Shanghai is like no other city in the world, as it offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and ultra-modern architecture. This city offers unique experiences for every kind of traveler or explorer. But apart from the famous streets and the towering skyscrapers, lies an endless bed of concealed captivations just waiting to be uncovered. This article highlights places that have escaped the traveler’s eye, such as historical culture hubs, hidden gardens, and world-unknown alleys, to capture the inner spirit of this intricate city. No matter whether it is your first time or your fiftieth trip to the town, get ready to look at Shanghai in a new light.
What Are the Top Tourist Attractions in Shanghai?
Why is the Bund a Must-Visit?
The Bund is known as the promenade along the Huangpu River due to its great historical significance in the reopening of Shanghai for international trade. The gentler waterfront of the Huangpu River is a fusion of rich history and modernity. The Bund stretches around 1.5 km, offering awe-inspiring views of the buildings on the west side, which was the central Estuary at the time. It provides splendid Art Deco, Gothic, and Renaissance styles of architecture in various early 20th-century buildings.
The heart of Shanghai’s dynamic activities can be found here, with options ranging from cruising, shopping, and fine dining. The most striking feature of Bund is the views it offers during sunrise or sunset, as the city glimmers with lights, adding a majestic ambiance to the town. Whatever the reason, the beauty of Shanghai cannot be overlooked, especially at its centerpiece, The Bund, with its stunning colonial terraces and pier.
How to Experience the Best of Nanjing Road?
Renowned as one of the busiest shopping streets in the world, Nanjing Road effortlessly combines historical culture with contemporary style. The street is over 3.4 miles long and has two main parts: Nanjing Road East, famous for its historical buildings and premium shops, and Nanjing Road West, known for high-end brands and luxurious malls. For a complete experience, a leisurely walk along pedestrian-friendly Nanjing Road East, with its mix of centuries-old shops and modern boutiques, is highly recommended.
Visitors will have a complete delight in culinary offerings, from Shanghainese-style mooncakes to street food and fine dining restaurants alike. The glowing neon signs viewed while walking at night further illuminate the fantastic atmosphere Nanjing Road offers. Be sure to take a sightseeing train ride for a detailed and effortless exploration of Nanjing Road. From shopping to indulging in local delicacies and soaking in the city’s extravagant atmosphere, Nanjing Road never fails to offer unforgettable experiences at the heart of Shanghai.
What is the Captivating Character of the Oriental Pearl Tower?
Oriental Pearl Tower is undoubtedly one of the most popular spots in Shanghai, combining futuristic design and cultural significance. This unusual structure, which stands at a height of 468 meters, was completed in 1994 and is one of the tallest TV and radio towers in the world. The design includes ancient Chinese craftsmanship and is composed of eleven spheres of different sizes, which resemble “pearls falling onto a jade plate,” a phrase from ancient Chinese poetry.
The tower has many observation decks, and the highest one, called the Space Module, has jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city. It also features other famous attractions, such as the glass-bottomed Skywalk, where tourists can stand 259 meters above the ground and experience a unique view. It also has a revolving restaurant. The tower also features a remarkable Shanghai History Museum and an entertainment complex, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The Oriental Pearl Tower stands out in the skyline, and at night, its amazing light shows complement the beauty of the architecture, which further emphasizes the characteristic blend of history and modernity that Shanghai is widely known for.
Which Historical Sites Should You Visit in Shanghai?
The Beauty of the Temple Jade Buddha
The Jade Buddha Temple is an oasis of peace, quiet, and spirituality amidst the fast-paced life in Shanghai. An architectural masterpiece that still boggles the minds of tourists today, this Buddhist temple was built in 1882 and features two stunning jade Buddha statues, both skillfully carved from pure white jade and brought from Burma. The seated Buddha statue, dressed in many colorful jewels, stands proudly as the main center of admiration and measures almost 2 meters tall. Alongside it, the smaller reclining Buddha, which symbolizes the Buddha’s peaceful passing into nirvana, further enhances the temple.
In addition to its artistic and religious significance, the temple is a remarkable example of Chinese architecture, featuring massive gates, red walls that bristle with vivid color, and intricately carved dragons that exude cultural splendor. Guests are free to witness daily regimens and rituals carried out by resident monks, authentic windows into the world of living Buddhism in contemporary Shanghai. The temple’s spiritual calm, historical depth, and cultural richness define China, making the Jade Buddha Temple one of the must-visit places for tourists.
Exploring the Collections of Yuyuan Garden and the Beauty of Shanghai
Despite being in the center of Shanghai’s Old City, Yuyuan Garden serves as a tranquil retreat offering a glimpse into the beauty of classical Chinese gardens. Like many gardens, Yuyuan was developed during the Ming Dynasty in the early 16th century and is known today as a delicate piece of architecture all on its own. It’s famed for its intricate rockeries and Koi ponds. Not to mention the five-ton Jade Rock that serves as a stunning centerpiece to the park.
