shanghai

Shanghai

As China's largest city and global financial hub, Shanghai presents a captivating fusion of Eastern and Western influences, where historic colonial architecture meets futuristic skyscrapers along the iconic Huangpu River.

Shanghai is situated on China's central eastern coast, where the Yangtze River meets the East China Sea. The city is served by two major airports: Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport. Shanghai is famous for its distinctive skyline featuring the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower, its historic Bund waterfront, and charming former French Concession area with its tree-lined streets and art deco buildings.

Explore Shanghai

Trending Attractions in Shanghai

The Bund

The Bund

Yu Garden

Yu Garden

Oriental Pearl Tower

Oriental Pearl Tower

Lujiazui

Lujiazui

Jing'an Temple

Jing'an Temple

Shanghai Disneyland

Shanghai Disneyland

City God Temple

City God Temple

Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road

Shanghai Museum

Shanghai Museum

St. Ignatius Cathedral

St. Ignatius Cathedral

Anfu Road

Anfu Road

Huaihai Road

Huaihai Road

Wukang Road

Wukang Road

Yuyuan Road

Yuyuan Road

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Shanghai is during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November):

  • Spring offers cherry blossoms and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities
  • Autumn brings the hairy crab season and comfortable weather for sightseeing
  • Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid with occasional rain
  • Winter (December-February) is cool and damp but offers festive atmosphere during holidays

Getting Around

Shanghai has an extensive and efficient public transportation system:

  • Metro: The extensive subway system is the easiest way to navigate the city
  • Taxis: Readily available and relatively affordable
  • Buses: Comprehensive network covering the entire city
  • Ferry: A scenic way to cross the Huangpu River
  • Walking: Many attractions in central areas are within walking distance

Must-Visit Attractions

The Bund (外滩)

The Bund is Shanghai's most iconic landmark, featuring a magnificent collection of colonial-era buildings along the Huangpu River. The area is particularly stunning at dawn for morning exercises or at night when the Pudong skyline creates a spectacular light show.

Yu Garden (豫园)

A classical Chinese garden built during the Ming Dynasty, Yu Garden showcases traditional pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. The surrounding bazaar area offers local snacks and souvenirs in a historic setting.

Pudong Skyline

For breathtaking city views, visit these observation decks:

  • Shanghai Tower (the world's second-tallest building)
  • Oriental Pearl TV Tower (iconic symbol of Shanghai)
  • Shanghai World Financial Center (bottle opener-shaped building)

Former French Concession

This historic district features:

  • Tianzifang (田子坊): Creative park with artsy shops and cafes
  • Xintiandi (新天地): Modern shopping and dining in traditional shikumen buildings
  • Wukang Road (武康路): Historic street lined with remarkable architecture

Local Cuisine

Shanghai's cuisine combines traditional flavors with modern interpretations:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Xiaolongbao (小笼包): Steamed soup dumplings
  • Shengjianbao (生煎包): Pan-fried pork buns
  • Hairy crab (大闸蟹): Seasonal delicacy (autumn)
  • Red-braised pork (红烧肉): Sweet and savory braised pork belly

Notable Restaurants

  • Nanxiang Mantou Dian (南翔馒头店): Famous for traditional xiaolongbao
  • Jia Jia Tang Bao (佳家汤包): Popular for fresh soup dumplings
  • Old Jesse (老吉士): Authentic Shanghai home-style cooking
  • Din Tai Fung (鼎泰丰): Renowned for consistent quality dumplings

Where to Eat

  • Yu Garden area: Traditional Shanghai snacks
  • Xintiandi: Modern interpretations of Shanghai cuisine
  • Former French Concession: International restaurants and cafes
  • Nanjing Road: Mix of local and international dining options

Shopping

Popular Shopping Areas

  • Nanjing Road: China's premier shopping street
  • Huaihai Road: Luxury brands and boutiques
  • Tianzifang: Artisan crafts and unique souvenirs
  • Super Brand Mall: Modern shopping complex in Pudong
  • IFC Mall: High-end shopping in Lujiazui

Traditional Markets

  • Yu Garden Bazaar: Traditional crafts and souvenirs
  • Qipu Road Clothing Market: Wholesale fashion
  • Dongtai Road Antique Market: Vintage items and antiques

How to Get There

Shanghai is accessible through:

  • Pudong International Airport: Major international flights
  • Hongqiao International Airport: Domestic and regional flights
  • High-speed rail: Connected to major Chinese cities
  • Both airports connect to the city via:
    • Maglev train (Pudong)
    • Metro lines
    • Airport shuttle buses
    • Taxis

Safety Tips

  • Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas
  • Use official taxis or ride-hailing services
  • Stay aware in busy tourist areas
  • Keep emergency numbers handy:
    • Police: 110
    • Ambulance: 120
    • Tourist Helpline: 12301

Don't Miss

  • Strolling along the historic Bund, especially at night
  • Exploring Yu Garden and its surrounding traditional bazaar
  • Visiting observation decks for panoramic city views
  • Wandering through the Former French Concession
  • Experiencing Shanghai's culinary scene
  • Taking a Huangpu River cruise
  • Visiting attractions during off-peak hours for better experience