{"id":91699,"date":"2025-04-29T11:00:20","date_gmt":"2025-04-29T03:00:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/shopee.sg\/blog\/?p=91699"},"modified":"2025-08-08T11:28:09","modified_gmt":"2025-08-08T03:28:09","slug":"things-to-do-in-shanghai","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/shopee.sg\/blog\/things-to-do-in-shanghai\/","title":{"rendered":"Rediscover China: 15 Best Things To Do In Shanghai For Returning Travellers"},"content":{"rendered":"

Shanghai is a city that effortlessly blends the ultramodern with the deeply historical \u2013 and that\u2019s exactly why I\u2019m beyond excited to plan my trip here. From towering skyscrapers piercing the clouds to tranquil classical gardens tucked amidst the urban buzz, this megacity offers something for every kind of traveller. Love food, shopping, culture, or nightlife? Shanghai has you covered. Often dubbed the “Paris of the East” for its vibrant nightlife and Art Deco architecture, it\u2019s a playground for millennials and Gen Z explorers who crave variety. If you\u2019re wondering <\/span>what to do in Shanghai<\/span><\/i>, read on \u2013 I\u2019ve rounded up the 15 best things to do in Shanghai that I\u2019m seriously considering for my own Shanghai itinerary (and you should too!).<\/span><\/p>\n

1. The Bund (\u5916\u6ee9)<\/h2>\n
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(Credit: Night Glow<\/a> \/ Unsplash)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Bund<\/b> is top of my Shanghai bucket list \u2013 it\u2019s a 1.3-kilometre waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River, lined on one side by grand colonial-era buildings and on the other by Pudong\u2019s futuristic skyline. Strolling here, I\u2019ll soak in views of Gothic and Baroque facades from the city\u2019s past, set against neon-lit skyscrapers that scream its future. It\u2019s an <\/span>absolute must<\/span><\/i> for first-timers because the contrast of old and new Shanghai is just breathtaking. I plan to visit around sunset to watch the skyline come alive with lights across the river in Pudong \u2013 a scene that\u2019s said to be pure magic (and Instagram gold). With the cool breeze off the Huangpu and maybe a coffee in hand, I can\u2019t imagine a better way to kick off my adventure in Shanghai.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> Free<\/span>
\n<\/span>Getting There:<\/b> Take the Metro Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station, then walk about 10 minutes towards the waterfront.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Yu Garden (\u8c6b\u56ed) & Yuyuan Bazaar (\u8c6b\u56ed\u8001\u8857)<\/h2>\n
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(Credit: Yang\ud83d\ude4b\u200d\u2642\ufe0f\ud83d\ude4f\u2764\ufe0f Song<\/a> \/ Unsplash)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

No trip to Shanghai would be complete without wandering the enchanting<\/span> Yu Garden<\/b>. This classical Chinese garden dates back to the 16th century (Ming Dynasty) and is often called \u201ca pearl of Shanghai\u201d for its elegant pavilions, koi ponds, and winding pathways. Despite surviving centuries of upheaval \u2013 from colonial intrigues to World War II damage \u2013 <\/span>Yu Garden<\/b> remains an oasis of calm in the Old City, full of ancient ginkgo trees, rockeries and ornate bridges that transport you to another era. As a history lover, I\u2019m fascinated that this garden was once a wealthy family\u2019s private retreat; today it\u2019s a national monument open to everyone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Right outside the garden is the bustling <\/span>Yuyuan Bazaar<\/b>, and you can bet I\u2019ll be indulging in every street food snack I find there. Steaming <\/span>xiao long bao<\/span><\/i><\/a> soup dumplings, anyone? The bazaar\u2019s maze of shops is famous for traditional crafts, teahouses, and local eats. I plan to haggle for some souvenirs and slurp noodles alongside locals for the full experience. It might be touristy and often crowded (insider tip: go on a weekday morning to beat the rush), but the mix of cultural heritage and tasty street food is simply irresistible.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> ~RMB 40 (\u2248 S$8) in peak season; ~RMB 30 off-season for Yu Garden<\/span>
\n<\/span> Getting There:<\/b> Take Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station \u2013 the garden and bazaar are a short walk from Exit 1.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Nanjing Road (\u5357\u4eac\u8def)<\/h2>\n
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(Credit: Edward Eyer<\/a> \/ Pexels [cropped])<\/figcaption><\/figure>As a self-confessed shopaholic and city explorer, I cannot miss <\/span>Nanjing Road<\/b>. This famous street is the shopping mecca of Shanghai \u2013 in fact, it\u2019s one of the world\u2019s longest shopping streets at about 5.5 km, drawing over a million visitors a day! By day, I\u2019ll admire the mix of old and new: historic buildings and flagship stores, with locals leisurely strolling under the trees on <\/span>West Nanjing Road<\/b>. By night, <\/span>East Nanjing Road<\/b> transforms with buzzing crowds and glowing neon signs, a frenzy of shoppers and food stalls that showcase the city\u2019s modern hustle.<\/span><\/p>\n

