Minhang District

What are the most recommended things to do in Minhang District?

  • Explore the cultural heritage at the Minhang Museum, showcasing the district's history and local art.
  • Visit the beautiful Longhua Temple, one of Shanghai's oldest and most renowned Buddhist temples.
  • Relax at the Minhang Sports Park, offering a peaceful environment for walks, sports, and leisure activities.
  • Visit the Shanghai Outlets Mall, a great place for shopping, especially for discounted international brands.
  • Enjoy the serene atmosphere of the Shanghai Botanical Garden, perfect for nature walks and family outings.

Introducing Minhang District

Minhang District is located in the heart of Shanghai, shaped like a "key". The Huangpu River runs through it from north to south, and it is divided into Pudong and Puxi. It borders Xuhui District and Pudong New Area to the east; it faces Fengxian District across the Huangpu River to the south; it borders Songjiang District and Qingpu District to the west; and it is adjacent to Changning District and Jiading District to the north. Hongqiao International Airport is located on the edge of the district.

Minhang District is Shanghai's main international transportation hub, a key industrial base in southwest China, and a major science, technology, and aerospace district. It is also one of Shanghai's suburbs closest to the city center. The district is home to numerous universities, including Shanghai Jiao Tong University (Minhang Campus) and East China Normal University (Minhang Campus), as well as numerous foreign-invested enterprises.

Climate and best time to travel

Minhang District has a northern subtropical marine monsoon climate with distinct four seasons and abundant sunshine.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Country Parks

The park is divided into five major areas: Miracle Garden, Forest Rest, Willow Heron Farm, Riverside Walk, and Vibrant Forest. With its breathtaking scenery, vibrant flowers, and fresh air, it's a perfect place for relaxation and entertainment.

Zhaojialou Ancient Town

Located in Pujiang Town, Minhang District, this is the birthplace of Shanghai's agricultural culture and the hometown of the City God. Well-preserved relics in Zhaojialou Ancient Town include the "Ligen Hall" and the "Plum Garden." Among the paid attractions in the Zhaolou Scenic Area is the "Li Garden," a small but exquisite garden with beautiful scenery and numerous exhibition areas dedicated to Zhaolou's history and culture.

Minhang Sports Park

Located at the junction of Qibao Town and Xinzhuang Town in Minhang District, it is a five-star park in Shanghai. It is the first park in Shanghai named after sports and the first theme park in a large city.


Recommended play time: 1 day


Most Popular FAQs for Minhang District

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Minhang District is an important district in Shanghai, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It is home to the Longhua Temple and Shanghai’s oldest Buddhist pagoda. Over the years, it has developed into a bustling residential and commercial area, while maintaining its historical charm through various cultural landmarks and parks.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Minhang is located in the southwestern part of Shanghai. It is accessible by metro (Line 1, Line 5, and Line 9) with several stations in the district. Bus and taxi services are also available, and many attractions within Minhang can be easily reached by walking or cycling.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions in Minhang, such as the Shanghai Botanical Garden and Longhua Temple, are open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the weekdays, particularly in the morning, to avoid crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees vary depending on the attraction. For example, the Longhua Temple charges around ¥10 for entry. Tickets can typically be purchased on-site at the attractions. For some larger parks or malls, you may be able to buy tickets online for convenience.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for most attractions in Minhang, except during peak tourist seasons or special events. Booking a day or two in advance for popular sites like Longhua Temple can be helpful, especially for group visits.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Minhang can take anywhere from a half day to a full day, depending on the number of attractions you wish to explore. A half-day is sufficient for a visit to the Longhua Temple and a walk around Minhang Sports Park, while a full day may be needed if you also plan to visit the Botanical Garden and other cultural sites.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Longhua Temple: A historical Buddhist temple with a pagoda and serene gardens.
  • Shanghai Botanical Garden: A large garden with diverse plant species and peaceful walking paths.
  • Minhang Museum: A great place to learn about the local history and culture of the area.
  • Shanghai Outlets Mall: A shopping hub offering great deals on international brands.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at many attractions, such as Longhua Temple and the Shanghai Botanical Garden. English and Mandarin-speaking guides are typically offered. Audio guides are also available at the Longhua Temple in various languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The Longhua Temple’s pagoda provides a fantastic photo opportunity, especially at sunset.
  • The lush landscapes of the Shanghai Botanical Garden are great for nature photography.
  • Minhang Sports Park offers beautiful views of the lakes and greenery, ideal for peaceful shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary would be to start with a visit to the Longhua Temple, then head to the Shanghai Botanical Garden for a peaceful walk. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting Minhang Museum and spending some time at the Minhang Sports Park or Shanghai Outlets Mall for shopping.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Minhang does not have a widespread light show scene, but the district's parks and Longhua Temple offer a peaceful evening ambiance. Night visits to the Longhua Temple are available on special occasions during religious festivals, but most attractions close by 5:00 PM.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Minhang is generally less crowded than more tourist-heavy districts in Shanghai. Weekdays, especially in the mornings, are the least crowded times to visit. Weekends can see increased local visitors, particularly at parks and malls.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most attractions in Minhang offer basic facilities such as clean public toilets, food and water stalls, and rest areas. The Shanghai Botanical Garden has cafes and small shops inside for refreshments. Larger shopping malls, like the Shanghai Outlets Mall, have extensive shopping and dining options.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Minhang's main attractions are generally accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with ramps and smooth paths in parks and museums. Longhua Temple and the Shanghai Botanical Garden also have accessible entrances and facilities.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Most places in Minhang accept mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards. Cash may be needed for small purchases in local markets or certain attractions, but it is generally not required in larger areas like malls and restaurants.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • There are various local restaurants offering Shanghainese cuisine near Minhang Sports Park and Longhua Temple.
  • For international options, the Shanghai Outlets Mall features several fast-food and casual dining restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in Minhang, particularly in the Shanghai Outlets Mall and around Longhua Temple. Halal food can also be found in nearby areas with a large Muslim population.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Ramada Plaza Shanghai is a popular option near Longhua Temple.
  • The Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Minhang is another option with modern amenities and convenient access to the district's attractions.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • The Qibao Ancient Town, known for its old streets, traditional food, and waterway, is a short drive from Minhang.
  • The Jing’an Temple, a Buddhist temple located in central Shanghai, is also nearby and can be combined with a visit to Minhang.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Minhang sell traditional Chinese items, including silk products, porcelain, and cultural crafts. Longhua Temple and the Shanghai Botanical Garden also offer religious and nature-themed souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Metro services are the best option for continuing your trip, with Line 1, Line 5, and Line 9 covering Minhang District well.
  • Taxi and ride-sharing services like Didi are also available for convenient travel.