Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Shanghai, China. #Top Attractions

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See the wonders of Shanghai, China. Look at our recommended travel activities and attractions in Shanghai, China, to get the most out of your time there. Below is the list of the best things to do in Shanghai, China, and places to go in Shanghai, China. Wondrous Drifter is an ambitious Web 3.0 travel startup with the potential to revolutionize the market.

The Bund

The Bund is one of Shanghai’s most popular tourist attractions!

Zhongshan Lu, or the Bund in Chinese, is a wide riverfront promenade along the Huangpujiang River’s west bank.

Buildings in this area have a distinctly European feel. Many of them might be seen in Europe’s most famous capital cities! 

If you go along this street, you’ll find many architectural styles—from Gothic to Neoclassical to Romanesque to Art Deco.

Also, it’s a great place to eat, with some of the city’s top eateries.

Moreover, a walk down the Bund is a must-do activity in Shanghai.

It’s better to do a stroll at night once the buildings across the river are illuminated in a rainbow of hues. 

Slow down and explore the various shops and galleries you’ll pass on your route through.

A quick bite is always an option when you’re feeling peckish. 

Shanghai is a multicultural city, so expect to see English menus or, at the very least, ones with images on them wherever you go.

Address: Zhongshan East 1st Road, Huangpu, Shanghai

Yu Garden

Yu Garden is sometimes referred to as the Garden of Happiness.

The tranquility of this garden provides a break from the city’s bustling streets.

Yuyuan is Shanghai’s most treasured and only remaining Ming Dynasty garden, located within a short distance from the Bund.

Because of its stunning surroundings, it has become a city feature.

Highlights include beautifully painted bridges, vibrant pagodas, and private enclaves divided by “dragon walls,” or partitions adorned with dragons on the tops.

In 1853, Shanghai was ruled by China’s Company of the Little Swords, and the Hall of Spring was their headquarters during that time.

In this portion of the garden, the only traces of Zhang Nanyang’s work may be found in the form of man-made rocks.

A location to relax and recuperate in a need when visiting Shanghai.

This is the perfect spot to do it, too. It’s worth spending some time in the gardens because it is so lovely. 

Address: 279 Yuyuan Old Street, Huangpu, Shanghai

The Jade Buddha Temple

The Jade Buddha Temple
The Jade Buddha Temple / Mats Linander / Flickr

You must take your time and look around the many areas of the Temple.

Tian Wang Dian, or the Hall of the Kings of Heaven, is one of the most beautiful places. 

In 1928, a new temple was built in the Anyuan Lu area to replace an old one since 1882.

One of China’s most sacred Buddhist temples, Huigen Temple, is linked to the monk Huigen. 

This region’s various sculptures and structures are breathtakingly gorgeous, and a stroll around this area will help you grasp the contemporary significance of spirituality in Chinese culture.

The four celestial kings and two Shakyamuni sculptures are crafted from white jade and stand approximately two meters tall in this shrine.

Keep an eye out for 18 Luohan figurines and three Buddhas from three ages in the Hall of the Great Hero.

People of all faiths can benefit from visiting the Jade Buddha Temple because of our fast-paced modern world’s serene and contemplative ambiance!

Address: 170 Anyuan Road, Jing’an, Shanghai

The Oriental Pearl Tower

The Oriental Pearl Tower
The Oriental Pearl Tower / Bernt Rostad / Flickr

This breathtaking view has become an iconic shot attracting tens of thousands of tourists each year.

Located in Shanghai’s Pudong New Area’s Lujiazui, Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower is part of Pudong Park.

An image of “twin dragons playing with pearls” is created by the Yangpu Bridge to the northeast and the Nanpu Bridge to the southwest. 

The radio and television tower known as the Oriental Pearl was constructed in 1991 and is now a Shanghai must-see. 

The Oriental Pearl TV Tower’s spherical pearls and 21st-century technology, commerce, entertainment, educational, and conference facilities make it awe-inspiring to see.