I\u2019m planning to start near People\u2019s Square (maybe pop into the Shanghai Museum first, see #7 below) and then walk east toward The Bund, watching the vibe shift from upscale boutiques to street food vendors. Don\u2019t be surprised if I jump on the little tourist tram that trundles down the pedestrian strip \u2013 my feet might need a break from all that retail therapy! Whether you\u2019re after luxury brands or quirky souvenirs, wandering<\/span> Nanjing Road<\/b> is one of those classic things to do in Shanghai. Just remember to wear <\/span>comfy shoes<\/span><\/a> and charge your <\/span>camera<\/span><\/a>; those giant LED billboards and busy street scenes are mesmerising.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> Free (though your wallet might not be safe from shopping!)<\/span>
\n<\/span>Getting There:<\/b> Multiple metro stops cover the length of Nanjing Road. For the pedestrian East Nanjing Rd section, take Metro Line 2 or 10 to Nanjing Road East Station.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Oriental Pearl Tower (\u4e1c\u65b9\u660e\u73e0\u7535\u89c6\u5854)<\/h2>\n
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(Credit: Yifan Cong<\/a> \/ Unsplash)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I have a soft spot for city skylines, so heading up the <\/span>Oriental Pearl Tower<\/b> is non-negotiable for me. This skyscraper with its distinctive pink spheres was once the tallest building in Shanghai, and it remains one of the city\u2019s most recognisable landmarks. At 468 metres tall, the Oriental Pearl offers sweeping 360\u00b0 views from its observation decks. I\u2019m mildly terrified yet thrilled about the glass-bottomed walkway \u2013 walking on a transparent floor 259 metres above ground sounds equal parts scary and awesome! There\u2019s even a revolving restaurant up there, and a Shanghai History Museum in the base, so it\u2019s more than just a viewpoint.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sure, Shanghai now has taller towers (the Shanghai Tower and Jing\u2019an Finance Centre among them), but there\u2019s something iconic about the Pearl Tower\u2019s retro-futuristic design. I might time my visit for late afternoon to catch daylight views and then watch the sunset blur into a dazzling night panorama. And if heights aren\u2019t your thing, you can admire this tower from The Bund \u2013 it\u2019s the spiky building that lights up like a purple beacon at night. But as for me, I\u2019ll be up top living my best life among the clouds, thank you very much.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> Tickets range ~RMB 199 \u2013 299 (\u2248 S$40\u201360) for full access, depending on package (basic observatory, additional spheres, etc.)<\/span>
\n<\/span> Getting There:<\/b> Take Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station \u2013 the tower is right outside exit 1.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Shanghai Disneyland (\u4e0a\u6d77\u8fea\u58eb\u5c3c\u4e50\u56ed)<\/h2>\n
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(Credit: Ver vaeck<\/a> \/ Pexels)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Yes, you read that right \u2013 Shanghai has its very own Disneyland, and the inner child in me is <\/span>squealing<\/span><\/i>. <\/span>Shanghai Disneyland<\/b> is the first Disney park in mainland China and the sixth in the world. It\u2019s got all the classic <\/span>Disney<\/span><\/a> magic plus some unique twists you won\u2019t find elsewhere. Fun fact: this park boasts the world\u2019s tallest Disney castle and even an entire pirate-themed land for all you Pirates of the Caribbean fans. As someone who grew up on Disney movies, I can\u2019t wait to explore Treasure Cove, ride the TRON Lightcycle coaster in Tomorrowland, and watch the grand nighttime fireworks over Enchanted Storybook Castle (camera at the ready!).<\/span><\/p>\n

