Choose from 62 Fun Things to Do in Eastern China
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 62 listings.
Pingjiang Road
Pingjiang Road is an ancient canal-side street located in the city of Suzhou. The road and its surroundings have been around for more than 800 years, since the Song Dynasty. A popular tourist destination, this charming cobblestone street gives visitors a fascinating glimpse into local Suzhou life.
More than 1,600 meters long, Pingjiang Road is lined with quaint old bookshops, local theaters, and traditional Suzhou houses with whitewashed walls and black tiles. You’ll also find eccentric cafes, jewelry shops, and street food vendors, as well as a number of other restaurants. Locals and tourists alike gather in the teahouses for performances of Suzhou Pingtan, a traditional performance of ballad singing and storytelling in the local dialect, while those interested in architecture will be in their element with the ancient design of the buildings here – plus there are 18 bridges scattered across the Pingjiang district.
Despite being a popular tourist destination, Pingjiang remains a quiet place away from the noise of the city. Because of its location, a visit here can easily be combined with a tour of Suzhou’s other top attractions, such as the the Humble Administrator’s Garden or Lion Grove Garden. A boat ride on the surrounding canals is a scenic way to experience this unique district.
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of an organized tour with transport included, the quickest and easiest way to reach Suzhou from Shanghai is to take the high-speed express train between the two cities. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes if you plan to spend the whole day out as there is a lot to see on Pingjiang Road and its surroundings.
Did You Know? Pingjiang Road first appeared in the Pingjiang Tu map produced in 1229. There are 51 smaller alleyways that intersect with the road, and around three kilometers of canals in the surrounding area.
Address: Pingjiang Road, Suzhou, Eastern China, China
From $ 55
Red Carp Pond
Red Carp Pond, or “Viewing Fish at Flower Harbor,” is one of the classic “Ten Scenes of West Lake” in Hangzhou. Formerly the garden of a Southern Song dynasty official, the stunning pond and flower views have been inspiring artists for more than 800 years and continue to draw visitors of all ages today.
The Basics
Red Carp Pond is a part of Flower Harbor (Huagang) Park, a 52-acre (21-hectare) park located inside West Lake. In addition to the pond, with its thousands of colorful carp, other key areas include a flower harbor, a peony garden, a great lawn, dense trees, and pavilions, including the octagonal Peony Pavilion and the Imperial Stele Pavilion.
Red Carp Pond is one of the most popular attractions inside West Lake and is often included in West Lake tours, with many boat cruises stopping at Huagang Park Wharf. If you plan to visit other top Hangzhou sights, consider taking a full-day tour, which will usually also include Leifeng Pagoda, Lingyin Temple, or a tea plantation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Flower Harbor Park is a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers.
- There is no admission fee to the park or the pond.
- This is a great place to take the whole family.
- Bring or buy some food, if you plan to feed the fish.
How to Get There
Red Carp Pond, at the southwest corner of West Lake, is located on a peninsula between the Inner and Small Southern lakes, and is accessible from the southern end of Su Causeway. Take bus nos. Y2 or Y10 and get off at the Su Causeway stop. You can also take a boat from other parts of West Lake to Huagang Park Wharf.
When to Get There
Red Carp Pond and Flower Harbor Park are very popular with both locals and tourists, especially on weekends and public holidays. Visit early in the morning and during the week to avoid the crowds. Visit in April or May to see peonies and other flowers in bloom.
Imperial Stele Pavilion
This pavilion features a stele with an inscription, “Viewing Fish at Flower Harbor,” written by Emperor Kangxi during the Qing dynasty. The traditional Chinese character for fish has four strokes at the bottom, but there are only three strokes here. Four strokes denote fire; three refer to water. It is said that the emperor wanted the fish to swim happily in the water, rather than cooked; hence, his poetic writing of the character for fish.
Address: China
From $ 58
Pudong
Pudong, the area of Shanghai east of the Huangpu River, is home to many of Shanghai’s most famous modern buildings. Formerly an agricultural area, Pudong is now Shanghai’s financial district and commercial hub -- a stark contrast to the colonial buildings of the Bund just across the river.
Pudong’s skyline includes notable buildings like the Oriental Pearl Radio and TV tower, Jinmao Tower Observatory, Shanghai Ocean Aquarium and the International Convention Center. Pudong New Area is also home to Century Park, the largest park in the city, as well as some of Shanghai’s best shopping opportunities, like Nanjing Road.
