Top Attraction and best Sightseeing in Shanghai

Shanghai has a fashionable side, you can visit skyscrapers and join fashionable events, you can go to various fashionable stores on Nanjing Road, and visit the world's tallest building, Shanghai Financial Center; Shanghai also has an ancient atmosphere, you can explore Yuyuan Garden, the Jade Buddha Temple, and the nearby ancient water towns. Moreover, you can enjoy some interesting cultural activities in Shanghai >>

Top 1: The Bund (Waitan)

The Bund(Waitan)

Located on the banks of the Huangpu River, the Bund is a renowned waterfront promenade offering stunning views of Shanghai's iconic skyline. This historic area features numerous century-old buildings, including the Peace Hotel and the Customs House.

Directly opposite the Bund, across the river lies the modern skyline of Lujiazui, creating a striking contrast between old and new. The nighttime light show here is regarded as a classic highlight of “Magic City” Shanghai. Whether you're taking a river cruise or simply strolling along the promenade, the Bund's night view promises a true visual feast.

• Address: On the bank of Huangpu River, Zhongshan East 1st Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
• Opening Hours: All Day
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours

Top 2: Yuyuan Garden

Yu Garden

You may be surprised to find the ‌classical charm of Yuyuan‌ hidden in the heart of bustling Shanghai. Built in the 16th century beside the City God Temple, this traditional Chinese garden is renowned for its elegant architecture, intricate rockeries, graceful pavilions, and tranquil water features. It attracts countless visitors seeking to experience its deep cultural heritage and historical beauty. The name Yu symbolizes peace and harmony. It’s the perfect place to escape the urban hustle and immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of traditional Chinese culture.

• Address: No. 168 Fuyou Street, Huangpu District, Shanghai
• Opening Hours: 09:00~16:30, No entry after 16:00, closed on Monday
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours

Top 3: Oriental Pearl TV Tower (Dongfang Mingzhu)

Oriental Pearl TV Tower

Hong Kong is known as the "Pearl of the Orient" for its economic prosperity, while Shanghai’s "Oriental Pearl" refers to its iconic Oriental Pearl Radio and TV Tower — a landmark that also symbolizes the city’s economic vitality. Alternatively, the name derives from the tower's architectural design featuring multiple spheres of varying sizes, resembling a string of pearls.

Towering into the sky at 468 meters with its unique sphere-based design and multifunctional space, it has become a must-visit landmark for travelers in Shanghai. The tower features several observation decks, including a thrilling glass-bottomed skywalk, as well as a revolving restaurant, a museum, and immersive exhibitions that showcase the city's rich history and modern transformation. Whether you're enjoying the vibrant cityscape during the day or the glittering lights at night, the view from the top never fails to impress.

• Address: No. 1, Century Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
• Opening Hours: 8:00~21:30
• Tour Length: 2 hours

Top 4: Lujiazui

Lujiazui

Once a stretch of farmland facing the historic Bund across the Huangpu River, Lujiazui has transformed into one of the most vibrant urban landscapes in Asia. Designated as Shanghai’s first financial development zone in the 1990s, it is now home to the headquarters of major banks, multinational corporations, and global financial institutions. More than just a symbol of wealth and power, Lujiazui embodies intelligence and innovation, reflecting the dynamic growth of Shanghai and China’s financial sector.

The Lujiazui Central Business District (CBD) features not only iconic skyscrapers that pierce the clouds such as the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and Jin Mao Tower, but also vibrant public spaces, including riverside promenades, luxury malls like Super Brand Mall and IFC Mall, and upscale restaurants offering breathtaking skyline views. Seamlessly blending commerce with culture, the district is also home to attractions like the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium and the Museum of Contemporary Art Shanghai (MoCA). Collectively, these facets transform Lujiazui into a radiant jewel gleaming along the Huangpu River's skyline.

• Address: No. 168 Fuyou Street, Huangpu District, Shanghai
• Opening Hours: 09:00~16:30, No entry after 16:00, closed on Monday
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours

Top 5: Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is one of most iconic landmarks and has been a center of commerce in Shanghai for more than a century. Known as the “No. 1 Commercial Street in China,” it lies at the heart of the city and is a paradise for both tourists and shopping enthusiasts. Spanning under two kilometers, this bustling pedestrian street seamlessly blends the historical charm of old Shanghai with the vibrancy of modern commerce. Home to flagship stores of global luxury brands, authentic local snacks, and cutting-edge international cuisine, Nanjing Road offers a dynamic mix of shopping, sightseeing, dining, leisure, people-watching and business.