What I love is that <\/span>Shanghai <\/b>Disneyland<\/b><\/a> caters to both kids and adults, so whether I go solo or with friends, we\u2019ll have a blast taking selfies with <\/span>Mickey<\/span><\/a>, munching on Mickey-shaped treats, and screaming our heads off on roller coasters. It\u2019s a full-day adventure for sure. Just a heads up: plan your visit on a weekday if possible, and buy tickets in advance. Queues can be long, but hey, a little patience is worth it to experience one of the happiest places on Earth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> ~S$75 for a one-day adult ticket (prices vary by date and season)<\/span>
\n<\/span> Getting There:<\/b> Take Metro Line 11 to Disney Resort Station \u2013 it drops you right at the park gates.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Jade Buddha Temple (\u7389\u4f5b\u7985\u5bfa)<\/h2>\n
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(Credit: tangi bertin<\/a> \/ Unsplash)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

For a dose of serenity and spirituality, I\u2019m adding the<\/span> Jade Buddha Temple<\/b> to my itinerary. This active Buddhist monastery is nestled amid downtown Shanghai\u2019s hustle, yet once you step inside, it feels like a world apart. The temple is famous for its two magnificent jade Buddha statues brought from Myanmar (Burma) in the 19th century. The main attraction is a 2-metre tall seated <\/span>Buddha<\/span><\/a> carved from a single piece of white jade and adorned with semi-precious stones. There\u2019s also a smaller reclining jade Buddha representing Buddha\u2019s peaceful death, which is equally beautiful and revered.<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s one of the few temples in China that\u2019s still actively worshipped daily, so you might see devotees lighting candles or monks in robes going about their day. The architecture itself is lovely, with classic Chinese curved eaves and bright saffron-colored walls. I plan to visit in the morning for a quieter experience. Even in a modern metropolis, places like<\/span> Jade Buddha Temple <\/b>show that tradition is very much alive in Shanghai.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> Free (donations appreciated; some halls may request a small fee for entry or incense)<\/span>
\n<\/span> Getting There:<\/b> Take Metro Line 13 to Jiangning Road Station, then walk about 5-10 minutes to the temple entrance on Anyuan Road.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Shanghai Museum (\u4e0a\u6d77\u535a\u7269\u9986)<\/h2>\n
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(Credit: Zheng Xia<\/a> \/ Pexels)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Calling all culture vultures \u2013 the <\/span>Shanghai Museum<\/b> is a must-visit, and I\u2019m definitely pencilling in a few hours for it. Located at People\u2019s Square, this museum is often hailed as one of the best in China. It houses over 120,000 artefacts spanning 5,000 years of Chinese history \u2013 from ancient bronze vessels and jade carvings to Ming-era furniture, calligraphy scrolls and ethnic costumes. Basically, if you want to trace China\u2019s civilisation under one roof, this is the place. I\u2019m particularly keen to check out the bronze gallery and the ceramics collection (hello, priceless porcelain!), which are said to be world-class.<\/span><\/p>\n

