Shanghai is China's showcase city - a dazzling metropolis where colonial-era Art Deco buildings face off against futuristic towers across the Huangpu River. With 26 million people, it's one of the world's largest cities and China's commercial engine. From the historic Bund waterfront to the soaring Shanghai Tower, from ancient temples to cutting-edge museums, Shanghai embodies China's breathtaking transformation.
Top Attractions
The Bund (Waitan)
Shanghai's most iconic waterfront stretches 1.5km along the Huangpu River. On one side, 52 colonial-era buildings showcase Art Deco, Baroque, and Neoclassical grandeur. On the other, Pudong's sci-fi skyline with the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and Shanghai Tower. Walk it at night when both sides light up spectacularly.
Visitor Information
- Admission: Free
- Best Time: Sunset to night for illuminated skylines
- Getting There: East Nanjing Road Metro Station
- Tip: Take the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel for a kitschy experience
Shanghai Tower
At 632 meters, Shanghai Tower is an engineering marvel with the world's fastest elevators (18m/second) and highest observation deck. The 118th floor offers 360-degree views that stretch to the horizon. The spiral design reduces wind load by 24% and collects rainwater for internal use.
Yu Garden (Yuyuan)
This 400-year-old classical garden offers a serene escape from modern Shanghai. Pavilions, rockeries, ponds, and dragon walls showcase Ming Dynasty garden design. The surrounding Yuyuan Bazaar sells traditional crafts, and the famous Nanxiang xiaolongbao restaurant serves soup dumplings since 1900.
French Concession
Shanghai's most charming neighborhood features tree-lined avenues, Art Deco villas, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants. The former colonial quarter maintains a distinctly European feel. Explore on foot, stopping at Tianzifang for crafts and cafes, and the Propaganda Poster Art Centre for Communist-era nostalgia.
Jing'an Temple
This 1,700-year-old Buddhist temple creates a striking contrast, its golden roofs and Song Dynasty architecture dwarfed by surrounding skyscrapers. The active temple complex includes the largest jade Buddha in China. It's a powerful symbol of Shanghai's blend of ancient and modern.
Zhujiajiao Water Town
Just an hour from Shanghai, this 1,700-year-old water town offers a glimpse of traditional China. Stone bridges arch over canals, wooden boats glide past whitewashed houses, and time seems to slow down. The 36 bridges include the famous Fangsheng Bridge (1571). Go early to beat crowds.
Shanghai Food Guide
Shanghai cuisine (Benbang) is known for sweet and savory flavors, heavy use of soy sauce, and meticulous preparation. The city is also a food capital with every Chinese regional cuisine and international dining. Don't miss xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) - Shanghai's most famous culinary export.
Must-Try Dishes
Xiaolongbao
Steamed soup dumplings with pork and rich broth inside. Bite carefully! ¥30-80 per basket of 6.
Try: Din Tai Fung, Jia Jia Tang Bao, or Nanxiang
Shengjianbao
Pan-fried soup dumplings with crispy bottoms. Local breakfast favorite. ¥10-15 for 4.
Try: Yang's Fried Dumplings (multiple locations)
Hong Shao Rou
Red-braised pork belly - Shanghai's signature dish. Sweet, savory, meltingly tender. ¥40-80.
Try: Jesse Restaurant or any local restaurant
Hairy Crab
Seasonal delicacy (Oct-Dec) from nearby lakes. Rich, creamy roe. Market price (¥50-200 each).
Try: Wang Bao He or specialty restaurants
Scallion Oil Noodles
Simple noodles with caramelized scallion oil and soy sauce. Humble but addictive. ¥15-25.
Try: Wei Xiang Zhai or street stalls
Street Breakfast
Jianbing (savory crepes), youtiao (fried dough), and soy milk. Authentic morning fuel. ¥5-15.
Try: Any morning street vendor
Practical Information
Getting Around
- Metro: Excellent coverage, 19 lines. ¥3-9 per trip
- Maglev: World's fastest train (430km/h) from airport. ¥50
- Didi: Chinese ride-hailing app (Uber doesn't work)
- Note: Download apps before arrival - Google/WhatsApp blocked
Budget Guide (Per Day)
- Budget: ¥300-500 (hostels, local food, metro)
- Mid-range: ¥700-1,200 (3-star hotels, restaurants, attractions)
- Luxury: ¥2,000+ (5-star hotels, fine dining, experiences)
Best Time to Visit
- Apr-May: Spring, pleasant weather, gardens in bloom
- Sep-Nov: Autumn, best weather, hairy crab season
- Jun-Aug: Hot and humid, "plum rain" season in June
- Dec-Feb: Cold but festive, Chinese New Year crowds
Interactive Map
Explore Shanghai's top attractions on the map. Click markers for details and directions.
Key Attractions on Map
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