• Address: No. 168 Fuyou Street, Huangpu District, Shanghai
• Opening Hours: 09:00~16:30, No entry after 16:00, closed on Monday
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours

Top 6: Shanghai Museum

Shanghai Museum is located in the southeast corner of People’s Square and is renowned for its themed exhibitions organized by artifact type. The first-floor houses one of the most comprehensive collections of ancient Chinese bronzes in the world. The second-floor features ceramics, while the third-floor displays traditional Chinese paintings and calligraphy. As one of China’s four major museums, the museum holds a vast collection of nearly 1.02 million cultural relics across 31 categories, including bronzes, ceramics, paintings, calligraphy, sculptures, and more over 140,000 of which are considered national treasures. It is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, art scholars, and first-time visitors to Shanghai alike.

The newly opened Shanghai Museum East serves as a complementary extension to the original Shanghai Museum. It features specialized galleries including ancient sculpture, Ming and Qing dynasty furniture, and a digital exhibition hall, as well as an interactive bronze gallery. With its immersive and engaging displays, it caters to families with children, culture enthusiasts, and visitors interested in modern exhibition formats.

• Shanghai Museum Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:00), Closed on Mondays, except during national holidays.
• Shanghai Museum East Opening Hours: 10:00-16:00 (last entry at 17:00). Closed on Tuesdays, except during national holidays.
• Address: No. 201, Peoples Avenue, Huangpu District, Shanghai & No. 1952, Century Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
• Recommended Tour Length: 3-4 Hours

Top 7: Zhujiajiao Water Ancient Town

Zhujiajiao Water Ancient Town

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, located on the picturesque shores of Dianshan Lake, about 50 kilometers from downtown Shanghai, is one of the most charming and easily accessible water towns in the region. With a history of over 1,700 years, it offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s fast-paced rhythm. Nicknamed the “Venice of Shanghai,” the town is famed for its winding canals, arched stone bridges, and narrow alleys lined with teahouses and local delicacies, offering a window into traditional life in southern China.

You can take a ride on a traditional black-awning boat to explore the waterways, experience local intangible cultural heritage such as crochet weaving or hand-dyed homespun fabrics, and visit the oldest post office in Jiangnan, the only remaining one of its kind in East China, where you can send a special letter or postcard to loved ones.

• Address: No. 555, Kezhiyuan Road, Zhujiajiao Town, Qingpu District, Shanghai
• Opening Hours: All Day
• Tour Length: 0.5-1 Days

Top 8: Tianzifang

Tianzifang is a maze-like network of alleyways and lanes filled with small shops, cafés, and galleries, making it a great place to explore and discover unique souvenirs. Originally developed during the French Concession era in the 1840s, the area retains 137 preserved Shikumen (stone-gate) buildings that blend Chinese and Western architectural styles. Once part of an early industrial district in Shanghai, Tianzifang has since transformed into a vibrant hub for artists and designers. Praised by CNN as “Shanghai’s most down-to-earth cultural window,” Tianzifang offers visitors an authentic look at the city’s creative energy and historical charm.

• Address: No. 210, Taikang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
• Opening Hours: All Day
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours

Top 9: Jingan Temple

As one of the oldest temples in Shanghai, Jingan Temple was originally built in 247 AD during the Eastern Wu period of the Three Kingdoms. The temple blends elements of Song Dynasty architecture and Tibetan Buddhism, and its main structures include the Hall of the Great Buddha, Hall of Heavenly Kings, and Hall of the Three Saints, arranged in a traditional layout with the temple in front and the pagoda at the back.

The temple is especially popular among businesspeople who come to pray for success and prosperity. With its resplendent golden halls and ever-burning incense, Longhua Temple is widely regarded as a spiritually powerful and auspicious place.

• Address: 1686 Nanjing West Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai
• Opening Hours: 07:30-17:00
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours

Top 10: Wukang Road

Located in Xuhui District, former French Concession, Wukang Road is a north-south historical and cultural street that offers a vivid glimpse into Shanghai’s modern history. Lined with century-old Western-style villas and former residences of prominent figures, the area has become a living museum of the city’s past. The iconic Wukang Mansion, known for its unique ship-shaped structure, is now a popular photo spot on social media. Surrounding it are charming cafés and independent bookstores, offering cozy spaces to relax and unwind. Exploring Wukang Road by bicycle is one of the best ways to soak in the romantic atmosphere of the former French Concession.

• Address: Wukang Road, Xuhui District, Shanghaii
• Opening Hours: All Day
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours

Top 11: Huangpu River

The Huangpu River flows through the heart of Shanghai, dividing the city into two distinct worlds: the historic charm of Puxi and the modern skyline of Pudong. Stretching over 100 kilometers, this iconic river serves as a time-honored thread connecting Shanghai’s past and future.

