in Suzhou and one of nine gardens in the area recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its uniqueness lies in its unusual design of grotto mazes, ponds, and pavilions, with a large and elaborate grotto of taihu rocks at its center. Anyone interested in oriental design and architecture, as well as nature and history, will appreciate a visit here.
The garden's massive grotto is made up of a maze of paths winding through 21 caves across three levels, with a pond dividing the grotto into east and west sections. The rocks, dating back to the Yuan Dynasty, are piled up in such a way that they are meant to resemble lions in various positions. Elsewhere in the garden, there are buildings, trees, ponds, and other elements to explore.
Lion Grove Garden can be visited as part of a day trip from Shanghai to Suzhou. Enjoy a stroll in the grotto maze here, followed by lunch and shopping nearby, or perhaps even a boat ride along the canal. The high-speed express train from Shanghai makes the journey easy, and is included on some organized tours.
Practical Info
Lion Grove Garden is situated close to Pingjiang Road in Suzhou. It is open daily from 7:30am to 5:30pm. Admission is 40 CNY in spring and summer, and 30 CNY in autumn and winter. Children under 3'11"(1.2 m) tall can enter the Lion Grove Garden for free when accompanied by an adult. For children under 4'11" tall (1.5 m), entrance is half price. This is a popular site with uneven grounds, so be sure to take your time and watch your step while exploring.
Did You Know? Aside from the Lion Grove Garden, the Lingering Garden, Humble Administrator’s Garden, and the Master of Nets Garden are the most famous of Suzhou's UNESCO-listed classical gardens.
Address: 23 Yuanlin Road, Suzhou, Eastern China, China
Hours: 7:30am–5:30pm daily
Admission: Varies
From $ 89