View It
Visit It
Shanghai
China
Visit Shanghai
Shanghai, a vibrant metropolis located on China's eastern coast, is the epitome of modernity meeting tradition. This sprawling city, the largest in China by population, serves as a global financial hub and a popular destination for travelers seeking a rich mix of history, culture, and cutting-edge development. The iconic skyline of the Pudong district, dominated by the futuristic Oriental Pearl Tower and the towering Shanghai Tower, one of the world's tallest buildings, offers a stark contrast to the city's quaint, historic neighborhoods like the French Concession with its tree-lined avenues and Tudor houses.
A visit to Shanghai is incomplete without exploring its diverse neighborhoods. The Bund, a famed waterfront area along the Huangpu River, showcases an impressive range of twentieth-century architecture, with styles ranging from neoclassical to Art Deco. The area is perfect for a leisurely stroll to admire the buildings and the panoramic views of Pudong’s skyline across the river, especially stunning when illuminated at night. Across the city, in Old Shanghai, you can wander through the narrow lanes of the former Jewish Quarter or visit the peaceful Yu Garden, a fine example of Ming dynasty landscape design.
Shanghai's culinary scene is as diverse as its population. The city offers everything from luxurious dining experiences in skyscraper restaurants to humble street food stalls serving local delicacies like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and shengjianbao (pan-fried buns). For shopping enthusiasts, Nanjing Road, one of the world's busiest shopping streets, provides a seemingly endless array of options, from high-end boutiques to traditional Chinese markets. Meanwhile, art lovers and culture seekers will find their bliss in the city’s numerous museums and galleries, such as the Shanghai Museum and the contemporary art powerhouse, the Power Station of Art.
Whether you're drawn to its historical allure, dazzled by its neon-lit modernity, or intrigued by its cultural depth, Shanghai offers a dynamic and unforgettable urban adventure. The city not only reflects China's past but also its future, making it an essential destination for anyone looking to understand the rapid changes shaping today's global landscape.
Shanghai Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
37°F
46°F
12
February
46°F
50°F
12
March
46°F
57°F
12
April
55°F
68°F
12
May
64°F
77°F
12
June
71°F
82°F
11
July
77°F
86°F
10
August
79°F
86°F
9
September
72°F
79°F
12
October
59°F
72°F
12
November
50°F
61°F
9
December
41°F
50°F
5
Need to Know Before You Go To Shanghai
Nickname:
The Pearl of the Orient
Primary Language:
Mandarin
Time Zone:
Asia/Shanghai
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type A, Type C, Type I
Annual Visitors:
Approximately 340 million
Primary Export:
Electronic circuits and microassemblies
Busiest Travel Months:
October, May, April
Quietest Travel Months:
February, January, December
Find your Next Adventure in Shanghai
Explore Shanghai
Iconic Landmarks
The Bund (Waitan)
The Bund is a famous waterfront area in central Shanghai, renowned for its impressive colonial-era buildings lining the Huangpu River. It offers a striking contrast to the modern skyscrapers across the river in Pudong, and is a popular spot for both tourists and locals to enjoy spectacular views of the city's skyline.
Oriental Pearl Tower
This TV tower, located in the Pudong district, is one of the most recognizable symbols of modern Shanghai. Standing at 468 meters, it features a unique design with spheres and a futuristic look. The tower includes observation decks, a revolving restaurant, and a shopping area.
Shanghai Tower
As China's tallest building and the second tallest in the world (as of my last update), Shanghai Tower reaches an impressive height of 632 meters. It features a twisted, glass façade designed to reduce wind loads on the building, and it houses offices, a luxury hotel, and observation decks.
Jade Buddha Temple
This Buddhist temple, established in 1882, houses two precious jade Buddha statues imported from Burma. It is not only a site of religious importance but also a peaceful sanctuary from the city's hustle and bustle.
Yu Garden (Yuyuan)
A classical Chinese garden located in the Old City of Shanghai, Yu Garden dates back to the Ming Dynasty (16th century). It features traditional pavilions, ponds, rockeries, and arched bridges, offering a glimpse into China's ancient landscaping art.