A cruise along the Huangpu offers breathtaking views of one of the world’s most recognizable cityscapes. On one side stands the Bund with its century-old architecture, while on the other rise the futuristic skyscrapers of Lujiazui. Whether by day or night, the scenery is nothing short of unforgettable.

• Address: Huangpu River, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
• Opening Hours: 11:00~21:30
• Tour Length: 2-3 hours

Top 12: Shanghai Xintiandi

Xintiandi, located just south of Huaihai Zhong Road in central Shanghai, is a vibrant lifestyle destination where historic charm meets modern living. Originally built upon the preserved Shikumen alleyways, the area has been transformed into a stylish pedestrian zone filled with boutique shops, restaurants, cafés, and bars.

Blending traditional Chinese architecture with contemporary design, Xintiandi offers a unique atmosphere that reflects the fusion of old and new Shanghai. It's especially popular for its lively nightlife, with many venues offering outdoor seating, live music, and a romantic ambiance reminiscent of old Shanghai.

• Address: No. 245, Madang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
• Opening Hours: All Day
• Tour Length: 2-3 hours

Top 13: Jade Buddha Temple

The Jade Buddha Temple, founded in 1882, is one of Shanghai’s most renowned Buddhist temples. It is named after a magnificent white jade statue of the seated Buddha, carved from a single piece of jade and considered a national treasure.

Known for its elegant architecture and serene atmosphere, the temple also houses ancient scriptures, bronze statues, and traditional Buddhist art. Visitors can observe or join in daily chanting and meditation, and enjoy cultural events held throughout the year.

A peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, the Jade Buddha Temple offers insight into both spiritual practice and Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage

• Address: No. 170 Anyuan Road, Putuo District, Shanghai
• Opening Hours: 8:00-16:30 (Except for Major Festivals, No entry after 16:00)
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours

Top 14: Shanghai Disney Resort

Shanghai Disney Resorti

Shanghai Disney Resort is a world-class theme park located in Pudong, Shanghai. It seamlessly blends Disney magic with Chinese culture, offering fun for all ages. The resort features ‌Shanghai Disneyland Park‌, home to exciting rides, live shows, and the world’s largest Disney castle. Popular attractions include ‌TRON Lightcycle Power Run‌, ‌Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure‌, and dazzling nighttime fireworks spectaculars.

Guests can also explore ‌Disneytown‌ for shopping and dining, relax by ‌Wishing Star Lake‌, and stay at themed hotels like the ‌Toy Story Hotel‌. It’s the perfect destination for families, couples, and Disney fans to experience a magical getaway.

• Address: No. 310 Huangzhao Road, Chuansha Town, Pudong New District, Shanghai
• Opening Hours: 08:30-21:30
• Tour Length: 1 Day

Top 15: Water Ancient Towns

If you're tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, these ancient water towns are the perfect getaway. All located within a two-hour drive from Shanghai, they feature winding canals, stone bridges, and charming old streets that offer a glimpse into traditional Chinese life and culture. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, explore historic architecture, or enjoy local snacks, these picturesque towns promise a peaceful and culturally rich escape.

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town: often called Shanghai’s “Venice,” preserves the city’s finest collection of Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Stroll down North Street, known as Shanghai’s top Ming-Qing thoroughfare, glide through narrow canals on a traditional rowboat, and savor local specialties such as braised zha rou pork and sticky rice dumplings.

Zhouzhuang Ancient Town: Located about 60 kilometers from Shanghai, Zhouzhuang is another popular water town in the region. It has a history of over 900 years and is known for its beautiful waterways, stone bridges, and traditional architecture.

Tongli Ancient Town: Located about 80 kilometers from Shanghai, Tongli is a water town with a history of over 1,000 years. It is known for its ancient bridges, gardens, and traditional architecture.

Fengjing Ancient Town: located in Jinshan District, is one of Shanghai’s officially recognized historic and cultural towns. It features unique attractions such as Zhihe Bridge, Dingti Workshop, and the Jinshan Farmer Painting Village. Visitors can ride a traditional black-awning boat beneath centuries-old bridges, sample local delicacies like Zhuangyuan Cake, and experience the charm of an authentic Jiangnan water town.

Xitang Ancient Town: located about 90 kilometers from Shanghai, is a picturesque water town with over 1,000 years of history. It is famous for its well-preserved ancient architecture, winding canals, and stone bridges. One of its most iconic features is the 1,300-meter-long Covered Corridor, offering a classic “small bridge over flowing water” scene. In the evening, taking a black-awning boat ride as the sunset reflects on the lantern-lit corridor is an unforgettable and enchanting experience.

Wuzhen Ancient Town:Located about 120 kilometers from Shanghai, Wuzhen is a water town with a history of over 1,300 years. It is known for its well-preserved traditional houses, stone bridges, and canals.

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