Introducing Shanghai
Discover more, experience more
Shanghai, referred to as "Hu" or "Shen", is the birthplace of the Communist Party of China, a municipality directly under the Central Government of the People's Republic of China, a national central city, a megacity, the core city of the Shanghai-Hangzhou-Ningbo Greater Bay Area, an international economic, financial, trade, shipping, and technological innovation center, and one of the first coastal open cities.
This area boasts a global culinary scene, classic and stylish shopping, and a vibrant commercial atmosphere. Western cuisine blends flavors from over 30 countries, and the only three-star Michelin restaurant in mainland China is located at No. 18 The Bund. The area also boasts a diverse menu of cuisines from nearly every region of China, with renowned food and cultural districts such as the Old City God Temple, Yunnan Road, Huanghe Road, and Xianxia Road.
Climate and best time to travel
Shanghai, known as the Magic City, does not have a clear tourist off-season and peak season, but if you want to go to Disneyland, it is best to choose spring and autumn when there are no holidays, weekends, winter or summer vacations.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
City God Temple
Anyone who comes to Shanghai for sightseeing will definitely visit the City God Temple, which has a history of 800 years and is a famous Taoist temple both at home and abroad. Today, it has developed into the oldest commercial district in Shanghai, with a variety of snacks.
The Bund
When many people think of Shanghai, the Bund is the first thing that comes to mind. The Bund boasts the international architecture of old Shanghai, while across the Huangpu River, Lujiazui boasts a diverse array of skyscrapers. The Bund is ablaze with lights, while the Bund is bustling with tourists. Tourists from across the country and even the world crisscross the Bund's broad sidewalks, gazing across the Huangpu River at Lujiazui.
Lujiazui
One of China's most influential financial centers, with skyscrapers lined up one after another, it is also a good place to enjoy the night view of Shanghai.
Nanjing Pedestrian Street
The pedestrian street is very lively both at night and during the day, with many shops and snacks. It looks particularly prosperous at night with lights on.
Tianzifang
Tianzifang is a place with a residential atmosphere. In addition to creative shops, galleries and photography exhibitions, there are also various cafes. The biggest feature of Tianzifang is that it still has many residents living here.
Shanghai Disneyland
Shanghai Disneyland is the sixth large-scale theme park built by Walt Disney Company worldwide, and also the first Disneyland in mainland China.
Recommended number of days for a visit: 3-5 days
Most Popular FAQs for Shanghai
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Shanghai is China’s largest city and a global financial hub. Historically, it was a small fishing village that grew rapidly after becoming a treaty port in the 19th century. Today, it is renowned for its modern skyline, rich cultural heritage, and international trade significance.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located on China’s eastern coast at the mouth of the Yangtze River.
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Hongqiao Airport connect the city globally.
- Efficient metro system, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing apps are widely available.
- Many attractions are within walking distance in downtown areas like the Bund and Nanjing Road.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Most museums and attractions: 9:00–17:00, some open later for evening entertainment.
- Best visiting season: March–May (spring) or September–November (autumn) for mild weather and fewer crowds.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Varies by attraction: Shanghai Tower (~180 RMB), Yu Garden (~40 RMB), Disneyland (~499 RMB).
- Tickets available online through official websites or apps, or at the entrance.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking is recommended for popular attractions like Shanghai Disneyland, Shanghai Tower, and museums, ideally 1–2 weeks in advance.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
- 2–3 days for major city highlights.
- 4–5 days for deeper cultural exploration and day trips to nearby water towns.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- The Bund and Riverside Promenade.
- Pudong skyline: Shanghai Tower, Oriental Pearl Tower, and Jin Mao Tower.
- Yu Garden and Old City.
- Nanjing Road shopping street.
- M50 Art District and museums like Shanghai Museum.
- Nearby water towns: Zhujiajiao or Tongli.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours and audio guides are available in Chinese and English at major attractions; private multilingual tours can be arranged through travel agencies.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Observation decks of Shanghai Tower or Oriental Pearl Tower.
- The Bund for skyline and river photography.
- Tianzifang and Xintiandi for street and cultural shots.
- Huangpu River cruises at sunset for scenic shots.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Day 1: The Bund, Nanjing Road, Yu Garden.
- Day 2: Pudong skyscrapers, Shanghai Tower, Shanghai Ocean Aquarium.
- Day 3: M50 Art District, museums, and Xintiandi or Tianzifang.
- Optional: Day trips to Zhujiajiao or Tongli Water Town.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
- Yes, the Bund and Pudong skyscrapers have illuminated night views.
- Evening river cruises and light shows at Shanghai Tower.
- Night markets and cultural performances available in select districts.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Shanghai is busy year-round. Weekdays and early mornings are least crowded; national holidays are extremely busy.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Abundant public toilets, restaurants, cafes, and rest areas.
- Shopping centers and souvenir shops widely available in tourist areas.
- Convenience stores and vending machines for water and snacks.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Most attractions are accessible, with elevators, ramps, and family facilities. Some historic areas may have uneven paths.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cards and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted; cash is optional but useful for small vendors or street food.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- International and local cuisine: French, Japanese, Shanghainese, and street food.
- Cafes and dessert shops in Xintiandi and French Concession.
- Food courts in shopping malls along Nanjing Road.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Yes, Shanghai offers vegetarian, vegan, and halal options in restaurants, especially in tourist areas and near mosques.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Luxury hotels: The Peninsula, Waldorf Astoria, Ritz-Carlton.
- Mid-range hotels: Novotel, Holiday Inn.
- Budget hostels and guesthouses available in downtown areas and French Concession.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Zhujiajiao Water Town for traditional canals and architecture.
- Shanghai Disney Resort for family-friendly entertainment.
- Jade Buddha Temple and Longhua Temple for cultural visits.
- Century Park in Pudong for outdoor leisure.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Silk products, tea, and traditional Chinese crafts.
- Miniature skyline models and Shanghai-themed merchandise.
- Local snacks and packaged treats as souvenirs.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Metro and taxis for city travel.
- High-speed trains from Shanghai Railway Station or Hongqiao Station for regional travel.
- Flights from Pudong or Hongqiao Airport for domestic and international destinations.