One thing that intrigues me is how the museum is organised by theme rather than dynasty. That means I can hop from an exhibit of coins to one of paintings, and see the evolution within that category across eras \u2013 a more engaging way to learn, I\u2019d say. The building itself has a unique round dome and square base, reflecting the Chinese concept of \u201cround heaven, square earth.\u201d And did I mention it\u2019s free entry? Just bring your passport for the free ticket issuance. I plan to go early when it opens (9am) to avoid crowds and maybe join a free English tour if available. After filling my brain with knowledge, I might relax in People\u2019s Park next door \u2013 perhaps even peek at the weekend \u201cmarriage market\u201d there if time allows (Google it \u2013 it\u2019s fascinating!).<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> Free (foreign visitors need to show a passport at the ticket booth for a free entry ticket)<\/span>
\n<\/span> Getting There:<\/b> Take Metro Line 1, 2 or 8 to People\u2019s Square Station. The museum is a 5-minute walk from Exit 1 (in the middle of People\u2019s Square).<\/span><\/p>\n

8. Xintiandi (\u65b0\u5929\u5730)<\/h2>\n
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(Credit: Ye Massa<\/a> \/ Unsplash)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

When I need a break from historical sites, I\u2019ll head to <\/span>Xintiandi <\/b>\u2013 Shanghai\u2019s chic entertainment district in the heart of the former French Concession. <\/span>Xintiandi <\/b>is basically <\/span>old meets new <\/span><\/i>personified: a trendy upscale area filled with restaurants, cafes, bars, and boutiques, all housed in beautifully restored <\/span>shikumen<\/span><\/i> (stone gate) buildings. These low-rise brick buildings are relics of 1920s-30s Shanghai, now given new life as a lifestyle hub. The result? A place oozing with quaint European charm and modern vibrancy at the same time.<\/span><\/p>\n

I\u2019m envisioning an afternoon here sipping <\/span>coffee<\/span><\/a> at an al fresco cafe beneath shady plane trees, then browsing some designer shops or art galleries tucked in the narrow alleys. By night, <\/span>Xintiandi <\/b>turns into one of the city\u2019s hotspots \u2013 perfect for dinner and drinks. I might treat myself to some Shanghainese delicacies at a restaurant in <\/span>Xintiandi<\/b>, then perhaps grab a craft <\/span>cocktail<\/span><\/a> at a stylish bar (the nightlife here is popular with expats and tourists, so I won\u2019t feel out of place). It\u2019s also a great area to simply walk around and people-watch \u2013 after all, this is <\/span>the<\/span><\/i> place to see and be seen in Shanghai. Don\u2019t forget to admire the mix of architecture while you\u2019re here; the blending of historical and contemporary design is what makes <\/span>Xintiandi <\/b>so unique. I know my camera roll will be full after this stop.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> Free (it\u2019s a public neighbourhood, though individual venues will have their costs)<\/span>
\n<\/span> Getting There:<\/b> Take Metro Line 10 or 13 to Xintiandi Station. The area is just outside Exit 6, centred around Madang Road and Taicang Road.<\/span><\/p>\n

9. Tianzifang (\u7530\u5b50\u574a)<\/h2>\n
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(Credit: Adriaan Terblanche<\/a> \/ Unsplash [cropped])<\/figcaption><\/figure>Another gem within the French Concession is <\/span>Tianzifang<\/b>, a labyrinth of artsy lanes and alleyways that I can\u2019t wait to get lost in. <\/span>Tianzifang <\/b>has transformed old residential lanes (called <\/span>lilongs<\/span><\/i>) into a hip enclave of art studios, quirky boutiques, craft shops, and caf\u00e9s. It\u2019s got a bohemian vibe and is super popular with young locals, expats, and travellers. I\u2019m planning to spend a few hours just wandering here, discovering hidden shops selling handmade trinkets, popping into tiny galleries, and maybe getting a caricature drawn by a street artist.<\/span><\/p>\n

