Shanghai Attractions
Shanghai, as the most modern international metropolis in China, boasts a wide variety of attractions that are scattered throughout the city. Foremost among them are the views along the Huangpu River, which divides Shanghai into two distinct worlds. The east bank presents a futuristic atmosphere because of numerous uniquely designed skyscrapers reshaping the urban skyline, with the highest one standing at an impressive 632 meters (2,073 feet). While on the west bank exudes a retro and historical charm, for there are rows of century-old European-style architectures along the Bund, retelling the stories of old Shanghai.
Moreover, Shanghai is home to the iconic traditional Chinese garden, Yu Garden; China’s most prosperous commercial street, Nanjing Road; and the most advanced Disneyland over the world, Shanghai Disneyland Park. If you fancy historical treasures, then don't miss the Shanghai Museum East. Wandering around the Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, you can experience the authentic local life and witness Shanghai’s tenderness. In short, there are always different appearances of the city waiting for your exploration.
Top Attractions
The Bund – Time-honored European Architectural Complex
On the Bund along the west bank of Huangpu River, there stand a series of distinct and magnificent classical European-style architectural complexes, attracting millions of tourists every year. Over a century ago, they mushroomed as foreign-funded business and government offices, transforming this area into a bustling "Far East Wall Street". Now, most of them have become fashionable landmarks for high-end brand stores, luxury hotels, art galleries, restaurants, and leisure venues, standing opposite the modern skyscrapers across the river. When the lights ablaze at night, the entire Bund is dressed in a golden brilliant coat and the skyscrapers on the opposite riverbank also shine colorfully; the beautiful scenes on both sides are reflected on the Huangpu River, forming a stunning dazzling picture. At this time, taking a sightseeing boat and enjoying the charm of this night view while feeling the gentle breeze is the most pleasant experience.
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street - the No. 1 Commercial Street in China
The Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, known as "the No.1 Commercial Street in China", is one of the most bustling commercial streets in Shanghai. With the total length of approximately 1.5 kilometers (1,600 yards), it is a paradise for tourists to shop and enjoy delicious food. Strolling through it, you can witness how the contents of this commercial thoroughfare has seamlessly transitioned from international luxury brands to contemporary Chinese fashion, from daily necessities to high-end electronic products, and from century-old Shanghai delicacies to Michelin-starred cuisine. While you are drawn to the various shops, the pleasant tinkling sound will direct your attention to the distinctive sightseeing vehicle – the retro-style trolley. Riding on it, you can leisurely travel through this bustling street that combines both European classical elements and modern artistic atmosphere.
Yu Garden – Classical Chinese Garden in Shanghai Downtown
Yu Garden stands out among the modern buildings and bustling cityscape in Shanghai downtown. It was built over 450 years ago during the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644) and is one of the most renowned classical gardens in China. The garden features exquisite pavilions, rockeries, ponds, curved bridges, corridors, embossments, and carvings, showcasing the essence of traditional Chinese garden art. Among them the most interesting treasure is the Exquisite Jade Rock – it has a history of more than one thousand years, with a peculiar shape and dense small holes all over it, creating a mysterious atmosphere. Besides, the garden also preserves a large number of antique furniture and famous calligraphy and paintings as cultural relics from the Ming and Qing (1644 - 1911) dynasties.
Shanghai Museum East – Comprehensive Presentation of Chinese Civilization
Shanghai Museum East has a comprehensive collection of Chinese ancient relics that not only cover all Chinese historical periods, but also feature extensive varieties ranging from bronzes, ceramics, jade, sculptures to calligraphy & paintings. The Great Bronze Cauldron, as one of the must-see artifacts, has mysterious animal patterns outside and eulogistic inscriptions inside, showcasing the superb craftsmanship of bronze forging existed over 3,000 years ago. Looking at the Sky Blue-glazed Plate manufactured more than a thousand years ago, you will be amazed how ancient Chinese managed to create such a smooth porcelain in vivid color without machines. Additionally, there is another branch, Shanghai Museum on People's Square, which now has transformed into a hub of world relics where you can admire exquisite antique Chinese furniture, diverse handicrafts from different Chinese ethnic minorities, as well as overseas cultural heritage such as the Olmec Colossal Stone Head and Greenstone Figures from Ancient civilizations of the Americas.
