your panda guide to Shanghai
11 Best Things to See and Experience
Shanghai’s energy is unmatched—where soaring skyscrapers, historic temples, and bustling markets collide. Here are the top things you should see and do in this remarkable city.
Time Travel on The Bund
The Bund (外滩) is more than just a waterfront promenade—it’s Shanghai’s open-air museum. On one side, you have stunning colonial-era buildings that whisper stories of the city’s past as a major international trade hub. On the other side, Pudong’s sci-fi skyline rises dramatically with the futuristic Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl Tower stealing the show. Walking here at sunrise or under glowing city lights makes you feel like you’re stepping through different eras of history, with the Huangpu River bridging the old and the new. To top off your experience, consider visiting one of the rooftop bars along the Bund—find my recommendations for the top spots to unwind your night.
Soar Above Shanghai’s Skyline
Ready to reach for the stars? Shanghai’s skyline has thrilling heights that offer unforgettable views. At Shanghai Tower (上海中心), ascend to China’s highest observation deck for a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the city’s vast urban sprawl and the winding Huangpu River. Oriental Pearl Tower (东方明珠) lets you peer through a glass-bottom floor to see the bustling streets far below and enjoy ever-changing cityscapes from its revolving restaurant. For a heart-racing adventure, take on the Jin Mao Tower (金茂大厦) Skywalk, where you’ll walk on the edge at 88 floors up and marvel at the sprawling metropolis and its intricate maze of streets. From vertigo-inducing heights to stunning city views, Shanghai’s skyscrapers offer experiences that will leave you in awe. For more insights on the top skyscrapers to visit, check out my guide on exploring the top 4 skyscrapers in Shanghai.
Step into Timeless Elegance of Yu Garden
Built during the Ming Dynasty, Yu Garden (豫园) invites you to explore a world of classical Chinese beauty. Meander through its koi-filled ponds, elegant pavilions, and iconic zigzag bridges, each designed to create a sense of peace and reflection. The garden’s centerpiece, the Exquisite Jade Rock, is a 5-ton marvel that symbolizes nature’s balance. As you wander its winding pathways, you’ll experience the artistry and serenity that have made Yu Garden a cultural gem amid Shanghai’s urban sprawl.
Wander and Feast at Chenghuangmiao
ChengHuangMiao (城隍庙) is where history and flavor collide. Make your wish at the City God Temple, a 600-year old Taoist sanctuary honoring Shanghai’s guardian deity, and then dive into the bustling markets just outside. Grab some piping-hot Xiaolongbao (小笼包)—Shanghai’s iconic soup dumplings—and experience the perfect mix of spiritual tradition and street food magic that defines Old Shanghai. For more must-try dishes, don’t miss my post on the top 12 foods to eat like a local in Shanghai.
Get Lost in Tianzifang’s Artsy Maze
Craving a change from the skyscrapers? Dive into Tianzifang (田子坊), Shanghai’s vibrant art enclave with a SOHO-like flair. Once an industrial area, it’s now a maze of narrow alleyways packed with artisan boutiques, indie galleries, and trendy cafes. Wander through its hidden shops for unique crafts, sip coffee while people-watching, and soak up the eclectic artistic vibe. Tianzifang’s blend of old-world charm and contemporary cool makes it a must-visit for a taste of Shanghai’s bohemian spirit.
Savor the Chic Charm of Xintiandi
Step into Xintiandi (新天地), where Shanghai’s Shikumen house meets modern vibrancy. Roam through its vibrant laneways, where traditional architecture meets cutting-edge design, and discover a mix of upscale boutiques, gourmet dining, and stylish speakeasy bars. Savor the fusion of local and international flavors in its diverse eateries, and soak up the energetic atmosphere with live jazz or a relaxing drink on a terrace. XinTianDi offers a stylish snapshot of Shanghai’s evolution, blending historic allure with a cosmopolitan flair.
Indulge in Nanjing Road’s Shopping Extravaganza
Whether you’re a shopaholic or a window shopper, Nanjing Road (南京路) will sweep you off your feet. As Shanghai’s most famous shopping street, it’s packed with everything from luxury brands to traditional Chinese souvenirs. By day, it’s a shopper’s paradise; by night, it turns into a neon-lit spectacle that gives you a real taste of Shanghai’s electric energy.
Explore Ancient Treasures at Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum (上海博物馆) offers an immersive exploration of China’s rich heritage, showcasing over 5,000 years of artistic and cultural evolution. From ancient jade carvings symbolizing purity and virtue to bronze relics from the Shang and Zhou dynasties, every piece tells a story of China’s artistic and cultural evolution. You’ll find entire galleries dedicated to calligraphy, paintings, and ceramics, showcasing craftsmanship that spans dynasties. The museum’s design is also symbolic—its round top represents heaven, while the square base represents Earth, following the ancient Chinese belief in the unity of these forces.
Find Inner Calm at Jing’an Temple
Discover the tranquil charm of Jing’an Temple (静安寺), a serene haven nestled in the heart of bustling Shanghai. As you approach this ancient Buddhist temple, you’ll be greeted by its majestic architecture and peaceful surroundings. Step inside to light a prayer candle, offering a moment of personal reflection and connection. Wander through the beautifully manicured gardens and ornate halls, soaking in the calming atmosphere. Jing’an Temple seamlessly blends traditional spiritual practices with the vibrancy of modern city life, providing a unique glimpse into Shanghai’s spiritual side.
Explore Artistry at Shanghai Art Museum
Dive into Shanghai’s vibrant art scene at the Shanghai Art Museum (中华艺术宫), also known as the Art Palace. Housed in the striking red pavilion from Expo 2010, this museum offers a diverse range of exhibits, from traditional Chinese art to contemporary pieces. Roam through spacious galleries showcasing calligraphy, ancient relics, and contemporary works. With its unique look and ever-changing exhibits, it’s a perfect spot for a fresh look at global and local creativity.
Unleash the Magic of Shanghai Disneyland
Whether you’re a die-hard Disney fan or just looking for a day of pure fun, Shanghai Disneyland (迪士尼) delivers magic like no other. Blast off to Tomorrowland, sail the seas with pirates, or get lost in the enchanting gardens of Fantasyland. What sets this park apart is the world’s largest Enchanted Storybook Castle, the thrilling TRON Lightcycle Power Run, and the charming Garden of the Twelve Friends, where Disney meets the Chinese zodiac. Add in local snacks, and you’ve got Disney with a Shanghai twist!
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