What makes <\/span>Tianzifang <\/b>fun is the element of surprise \u2013 every turn in the narrow alley could reveal a cosy bar, a cute coffee shop, or a vendor frying up some local snacks. In fact, the street food here is part of the experience, and I fully intend to sample whatever looks interesting (grilled squid on a stick? funky-shaped doughnuts on a stick? Bring it on!). Don\u2019t be shocked if you see tourists clutching odd munchies like spiral potatoes or barbecued octopus on sticks \u2013 that\u2019s kind of a <\/span>Tianzifang <\/b>thing. The area retains its old brick buildings and tangled alley layout, so it hasn\u2019t lost its authentic charm despite the commercial buzz. It can get crowded, especially on weekends, but the atmosphere is so lively. I\u2019ll likely visit in late afternoon and stay into the evening when the alleyways light up with glowing signboards. <\/span>Tianzifang <\/b>perfectly blends Shanghai\u2019s ordinary day-to-day life with a pinch of international flair, making it a must-see in my book.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> Free<\/span>
\n<\/span> Getting There:<\/b> Take Metro Line 9 to Dapuqiao Station and use Exit 1. Tianzifang\u2019s entrance is near Lane 210, Taikang Road.<\/span><\/p>\n

10. Zhujiajiao Water Town (\u6731\u5bb6\u89d2)<\/h2>\n
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(Credit: Alicja Ziajowska<\/a> \/ Unsplash)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Time to venture a bit out of the city proper \u2013 I\u2019m adding <\/span>Zhujiajiao Water Town<\/b> to my Shanghai itinerary for a change of pace. Known as the \u201cVenice of Shanghai,\u201d Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town about 30 km west of downtown, famed for its canals, stone bridges and historic architecture. The town is over 1,700 years old, and wandering its narrow lanes is like stepping back in time. I plan to spend half a day here to unwind from the city frenzy. Think gentle boat rides through canal waterways, arched bridges reflecting on the water, and old Qing dynasty buildings lining the banks. It\u2019s basically a living museum of what Shanghai might have been centuries ago.<\/span><\/p>\n

I\u2019m most excited to see the Fangsheng Bridge \u2013 a long, arched stone bridge built in 1571 that is one of the icons of <\/span>Zhujiajiao<\/b>. There\u2019s also a Qing-era post office and some tranquil gardens in town that I might peek into. And of course, I\u2019ll snack my way through the street food stalls (are you sensing a theme with me and food?). Freshly caught river shrimp and lotus root candies are local specialities I\u2019ve heard about. Even though <\/span>Zhujiajiao <\/b>can be touristy, it\u2019s still full of charm. Tiny boats glide down the canals, often rowed by straw-hatted boatmen \u2013 and yes, you can hire one for a short cruise to see the town from the water. Floating along under ancient bridges like Fangsheng and Lang Bridge is going to be so picturesque. Locals call this place Shanghai\u2019s Venice for good reason, and I can\u2019t wait to capture those romantic canal vibes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> Free to enter the town (walking around is free). Some individual attractions or a boat ride cost extra (boat rides approximately RMB 80 per boat).<\/span>
\n<\/span> Getting There:<\/b> The easiest is by bus or driver (around 1 hour). From downtown, you can take a tourist bus from People\u2019s Square, or Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao Station and then a short bus\/taxi to the old town.<\/span><\/p>\n

11. Huangpu River Cruise (\u9ec4\u6d66\u6c5f\u6e38\u89c8)<\/h2>\n
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(Credit: \u52c7 \u65b9<\/a> \/ Pexels)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I\u2019ve already planned to walk The Bund (#1), but another way to soak up Shanghai\u2019s epic skyline is by taking a <\/span>Huangpu River cruise<\/b>. This is one of those classic Shanghai experiences that I simply can\u2019t skip, especially as a night activity. The Huangpu River winds right through the city, dividing it into the historical west side (Puxi) and the shiny new east side (Pudong). A cruise lets you see both banks in all their glory. Imagine gliding on the water after dusk: on one side, the elegant colonial buildings of the Bund glowing softly, and on the other, the skyscrapers of Lujiazui (like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower) sparkling with colourful lights. Talk about a gorgeous East-meets-West panorama!<\/span><\/p>\n

