Live Your Best Lives
Putuo District, under the jurisdiction of Shanghai, is located in the northwest of Shanghai's central urban area. It serves as the starting point of the Shanghai-Nanjing development axis and a key land gateway and transportation hub connecting Shanghai to the Yangtze River Delta and the mainland. It borders Jiading and Baoshan Districts to the west and north, and Zhabei, Jing'an, Changning, and Minhang Districts to the east and south.
Putuo District, named after Putuo Road, is a major transportation hub in western Shanghai. The Wusong River (commonly known as the Suzhou Creek) runs through the district, serving as an inland waterway connecting the Taihu Lake basin in the west and the Huangpu River and Yangtze River in the east. In the late 19th century, Chinese and foreign merchants, capitalizing on the Wusong River's convenient waterway, established factories along its banks, boosting the district's economic development and gradually establishing it as Shanghai's renowned old industrial district.
The Suzhou River bank in Putuo District is the birthplace of modern national industry in Shanghai and even China. It has nearly 20 industrial heritage sites, including the former site of the Central Mint, the former site of Fuxin Flour Mill, the former site of Jiangsu Medicinal Water Factory, the former site of Shanghai Brewery, and the former site of Tianli Nitrogen Plant.
Putuo District has a northern subtropical southern edge monsoon ocean climate, with mild and humid weather all year round, warm winters and cool summers, and plenty of sunshine.
Jade Buddha Temple
The temple is a replica of a Song Dynasty style palace, boasting a rigorous layout, harmonious structure, and magnificent grandeur. Along the central axis of the temple are the Heavenly King Hall, the Great Hall, and the Jade Buddha Building (abbot's chamber). Flanking the temple are the Reclining Buddha Hall, the Guanyin Hall, the Bronze Buddha Hall, and the Dining Hall, all arranged in a well-organized pattern. On the first and fifteenth days of each lunar month, as well as on traditional Buddhist festivals, devout believers and lay Buddhists flock to the temple.
Ocean Underwater World
Invested by Australia's OCEANIS Co., Ltd., this is China's first themed, new-concept ocean aquarium. The aquarium is massive and includes entrances simulating an airport and an engine room, ancient Inca temples, a tropical rainforest in the Amazon River basin, a children's touch pool, a shallow sea area, a deep sea area, an Atlantic Ocean underwater glass corridor, a shark hall, and a South American penguin hall.
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
Putuo District is one of Shanghai’s most culturally rich areas. It is known for its Buddhist temples, historical landmarks, and proximity to the Suzhou River. The district’s name is derived from the Putuo Mountain, a sacred Buddhist site in China, reflecting its cultural and religious significance.
Putuo District is located in the western part of Shanghai, easily accessible via metro lines 3, 4, and 11. You can also take buses or taxis, and walking is great for exploring nearby attractions.
The general opening hours for attractions in Putuo District range from 9 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit is during weekdays and early mornings to avoid large crowds, especially at popular spots like the Jade Buddha Temple.
Ticket prices vary depending on the attraction. For example, the Changfeng Ocean Park has an entry fee of around 100-150 CNY. Tickets can be purchased online or directly at the entrance of most attractions.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended for popular attractions like Changfeng Ocean Park, especially during weekends or public holidays. Typically, tickets should be booked a day or two in advance.
To explore Putuo District thoroughly, including the temples, parks, and nearby cultural sites, allocate a full day. If you’re focused on specific attractions, 3-4 hours should be sufficient.
Guided tours and audio guides are available at major attractions like the Jade Buddha Temple and Changfeng Ocean Park. These are typically available in Mandarin, with some offering English-language guides as well.
Night visits are not available at most attractions, but the Changfeng Ocean Park has occasional light shows or events. The Suzhou River area is lovely for a walk at night to enjoy the city lights.
Putuo District can get crowded, especially on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, particularly in the mornings.
Most attractions, like Changfeng Ocean Park and the Jade Buddha Temple, have facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and shops. Rest areas are available in parks like Putuo Park.
Yes, Putuo District is accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. Most attractions, including the Jade Buddha Temple and Changfeng Ocean Park, offer accessible paths and facilities.
Most places in Putuo District accept cards and mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay). Cash is not generally necessary.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are available at various restaurants in the district, particularly around Wuning Road and Changfeng Ocean Park.
Souvenir shops are located near popular tourist spots like the Jade Buddha Temple. Typical souvenirs include Buddhist artifacts, Shanghai-themed gifts, and local snacks.