Before visiting Pudong, take a walk along the Bund for the best views of the iconic Shanghai skyline across the river. Once you’ve crossed over, set aside some time to ride to the top of the Oriental Pearl Tower, the 1,535-foot (468-meter) tall space age building that stands out among the other skyscrapers of Shanghai. Within you’ll find an observation floor, shopping mall, revolving restaurant and the Shanghai History Museum in the basement.
Pudong’s skyline includes notable buildings like the Oriental Pearl Radio and TV tower, Jinmao Tower Observatory, Shanghai Ocean Aquarium and the International Convention Center. Pudong New Area is also home to Century Park, the largest park in the city, as well as some of Shanghai’s best shopping opportunities, like Nanjing Road.
Before visiting Pudong, take a walk along the Bund for the best views of the iconic Shanghai skyline across the river. Once you’ve crossed over, set aside some time to ride to the top of the Oriental Pearl Tower, the 1,535-foot (468-meter) tall space age building that stands out among the other skyscrapers of Shanghai. Within you’ll find an observation floor, shopping mall, revolving restaurant and the Shanghai History Museum in the basement.
Practical Info:
Routes to take by transit: Subway: Line 2.
Address: Pudong, Shanghai, China
From $ 31
Old French Concession
Shanghai’s Old French Concession, an area once leased to the French in the Luwan and Xuhui districts of the city, is a reminder of an older Shanghai. The visitor-friendly area is packed full of beautiful colonial mansions and hotels dating back to the first three decades of the twentieth century. The French took control of the area in 1849, but it wasn’t until the 1920s when the neighborhood reached its peak of popularity as one of Shanghai’s most elite neighborhoods.
When you walk through the heart of the area on the tree-lined streets between Julu Road and Huaihai Road, you’ll find a collection of nicer restaurants and boutique shops occupying the surviving historic structures alongside Shanghai locals going about their day to day life. The French Concession is a good place to grab some food as there are so many choices; you’ll find almost everything here from Indian to French, Spanish and Thai food.
A few of the French Concession’s historic buildings now house museums, including Sun Yat-sen’s Former Residence and Zhou Enlai’s Former Residence. Both are inexpensive and will give you a better understanding of the history of the neighborhood and the city.
When you walk through the heart of the area on the tree-lined streets between Julu Road and Huaihai Road, you’ll find a collection of nicer restaurants and boutique shops occupying the surviving historic structures alongside Shanghai locals going about their day to day life. The French Concession is a good place to grab some food as there are so many choices; you’ll find almost everything here from Indian to French, Spanish and Thai food.
A few of the French Concession’s historic buildings now house museums, including Sun Yat-sen’s Former Residence and Zhou Enlai’s Former Residence. Both are inexpensive and will give you a better understanding of the history of the neighborhood and the city.
Address: Luwan and Xuhui Districts, Shanghai, China
From $ 30
Shanghai Maglev
Experience the world’s fastest commercial train: Shanghai Maglev. The train uses magnetic levitation to “float” along the tracks and can make the 19-mile (30 kilometer) journey between Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Longyang Road Station in Shanghai in just over seven minutes, reaching speeds of up to 268 miles per hour (431 kilometers per hour).
The Basics
The world’s third commercial magnetic levitation line, Shanghai Maglev train opened in 2003. Visitors can purchase single, round-trip, or VIP tickets, with same-day air passengers qualifying for discounts. For convenience, book a package with round-trip transfer from Longyang Road Station to your hotel. Some sightseeing tours include a Maglev train ride and stops at attractions such as Bund, Xintiandi, or Oriental Pearl Tower. Or, book a private tour that includes a ride on the Maglev.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Different trains travel at different speeds; consult the schedule for timing.
- Passengers should check in at least five minutes before scheduled departure.
- Train doors close one minute before the scheduled departure.
- Eating, drinking, and smoking are not permitted on the train.
- Maglev trains are wheelchair accessible; request staff assistance at either Pudong Airport or Longyang Road Station to access elevators and a ramp if necessary.
How to Get There
Flights from all over the world land at Shanghai Pudong International Airport. Catch the Maglev train from the airport directly. From Shanghai, the train runs from Longyang Station, which can be reached by metro Lines 2 and 7. A number of buses also stop at Longyang Road Station.
When to Get There
From Longyang Road Station, the first train departs at 6:45am and the last train departs at 9:40pm. From Pudong Airport, the first train departs at 7am while the last train departs at 9:40pm. Trains run at 15 to 20 minute intervals, depending on the time of day.
