things to do in shanghai china

Shanghai, China, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some things to do in Shanghai:

Landmarks and Attractions:

1. The Bund: A famous waterfront area with stunning views of the city skyline.
2. Oriental Pearl Tower: A iconic TV tower with panoramic views of the city.
3. Shanghai Tower: The tallest building in China, offering breathtaking views of the city.
4. Jin Mao Tower: A skyscraper with a unique design and great views of the city.
5. Yu Garden: A classical Chinese garden with beautiful architecture and landscaping.
6. Shanghai Museum: A museum showcasing China’s rich history and culture.
7. People’s Square: A large public square with beautiful gardens and monuments.

Shopping and Markets:

1. Nanjing Road: A famous shopping street with a wide range of stores and restaurants.
2. Xintiandi: A trendy shopping and entertainment district with a mix of traditional and modern architecture.
3. French Concession: A charming neighborhood with a mix of French and Chinese architecture, known for its boutique shops and cafes.
4. Shanghai South Bund Fabric Market: A bustling market selling a wide range of fabrics and textiles.
5. AP Plaza: A popular shopping mall with a wide range of stores and restaurants.

Food and Drink:

1. Try traditional Shanghainese cuisine: Such as Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), Cong You Bing (scallion pancakes), and La Zi Ji (spicy chicken).
2. Visit a traditional tea house: Such as the Huxinting Tea House or the Yuyuan Tea House.
3. Explore the city’s street food scene: Try popular street foods like Jianbing (savory crepes) and Shao Kao (barbecued skewers).
4. Visit a rooftop bar: Such as the Vue Bar at the Hyatt on the Bund or the Cloud 9 Bar at the Grand Hyatt Shanghai.

Arts and Culture:

1. Shanghai Grand Theater: A world-class theater hosting a wide range of performances, including opera, ballet, and concerts.
2. Shanghai Symphony Orchestra: A renowned orchestra performing classical music.
3. M50 Art District: A trendy art district with a mix of galleries, studios, and street art.
4. Shanghai Biennale: A biennial art exhibition showcasing contemporary art from around the world.

Day Trips:

1. Hangzhou: A scenic city famous for its West Lake and green tea plantations. ( approx. 1 hour by high-speed train)
2. Suzhou: A charming city known for its classical Chinese gardens and canals. ( approx. 30 minutes by high-speed train)
3. Zhujiajiao: A picturesque water town with traditional architecture and canals. ( approx. 1 hour by car)

Tips:

1. Learn some basic Chinese phrases: Such as "hello" (nǐ hǎo), "thank you" (xiè xiè), and "excuse me" (duì bù qǐ).
2. Download a translation app: Such as WeChat or Google Translate to help with communication.
3. Be prepared for crowds: Shanghai is a busy city, especially during peak travel seasons.
4. Try to avoid traveling during rush hour: To avoid traffic congestion and long lines.

I hope this helps you plan your trip to Shanghai!