Shanghai – A Kaleidoscope of Contrasts

Home to some of the tallest skyscrapers, classic Art Deco buildings, and ornate Buddhist monasteries, Shanghai is where modern meets tradition. As the birthplace of everything considered modern in China, Shanghai offers everything for even the most fastidious customer. Travel to Shanghai and you will never get bored in this dynamic metropolis!

Shanghai is home to some of the tallest buildings in the world

When to go?

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit Shanghai as the weather is comfortable and mild with blue skies and cozy temperatures. These times also offer fewer crowds and lower prices than the peak tourist season in Summer.

However, you should avoid traveling to Shanghai during China’s national holiday on October 1st. During this time, shops and restaurants are often closed as locals return to their hometowns. Additionally, the increasing number of domestic tourists can affect your overall travel experience. 

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Best places to visit in Shanghai

The Bund

Situated on the banks of the Huangpu River, the Bund is a famous waterfront promenade and is considered the symbol of Shanghai. The Bund stands as a testament to Shanghai’s transformation from a humble fishing village to a world-famous metropolis.

The Bund is considered the symbol of Shanghai

Spanning 1.5 kilometers, the Bund boasts stunning views and beautiful colonial-era architecture that resembles Europe, earning its reputation as an international architectural museum. Stroll along the promenade, you will be impressed by the striking contrast between old and new where graceful colonial-era buildings blend with sleek, futuristic skyscrapers. As the sun goes down, the Bund becomes more dazzling and lively than ever. Hundreds of towering skyscrapers light up, “painting” the Huangpu River in bright colors.

The Bund becomes vibrant at night

Nanjing Road

Located next to the Bund, Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s most bustling street and the first modern commercial avenue in China. It consists of two parts, Nanjing East Road and Nanjing West Road, home to hundreds of shops and luxury brands. The pedestrian zone on Nanjing East Road is a popular destination for those who want to go shopping and experience nightlife in Shanghai.

Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s most bustling street

Taking the Dangdang sightseeing tram is one of the most exciting activities on Nanjing Road. As the tram moves slowly through the street, you will see a mix of old and new shops pass by the window. The ride takes about 10 minutes and costs CNY 5 for a one-way trip. Besides, remember to savor unique street food here. From crispy fried dumplings to steaming bowls of noodles, the food options are endless.

Dangdang sightseeing tram in Shanghai

Yu Garden – a place for history lovers in Shanghai

It is an unmissable place for history lovers. Yu Garden was said to have been built in the Ming Dynasty, lasting over four hundred and fifty years. The garden stands out for its exceptional design, seamlessly combining decorative halls, intricate pavilions, sparkling ponds, winding bridges, pagodas, archways, and striking rockeries.

When you wander around the garden, you will be surprised that every corner offers a different view from tranquil water features to intricate architecture. Y u Garden offers a deeply immersive experience that takes you back in time while remaining a serene escape in the heart of the bustling city.

The beautiful scenery of Yu Garden

Moon gates at Yu Garden

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Jade Buddha Temple

Situated amidst the bustling Shanghai, Jade Buddha Temple is a serene and revered sanctuary. Originally constructed in 1882 during the Qing Dynasty, it houses two jade Buddha statues brought from Burma by the monk Hui Gen, who hailed from Mount Putuo in Zhejiang Province.

The radiant and translucent white jade gives beauty and sanctity to these sacred statues. The temple also boasts a collection of priceless treasures, including paintings and Buddhist scriptures displayed across its various halls. Here, you’ll also be impressed by the collection of intricately carved Buddha statues.

Jade Buddha Temple

Zhujiajiao Water Town – “The Venice of Shanghai”

Referred to as “the Venice of Shanghai,” Zhujiajiao is a township located in the Qingpu District, featuring charming canals, ancient streets, arched stone bridges, and more than 10,000 buildings that date back to the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Among Shanghai’s four ancient towns, Zhujiajiao is the most well-preserved water town. Dating back to the Three Kingdoms period, the area was thriving with country markets, and its prosperity continued during the Ming Dynasty. Today, Zhujiajiao remains a peaceful and picturesque town. Strolling along its winding stone paths and meandering lanes, you would feel like walking into a beautiful and tranquil painting.

Zhujiajiao Water Town

What to eat in Shanghai?

Shanghai food stands out among China’s finest and most distinctive cuisines. Shanghai cuisine combines Chinese traditional food from neighboring provinces with the influence of international flavors. Shanghai people are considered to have a sweet tooth, they use a little more sugar than other parts of China. If you plan a trip to Shanghai, add these dishes to your culinary journey in this metropolis.

• Xiao long bao: Also known as soup dumplings, Xiao Long Bao is one of Shanghai’s most iconic dishes. The perfect combination of delicate skins, savory soup, and juicy pork filling will delight every palate. 
• Shanghai-style braised pork belly: This dish almost appears in every Shanghai restaurant menu. It features tender cubes of pork belly coated in a sweet and sticky sauce made from vinegar, soy, and sugar.

Xiao long bao is a famous food in Shanghai

• Steamed hairy crab: If you travel to Shanghai from late September to early October, don’t forget to try steamed hairy crab. The crabs have sweet meat and rich, custardy roe. Tied with ropes/strings, and placed in bamboo containers, they will be steamed on top of perilla leaves and ginger.
• Shanghai snacks: Boasting over 1,800 snack stalls across the country, Shanghai offers a variety of refreshments such as dumplings, soy milk, glutinous rice balls, steamed buns, fried dumplings, and more.

Steamed hairy crab

With its innovative architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, it is no surprise that Shanghai is one of the most exciting cities in the world. Come and immerse yourself in the excitement and charm of this global metropolis!

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