Maglev Museum
The Shanghai Maglev Transportation Science and Technology Museum is located at the bottom of Longyang Road Station. It features exhibits on the history, technology, and advantages of the train and technology behind it. With a Maglev train ticket, admission is free.
Address: No. 2100 Longyang Rd, Pudong, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 6
Oriental Pearl Tower (Dongfang Mingzhu Guangbo Dianshi Ta)
Once the tallest building in Shanghai, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower remains one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in Pudong, part of the skyline visible from The Bund. The sci-fi-esque 1,535-foot (468-meter) tower houses observation platforms, a glass-bottomed walkway, rotating restaurant, as well as the Shanghai History Museum in its basement.
The Basics
The Oriental Pearl Tower’s facade is impossible to miss during a Shanghai visit. There are plenty of excuses to get inside, too. Learn Shanghai’s history in the basement museum, dine with 360-degree views in the rotating restaurant, or see the views from the observation decks. Hop aboard a Huangpu River cruise or book a sightseeing tour that stops along The Bund for a photo op of the skyscraper’s famous views across the river.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Oriental Pearl Tower is a must-see for families with kids, photographers, and architecture buffs.
- Try to see the tower from across the river and up close for the complete picture.
- Most tours including the Oriental Pearl Tower provide hotel pickup and drop-off in Shanghai.
- Don’t forget your camera: The view of the tower from across the river ranks as one of the most well-known images of Shanghai.
How to Get There
Situated in Pudong Park, the Oriental Pearl Tower is well-connected by public transportation. Take the metro line 2 to Lujiazui Station and leave through Exit 1, take one of several public buses to Lujiazui Huanlu Fenhelu Station, or for something different, ride through The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel to the Pudong side of the Huangpu River.
When to Get There
This Shanghai tower is visible from The Bund all the time, but the best views are at night when the spheres light up with colorful lights. Attractions within the tower are open daily throughout the year, though you should avoid visiting during Chinese national holidays when they’ll get very crowded.
Choose Your Height
The Oriental Pearl has five levels with visitor attractions. The tallest, at 1,152 feet (351 meters), is the Space capsule. The most popular area sits at 863 feet (263 meters), where you’ll find the main observation platform with its panoramic views of Shanghai city, while the 850-foot (259-meter) level has a circular glass-bottomed walkway. Thrill-seekers should try the VR roller coaster at 312 feet (95 meters), and a multimedia theater occupies 256-feet (78-meters) level.
Address: Lujiazui Lu 2, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 40
Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts
The regal white building that houses the Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts dates back to the early 1900s and its French Renaissance-inspired design is just part of what makes a visit to this cultural destination worthwhile.
Visitors who wander the well-kept galleries will find a vast collection of local artwork and artifacts that highlight the city’s history, development and design. Though the museum is relatively small compared to others in the city, travelers say the coin and bill collection and jade and bamboo carvings are some of the best around.
Practical Info
The museum is located at No. 79 Fenyang Road in Shanghai. It is stationed at the intersection of Fenyang and Taiyuan Roads. Entrance to the museum is free.
Address: 79 Fenyang Road, Shanghai Shi, China
From $ 50
Shanghai History Museum
After a multiyear renovation, the Shanghai History Museum reopened in 2018 at its new permanent location on the former grounds of the Shanghai Race Club, in People’s Square. It features over 1,100 artifacts spanning 6,000 years of the city’s history and covers political, social, cultural, and commercial life in Shanghai.
The Basics
The Shanghai History Museum boasts a 105,486-square-foot (9,800-square-meter) exhibition space consisting of an east building, a west building, and a courtyard. The permanent collection is housed in the east building, organized in rough chronological order from bottom to top, while the west building is reserved for special exhibitions and a public education zone.
More than 80% of the displayed material is on view to the public for the first time ever. In addition to standard displays, the museum also uses interactive multimedia displays to tell the story of Shanghai.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Shanghai History Museum offers free admission.
- Audio guides are available for rent.
- The museum is wheelchair and stroller accessible; both are provided free of charge.
- Free Wi-Fi and phone-charging stations are available throughout the museum.
How to Get There
The Shanghai History Museum is located at People’s Square. By metro, take line 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square (exit 11). Or take bus 46, 71, 112, 123, 145, 916, 925, or Tunnel Line 6 and get off at People’s Square Station.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily, except for Mondays (unless it’s a public holiday), from 9am to 5pm, with the last admission at 4pm. Only 10,000 visitors are allowed per day, with no more than 3,000 allowed in the building at a time, so plan to arrive earlier in the day to guarantee admission.