Zhujiajiao Water Town – Shanghai's Venice
Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, about 1.5 hours’ drive away from Shanghai downtown, was built along the waterways and so is known as "Shanghai's Venice". The town has a history of over 1,700 years and preserves a great many architectural complexes from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Everywhere in the town are small bridges and flowing water, with white walls and black tiles decorating both sides. The whole water town presents a quaint and peaceful landscape of the typical Southern China style, contrasting sharply with the urban hustle and bustle of Shanghai. Tourists here can’t help but slow down and fully appreciate the beautiful scenery. At sunset, taking a traditional rowing boat to cruise and watching the red lanterns on both banks light up one after another would be an extremely enjoyable experience.
Shanghai Disneyland Park – Fairyland in Reality
Shanghai Disneyland Park, as the first Disneyland in Chinese mainland and the sixth in the world, is the newest and most modern one. Apart from the classic globally shared amusement areas and entertainment facilities such as Pirates of the Caribbean and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, it has also created a globally exclusive "Zootopia" themed area. The entire park uses high-precision projections and VR interactive technologies to bring the magical world from fairy tales to reality, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the game scenarios following the main characters in the animated films. Moreover, Shanghai Disneyland Park is filled with Chinese elements, such as the Tai Chi-wielding Donald Duck, Disney characters transformed into the twelve Chinese zodiac signs, and the integration of classic operas of Peking Opera in the musicals, providing you with a unique playing experience different from other Disneyland parks.
Shanghai Tower – the Tallest Skyscraper in China
Shanghai Tower is situated on the east bank of the Huangpu River in Lujiazui. Standing at a height of 632 meters (2,073 feet), it ranks the tallest building in China and the third tallest in the world. The entire building features a spiral ascending streamline shape. Looking afar, it seems like a giant dragon in silver scales leaping out of the river and hovering beneath the sky. It's fascinating that many people give it the nickname "egg whisk" due to its unique design. Shanghai Tower has a total of 127 floors on the ground. Every year, countless tourists come for a visit, taking the world’s fastest elevator to reach the "Top of Shanghai Observator" on the 118th floor in just about 55 seconds, and then enjoying a 360-degree panoramic view of Shanghai.
Recommended Tours
Museums
Shanghai has a variety of museums, covering different fields such as nature, history, and art. From historical relics over thousands of years ago to art galleries filled with artistic atmosphere, car museums and science museums leading the way in technology, to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, these museums provide a comprehensive overview of Shanghai's past, present, and future from different perspectives.
Historical & Cultural Sites
Shanghai, as a city with a long history and rich cultural heritage, boasts a wealth of unique and significant historical buildings and charming ancient towns. These historical buildings showcase different architectural styles and techniques from different eras, blending traditional Chinese architecture's solemn elegance with the unique charm of East-meets-West fusion. The ancient towns around Shanghai preserve the rustic charm and unique local culture of the southern China style water towns, making them ideal places for people to seek tranquility and experience traditional culture.
Modern Sights
As an international metropolis, Shanghai is adorned with a multitude of modern buildings. The quantity and stature of its skyscrapers hold significant positions on the global stage. Statistics reveal that Shanghai houses 207 skyscrapers, securing the sixth rank worldwide. These architectural marvels not only exemplify the modernization trajectory of Shanghai but also stand as prominent and iconic landmarks that define the cityscape.
Natural Scenery & Local’s Life
Shanghai has both historically significant and meticulously crafted urban parks, as well as natural scenic areas that have been left in their pristine state. These parks are scattered throughout the bustling city, providing excellent places for citizens and tourists to relax, have fun, and get close to nature. On the other hand, these parks are the main social gathering places for retired people, where they practice tai chi, play chess, dance, and organize Marriage Market. Here, you can experience the authentic lives of Shanghai locals.
Amusement Parks & Shopping Streets
Shanghai has a diverse range of amusement parks that cater to the entertainment needs of people from all walks of life. These parks include large theme parks with modern technology and international elements, as well as traditional amusement parks that hold memories of the city. Also, Shanghai is one of the most bustling commercial centers in China and boasts numerous shopping districts and fashionable streets. Whether you are interested in fashion, art, or shopping, you can find your preferred venues here.
Religious Sites
Shanghai, a city with a long history, embraces a diverse range of religious beliefs and traditional cultures. Here, different religious beliefs are fully respected and protected, enabling various religious activities to be carried out in an orderly manner. Such an atmosphere of religious tolerance in society offers religious believers the space to enjoy freedom of belief.
- Last updated on Jul. 20, 2026 by Shelly Wang -