The several sections, divided by exquisite corners, tell a story, starting with traditional halls and ending with gratified bridges, all lined with the most elegant tiles, reminiscent of long-lost grace. Apart from the history surrounding Yuyuan Garden, it also offers other benefits, such as being next to the Yuyuan Bazaar, where you can find classic Chinese street food, traditional handmade gifts, and people going about their daily lives, embracing the spirit of old Shanghai. All of this blends the peaceful history with the vibrant present day, making this area a precious gem and a must-visit site for everyone exploring.
Visiting the Shanghai Museum
With over 120,000 artifacts, the Shanghai Museum is a testament to China’s rich history and culture. Its architecture alone is worth a visit, as it features a dome which symbolizes the ancient view of the world as a round heaven sitting atop a square earth. The museum also allowed for an immersion into the artistry and craftsmanship of China’s different dynasties. Each exhibit, ranging from ancient bronze and ceramic goods to exquisite jade carvings and traditional paintings, showcased the evolution of Chinese culture and aestheticism.
Some of the sections include Calligraphy, Ming and Qing Dynasty furniture, numismatics, which covers coins from the Silk Road, and even some ritual vessels that are thousands of years old. Like most modern museums, Shanghai uses advanced technology, including interactive displays and multilingual guides that offer audio tours in multiple languages. All these features, along with the unparalleled exhibits and top-tier facilities, make the Shanghai Museum a must-visit destination to understand China’s diverse heritage.
What Modern Marvels Define the Pudong Skyline?
Visiting Shanghai Tower
At a staggering height of 632 meters, the Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China and the second-tallest in the world. Its innovative design boasts a unique twisting structure designed to withstand the region’s frequent typhoons, while symbolizing China’s modern growth. With tornado-like winds above China reaching tremendous speeds, the towering building is a remarkable feat of sustainability, incorporating advanced energy-saving technologies such as wind turbines and a double-skin façade.
To add to the breathtaking view, another highlight of the Tower is the speed of the elevators, which are also the fastest in the world. Elevators that travel like motorbikes, reaching speeds of up to 20.5 meters per second. With the observation deck located on the 118th floor, Shanghai showcases its iconic skyline, which includes the Pearl Tower, the Huangpu River, and many more. Alongside the overwhelming view, the tower itself encases luxury hotels, office spaces, and retail centers, blending with architectural brilliance. The Tower and the Pudong region also stand out in innovative education, culture, and, of course, commerce.
The Charm of Jinmao Tower
One of Shanghai’s most iconic skyscrapers, Jinmao Tower, captivates the eye with its sleek, 88-story, tiered design, reminiscent of Chinese pagodas, infused with contemporary architectural elements. Inaugurated in 1999, it was China’s tallest building for several years at 420.5 meters and remains a defining component of the Shanghai skyline.
But its function does not end with being a sightseeing landmark—the tower is home to lavish dining available from the Grand Hyatt Hotel, luxurious offices, and the world-class Hyatt Hotel, which occupies floors 53 to 87. Tourists and city dwellers flock to the 88th observation deck for unparalleled panoramic views that span the vibrant heart of Shanghai. Famed for its intricate construction, the tower also prioritizes safety, boasting a core structure that protects it from fierce winds and earthquakes.
A symbol of architectural prowess and culture, the Jinmao Tower draws people into the vibrant rhythm of Shanghai. It etched the country’s rapid urban development into history monolithically and continues to epitomize the country’s powerful innovations and stronghold.
Reasons Why You Have To Visit The Shanghai World Financial Center
An architectural masterpiece, the Shanghai World Financial Center is one of the prominent features of Shanghai’s skyline. Reaching a staggering height of 492 meters, it is one of the tallest constructions globally, and its distinctive trapezoidal aperture near the top sets it apart.It contains high-end offices, the Park Hyatt Shanghai, which is positioned as one of the top hotels in the city, shopping centers, and luxuriously designed malls, offering value for both leisure and business activities in a single structure.
People consider the observation decks on the 94th, 97th, and 100th floors to be some of the highest in the world, offering breathtaking views of Shanghai, along with the exhilarating feeling of standing on a glass floor at 474 meters above the ground on the 100th-floor Sky Walk. The building’s elegant design withstands high winds and earthquakes, which enhances its reputation as a modern masterpiece.
