Things to Do in Shanghai

One of the most exploratory things to do in Shanghai China is to walk along the Bund. Also known as the Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu, the East Zhongshan 1st Road, the Bund is situated on the western banks of the Huangpu River. The best things to do in Shanghai when in Bund include viewing the waterfront of Pudong, which is the financial district, and is situated on the other side of the river Huangphu. The length of the entire walkway is around 1.5 kilometres, and you can spot the Colonial buildings lined up throughout the waterfront. The structures date back to the 1900s, and provide a spectacular view of the skyline of the city at night. Some of the famous structures to spot here are the Valentine wall, the movie poster gallery in Peace Hotel, and the museum in Astor House Hotel

Also known as Shanghai’s financial district, Pudong is one of the fastest growing cities in the world. One of the best things to do in Shanghai when in Pudong is to visit the many observation decks and malls located here. The navigation through skyscrapers is easy with a comfortable and convenient walkway. You can board the Metro line 2 to reach Pudong, and can get off at the Dongchang Road Station. Some of the famous observation decks to check out here include the Shanghai World Financial Centre Observatory, Oriental pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower, and so on.

Visiting the Jin Mao Tower is one of the most exciting things to do in Shanghai, provided it is also the third tallest tower in Shanghai. Moreover, it is the only tower which offers an uninterrupted 360 degree view, from the observation deck located at the 88th floor. One of the best things to do in Shanghai when at the Jin Mao Tower, is to indulge in watching the sunset from the tower, which offers an incredibly pristine view of the city’s skyline.

Amongst the most interesting things to do in Shanghai, visiting the Shanghai World Finance Centre, tops the list. This structure is the most popular structure in the world, and is the second highest tower in Shanghai. Its shape resembles a bottle opener, and this tower houses two observation decks, at 97th and 100th floor, respectively. You can view popular attractions such as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and the Huangpu river when on the observation deck.

One of the most noted things to do in Shanghai is to experience the view from the highest observation deck in the world, which is present in the Shanghai Tower. Known to be the tallest building in Shanghai, the Shanghai Tower is 128 stories tall, and measures about 632 metres. Boasting the fastest elevators, the observation decks in this tower are located at the 118th and 19th floors, and offer an unblemished view of the Shanghai City.

Walking through the Nanjing road is one of the leisurely things to do in Shanghai, where you can stroll by several eateries and cafes. The Nanjing road is the central shopping street of Shanghai, and is divided into two sections. The first section is the West Nanjing Road, and the second one is the Nanjing Road East. When strolling in the western part of this road, you can indulge in a peaceful stroll on well-built shopping paths. In the eastern part, you can indulge in the shopping and dining experiences. One of the best times to visit this area is during the morning or at night.

Dating back to as old as 1368, strolling by the beautiful Yu Garden is the most sought-after leisurely activities to do in Shanghai. The garden is home to some richly decorated and arranged natural rocks, plants, and pavilions. You can reach the Yu garden via Line 10 which stops at the Yuyuan Gardens stop, and is just two stops away from the People’s square. The activities to do in Shanghai when in this garden also include shopping, and getting some Chinese souvenirs. You can also try out the original Shanghai dumplings.

Amongst the activities to do in Shanghai, indulging in the European vibe, away from the hustle and bustle of the main Shanghai city, remains at the top. Called Shanghai's French Concession, you can find several bistros, authentic coffee shops across the entire street. Shopping from this street is considered among the unique things to do in Shanghai, for the souvenirs are a mix of European and Chinese cultures.

Tian Zi Fang is also known as the SOHO of Shanghai. For those inclined towards arts and craft, one of the best activities to do in Shanghai is shopping and eating at the Tian Zi Fang. You also get to explore the street food when in Tian Zi Fang, and it is filled with several bars and cafes for you to hop on.

Visiting the Jing’an Temple is another unique experience to indulge in, when confused about things to do in Shanghai. The temple is one of the oldest ones in Shanghai; its construction dates back to 240 AD. Later, during the 1200s, it was relocated to where it stands now. You can find the largest Jade Buddha in the entire China here, and also get to ring the massive bell, built during the 1300s. You can reach the Jing’an Temple by catching a subway line 2 to the Jing’an Temple station.

Another thrilling activities to do in Shanghai is touring in the Shanghai Maglev Train, which is the first commercial maglev line around the world. The operation route of SMT lies between the Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Longyang Road metro Station. The train was opened in the year 2003, and is also a part of the Guinness Book of World Records for being the fastest train in the world. The average speed of the train is 300 kmph, and the fastest recorded speed is 430 kmph.

One of the biggest circuses in the World, the Shanghai circus world comes with a seating capacity of 1638 people, and is equipped with compactible facilities, and latest technology around lighting and sound. One of the best things to do in Shanghai is to watch the extremely popular singing and dancing performances at this circus. You can also indulge in viewing acrobatics, and you get to enjoy the Shanghai International Magic Festival. The two most well-known shows here are the “Era: Intersection of Time”, and the “Happy circus”.

Situated in the pristine and serene town of Zhujiajiao, riding a Gondola is among the most soothing activities to do in Shanghai. The entire experience lasts for about 90 minutes, and you can immerse yourself in the beautiful views of the alleyways in this historical water village. You also get to witness the daily life of Zhujiajiao inhabitants, and later, you can visit the old shops and traditional buildings, to buy some unique souvenirs.

One of the most fun activities to do in Shanghai is enjoying the various rides present in the Shanghai Disneyland. At Disneyland, you can also meet the Disney characters, explore the Wishing Star Park, and go shopping. Some of the famous rides here include the Soaring Over the horizon, Happy Circle, Roaring Rapids, Camp Discovery, Rex’s Racer, Alice in Wonderland, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, and so on

Another interesting activity, amidst things to do in Shanghai is visiting the Shanghai museum, primarily known for housing ancient Chinese art. The museum was designed to depict the ancient wisdom and philosophy of China. It houses around 120000 invaluable historical objects, and is divided into 12 distinct galleries. You can find several collections here, spread amongst categories such as Ancient Bronze, Calligraphy, Paintings, Ceramics, Furniture, Sculptures, coins, seals, and ancient jade. Some other items to view here are wine and water vessels, musical instruments, armoury dating from 2000 BC (Xia Dynasty), and textiles.