Xintiandi
Xintiandi is a stylish pedestrian street composed of traditional Shikumen ("stone gate") houses on narrow alleys, modernized to host a variety of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. This area blends the historical and cultural aspects of the city with contemporary lifestyle trends, making it a popular leisure area in downtown Shanghai.
Cultural Experiences
The Bund (Waitan)
Strolling along the Bund provides a visual journey through Shanghai's colonial past, showcasing an impressive skyline that features a mix of historical buildings and modern skyscrapers. This area is perfect for understanding the international influences that have shaped the city.
Shanghai Museum
Located in People's Square, the Shanghai Museum is renowned for its vast collection of Chinese artifacts, including ancient bronzes, ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy. This museum offers a deep dive into the rich history and culture of China.
Yu Garden (Yuyuan)
This exquisite garden dates back to the Ming Dynasty and is a prime example of traditional Chinese landscape design. Exploring Yu Garden not only offers insight into Chinese gardening aesthetics but also provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
Xintiandi
Xintiandi is a stylish pedestrian street composed of traditional Shikumen ("Stone Gate") houses on narrow alleys, now transformed into a trendy area with boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. This area is a great place to experience the fusion of old and new Shanghai culture.
Jade Buddha Temple
This active temple is famous for its two jade Buddha statues, imported from Burma in the late 19th century. It is a site of religious importance and offers a serene atmosphere where visitors can observe Buddhist rituals and admire the intricate religious art.
Acrobatic Shows
Shanghai is famous for its acrobatic shows, which are a thrilling display of physical prowess and traditional Chinese performance arts. Venues like the Shanghai Circus World or the ERA Acrobats show offer spectacular performances that should not be missed.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking in the She Shan National Forest Park
Located in the Songjiang District, She Shan (or "Snake Mountain") offers a relatively easy hike and the highest point in Shanghai. The area includes beautiful bamboo forests, a large lake, and several historical sites, including the She Shan Basilica. It's a great spot for a peaceful day hike.
Cycling on the East Bund
The Huangpu River’s East Bund has been developed into a beautiful waterfront area that is perfect for cycling. You can rent a bike and enjoy a ride along the river, taking in views of the iconic Shanghai skyline, especially stunning at night.
Kayaking on Dianshan Lake
Located on the outskirts of Shanghai, Dianshan Lake offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. You can rent kayaks and explore the lake’s calm waters, enjoying the natural scenery and fresh air.
Exploring the Chongming Island
Chongming, the third largest island in China, is situated at the mouth of the Yangtze River. It is known for its ecological preservation. You can enjoy bird watching at the Dongtan Bird Sanctuary, visit organic farms, and explore the Chongming National Geopark.
Walking through the Gongqing Forest Park
This large forest park in the north of Shanghai offers a variety of outdoor activities including boating, archery, and barbecuing. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk or a family picnic amidst lush greenery.
Sailing at Dishui Lake
Located in the newly developed Lingang area, Dishui Lake is the largest artificial lake in Shanghai. It offers facilities for sailing and other water sports. This is a perfect spot for those looking to learn sailing or just spend a day on the water.
Off the Beaten Path
Explore the Water Towns around Shanghai
While not in Shanghai proper, the ancient water towns like Zhujiajiao and Qibao are a short trip away and offer a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture and lifestyle.
Visit the Propaganda Poster Art Centre
Tucked away in the basement of an apartment building in the French Concession, this small, private museum offers a fascinating look at China’s political history through its collection of propaganda posters, many of which date back to the Mao era.
Stroll through the Old City’s Lilongs
The lilongs (lane houses) of Shanghai, particularly in the Old City, offer a peek into the city's past before modern skyscrapers took over. Walking through these narrow lanes, you can see how locals live, often with laundry hanging overhead and residents chatting in the courtyards.
Explore the Art Scene at M50
The Moganshan Road (M50) art district is a lesser-known gem for contemporary art lovers. Once a textile mill, M50 has been transformed into a vibrant art community with galleries, studios, and cafes, showcasing the work of emerging Chinese artists.
Visit the Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum
Located in the Hongkou District, this museum is dedicated to the history of Jewish refugees in Shanghai during World War II. It provides a unique perspective on the city's diverse cultural history and its role as a place of sanctuary during tumultuous times.