The Shanghai World Financial Center is seen as a sign of both the economic growth and potential that Shanghai is capable of. The exceptional services offered there, combined with its standing as a center of business dealings, make it a key location of interest for tourists. Its existence serves as a strong statement of the city’s status as an international metropolis. This landmark continues to amaze everyone who visits, whether they admire its breathtaking sight from a distance or wander through its remarkable interiors.
How to Experience Shanghai’s Art and Culture?
One Day at The M50 Art District
The M50 Art District is famously known for its distinct contemporary art galleries located on Moganshan Road. Here, both established and emerging artists showcase their work. With an array of art studios and galleries available, visitors will never run out of options. They have the opportunity to encounter breathtaking exhibitions that incorporate innovative multimedia techniques along with abstract sculptures, all of which are housed within old factory buildings.
Start your Silk Road journey by going to ShanghART or Island6, two must-visit art innovation institutions. Both will immediately grab your attention with their jaw-dropping entrances. Continue wandering through the district to discover art-inspired shops and selling boutiques. While admiring the beautiful artworks, you can sip your coffee at one of the many cozy cafes, making for a perfect combination of creativity and relaxation. From my perspective, whether you’re an art enthusiast or just a casual visitor, the M50 district offers a perspective-filled blend of tradition and contemporary, enabling me to shout out, ‘Wow, what an experience!’
What Exhibits to Catch at the Urban Planning Exhibition Center?
The Urban Planning Exhibition Center is a gold mine for exploring the history, development, and future of a city. They have a variety of detailed exhibitions that guide and motivate people on how cities are built and transformed. One of its standout features is the large-scale city model. The sophisticated centerpiece showcases the entire town, from the vibrant downtown section to the far-off suburbs, in breathtaking detail, using interactive technology that allows visitors to examine specific neighborhoods and proposed development changes. This was constructed by Soug B and gave visitors a grasp on urban development throughout history.
Another exhibit of equal importance centers around green development and sustainable urban planning. This part covers modern concerns, such as energy efficiency, green architecture, and mass transit, in a more informative style, using video montages. It highlighted both the issues and the city’s goals, helping visitors understand complex theories by featuring videos that showcased the results and metaphors for the current actions taken. This portion effectively demonstrated how innovative modern eco-friendly green transformations can be with evolving technology in cities.
Moreover, urban history enthusiasts can enjoy exhibits that detail the history of urban life. The Center tells the story of how cities and urban spaces have evolved about technology and society, including ancient settlement forms and modern-day rapid industrialization. This exhibit combines historical artifacts, photographs, and even augmented reality to help merge contemporary urban challenges with history. The Urban Planning Exhibition Center is ideal for those interested in urbanism, design, or sustainability, as it combines education with advanced tools that together offer a multifaceted and unforgettable experience.
Discovering the Natural History Museum
Visiting the Natural History Museum is like diving headfirst into a book that illustrates the chronological sequence of our planet and its natural wonders. The museum holds staggering collections that are centuries old, ranging from fossils and rare minerals to intricate displays of biodiversity. Immersive experiences await people of all ages at the museum, which showcases towering dinosaur skeletons and delicate, iridescent butterfly specimens. With careful selection of how each exhibit is presented, the museum ensures its visitors are offered a dynamic understanding of the planet’s evolution and the degree of interdependence between various ecosystems.
The museum’s highlight is how Earth’s geological history is portrayed as a scientific narrative. It features specimens, such as fossil fuels, that mark the ongoing processes of continents shifting, tectonic plate movements, volcanic activities, and the creation of natural crystals. Visitors can appreciate interactive exhibits that simulate eruptions, show the life processes of a star, and demonstrate fossilization and earthquakes. Apart from geology, the museum also displays major exhibits on the conservation of fauna and flora, as well as the ecological destruction caused by humans. Using innovative technologies with captivating narratives, the Natural History Museum elegantly balances education with motivation, allowing everyone to understand the vivid connection between our civilization and the natural world.
What Unique Experiences Does Shanghai Offer?
Day Trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town
The convenience of reaching Zhujiajiao Water Town within 60 minutes from the lively region of Shanghai only adds to the magic of this ancient town. ‘Venice of the East’ aptly describes its stunning canals and historical buildings. The city features both Zongzi and multiple stores offering unique local food and craft items.
A slower-paced boat ride on the canals was one of the highlights of my trip. I was able to admire the traditional Shikumen houses with their intricate wooden carvings and antique charm from an entirely different angle while drifting on the water. From the breathtaking footbridges to the bustling riverside cafes, every corner presented a new part of Zhujiajiao. Other places of interest I visited include the ancient Fangsheng Bridge, which has stood for hundreds of years, making it a remarkable testament to resilience and history. The Kezhi Garden is a lovely blend of classical Chinese architecture and nature, providing a calm space for contemplation.