At least nine television channels are broadcast from the tower. In comparison, at least ten FM radio channels are available in the city. The ideal name for it is, without a doubt, “oriental pearl.”

The Bund and the river can be seen from here, and there are plenty of fun things to do.

A Space Hotel and a virtual reality rollercoaster, the complex houses a rotating restaurant and a shopping center are a few things to visit here. 

You’ll be able to find something to do even if you’re terrified of heights in this skyscraper!

Address: 1 Shiji Blvd, Lujiazui, Pudong, Shanghai, China, 200120

Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road / wiredtourist.com / Flickr

Shop Til You Drop on Nanjing Road! Like Fifth Avenue in New York, the famous Nanjing Road is China’s counterpart.

Look at the bustle of activity in China’s street commerce, where vendors from across the world set up shops to sell their goods.

Architecture is a big draw for tourists who see the various structures. 37 Manhole Covers are a fascinating way to learn about the city’s history.

You’ll discover a wide variety of things for sale on this pedestrian-friendly boulevard, from street sellers selling Chinese-themed trinkets to high-end businesses that sell traditional crafts.

The famous Yibai and Jiubai shopping centers and department stores are also located nearby.

Along with a bustling nightlife, the area is home to several cafes, cinemas, and a popular spot for spontaneous acts on the streets. 

Even more enjoyable is visiting during Chinese New Year celebrations when the street transforms into an epicenter of activities and fireworks.

Shanghai Disneyland Park

Shanghai Disneyland Park sets several milestones for Disney parks by being the world’s sixth and the first to open on the Chinese mainland.

The Enchanted Storybook Castle, the first garden zone, and the first pirate-themed garden are all part of the attraction.

The Gardens of Imagination also incorporate Chinese influences, such as the Chinese Zodiac Murals. The park has a total of seven different attractions.

Visitors don’t have to worry about finding a place to dine because several Chinese and Western restaurants and businesses are located throughout the park.

They can bring their food and water, but glass bottles are prohibited. Mainly, gifts like key chains and watches may be purchased in shops.

Disneytown, a large-scale retail complex with restaurant and entertainment options outside the park, is just a short drive away. 

There’s also the Walt Disney Grand Theater, where you can catch a show like The Lion King.

Visitors to Disney World can enter the park for free.

You do not need a ticket to Disneyland Park to access this attraction.

Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and Toy Story Hotel, two themed hotels located near the park, allow tourists to plan a multi-day excursion of the resort.

Address: 4MV5+945, Pudong, Shanghai, China, 201205

Shanghai Museum

Shanghai Museum
Shanghai Museum / David Veksler / Flickr

Ancient Chinese art may be seen in Shanghai Museum, located in People’s Square, Huangpu District.

Ancient relics and philosophical teachings surround visitors as they explore this design. 

Outside, the round dome and square foundation represent the old concept of heaven and earth being round and Square, respectively.

The museum’s sprawling complex has 11 galleries and three exhibition rooms.

More than a dozen exhibits span Chinese art history, from the Bronze and Ceramic ages through the Ming and Qing periods to ancient jade and coins. 

Numerous ethnicities are represented in Chinese culture due to cultural exchange and fusion.

Minority nations have developed their own distinct cultures throughout the country’s lengthy history. 

Textiles, metalwork, and sculptures are just a few of the exotic items made by these ethnic groups. Still, the diversity of their art forms gives us a sense of their inventiveness and enthusiasm for life as a whole.

According to an old Chinese proverb, seeing is better than hearing often.

People from all around the world are invited to visit Shanghai Museum and experience Chinese culture.

Address: 201 Renmin Ave, People’s Square, Huangpu, China, 200003

Shanghai Tower

Shanghai Tower
Shanghai Tower / Joe Hunt / Flickr

Have you ever looked down on a city from a vantage point more than 500 meters in the air? That’s certainly not on an aircraft!

