Shanghai, the bustling metropolis at the heart of China’s economic boom, is a city of contrasts where East meets West and traditional mingles seamlessly with modern. Whether you are a history buff, food lover, or shopping fanatic, Shanghai offers an array of experiences that cater to all tastes and interests. Here is a curated list of the top 10 places to visit in Shanghai that should feature in any China travel documentary:
1. **The Bund (外滩)**
The iconic waterfront area known as The Bund offers spectacular views of Shanghai’s skyline. Lined with colonial-era buildings that once housed banks and trading houses from around the world, today these structures serve as boutiques, luxury hotels, and restaurants. A walk along the Huangpu River with a view of the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong is quintessentially Shanghai.
2. **Yu Garden (豫园)**
Located in the Old City, Yu Garden is a prime example of traditional Chinese garden design from the Ming Dynasty era. With its classic pavilions, ponds filled with koi fish, and zigzagging bridges, this garden is a peaceful sanctuary amidst the urban hustle.
3. **Shanghai Tower (上海中心大厦)**
As China’s tallest building and the world’s second-tallest structure as of my last update in 2023, climbing up to its observation deck on the 118th floor offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city.
4. **Jade Buddha Temple (玉佛禅寺)**
This beautiful temple houses two rare jade Buddhist statues imported from Burma by sea in 1882. Not only is it a site of religious importance but also a tranquil retreat for those seeking peace.
5. **Nanjing Road (南京路)**
Possibly China’s premier shopping street, Nanjing Road features hundreds of shops ranging from traditional Chinese stores to global luxury brands. It’s also ideal for sampling local snacks and watching street performers.
6. **Xintiandi (新天地)**
Xintiandi is a stylish pedestrian area that preserves historic Shikumen houses amid modern design concepts — offering an eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and shops nestled within old stone-frame structures.
7. **Shanghai Museum (上海博物馼)**
Located on People’s Square, this museum offers an impressive collection spanning thousands of years – including ancient Chinese bronze artistry, ceramics sculptures, calligraphy masterpieces and more.
8. **Tianzifang (田子坊)**
Nestled within French Concession’s lanes are Tianzifang’s narrow alleys filled with craft stores, quaint cafes, art galleries and more – perfect for leisurely strolls while exploring local art and cuisine.
9. **Zhujiajiao Water Town (朱家角)**
Known as “Shanghai’s Venice,” Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town well-preserved over centuries featuring charming bridges over lazy canals lined by heritage buildings that tell tales dating back over 1700 years.
10. **Oriental Pearl Tower (东方明珠塔)**
No visit to Shanghai would be complete without seeing its TV tower – recognized worldwide for its unique architectural design consisting of spheres surmounted by a long spire which dominates Pudong’s skyline.
Each destination in Shanghai tells part of the story of this dynamic city’s past while showcasing its vibrant present and innovative future—making it not just an economic giant but also a rich cultural tapestry worth exploring time and again.