Museum Highlights
Don’t miss the glamorous wedding sedan chair from the early 20th century, which took 10 wood-carving artists 10 years to complete. Other museum highlights include a 19th-century rickshaw, a cannon used during the Opium War, Ming Dynasty imperial robes, and the collection of ancient pottery and stones from local dig sites. Children will enjoy the interactive exhibits, where they can design their own pottery or qipao (traditional Chinese dress) using digital projections.
Address: No. 1357 Yan'an West Rd, Changning, Shanghai, China
From $ 38
People's Square (Renmin Guang Chang)
The massive People’s Square, or Renmin Guang Chang, is in the heart of Shanghai. Surrounded by the city’s municipal government headquarters, a park, and several top museums, the major landmark makes for a popular meeting spot, as well as being at the center of politics, culture, transportation, and tourism in Shanghai.
The Basics
Covering an area of 1.5 million square feet (140,000 square meters), People’s Square can hold 1.2 million people. People’s Park provides a welcome green space in the urban area. Other attractions include the top-rated Shanghai Museum, Shanghai History Museum, Shanghai Museum of Contemporary Art, and Shanghai Grand Theater. There’s also a vast shopping area underneath People’s Square.
Combine a visit to People’s Square 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, such as the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, or Xintiandi. Cruise ship passengers, those on a layover, and others who want personalized attention might consider a customized private tour with a stop at People’s Square.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It’s free to visit People’s Square.
- There are 20 exits for the People’s Square metro station so check to see which exit gets you closest to the area of the square you want to see.
- When exploring the area, remember to wear comfortable shoes.
- While People’s Square itself is wheelchair accessible, not all attractions and businesses around it are.
How to Get There
People’s Square is located in the Huangpu district. By metro, take Lines 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square Station. Numerous buses also stop at People’s Square, including bus 18, 20, 23, 37, 46, 48, 49, 108, 109, 112, 123, 145, and 518.
When to Get There
Although People’s Square can be visited at any time, different attractions have different opening hours. Early mornings are a great time to see locals exercising and practicing tai chi. Weekends and holidays can be very busy; visit during the week for smaller crowds.
People’s Park Marriage Market
People’s Square Marriage Market, where parents try to find matches for their grown children, takes place every Saturday and Sunday from noon until 3pm. It’s worth a visit, even if you’re not looking for love. The market takes place just inside Gate 5 of People’s Park. Take Exit 9 of the People’s Square Station and head left on Nanjing Xi Lu to find it.
Address: People's Square, Shanghai, China
From $ 31
Shanghai Old Town (Nanshi)
Nanshi is the collection of narrow streets and alleys once enclosed within the walls of old Shanghai. During the city’s period of foreign concessions, it was the main Chinese district, rarely entered by foreigners. Today, the neighborhood captures the essence of old China, complete with several temples, food vendors, and a crowded bazaar.
The Basics
Most visitors to the old city head for Old Street and Yuyuan Garden, a classical garden also known for its bazaar with antiques and tea shops. The streets and alleys radiating out from this center teem with restaurants, curiosity shops, street food vendors, and temples, including the worthwhile Temple of the Town God.
Many Shanghai tours include a stop in Shanghai Old Town, as well as the Bund and the Shanghai Museum. You might choose to explore Nanshi on a leisurely private walking tour, or combine a sightseeing tour that includes Nanshi with lunch and a river cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Shanghai Old Town is a must-see for first-time visitors, history buffs, and bargain hunters.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- If you’re visiting independently, give yourself two to four hours to explore the area.
How to Get There
Shanghai Old Town is located southwest of the Bund. The easiest way to get to the neighborhood is to take the subway, line 10 to Yuyuan Garden or line 8 to Dashijie.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Shanghai Old Town is on a weekday morning. Weekends tend to be crowded with tourists and shoppers, so plan to arrive early if you’re visiting on a Saturday or Sunday. Garden enthusiasts should aim to visit in early spring, when the trees are budding and the gardens are perhaps at their loveliest.
What to Eat in Nanshi
There are several famous Chinese foods associated with the Old Town area, most notably soup dumplings, or xiaolongbao. Be prepared to line up for this street food favorite. After getting your fill, spend some time sipping tea at Huxinting, one of China’s oldest and most famous tea houses, just outside Yuyuan Garden.