Most cruises last about 50 minutes to an hour. I\u2019ll probably opt for an evening cruise to catch the full light show \u2013 many boats have open decks perfect for snapping photos. Some fancier options even include dinner on board, but I\u2019m content with just the views and vibes (I can always grab late-night street food after!). The audio commentary isn\u2019t crucial for me; I\u2019d rather just soak in the atmosphere and perhaps toast the experience with a drink from the onboard bar. If you go around 7 – 8pm, you\u2019ll likely see the city at peak illumination. Just a tip I picked up: try to arrive a bit early to snag a good seat on the top deck. I might bundle up if it\u2019s breezy by the water, but nothing\u2019s going to stop me from enjoying that breathtaking skyline silhouette. This cruise will be the perfect way to cap off a busy day of sightseeing, giving me a moment to relax and reflect on Shanghai\u2019s contrasts \u2013 old vs new, calm river vs buzzing city, all in one beautiful view.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> Approx RMB 120 (\u2248 S$24) per adult for a standard one-hour cruise (without dining)<\/span>
\n<\/span> Getting There:<\/b> Most cruise boats depart from docks along The Bund. The popular Shiliupu Wharf is near The Bund\u2019s southern end (closest Metro: Yuyuan Garden Station on Line 10, then a 15-minute walk).<\/span><\/p>\n

12. Propaganda Poster Art Centre (\u4e0a\u6d77\u5ba3\u4f20\u753b\u827a\u672f\u4e2d\u5fc3)<\/h2>\n

Here\u2019s a hidden gem I\u2019m itching to explore: the <\/span>Propaganda Poster Art Centre<\/b>. Tucked in an unassuming apartment basement, this little museum showcases over 5,000 Chinese propaganda posters from the 20th century. It\u2019s like stepping into a time capsule of Mao-era China \u2013 the collection spans from the founding of the People\u2019s Republic in 1949 through the Cultural Revolution in the 1970s. As someone who enjoys history (and quirky museums), I find this place incredibly intriguing. The artwork is bold, colourful, and tells the story of China\u2019s political climate in a way history books can\u2019t. You\u2019ll see everything from smiling peasants and soldiers rallying behind Chairman Mao to anti-imperialist cartoons.<\/span><\/p>\n

I expect it to be an eye-opener, giving insight into how art was used to shape public opinion and morale. It\u2019s also a rare collection \u2013 many such posters were destroyed over time, so seeing them preserved is special. I heard the founder is often around to answer questions, which could make the visit even richer. The space is small and doesn\u2019t take long to go through (maybe an hour if you read everything). They even have some replica posters and books you can buy as souvenirs \u2013 you know I\u2019ll be grabbing a cool <\/span>postcard<\/span><\/a> or two. This isn\u2019t a flashy attraction, but it\u2019s definitely one of the more unique things to do in Shanghai for culture nerds like me. After immersing myself in old propaganda, I might lighten the mood by heading to a caf\u00e9 nearby for a breather \u2013 Changning District, where the museum is located, has plenty of nice coffee shops.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> ~RMB 25 (\u2248 S$5)<\/span>
\n<\/span> Getting There:<\/b> Take Metro Line 10 or 11 to Jiaotong University Station. It\u2019s about a 10-minute walk to the museum, which is located in the basement of Huashan Road 868, Building B.<\/span><\/p>\n

13. 1933 Slaughterhouse (\u8001\u573a\u574a Old Millfun)<\/h2>\n
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(Credit: Cici Hung<\/a> \/ Unsplash)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