Excite your mind and body with an exciting experience on the 118th floor of the Shanghai Tower. 

A Shanghai Tower tour isn’t complete without a visit to the ‘Top of Shanghai Observatory,’ the world’s tallest interior observation deck accessible to tourists. 

In addition, you can view far enough to take in Shanghai’s vibrant downtown skyline, the Huangpu River encircling the city, the Bund ornamented with a variety of foreign landmarks, and the clear blue sky.

If you go to Shanghai Tower at night, you’ll get the greatest perspective of the city’s “Magic City” and its hundreds of skyscrapers in different colors. 

It’s possible to see the Huangpu River, the Bund, and other buildings from this vantage point, including the Jin Mao Tower and the World Financial Center.

Visitors should first visit the exhibition hall on level B1 and then take the rapid elevator to the 118th floor in about 55 seconds.

See “Shanghai Eye,” a photography show on display on the 125th and 126th levels, at the very end, if you have time.

With its fantastic cityscape and high-tech design, it’s a must-see for everyone visiting Shanghai to see for themselves.

Address: China, Shanghai, Pudong, 陆家嘴 Lujiazui, 银城中路501号 邮政编码: 200120

Zhujiajiao Water Town

Zhujiajiao Water Town
Zhujiajiao Water Town / lwtt93 / Flickr

In Zhujiajiao Water Town, you haven’t gone there if you don’t see the bridges! 

The Ming and Qing dynasties left their mark on the region’s bridges, notable for their history. From wooden to stone to marble, 36 elegant bridges link the historic Zhujiajiao Town in Zhujiajiao.

It is the best-preserved of Shanghai’s four old water villages and goes by the beautiful name of “Pearl Stream.”

Bridges spanning bubbling streams, little rivers shaded by willow trees, and residences with courtyards all transfer those living in the significant contemporary metropolis to a brand-new world full of antiquity, leisure, and tranquility.

The Zhujiajiao Water Town has a historic street packed with ancient representative structures from the Ming and Qing Dynasties that attract many local and foreign visitors.

All of the street’s one-mile length is simultaneously basic and refined.

Another pleasure is taking a stroll down this historical avenue and taking the historic buildings, long-established businesses, bridges, and numerous small passageways.

Address: Zhujiajiao, Shanghai, China

Shanghai Circus World

Shanghai Circus World
Shanghai Circus World / David Stanley / Flickr

Jing’an District is home to Shanghai Circus World, China’s “No. 1 Circus World.” Zhabei Stadium is located to the south, while Guangzhong Park is located to the north.

It has a unique design with a magnificent golden vault and can accommodate 1638 people.

Performers from across the world come to Shanghai International Magic Festival & Competition because of its excellent stage and lighting facilities and its state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment.

The opening hours of Shanghai Circus World are dependent on the showtime.

Traditional Chinese skills and cutting-edge technology create a breathtaking Shanghai Circus World Acrobatic Show.

Musical accompaniment, lighting effects, and a water screen all work together to enhance the acrobatic acts and Chinese martial arts performance.

The tale of China’s development from its ancient past to its future is presented. At the same time, you marvel at the highly adept abilities of the performers.

It’s aptly named ‘Intersection of Time’ since it is set in the present, between the past and the future, where the audience’s perspective resides.

Address: 2266 Gonghexin Rd, Zhabei Qu, Shanghai, China, 200072

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Shanghai World Financial Center

Shanghai World Financial Center
Shanghai World Financial Center / Kenneth Moore / Flickr

To attract the world’s money, Shanghai WFC offers first-class financial center functions, allowing it to promote monetary skills, culture and art exhibitions, and information from around the globe. 

Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC) is Shanghai’s second-tallest skyscraper, behind Shanghai Tower and Jin Mao Tower, in Pudong New Area’s Lujiazui neighborhood.

The outside of the building resembles a bottle opener, and that’s what it’s known for.

