China - Shanghai
Shanghai, with its blend of colonial history and futuristic skyscrapers, offers a wealth of activities for every type of traveler.
Must-Do Activities in Shanghai
I. Iconic Landmarks and Scenery (The Modern & Historic)
| Activity | Description | Practical Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Walk The Bund (Waitan 外滩) | Stroll along the western bank of the Huangpu River for the iconic view of the Pudong skyline. The architecture here features stunning colonial-era buildings. | Go at sunset (for the golden hour) and stay until the lights come on (around 7 PM - 11 PM) for the best views. |
| Ascend the Shanghai Tower | Visit the observation deck of the world's second-tallest building (632m) in the Lujiazui Financial District for an unparalleled 360-degree view of the city. | The Shanghai World Financial Center ("The Bottle Opener") and Jin Mao Tower are also nearby for excellent views and less crowds. |
| Visit Yu Garden (Yuyuan 豫园) | Explore this beautiful, classic Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty. It is surrounded by the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar, famous for traditional architecture, snacks, and souvenirs. | Go early in the morning right when it opens to avoid the massive crowds. |
| Explore the Former French Concession | Wander through the tree-lined streets of this historic district, known for its European-style villas, boutique shops, and trendy cafes. | Focus on the areas around Wukang Road (武康路) and Hengshan Road (衡山路) for the best atmosphere. |
II. Culture and History
| Activity | Description | Practical Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Discover Tianzifang (田子坊) | A charming labyrinth of alleyways built within preserved shikumen (stone-gate) houses. It's now filled with art studios, craft shops, and small bars. | It is often extremely crowded. For a less touristy experience, visit the similar, but more spacious, Xintiandi (新天地) complex. |
| Shanghai Museum | Located in People's Square, this museum houses one of China's most impressive collections of ancient bronze, ceramics, jade, and calligraphy. | Entry is free, but you must reserve tickets online in advance and arrive early to beat the crowds. |
| Propaganda Poster Art Centre | A small, hidden gem located in the basement of an apartment complex, featuring a fascinating collection of Chinese propaganda art from the mid-20th century. | Finding it can be tricky; ask security at the building complex for directions. |
| Jing'an Temple (静安寺) | A stunning and active Buddhist temple located right in the heart of a major commercial district. Its vibrant gold exterior stands in striking contrast to the surrounding skyscrapers. | It is easily accessible by the Jing'an Temple subway station (Lines 2 and 7). |
III. Food and Dining
| Activity | Description | Practical Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Eat Soup Dumplings (Xiaolongbao 小笼包) | Shanghai is the birthplace of the famous xiaolongbao. Trying the traditional pork or crab roe variations is non-negotiable. | The most famous spot is the original Jia Jia Tang Bao (佳家汤包) near People's Square, but be prepared for a long wait. |
| Explore Local Wet Markets | Visit a bustling local market in a residential area (e.g., near Wulumuqi Middle Road) to see the freshest local produce, meats, and seafood. | These are great for immersion but can be overwhelming with sights and smells. Be respectful when taking photos. |
| Street Food for Breakfast | Try local breakfast staples like Jianbing (煎饼) (savory crepe) or Shengjian Bao (生煎包) (pan-fried soup dumplings) from a roadside stall. | Look for the longest lines—that usually guarantees the best and freshest food. |
IV. Entertainment and Nightlife
| Activity | Description | Practical Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Acrobatic Show | Attend a world-class Shanghai acrobatic show (e.g., at the ERA Intersection of Time or Shanghai Centre Theatre) for gravity-defying performances. | Book tickets in advance, especially for weekend shows. |
| Night Cruise on the Huangpu River | Take a boat cruise on the Huangpu River between The Bund and Pudong for a stunning, panoramic view of the lit-up skyline from the water. | Cruises typically last about 45 minutes to 1 hour and offer different price points based on the ship quality. |
| Bar Hopping in the French Concession | Find hidden cocktail bars (speakeasies) or classic jazz clubs in the lanes of the Former French Concession for a sophisticated night out. | The area around Fuxing Park and Yongfu Road is known for its diverse nightlife scene. |