Shanghai is the largest city in China and an important global business center. One of its most famous spots is the Bund, a riverside walkway with historic buildings from the colonial period. Across the Huangpu River is the modern Pudong area, known for its tall skyscrapers like the 632-meter Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl Tower with its pink domes.
Yu Garden is a peaceful place in the city, filled with traditional buildings, ponds, and small bridges. Nanjing Road is a busy shopping street with many stores and bright lights, especially at night. It leads to People’s Square, where you’ll find the Shanghai Museum, which displays jade carvings, calligraphy, and other Chinese artworks.
Longhua Temple is one of the oldest temples in Shanghai, famous for its beautiful pagoda from the Song Dynasty. The French Concession is another popular area, known for its tree-lined streets, stylish old buildings, shops, cafes, and bars. Shanghai’s local food is also well-known, with dishes like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), hairy crab, and drunken chicken.
places to visit in Shanghai
Oriental Pearl Tower
The Oriental Pearl Tower is a famous TV tower in Shanghai, located in the Pudong area by the Huangpu River, across from the Bund. It stands 468 meters tall and is easily recognizable with its unique design. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city, visit the history museum, and dine at the revolving restaurant. The tower’s modern look makes it a standout landmark. It’s a must-see spot for tourists in Shanghai.
The Bund
The Bund is a historic waterfront area in central Shanghai, stretching along the Huangpu River. It’s known for its colonial-era buildings and is part of the city’s heritage. This area was once the heart of Shanghai’s international trade and finance. The Bund offers beautiful views, especially of the modern skyline on the opposite riverbank. It’s a great place to walk, take photos, and enjoy the city’s atmosphere.
Yu Garden
Yu Garden is a traditional Chinese garden located near the City God Temple in the Old City of Shanghai. The garden features beautiful Ming dynasty-style pavilions, ponds, rockeries, and arched bridges. It’s a peaceful place to explore and escape the city’s bustle. Visitors can enjoy the stunning landscapes and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to experience traditional Chinese gardening art.
Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is one of the busiest shopping streets in Shanghai, full of shops, street vendors, and restaurants. The eastern part of Nanjing Road is especially famous for its shopping malls and lights at night. It is one of the world’s busiest streets, alongside places like Fifth Avenue and Times Square. The road is named after Nanjing, a city in nearby Jiangsu province. It’s a must-visit destination for shopping and sightseeing in Shanghai.
People’s Square
People’s Square is a large public space located in central Shanghai, south of Nanjing Road and north of Huaihai Road. It’s a popular meeting place with a mix of busy areas and peaceful gardens. The square is home to several key landmarks, including the Shanghai Museum. It’s a great spot to relax, people-watch, and enjoy the surrounding attractions. The area is always lively and full of activity.
Shanghai World Financial Center
The Shanghai World Financial Center is one of the tallest buildings in the world, with 101 floors. It is located in the Pudong district and offers amazing views of the city. The building features a hotel, shopping areas, and restaurants. Visitors can go up to the observation deck for a stunning view of Shanghai’s skyline. It’s a modern marvel and one of the city’s most iconic buildings.
Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum is a world-class museum located in People’s Square. It is dedicated to ancient Chinese art and has extensive collections of bronzes, jade artifacts, sculptures, and paintings. The museum was rebuilt in 1996 and is considered one of the top museums in China. It offers a fascinating look into Chinese history and culture. The building itself is an architectural beauty.
Jade Buddha Temple
The Jade Buddha Temple is a Buddhist temple in Shanghai, founded in 1882. It is famous for its two beautiful jade Buddha statues, which were brought to Shanghai from Myanmar. The temple combines both the Pure Land and Chan traditions of Buddhism. It’s a peaceful place to visit and offers a glimpse into Chinese spiritual life. The temple is located in the western part of Shanghai.
Longhua Temple
Longhua Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Shanghai, dating back to the 3rd century. The temple is dedicated to Maitreya Buddha and features buildings that reflect the Song dynasty’s architectural style. Although many of the current structures are from later reconstructions, the temple still preserves its historical charm. It’s a serene spot, ideal for those interested in ancient Chinese culture and religion. The temple is located in the southern part of the city.
Madame Tussauds Shanghai
Madame Tussauds Shanghai is a wax museum located on the 10th floor of the New World Department Store on Nanjing Xi Road. It’s famous for its realistic wax figures of celebrities like Yao Ming, David Beckham, and Tom Cruise. The museum is a fun place for visitors to take photos with lifelike versions of their favorite stars. It’s an exciting stop for families and tourists in Shanghai. The figures are highly detailed and offer a unique experience.
Shanghai Tower
Shanghai Tower is a stunning skyscraper that stands 632 meters tall, making it one of the tallest buildings in the world. Located in the Pudong district, it has 128 floors and features the highest observation deck in any building, at 562 meters. The tower is a symbol of Shanghai’s modernity and rapid development. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the top. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Shanghai.
Best time to visit Shanghai
The best time to visit Shanghai is from April to November. The weather during these months is mild and pleasant. It’s a great time for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities. The temperatures are comfortable, making it ideal for travel. You’ll be able to explore the city at its best.