Address: China
From $ 18
Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Hu Qing Yu Tang Chinese Medicine Museum)
The Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine—located off Hangzhou’s historic Qinghefang Ancient Street—is a part of Hu Qing Yu Tang, a still functioning pharmacy from the Qing dynasty. Learn about traditional Chinese medicine while appreciating the historic architecture of the 29,000-square-foot (2,700-square-meter) complex.
The Basics
Hu Xueyan, a prominent businessman from the late Qing dynasty, founded Hu Qing Yu Tang in 1874. The museum was established in 1987 and has five parts: the Exhibition Hall, the Medicine Preparation Hall, the Chinese Health Care Clinic, the Restaurant of Medicinal Diet, and the Sales Department. There are numerous displays on different types of Chinese medicine, their component parts, as well as treatises on Chinese medicine going back thousands of years. Visitors can also learn about traditional pharmaceutical processes and even try their hand at preparing medications.
Hu Qing Yu Tang is easy to locate on Qinghefang Ancient Street. However, visitors may gain more insight from a guided tour, which will also typically cover other nearby attractions, such as the China National Silk Museum and Leifeng Pagoda.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum is a must-visit for those with an interest in traditional Chinese medicine.
- There is an entrance fee for the museum.
- Displays of dead animals and animal parts may disturb some people, especially young children.
How to Get There
Hu Qing Yu Tang is located at 95 Dajing Lane, off Qinghefang Ancient Street, east of West Lake (about a 20-minute walk) and at the foot of Wushan Hill. Take Metro line 1 to Ding’an Road (Exit C) and walk 10 minutes to the south, or bus nos. 8, 60, 127, 195, 208, or 216.
When to Get There
Hu Qing Yu Tang is open year-round. Museum staff typically provide a presentation, which is available in Chinese and English, at 9:15am, 10:15am, 1:15pm, 2:15pm and 3:15pm. Pharmaceutical process demonstrations can be requested at any time.
Hu Qing Yu Tang Chinese Health Clinic
Hu Qing Yu Tang also has a functional health clinic. Those who are interested can try a foot massage, Tui Na massage, acupressure, cupping, and other traditional Chinese medicine treatments. Prescriptions can then be filled at the on-site pharmacy.
Address: No.78-10,Hanghai Road, Hangzhou, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 75
Meijiawu Tea Village
Meijiawu Tea Village, just west of West Lake, is a top producer of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, considered one of the finest teas in China and the world. Surrounded by mountains, valleys, and streams, Meijiawu Tea Village is a picturesque locale where visitors can learn all about the heritage, production, and benefits of Longjing tea.
The Basics
Meijiawu Tea Village, nestled among lush, green terraced hills, is an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of Hangzhou and spend a few hours appreciating nature. Explore this charming ancient village, with its 160 teahouses, watch an elaborate tea ceremony, and learn all about tea culture while sipping a cup or two of this fragrant and flavorful tea. This is also a good opportunity to purchase some tea under the supervision of an expert guide.
Many day tours from Hangzhou and Shanghai include a visit to Meijiawu Tea Village, or another nearby tea plantation, along with other top Hangzhou sites, such as West Lake and Lingyin Temple.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Meijiawu Tea Village is a must-visit for tea lovers and photographers.
- The village is free to visit, but picking tea leaves and making tea costs extra.
- There are a number of historical points of interests, as well as good hiking trails, so allot at least a few hours, if not visiting as part of a tour.
How to Get There
Meijiawu Tea Village is located just west of West Lake, about 6 miles (10 kilometers) from downtown Hangzhou. If not visiting as part of a tour, it’s best to take a taxi. Or, you can take bus nos. 324, 658, 837, or tourist bus no. 4 from Hangzhou.
When to Get There
The village is open to visitors year-round. Spring is the best time to visit as travelers can try their hand at picking and making tea with the locals. Avoid going during Qing Ming, in early April, as it’s the busiest time in the village.
Tea Food
In addition to its world-famous tea, the village is also known for its tea food, dishes often made with and meant to complement the locally grown tea. Try local dishes, such as shrimp in Longjing tea, Longjing fish, fragrant braised pork, crispy-skinned chicken with Longjing tea, and moist chicken infused with Longjing tea.
Address: China
From $ 81
Nanjing Lu (Nanjing Road)
Shanghai’s premier shopping street, Nanjing Lu (Nanjing Road) features businesses ranging from small shops and stalls to massive department stores and malls. It’s the world’s longest shopping district, stretching 3.4 miles (5.5 kilometers) from the Bund to Jing’an Temple, and attracts over a million visitors a day.
