Pudong Tangzhen

Introducing Pudong Tangzhen

Tangzhen, formerly known as "Tangmu Bridge" and "Tangwang Bridge," is a small town with a population of less than 200,000 located in the Jianghai Plain of the lower Yangtze River, in the central Pudong New Area of ​​Shanghai. It is approximately 15 kilometers from downtown Shanghai and 15 kilometers from Pudong International Airport. Despite its ancient name, it is not considered an ancient town. The Tangmu Bridge Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, located on Tangzhen Old Street, is a well-known local tourist attraction and one of the most magnificent churches in the Shanghai Diocese.

The church and its annexes, spanning 8,550 square meters, are grand and spacious, accommodating over 2,000 people. Its pure white Gothic exterior, its story-telling stained glass windows, and its majestic sanctuary and vaulted ceilings are all worth a careful inspection. Nearby attractions include the National Day Temple, the Huaxia Cultural Tourism Area, the Biyun Pure Land, and the Hao Art Museum.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a subtropical monsoon climate, with cool and pleasant weather in spring and autumn.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Tangmuqiao Our Lady of Lourdes Church

It is one of the most magnificent churches in the Shanghai Diocese. The church and its annexes cover a total area of ​​8,550 square meters. The building is spacious and imposing, accommodating over 2,000 people. The Gothic style of the church is pure white, with stained glass windows, a majestic sanctuary, and a dome. It is worth a careful inspection and appreciation. It is 120 meters long and 50 meters wide at its widest point. The red-roofed bell tower is 50 meters high, and it can accommodate approximately 3,000 people.

Time: Open all day, but less crowded on weekdays and more crowded on weekends.

Biyun Jingyuan

It is the oldest surviving Buddhist temple in Pudong. The temple was first built during the Zhizheng period of the Yuan Dynasty and has survived through several declines until today. It was rebuilt from 2001 to 2005. After the reconstruction, the temple is filled with curling incense and attracts a constant flow of pilgrims. The morning bells and evening drums are majestic and spectacular, demonstrating the solemnity of Buddhism. Every weekend, a large number of lay Buddhists come to the temple to practice together.

Time: Every Saturday there is a fixed time for chanting, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. On the second Saturday of each month, there is a 24-hour chanting, from 9:00 am to 9:00 am the next day.

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Most Popular FAQs for Pudong Tangzhen

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

Pudong Tangzhen is a rapidly developing area within Shanghai, known for its mix of residential, industrial, and green spaces. It is important for its strategic location in the Pudong New Area, contributing to the city's economic expansion while maintaining local charm through its parks and cultural sites.

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

Pudong Tangzhen is located in the eastern part of Shanghai, in the Pudong district. You can reach it by taking Metro Line 9 to Tangzhen Station or by taking a taxi from central Shanghai. Buses and walking are also viable depending on your starting location.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

There are no specific opening hours for the area itself. However, most parks, markets, and shopping centers open from around 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Weekdays, particularly early mornings or evenings, are the least crowded times to visit.

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

There are no entrance fees for visiting the general area of Pudong Tangzhen. However, specific attractions like markets or cultural sites may have small entrance fees, which can be purchased onsite or online depending on the venue.

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

Booking in advance is generally not necessary unless you are attending a specific event or exhibition. For popular attractions, it's recommended to book at least a few days ahead if possible.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Pudong Tangzhen can be completed in a few hours, especially if you focus on the parks and local markets. If you plan to explore nearby water towns or other cultural sites, it might take a full day.

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

• The local parks, offering green spaces and a break from the busy city life.
• Shopping centers for local goods and eateries.
• Nearby cultural sites showcasing Shanghai’s heritage and historical aspects.

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

Guided tours may be available for specific cultural attractions or water towns nearby. Audio guides in Mandarin and English are often available for exhibitions or specific locations.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The local parks provide excellent spots for landscape and nature photography.
• The nearby Zhujiajiao water town offers scenic views perfect for photography, with its traditional architecture and canals.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your day by visiting the local parks for a relaxing morning. Then, head to the nearby shopping areas and markets for lunch and shopping. In the afternoon, consider visiting a nearby cultural site or taking a short trip to a nearby water town.

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

There are no specific light shows or night tours in Pudong Tangzhen. However, the area is lively in the evening, and the nearby water towns and shopping centers often offer nighttime activities and dining options.

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

The area can be busy during weekends, especially at shopping centers and parks. The least crowded times are typically early mornings or weekday afternoons.

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

There are public toilets in the parks and shopping centers. Food and water are widely available at local restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores. Rest areas are available in parks and shopping malls.

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

Pudong Tangzhen is generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and wide pathways. The parks and shopping areas are suitable for families with children.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted in shopping centers and local stores. Cash may still be required in some smaller markets or street vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Chinese restaurants serving Shanghai cuisine, located within shopping centers and markets.
• Small cafes and tea houses offering snacks and drinks, particularly near the parks and cultural sites.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options in many restaurants, and halal food is available in some areas catering to international visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Nearby hotels include the Kerry Hotel and Novotel Shanghai, offering luxury and mid-range accommodations.
• Budget-friendly options can also be found around the area, such as Ibis and Holiday Inn Express.

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

• Zhujiajiao water town, famous for its canals and traditional architecture.
• The Lujiazui area with iconic buildings like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops are available in local markets and shopping malls, offering products like Shanghai silk, tea, and local handicrafts.

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

You can take the Shanghai Metro, taxis, or buses to continue your trip. The nearby water towns can be accessed by local buses or taxis, while the central Pudong area is easily reachable by metro.