Shanghai Must-See Guide

Must-See Attractions • The Bund: A collection of international architecture, spectacular when lit up at night. Take a Huangpu River cruise to admire the scenery on both sides and experience Shanghai's unique charm. Recommended visiting time: 6pm to 9pm. • Yu Garden: A classic Jiangnan garden with exquisite pavilions, towers, rockeries, and ponds. The surrounding Yuyuan Bazaar offers a variety of snacks and souvenir shops. Try the xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). • Shanghai Disneyland: The largest Disneyland in Asia, with exclusive rides and shows like Tron Lightcycle Power Run and Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure. It also boasts the world's largest Disney castle and a spectacular nighttime fireworks show. Suitable for families and theme park enthusiasts. • Lujiazui: The skyline of Shanghai is formed by skyscrapers such as the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and Jin Mao Tower. Ascend to the observation decks for panoramic city views, especially stunning at night. Experience the skywalk and high-speed elevators. • Xintiandi and Tianzifang: Xintiandi is a blend of East and West, featuring Shikumen architecture, restaurants, shops, and boutiques. Tianzifang exudes an artistic atmosphere with creative shops, unique cafes, and handicraft stores, offering a rich cultural and artistic experience. • Wukang Road: The heart of the Hengshan Road-Fuxing Road Historic and Cultural Area, featuring outstanding historical buildings like the Wukang Building, as well as cultural sites such as the former residences of Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Mei-ling, and Ba Jin. Known as the "celebrity road that condenses the century-old history of modern Shanghai," it's perfect for strolling, taking photos, and experiencing Shanghai's slower pace of life. • Shanghai Museum: Home to a vast collection of precious artifacts. The buffet restaurant on the 10th floor offers panoramic views of People's Square. A great place to learn about ancient Chinese art and culture. • Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park: Features rare marine life such as orcas, penguins, and dolphins, with spectacular shows like the Orca Legend Show and the Dolphin Agility Show. There are also parades and fireworks displays. A great choice for families and animal lovers. • Zhujiajiao Ancient Town: Known as the "Venice of Shanghai," with ancient attractions like Kezhi Garden and Zhujiajiao Ancient Town Museum. Stroll through the ancient town, sample snacks, enjoy the waterways, and experience the leisurely pace of ancient town life. Personal Opinions • City Charm: Shanghai is a metropolis that blends modernity and tradition, Eastern and Western cultures. It boasts both the bustling modernity of skyscrapers and the ancient charm of historical buildings like Shikumen and alleyways. This unique cultural atmosphere and urban landscape make it highly attractive. • Lifestyle: Shanghainese people live a fast-paced life with a strong sense of time, but they also value quality of life and enjoyment. In their leisure time, they enjoy relaxing in cafes, tea houses, or parks, embracing a slower pace of life. • Food Culture: Benbang cuisine is a major feature of Shanghai, with dishes like braised pork belly and stir-fried prawns in oil, known for their fresh and savory flavors and rich, reddish-brown sauces. Shanghai also offers a wide variety of snacks, such as xiaolongbao, shengjian bao, and pork chop rice cakes, leaving a lasting impression. • Cost of Living: The cost of living in Shanghai is relatively high, especially in the central urban areas and popular commercial districts like Huangpu, Jing'an, and Xuhui, where accommodation, dining, and shopping are all expensive. However, more affordable options can be found in non-central districts or around less popular attractions. • Transportation: Shanghai has a very convenient transportation system, with a well-developed subway network covering all major attractions and commercial districts. Buses and taxis are also readily available. However, subways and buses can be crowded during rush hour. Hidden Gems • Sun Ke Villa: Located on Hengshan Road, it was a filming location for the TV series "Nothing But Thirty." It occasionally hosts events like coffee carnivals. • Sinan Road: Situated in the Hengfu Historic and Cultural Area, the historical buildings shaded by trees exude a sense of history. It's home to numerous former residences of famous figures, as well as cozy cafes and small shops. • Sweet Love Road: Next to Lu Xun Park, it's known as "Lover's Lane." The walls along the road are filled with expressions of love, making it a popular spot for couples. • Duolun Road Cultural Celebrities Street: While not exactly a hidden gem, it's rich in history and was once home to many cultural figures. There are numerous former residences to visit. • Shanghai Natural History Museum: With interesting exhibits, it's suitable for family visits and science education. • Soong Ching-ling Memorial Residence: Advance booking is required. The environment is quiet and full of life, offering insights into Soong Ching-ling's life and contributions. • Zhongshan Park: Metro lines 2 and 3 pass through it, offering unique perspectives. • Suzhou Creek Riverside Walk: Stroll along Suzhou Creek from Waibaidu Bridge, admiring the scenery and buildings along the way, such as the former site of the Shanghai General Chamber of Commerce and the Sihang Warehouse. • Power Station of Art: Free admission. Located in the former China Pavilion of the World Expo, check the exhibition information in advance to decide whether to visit. • Thames Town: A complete replica of an English town, with large lawns, greenery, and English-style spired buildings. Ideal for taking photos and experiencing a foreign atmosphere. Featured Streets • Hengshan Road: Filled with French charm, it features restaurants with international flavors and atmospheric bars. It comes alive at night and is a great place to experience Shanghai's nightlife. • Sinan Road: Located in the Hengfu Historic and Cultural Area, the historical buildings shaded by trees exude a sense of history. It's home to numerous former residences of famous figures, as well as cozy cafes and small shops. • Sweet Love Road: Next to Lu Xun Park, it's known as "Lover's Lane." The walls along the road are filled with expressions of love, making it a popular spot for couples.