For tourists, the Park Hyatt Hotel and the sightseeing observatories are more of a draw than the rest of the city.

Photographers will like the photo opportunities provided by the window parapets on 97F.

Using a skylight as a ceiling light is a clever design choice. It may be opened when the weather is nice, transforming the hall into a floating overpass.

Located on the Huangpu River, it offers a stunning perspective of Shanghai.

The 750-square-meter exhibition space may also be used for touring events.

Moreover, there is a cafe bar and a souvenir shop there.

If you are interested in business, here’s the location you should visit.

Address: 数浦港 Pu Dong Xin Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200120

Shanghai Zoo

Shanghai Zoo
Shanghai Zoo / Esin Üstün / Flickr

The Shanghai Zoo is a state-level, large-scale zoo in Shanghai. Previously known as Western Suburban Park, its name was changed to its current form in 1980. 

It’s near Hongqiao International Airport in Changning District. More than 6,000 animals, featuring up to 600 rare species.

Moreover, there is a 740,000-square-meter museum on the site.

As guests enter the park, there are hamadryas baboons, golden monkeys, golden gorillas, and gorillas in the Primate Zone. 

In China, you’ll only find golden monkeys, an unusual species.

The leaves and fruit that golden monkeys eat make up the bulk of their diet.

The area features a lot of fruit trees and bamboo, making it ideal for golden monkeys to live.

Behind a wall, guests may safely see the animals without being bothered by them.

A large mural depicts various landscapes and wildlife, including grasslands, woods, and bodies of water. 

The painting makes visitors feel like they’re in the middle of a vast expanse.

Tourists may look closely at tigers and hear their roars from a distance.

Tourists may get up and personal with these adorable creatures, which leaves a lasting impact.

Address: No. 2368 Hongqiao RoadChangning DistrictShanghai

Xujiahui Cathedral and the Sheshan Basilica

Xujiahui Cathedral
Xujiahui Cathedral / Christian MANGE / Flickr

One of Shanghai’s most beautiful landmarks is Xujiahui Cathedral, commonly known as St. Ignatius Cathedral, built in a Neo-Romanesque style. 

The construction of St. Ignatius Cathedral began in 1904 and was completed in 1910. At the time, it was referred to be the “biggest cathedral in the Far East.”

Missionary and associated operations were concentrated in Xujiahui District, where the church had been completed.

It is home to several educational, cultural, and humanitarian establishments.

Located in the southern city neighborhood of Xujiahui, it’s the largest Roman Catholic church in Shanghai.

Also, its twin 50-meter-high bell towers and refurbished interior with magnificent stained-glass windows make it worth a visit.

The Sheshan Basilica is another notable religious site (the National Shrine and Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Sheshan).

The church is located on the western tip of the hill named for it. 

It was severely destroyed during the Cultural Revolution but has undergone substantial restorations and is still a popular pilgrimage destination.

The Fourteen Stations of the Cross, which zigzag up the hill to the church, highlights each visit, as are the numerous beautiful vistas that can be seen along the route.

Address: China, Shanghai, Xuhui District, Xujiahui, 200030

Huangpu River

Huangpu River
Huangpu River / Xiquinho Silva / Flickr

An iconic feature of Shanghai is the Huangpu River, which divides the city into two distinct areas: Pudong and Puxi. 

From 300-770 meters wide, the river travels through 10 districts, covering an area of 113 kilometers.

In addition to providing water for drinking, shipping, drainage, and fishing, the river is also a popular tourist attraction in Shanghai.

Under and above the water, several tunnels and bridges are created to improve traffic.

In terms of riverside views, the Bund and Binjiang Avenue are two of the city’s most popular destinations.

The Bund is more sceni, but more congested than Binjiang Avenue.

Architectural landmarks line both sides of the road on the Bund. 

Around 100 years ago, Shanghai was still a large foreign colony. Many of its buildings were constructed in Western architectural styles.

The contemporary skyscrapers of Pudong are located on the east bank. 