The Basics
Nanjing Road is divided into Nanjing Road East, which includes the popular pedestrian strip and historical buildings, and Nanjing Road West, which has more modern structures. Though it’s possible to find anything on Nanjing Road, visitors often shop here for local products such as silk, paintings, calligraphy, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Many half- and full-day Shanghai tours feature a stop at Nanjing Road. Choose a walking tour, bike tour, or bus tour and visit the popular shopping street in addition to other top Shanghai attractions, such as the Bund and Yuyuan Garden. Or opt for an evening Nanjing Road visit combined with a Huangpu River cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Nanjing Lu is a must for first-time visitors to Shanghai and those who love to shop.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk the length of Nanjing Road.
- If you get tired of walking, board the tram that runs down the eastern part of the road.
- There are a lot of touts and hawkers on Nanjing Road, and some can be very aggressive. It’s best to ignore them or say no firmly and move away.
How to Get There
The eastern part of Nanjing Road runs from the Bund to People's Square, and the western part runs from People's Square to Jing'an Temple. You can start from the Bund and walk, or you can take metro line 2 or 10 to Nanjing Road East, the start of the pedestrian zone. To reach the center of Nanjing Road, take subway line 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square, then walk east toward the Bund or west toward Jing’an Temple.
When to Get There
Nanjing Road can be visited anytime, but shops tend to be open from about 10am to about 10pm. Visit during the day to admire the architecture and experience the crowds, and come back in the evening, when the street lights up in neon. Nanjing Road is very popular and becomes extremely crowded on weekends and holidays.
Historical Shops of Nanjing Road
Some shops on Nanjing Road date back to the Qing dynasty. They include Shanghai Laojiefu Department (1860), which sells clothes, fabrics, and silks; Duo Yun Xuan (1900), which sells calligraphy and painting; Heng De Li Clocks and Watches Co. (1864), which sells luxury watches and clocks; and Cai Tong De Pharmacy (1882), which specializes in traditional Chinese medicine.
Address: Shanghai, China
From $ 31
M50 Creative Park
M50 Creative Park is an artistic area of Shanghai. Situated just south of Shanghai Suzhou Creek, M50 is one of the earliest, largest, and most influential creative industry and modern art clusters in the city.
An open park, art-lovers and creative types have lots to explore here. It's a thriving hub of galleries and art studios, with exhibitions from both local and international artists. There are a wide range of art forms, from the popular black and white portraits of Shanghai’s urban development, to audio visual and abstract art.
Despite being one of the best-known creative hubs in Shanghai, strolling into M50 Creative Park gives the distinct sense of stumbling across a hidden gem. If you’re looking for a piece of art to take home, this is the ideal place to find something original at a reasonable price.
Insider’s Tip
Notable galleries and studios to visit include the Island6 Arts Center, the LWH Gallery, and the Eastlink Gallery.
Practical Info
To reach M50 Creative Park, take Line 1 of the metro and alight at Shanghai Railway Station, or take Line 3 or 4 to Zhongtan Road.
Address: 50 Moganshan Road, Shanghai 200000, China
From $ 50
Mt Huangshan (Yellow Mountain)
Mt Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1990, has featured in Chinese art and literature since the eighth century. Considered one of China’s most beautiful mountains, this peak rising above a sea of clouds in Anhui Province is famous for its irregular granite formations, gnarled pine trees and perpetual mist.
The mountain’s name, however, is a bit misleading; Huangshan isn’t a single mountain but a series of peaks, many of which reach over 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) in height. Paths winding through the park are well-maintained, and many include handrails and paved walkways. It’s also possible to take a cable car to the top and explore on foot from there. Tourists hoping to catch a sunrise or sunset can stay at one of half a dozen hotels located on the mountain top.
Practical Info
Mt Huangshan is at its most crowded from May to October, particularly during Chinese national holidays.
Address: Huangshan, Anhui Province, China
Admission: Y230 during high season, Y150 during low season
From $ 139
Shanghai Museum (Shanghai Bowuguan)
Considered one of the finest museums in China, the Shanghai Museum has a vast collection of Chinese artifacts from the Neolithic period onward. The museum’s 11 state-of-the-art galleries display ancient bronze, jade, and ceramics; painting, calligraphy, and ancient sculptures; and Ming and Qing dynasty furniture.
The Basics
The collections of the Shanghai Museum are so extensive, visitors would do well to prioritize the sections of interest to them. One highlight is the impressive ancient bronze gallery, featuring the world’s largest collection of ancient Chinese bronze artifacts. Other top galleries include the ancient sculpture gallery, the painting gallery, and the jade gallery.