One of the coolest offbeat spots on my list is the <\/span>1933 Slaughterhouse<\/b>, also known as \u201cOld Millfun.\u201d Don\u2019t let the grim name deter you \u2013 this former slaughterhouse has been transformed into a hip design centre with caf\u00e9s, boutiques, and creative studios. You won\u2019t find another building quite like this in Shanghai: it\u2019s an Art Deco industrial masterpiece built in 1933 (hence the name) with an intricate network of concrete ramps, bridges and spiral staircases inside. Walking through it is like being in an Escher drawing! The fact that it was once the municipal slaughterhouse adds to its mystique \u2013 if walls could talk, right?<\/span><\/p>\n

Today, 1933 is a cultural hub where trendy restaurants and shops breathe new life into the old structure. I\u2019m definitely packing my camera for this one; every corner of the building is photogenic with dramatic light and shadows. It\u2019s popular among local wedding photographers and Instagrammers for its striking geometry. I might grab a coffee at one of the artsy caf\u00e9s inside and imagine what this place was like in its heyday, processing cattle (morbid, but fascinating). Keep an eye out for art installations or events \u2013 sometimes there are exhibitions or performances in the central atrium. Even if there\u2019s nothing on, the architectural experience alone is worth it. This is the kind of spot that will make my Shanghai itinerary feel truly unique, and I can\u2019t wait to play urban explorer in this historic maze of concrete.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> Free (costs nothing to wander the building)<\/span>
\n<\/span> Getting There:<\/b> Take Metro Line 4 to Hailun Road Station. It\u2019s about a 5-10 minute walk from there \u2013 located at 611 Liyang Road in Hongkou District.<\/span><\/p>\n

14. Ride the World\u2019s Fastest Train (\u78c1\u60ac\u6d6e\u5217\u8eca Maglev)<\/h2>\n
\"Things
(Credit: Xiaodong Li<\/a> \/ Pexels)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Okay, this is a bit unconventional as a \u201cthing to do,\u201d but hear me out: Shanghai has the world\u2019s fastest commercial train, and I am <\/span>absolutely<\/span><\/i> going to ride it. The<\/span> Shanghai Maglev Train<\/b> zips from Pudong International Airport to the city in a mind-blowing 7 \u2013 8 minutes by levitating on magnets. Yes, magnets \u2013 how do they work? (I won\u2019t try to explain; I\u2019ll just enjoy the ride!). It hits speeds up to 430 km\/h. To put that in perspective: that\u2019s over 10 times faster than your typical city metro.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

I expect to basically feel like I\u2019m in a sci-fi movie zooming over futuristic tracks \u2013 apparently the ride is so smooth you barely notice the insane speed. I\u2019ll definitely snap a photo of the speedometer in the cabin when it hits the maximum velocity (because if you didn\u2019t gram it, did it really happen?). The train seats are aeroplane-style and quite comfy, so this will be a very cosy adrenaline rush. Plus, it will make for a great story: \u201cI went 430km\/h on a train in China!\u201d This is one quick and easy experience that perfectly showcases Shanghai\u2019s love of cutting-edge tech.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> ~RMB 50 (\u2248 S$10) one-way, or RMB 80 (~S$16) round-trip. Discounts if you have a same-day flight ticket.<\/span>
\n<\/span>Getting There:<\/b> Take Metro Line 2 to Longyang Road Station. The Maglev terminal is connected to that station. Hop on the Maglev towards Pudong Airport \u2013 trains depart every 15-20 minutes.<\/span><\/p>\n

15. M50 Creative Art District (\u83ab\u5e72\u5c71\u8def50\u53f7)<\/h2>\n
\"What
(Credit: Florian Grewe<\/a> \/ Pexels)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