It has become a major financial and commercial center in the city and the country.

Skyscrapers and traditional buildings contrast sharply, allowing you to see how a city has evolved over a century with just one look.

Xintiandi

Xintiandi
Xintiandi / Andy L / Flickr

On Xintiandi, a chic pedestrian boulevard in Shanghai’s central business district, you’ll find a mix of traditional Shikumen architecture and cutting-edge modern design.

A contemporary world inside the Shikumen houses of old Shanghai preserves the old-world charm of the walls, tiles, and façade.

While wandering about here, you’ll get a flavor of Shanghai’s 1920s and 21st-century metropolitan lifestyles.

In Xintiandi, you may find fine dining establishments serving food from all over the world, from France to Brazil to America, Japan to Germany to Italy.

Fans can get a chance to meet their idols at these eateries, which famous people frequent. 

Aside from that, the French restaurant’s unique cabaret and underground dining area, the Japanese music restaurant’s thrilling rock music, and the Brazilian restaurant’s folk performance from South America all leave outstanding impressions.

Shanghai’s Xintiandi district is a hotspot for young men and tourists worldwide.

If you’re looking for a place to unwind with music blasting and a party atmosphere pervading, check out one of the city’s many open-air pubs decorated in European style.

Address: Xintiandi, China

Tianzifang

Tianzifang
Tianzifang / Maxime Guilbot / Flickr

With its old-fashioned residential buildings and industries turned into an artistic neighborhood with bars and cafés, craft stores, and design studios, Tianzifang is little known among Shanghai’s old-timer residents. 

Tianzifang, like Xintiandi, is a historic Shanghai shikumen structure.

The distinction is Tianzifang’s vibrant living environment.

The ancient buildings are still standing, accordingly to the alleyways of Shanghai, with Shikumen architecture prominent. 

Moreover, it has about 20 variations of well-preserved shikumen structures, with the best types and completeness in the city. Many old-timers still live in the alleys.

Both visitors and locals should enjoy these acres.

Tianzifang is a creative hotspot. Every store has unique handmade novelty products that gleam with wit and inventiveness.

Tourists from abroad lounge outside a café while locals rush past.

Most ancient walls are utilized as panels to display colorful doodling. Artist Tianzifang survives the surrounding city’s destruction. 

Its preservation is vital for the city’s culture.

Address: Tianzifang, China

Jin Mao Tower

Jin Mao Tower is located in the middle of the Lujiazui Finance and Trade Zone in Pudong New Area, the third highest skyscraper in Shanghai after the Shanghai Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center.

One of the most prestigious hotels in Shanghai is the Grand Hyatt Shanghai, located on this skyscraper’s top floor. 

When you stay at Jin Mao Tower, you can use the service “wander in the cloud.”

Guests can walk on a glass skywalk that is 60 meters long and 1.2 meters wide. There are no rails. 

It’s on the 88th floor, where you can go sightseeing.

Visit it to get a good look at everything on the Huangpu River’s shores!

Address: 88 Shiji Blvd, Lujiazui, Pudong, China, 200120

The Shanghai Marriage Market

The Shanghai Marriage Market, Shanghai, China
The Shanghai Marriage Market is one of the best places to go in Shanghai, China

This dating market is an excellent place to start if you want to learn more about how different China is from most other countries. It’s also interesting to watch.

It’s still a huge thing in Chinese society to be married by the age of 30 or so.

Unfortunately, many young Chinese people lag behind in this area because of their hectic schedules and the gender imbalance in the country’s population. 

ItThis is an attempt by their parents to address that issue.

This exhibit is located in People’s Park. It allows parents to post their children’s dating profiles using ink and paper.

It’s also fun to see how people behave inspecificn settings.

There are a lot of paper profiles hanging from strings in this park, ready to be read. You’re welcome to linger.

Observe the parents’ interactions as they strive to discover the best possible fit for their child.

When you’ve had enough of the crowds, take a walk around the park to clear your head.