Admission to the museum is free, but tickets are required; pick up a free ticket on the day of your visit. Many half-day and full-day Shanghai tours include a visit to the museum along with other city highlights such as Yuyuan Garden, the Bund, and Jade Buddha Temple. Some tours include a cruise on the Huangpu River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Shanghai Museum is a must for those interested in Chinese history or art.
- Audio guides in different languages are available for a fee.
- Luggage can be stored at the museum with a security deposit.
- The Shanghai Museum is fully wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available to use free of charge.
- There are two restaurants and a teahouse on-site.
How to Get There
The Shanghai Museum is located at 201 Renmin Avenue, People’s Square. To get there by public transit, take metro line 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square Station (Exit 1) and walk south. Alternatively, take the City Sightseeing Bus, line 1 or 2, and get off at the museum.
When to Get There
With over 120,000 items, the museum has a lot to see, and visitors can easily spend half a day or more trying to cover it all. Arrive early to secure one of the 8,000 tickets issued daily and visit the galleries in order of your personal interest. Weekday visits are more peaceful, and the museum is closed Monday.
Shanghai Museum’s Unusual Design
The design of the museum is a visual representation of the Chinese concept of a round heaven and a square earth—a round structure on a square base, similar to the design of many ancient buildings. It also reflects the shape of an ancient bronze cooking pot known as a ding, many examples of which are on display in the ancient bronze gallery.
Address: People's Square, Shanghai, China
Admission: Free. Some special exhibitions may be ¥20
From $ 31
National Tea Museum
The National Tea Museum is the only tea-themed museum in China. It was opened in 1991 and is located in Westlake Village in Shuangfeng, Hangzhou. The museum is surrounded by clusters of tea farms and features various exhibition halls that depict the history and development of tea over thousands of years.
The museum's Evolution Hall showcases the production process of Chinese tea, as well as a variety of imported types. As the name suggests, the Teaware Hall traces the evolution of Chinese teaware, as well as concentrating on the planting, production, and tasting of tea. The Tea Customs Hall is devoted to the impact that tea has had on the lives of various minority groups in China throughout its long history, while the Kaleidoscope Hall features hundreds of different kinds of tea, including the six classic types in China.
Practical Info
To reach the National Tea Museum, take tourist bus Y3 or K27 and alight at Shuangfeng Station. Audio tours are available at the museum entrance.
Address: 88 Longjing Lu, Hangzhou, Xihu District 310000, China
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: 8:30am-4:30pm / Closed on Mondays
From $ 62
Moganshan Road
Home to Shanghai’s contemporary art scene epicenter, M50 Creative Park, Moganshan Road was once known for its street art and grimy, gritty vibe. Today, the street art is under demolition, while luxury edifices such as the 1,000 Trees building are transforming the district. Galleries, cafes, and bookstores line the streets.
The Basics
The M50 Creative Park, Shanghai’s answer to Beijing’s 798 Art Zone, is the usual first stop on most trips to Moganshan Road (Moganshan Lu). Among the studios, galleries, bookshops, and cafes, there is enough to while away at least half a day. If you’re serious about discovering—let alone buying—Chinese contemporary art, it pays to join a Shanghai art tour. Even better, hire a private art guide or book a private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Moganshan Road—in particular M50—is an absolute must for fans of contemporary Chinese art.
- Even by the standards of Shanghai, a city that changes at lightspeed, Moganshan Road is gentrifying fast.
- Moganshan Road and M50 are large areas and a fair walk from the metro. Wear practical shoes.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Moganshan Road is by taking the metro to Jiangning Road on Line 13, Zhongtan Road on lines 3 and 4, or Shanghai Railway Station, on Line 1, although there is a fair amount of walking whichever option you choose. Many Shanghai art tours include transportation by private vehicle or local taxi.
When to Get There
Most galleries in M50 and beyond close on Mondays, and very few charge for admission. As ever in Shanghai, weekends and public holidays are the busiest times along Moganshan Road, both for shoppers at the new malls and for art hounds on the M50 trail.
1,000 Trees Building
Created by British design studio Heatherwick, 1,000 Trees building is perhaps the most obvious sign of the gentrification of Moganshan Road. The 15-acre (13-hectare) lot next to M50 is home to a vast mixed-use development, including two shopping centers. Shaped like twin mountains, the stepped building takes its name from its 1,000 supporting pillars, eached topped with a balcony holding a living tree.