Discover the Shanghai Film Park
For a taste of old Shanghai, visit the Shanghai Film Park in Chedun. This film studio offers sets that recreate classic Shanghai streets, homes, and businesses from the 1920s to the 1940s. It’s a fun way to see historical reconstructions and maybe even catch a film shooting in action.
Shanghai Fun Facts
Shanghai, one of the world's most vibrant and bustling metropolises, is full of interesting facts that highlight its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, as well as its historical and modern significance. Here are the top 10 fun facts about Shanghai:
- World's Busiest Container Port
Shanghai has been home to the busiest container port in the world since 2010. The Port of Shanghai's shipping capacity surpasses that of any other port on the globe, reflecting the city's massive role in global trade.
- A Blend of Architectures
Shanghai's skyline is a mix of architectural styles, from Art Deco buildings to ultra-modern skyscrapers. The Bund, one of the city's most famous areas, showcases early 20th-century buildings that give it a unique historical flavor amidst the modernity.
- Shanghai Maglev
The Shanghai Maglev Train is the fastest commercial electric train in the world, reaching speeds of up to 431 km/h (268 mph). The train covers the 30.5 km (19 mi) stretch from Pudong International Airport to the city center in just 7-8 minutes.
- Population Size
As one of the largest cities in the world by population, Shanghai is home to over 24 million people. This makes it a bustling metropolis with a diverse population.
- Shanghai Tower
The Shanghai Tower is China’s tallest building and the second tallest building in the world, standing at 632 meters (2,073 feet). It has the world's highest observation deck within a building or structure.
- Xiaolongbao
Shanghai is famous for its culinary delights, especially the Xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings. These steamed buns filled with meat and broth are a must-try for anyone visiting the city.
- Shanghai Disneyland
Opened in 2016, Shanghai Disneyland is the first Disney park in mainland China and features the largest Disney castle ever built, the Enchanted Storybook Castle.
- Fashion and Shopping
Shanghai is considered the fashion capital of China, known for its shopping districts like Nanjing Road and Xintiandi, where luxury boutiques and local brands abound.
- Old and New
The city is a fascinating blend of old and new, with historic temples and modern skyscrapers existing side by side. Places like the ancient Jing'an Temple, which is over 780 years old, contrast sharply with nearby contemporary structures.
- Cultural Hub
Shanghai is a cultural hub, hosting numerous festivals and events, including the Shanghai International Film Festival and Shanghai Fashion Week. It is also home to many museums, such as the Shanghai Museum and the China Art Museum, which showcase the rich history and vibrant culture of the region.
Featured Picture Gallery
Aerial Shot from Above Shanghai
Check Out the Oriental Pearl TV Tower During the Sunset
Explore the Shanghai Nightlife
Visit Yu Garden to View an Extensive Chinese Garden
Explore Similar Locations
Bangkok
Bangkok, Thailand's vibrant capital, is a city that blends modern dynamism with deep cultural heritage. Visitors can explore majestic temples like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace, then dive into bustling markets such as Chatuchak for a taste of local life. The city's renowned street food, bustling nightlife, and the serene Chao Phraya River add to its unique allure, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking a rich, sensory experience.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong offers a vibrant blend of traditional and modern culture, with its iconic skyline, bustling street markets, and lush green spaces. Visitors can explore world-class attractions like Victoria Peak for stunning city views, enjoy delicious dim sum in bustling tea houses, and take a traditional junk boat ride across Victoria Harbour. This dynamic city is a hub of entertainment, shopping, and culinary delights, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique blend of East and West.
Beijing
Beijing, the capital of China, is a vibrant city where ancient history meets modernity. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, which offer a glimpse into China's rich cultural heritage. Additionally, the city's bustling markets, exquisite cuisine, and cutting-edge architecture make Beijing a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a diverse and enriching experience.
Singapore
Singapore is a vibrant city-state known for its lush greenery, futuristic architecture, and a melting pot of cultures. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Marina Bay Sands, the Gardens by the Bay with its Supertree Grove, and the bustling streets of Chinatown and Little India. Renowned for its cleanliness and safety, Singapore offers a seamless blend of culinary delights, shopping experiences, and diverse cultural attractions, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both urban excitement and natural beauty.