Address: Shanghai’s People’s Park

Fuxing Park

Fuxing Park
Fuxing Park / MojoBaron / Flickr

Discover the city’s unique culture at this must-see attraction!

If you are looking for a place to relax, this isn’t the place for you. At any one time, the area is full of people engaged in a wide range of pursuits. 

Crowds are drawn to the neighborhood because of its strong sense of belonging. 

The park is a place where people may exercise in a variety of ways, both alone and with others.

Because of this, you’ll see people doing tai chi, flying kites, performing music, singing, dancing, and more.

It’s a wonderful thing that they’re all doing it together.

Sit back with a snack and observe the parkgoers.

The type of group activity you probably haven’t participated in since you were younger is an excellent way to spend time with your pals while you’re in town.

Your mood will improve as well as your knowledge of China will deepen.

Address: 516 Fuxing Rd (M), Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200025

Shanghai Science and Technology Museum

Shanghai Science and Technology Museum
Shanghai Science and Technology Museum / lwtt93 / Flickr

If you’re looking for some of the best museums in the world, Shanghai is the place to go! 

The Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, China’s largest of its type, attracts more than two million people each year, making it one of the city’s most popular attractions.

The museum, which opened in 2001, features a wide variety of exhibits, including interactive multimedia displays, permanent exhibitions, and state-of-the-art scientific theaters. 

An extensive collection of local fauna, as well as scientific breakthroughs and a fascinating robotics display, are just some of the highlights of the museum.

The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is also a great place for families to visit.

In addition to its fascinating 120-meter-long underwater tunnel, this excellent site is known for its close-up views of the region’s rich marine life. 

The Shanghai Zoo, which houses a wide variety of local species, including giant pandas and South China tigers, is also a must-see when in the city of Shanghai.

Address: 2000 Century Ave, Pudong, Shanghai

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

This aquarium located in Pudong District’s Lujiazui Finance and Trade Zone, close to the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and Jinmao Tower.

It’s one of the largest man-made seawater aquariums in the world.

Two pyramid-shaped structures make up Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, a 20.500-square-meter complex.

One is the main building, while the other is an annex to that building.

Over 300 species and 12,000 rare and endangered species are on exhibit in the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, which is located in the city of Shanghai.

The world’s longest submerged observation tube, measuring 155 meters in length, may be found here.

Auto undersea tunnels with 180- and 270-degree viewing windows provide an unforgettable experience for tourists.

In addition, the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is a fun destination for families with young children.

Tourist Center, Souvenir Shop, and the 300-seat restaurant are all located here. The museum’s first level is open to visitors for food and gift shopping.

Address: China, Shanghai, Pudong, Lujiazui, 200031

Shanghai People’s Square

Shanghai People's Square
Shanghai People’s Square / Cornelius Kibelka / Flickr

People’s Square is dubbed the Green Lung of Shanghai.

It is a garden-style location in the city’s center that serves as a hub for political, social, cultural, financial, transportation, and tourism activities.

You can’t visit Shanghai without seeing this structure.

Essentially, People’s Plaza comprises a central plaza, People’s Park, and a number of nearby cultural, touristic, and commercial establishments surrounding it.

People’s Square in Shanghai is home to two world-class museums, one devoted to Chinese antiques and the other to modern art, as well as a large theater.

In the backdrop, you can see Nanjing Road among the world’s busiest shopping streets.

Many notable landmarks may be located in this area: the Shanghai Museum (South), Municipal Hall (North), Shanghai Grant Theater (Northwest), and Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center (East).

One of the beautiful things about People’s Square is that surrounding its shining heart is a historic ring of iconic structures that characterized Shanghai in the past, including the tallest hotel, the most extraordinary theater, and the coolest entertainment!

Need more convincing to travel to Shanghai, China, right? Check out reasons to visit Shanghai, China, at least once in your lifetime here.

Address: People’s Square, Huangpu, China, 200003

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