Address: Moganshan Road, Putuo, Shanghai, China
From $ 62
Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum (Ohel Moshe Synagogue)
The Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum (Shanghai Youtai Nanmin Jinianguan) is housed within the restored Ohel Moshe Synagogue, which played a key role in the lives of the 20,000 European Jewish refugees who settled in the city during World War II. The museum highlights their story through photos, films, documents, and personal items.
The Basics
The Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum includes the Ohel Moshe Synagogue, a permanent exhibition hall, a rotating exhibition hall, and a courtyard. Don’t miss the 111-foot-long (34-meter-long) copper Memorial Wall in the courtyard inscribed with the names of 13,732 Jews who found refuge in Shanghai during World War II.
Explore the museum on your own or join a guided tour that includes other key sites in Shanghai’s Jewish Quarter. Some tours include attractions elsewhere in and around Shanghai.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in World War II and Jewish culture.
- Allow yourself two hours to fully appreciate all the exhibits.
- Visitors can purchase a combo ticket including a cup of coffee from the historical White Horse Inn across the street.
How to Get There
The Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum is located at 62 Changyang Road, near Zhoushan Road. To get there by public transit, take the metro, Line 12, to Tilangqiao (Exit 2) and walk northeast for 10 minutes. You can also take City Sightseeing Bus, Line 5, to Shanghai Youtai Nanmin Jinianguan, or bus 134 or 875 to Haiman Lu Changyang Lu.
When to Get There
Not among Shanghai’s blockbuster sights, the Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum is rarely crowded, so it’s a good bet when other attractions are busiest. If you’re interested in a guided tour, given by volunteers on occasion, be sure to check ahead for timing and availability. The museum is open daily from 9am to 5pm.
The Ohel Moshe Synagogue and the White Horse Inn
Established in 1927, the Ohel Moshe Synagogue played a prominent role in Shanghai’s Jewish community until it was confiscated in 1949 after the communist takeover of China. In 2007, the Hongkou District government restored the synagogue and reopened it as a museum. Across the street from the synagogue, the White Horse Café had been a popular gathering place for Jewish refugees. Demolished in 2009, the café was rebuilt in 2015 and renamed the White Horse Inn.
Address: 62 Changyang Road, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 38
Qinghefang Ancient Street
Qinghefang Ancient Street, the best-preserved historical street in Hangzhou, stretches 1,575 feet (480 meters). East of West Lake, it’s a great place to shop, dine, and appreciate classical architecture. A number of buildings are from the Ming (1380–1644) and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties, and some of the shops date back hundreds of years.
The Basics
Qinghefang Ancient Street has been prosperous, filled with shops and restaurants, since ancient times. Businesses from Hangzhou’s past that are still open today include Zhang Xiaoquan Scissors (established in 1663), Wan Xing Ji Fan Store (established during the Qing dynasty), and Baohetang Pharmacy (with 1,000 years of history). There are also a lot of dining options, from food stalls selling street food to 140-year-old teahouses, such as the Taiji Teahouse, and restaurants like No. 1 Scholar Hall, known as the first noodle shop in Hangzhou.
It’s easy to visit Qinghefang Ancient Street independently. With so much packed into a small area though, it can be helpful to go on a guided tour to easily navigate the shops and restaurants, and to learn more about street’s long history. Day tours tend to include nearby attractions, such as West Lake, Leifeng Pagoda, and China National Silk Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Qinghefang Ancient Street is a must-visit for those who love shopping and history.
- Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking on cobblestone lanes.
- This is a good place to pick up typical tourist souvenirs, and more unique handicrafts and curios, sometimes handmade on the spot by artisans.
How to Get There
Qinghefang Ancient Street lies to the east of West Lake (an about 20-minute walk) and at the foot of Wushan Hill. Take Metro Line 1 to Ding’an Road (Exit C) and walk 10 minutes to the south or take bus no. 8, 60, 127, 195, 208, or 216.
When to Get There
Qinhefang Ancient Street can be visited at any time. Shops tend to be open from 9am to 10pm. Public holidays, especially Lunar New Year, are extremely busy times. Visit during the day to better see the shops and architecture. Visit at night to see the street lit up with festive red lanterns.
Qinghefang Ancient Street Museums
There are a number of museums along Qinghefang Ancient Street, some more unusual than others, including the Zhejiang ancient ceramic museum, Guanfu art museum, Bingren Copper Sculpture Museum, and the World Coin Museum. Huqing Yutang is both a traditional Chinese medicine shop and a Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Address: Hangzhou, China
From $ 54