To round out my Shanghai adventure, I\u2019m planning a visit to the <\/span>M50 Creative Space<\/b> \u2013 a must for art lovers and the creatively curious. M50 (short for 50 Moganshan Road) is basically Shanghai\u2019s version of a hipster art hood: it\u2019s a cluster of old factories and warehouses that have been converted into art galleries, studios, and graffiti-filled lanes. Contemporary artists have taken over this once-abandoned industrial area, turning it into a vibrant community where you can stroll in and out of dozens of galleries for free.<\/span><\/p>\n

I\u2019m no art expert, but I love checking out modern art and street art for inspiration (and let\u2019s be honest, for cool Instagram backdrops too!). At M50, I expect to see a bit of everything \u2013 from avant-garde paintings and photography to quirky sculptures and interactive installations. Many artists\u2019 studios are open to the public, so you can sometimes meet the artists or see works in progress. There\u2019s also plenty of colourful graffiti on the brick walls around the compound, which makes for fun photos. I\u2019ll probably spend an afternoon wandering here at a leisurely pace. It\u2019s a nice contrast to Shanghai\u2019s more historical sights \u2013 here you get a taste of the city\u2019s edgy, creative subculture. Who knows, I might even pick up an artwork or souvenir if something strikes me (though my wallet hopes I resist!). Before I leave, I\u2019ll chill at one of the little caf\u00e9s in the area, reflecting on all the diverse experiences Shanghai offers. From traditional gardens to space-age skylines to underground art scenes \u2013 this city truly has it all.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission:<\/b> Free (just walk in; individual galleries are free entry)<\/span>
\n<\/span>Getting There:<\/b> Take Metro Line 13 to Jiangning Road or Line 3\/4 to Shanghai Railway Station, then grab a short taxi or bus to 50 Moganshan Road in the Putuo District.<\/span><\/p>\n

Booked and busy: Tick these places to visit in Shanghai off your list<\/h2>\n

From iconic attractions to secret spots, Shanghai promises an adventure that\u2019s equal parts thrilling and enlightening. I\u2019ve packed my itinerary with these 15 awesome things to do, and I hope my plans inspire you to craft your own Shanghai journey. Whether you\u2019re cruising down the Huangpu River or munching on soup dumplings in an old lane, the city will leave you in awe with its blend of past and future. Don\u2019t forget to prep for your trip with the right gear \u2013 check out our guides on <\/span>best luggage brands<\/span><\/a> for stylish and sturdy travel bags, <\/span>best iPhone gimbals<\/span><\/a> to capture your memories smoothly, and all other <\/span>travelling essentials<\/span><\/a> you\u2019ll need for a hassle-free holiday. Shanghai is calling \u2013 and trust me, you\u2019re going to have the time of your life in this dazzling metropolis. Safe travels and have a blast in the Pearl of the Orient!<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

City bu city?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":58,"featured_media":91709,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jnews-multi-image_gallery":[],"jnews_single_post":{"format":"standard","override":[{"template":"2","parallax":"1","layout":"right-sidebar","sidebar":"default-sidebar","second_sidebar":"default-sidebar","sticky_sidebar":"1","share_position":"bottom","share_float_style":"share-monocrhome","show_featured":"1","show_post_meta":"1","show_post_author":"1","show_post_author_image":"1","show_post_date":"1","post_date_format":"default","post_date_format_custom":"Y\/m\/d","show_post_category":"1","show_post_reading_time":"1","post_reading_time_wpm":"300","post_calculate_word_method":"str_word_count","show_zoom_button":"0","zoom_button_out_step":"2","zoom_button_in_step":"3","show_post_tag":"1","show_prev_next_post":"1","show_popup_post":"1","number_popup_post":"3","show_author_box":"1","show_post_related":"1","show_inline_post_related":"0"}],"image_override":[{"single_post_thumbnail_size":"no-crop","single_post_gallery_size":"crop-715"}],"trending_post_position":"meta","trending_post_label":"Trending","sponsored_post_label":"Sponsored 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