Choose from 39 Fun Things to Do in Shanghai
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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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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