Places to visit in Shanghai

To truly experience something unique, one must visit Shanghai. This city blends history with modernity. Shanghai is known as the “Pearl of the Orient” and often called the “Paris of Asia”. Its ancient beauty and modern innovation make it an iconic destination worldwide. Some attractions come to life with the morning light, while others shine at night.

Bund

The Bund also known as “Waitan” is a historic masterpiece and a must-visit destination for every traveller. This enriched historic city boasts 52 landmark buildings each with award-winning architectural designs.

Category	Details
Attractions	1. Historic Buildings: Shanghai Customs House, Bank of China Building, Shanghai Club Building.
	2. The Bund Promenade: Scenic walkway with views of the Huangpu River and Pudong skyline.
	3. Yu Garden: Classic Chinese Garden, a short walk from The Bund.
Dining	1. M on the Bund: Llpscale restaurant with river views.
	2. The Bund Brewery: Casual dining with craft beer and city views.
	3. The House of Roosevelt: Historical restaurant offering a blend of Western and Chinese cuisine.
	4. Glamour Bar: Stylish bar with cocktails and a view of the skyline.
Entertainment	1. Glamour Bar: Vibrant atmosphere with views of the illuminated cityscape.
	2. Captains Bar: This popular bar with a relaxed vibe and scenic views.
	3. Bund Sightseeing Tunnel: Light show and underground ride connecting The Bund to Pudong.
Events & Activities	1. The Bund Financial Center: Luxury shopping and high-end hotels.
	2. Bund Fashion Show: Local and international fashion showcases.
	3. Walking Tours: Guided tours providing historical and architectural insights.

LONGHUA TEMPLE AND PAGODA

Dating back to the 1700-year the Longhua temple and Pagoda’s historical Chinese religious destination is a masterpiece that has survived several dynasties and undergone changes in architectural renovation most changes done under the Song Dynasty (960–1279). It was originally built in 242 AD during the Three Kingdoms period.

Those interested in Shanghai’s spiritual and cultural heritage must visit the city.

Category	Description	Activities
Longhua Pagoda	A seven-story ancient pagoda, the tallest structure within the temple complex, dating back to the song dynasty.	1. Admire the traditional Chinese pagoda architecture. 2. Take photographs of this historical structure.
Grand Hall	The main hall with a large statue of the Buddha, decorated with golden ornaments.	1. Experience a traditional Buddhist prayer or meditation session. 2. Observe Buddhist rituals.
Bell Tower	A tower housing the famous Longhua bell weighing over 5 tons.	1. Attend the annual New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing Ceremony. 2. Listen to the bell chimes during ceremonies.
Monk Quarters	Living quarters for monks located within the temple grounds.	1. Witness monks in prayer or daily routines. 2. Explore the historical living spaces.
Ancient Garden	A peaceful garden featuring stone relics and ancient trees.	1. Walk through the serene gardens. 2. Enjoy the beauty of the seasonal flowers.
Vegetarians Restaurant	A traditional Buddhist vegetarian restaurant offering local temple cuisine.	1. Enjoy a Buddhist vegetarian meal. 2. Taste authentic temple-style dishes.
Buddhist Ceremonies	Various religious ceremonies are held throughout the year in the temple halls.	1. Attend or observe Buddhist prayer services. 2. Participate in annual festivals like Vesak.
Statue of Maitreya	A large statue of the Maitreya Buddha, also known as the laughing Buddha.	1. Take photos and learn about the Maitreya Buddha. 2. Experience spiritual moments of peace.

Yuyuan Garden

Another historic masterpiece of the Ming Dynasty was built by Pan Yunduan in 1559 AD. “Yuyuan” garden name means “Garden of Happiness”. This garden spans 5 acres of land and features 6 scenic views of artistry. Yuyuan is located in the heart of Shanghai’s old town which is a perfect escape to heaven from busy cities. The 6 scenic masterpieces are below:

Category	Description	Activities
Grand Rockery	A 14-meter-tall rock formation made of stones, offering panoramic views of the garden.	1. Climb the rockery for elevated views. 2. Explore surrounding pavilions.
Exquisite Jade Rock	A famous limestone rock with 72 holes, displaying a water-flow phenomenon.	1. Pour water over the rock to see streams flow out of multiple sides.
Sansui Hall	A grand hall once used for entertaining guests, featuring traditional architecture.	1. Explore the elegant interior and admire ancient Chinese craftsmanship.
Pavilions, Ponds, Bridges	Traditional Chinese design elements are scattered throughout the garden.	1. Stroll along the koi-filled ponds. 2. Walk across zigzag bridges and relax in peaceful pavilions.
Yuyuan Bazaar	A marketplace located next to the garden, offers street food, souvenirs, and traditional crafts.	1. Shop for Chinese handicrafts. 2. Enjoy local street food and experience the bustling market vibe.
Lantern Festival (Seasonal)	During the festival, the garden is decorated with colourful lanterns, enhancing its beauty at night.	1. Visit during the Lantern Festival for a special cultural experience with light displays and decorations.

Jade Buddha temple

The Jade Buddha Temple is a historic site founded in 1882 during the reign of the Qing Dynasty, Situated in the Putuo district of Shanghai. The temple holds two masterpieces carved from a single piece of white jade brought from Myanmar: The sitting Buddha and the reclining Buddha the temple holds spiritual value for Buddhists for worship and educational purposes these statues are further decorated with stones as a sign of respect. It is a must-visit site around the world.

Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre

With the power to shape anything China is on the list which has carved its history to let the new generation know about the past and present. Propaganda in the early years and the slogans are all kept in beautiful, eye-catching, visual perspective for Chinese children to better understand the rise of the Chinese Communist Party to power.

The Shanghai Propaganda poster art culture offers an outmatching understanding experience that goes beyond typical tourist attractions in Shanghai. Provides a deeper understanding of China’s political and cultural history. This attracts visitors globally who appreciate the work of history and art.

Nanjing Road

Nanjing’s most beautiful and vibrant street in China spans 5km in length, divided into Nanjing East and Nanjing West. The Eastern side features departmental stores, and many other pedestrian shops, while the western road is famous for its international designer brand hub and some of the offices. The road also includes cultural landmarks and an unmatched nightlife experience. It also offers perfect dining options for locals and tourists.

Shanghai Tower

The world’s second and China’s tallest building “Shanghai Tower” stands high at 2073 feet. It is located in the Lujiazui area in the Poudhuo district of Shanghai. It is truly a perfect masterpiece due to its cutting-edge design. The building offers luxury hotels and high-end retail spaces. Interestingly, it offers a deck on the 118^th floor that provides a heavenly view of the city.

Qibao

Qibao, an ancient town in China maintained its speciality of historic buildings, waterways and narrow streets. Qibao is also known as a water town situated near Shanghai which makes it a must-visit site in Shanghai its street food and some historic attractions like Qibao Temple and Cricket House Museum. To be there provides relief from the busyness of Shanghai.

Shanghai Museum

Shanghai Museum houses an extensive collection of art and artefacts, totaling over 120,000 pieces. Established in 1952, the museum features permanent galleries Showcasing ancient bronze, Ceramics, Jade, calligraphy and Painting, Ancient coins and seals, and furniture from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Additionally, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions from around the world, making it a perfect location for everyone to view historical artefacts.