Ultimately, a visit to Zhujiajiao showcases a unique combination of culture, history, and beauty, and is located not far from Shanghai. It celebrates the region’s history and highlights the delightful traditional water towns that continue to enchant both tourists and locals.
Adventure Awaits at Shanghai Disneyland
Experiencing Shanghai Disneyland was a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The park’s atmosphere captivated me through every moment of Disney classics such as ‘The Enchanted Storybook Castle’, which depicts a monumental princess castle standing tall ready to commence the adventure of the day. Everything from the themed areas, such as Adventure Isle and Tomorrowland, and the rides themselves was so breathtaking that they almost felt real. Judging by how it incorporates modern technology with exciting plotlines, my favorite ride has to be Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure.
Aside from the rides, the live entertainment and parades also captured my attention. Watching the Mickey’s Storybook Express parade, with its incredible floats and characters, was a highlight that ignited the Disney magic. Unique park snacks were also on the menu, such as Mickey-shaped ice cream bars, along with some locally inspired snacks, which added a cultural flair to the experience.
The additional joy and nostalgia that the park radiated made the experience even more special. Fans of Disneyland, or those looking for an exciting trip, what awaits you in Shanghai Disneyland is something you will remember for a lifetime. It’s a combination of childhood fantasies and a new thrill that creates unforgettable experiences for everyone.
Relaxing at Century Park, Shanghai
Relaxing at a park in Shanghai is one of the best experiences I had during the entire visit. So, I chose to take an afternoon stroll at Century Park, which is located in the middle of the city. The environmental calmness gave me the deserved relief from the noisy city areas. I went for a walk around the park, sunbathing by the gardens and lakes while taking a peaceful walk. It was inspiring to see local people relaxing by the pond, flying kites, and going for a jog. This gave a reassuring, soothing feeling.
While strolling around, I discovered a shady part beneath one of the gigantic trees. This is where I stayed for a couple of moments, simply appreciating the stillness of the location. Not only was looking at the sailing boats refreshing, but the children playing nearby made the atmosphere livelier and more joyous. The underlying element that amazed me was how effortlessly everything blended with nature and artificial structures, making people want to visit and unwind.
Visiting a park like Century Park in Shanghai reminds me of the immense amount of energy used in today’s world, and being in nature recharges me, which has a surplus of energy. It was a moment to reflect and reconnect with serenity, an experience I highly recommend to anyone seeking a break from the city’s chaotic energy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are some hidden gems to visit in Shanghai?
A: They would also enjoy Qibao Ancient Town and the Xintiandi district, where traditional Shikumen architecture is preserved. Another interesting hidden gem is Tianzifang, famous for its arts and crafts.
Q: How can I sightsee around the Huangpu River?
A: You can also sightseeing around the Huangpu River on a river cruise and enjoy the cityscape from the water. The views of cruise visitors while floating down the bay are amazing and include Lujiazui and its skyscrapers. Also, walking on the Bund provides beautiful views of the waterfront.
Q: What’s the best way to visit Shanghai Disneyland?
A: If you’re traveling with family, paying a little more attention helps quite a bit. The easiest way to get these is to purchase them online ahead of time, check the day’s timetable, and arrive early to maximize your time at the attractions. Thus, the best way to visit Shanghai Disney is to formulate a strategy.
Q: Can you recommend an art museum in Shanghai?
A: Another interesting place is the Shanghai Art Museum, which hosts interesting exhibitions of contemporary Chinese art. Unlike many other art museums, it is set within a historic building, which adds to the value of the exhibitions. It is known for hosting various works depicting China’s cultural heritage.
Q: Why is the French Concession in Shanghai important?
The French Concession has a modern mix of Western and Chinese cultures, featuring tree-lined roads and fancy boutiques. It reflects a part of Shanghai’s colonial history and is often visited by tourists.
Q: What places in Shanghai would you recommend avoiding?
A: There are only a few attractions that are more of a hassle than they’re worth. The City God Temple can be crowded with little movement during peak hours. This is a must-see, but make sure to visit at the right time.
Q: What boomtown structure can be observed from farthest away in Shanghai?
A: Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in Shanghai and the second tallest in the world. It has an observation deck with a stunning view of the skyline and other Shanghai marvels.
Q: How can I explore the ancient town of Qibao?
A: Depending on where you are located, one of the easiest ways to reach Qibao is by taking the metro and disembarking at Qibao Station. Once you are there, simply walk around and take in the beautiful scenery, try out some of the local delicacies, and don’t forget to stop by the Qibao Temple, as well as other places that illustrate the town’s rich Ming dynasty history.
Q: What is the best time to visit Shanghai?
A: For optimal weather conditions, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Shanghai. The mild temperatures during these seasons are perfect for sightseeing and other outdoor activities.