Shanghai Travel Guide

Introduction

Shanghai is China’s most international city and its financial capital — a place where Art Deco colonial architecture faces a futuristic 21st-century skyline across the Huangpu River. The Bund is one of Asia’s great urban vistas.

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The Bund

The waterfront promenade along the west bank of the Huangpu River. On one side: 52 heritage buildings in various colonial styles (British, French, American, Gothic, Baroque). On the other: the Pudong skyline including the Shanghai Tower, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, and Jin Mao Tower.

Best time: Dusk, when both sides are illuminated.

From Pudong side: The view back at the Bund from Riverside Avenue in Pudong is equally impressive — and free.

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French Concession

Shanghai’s most charming neighborhood. Tree-lined streets, Art Deco villas, boutiques, coffee shops and restaurants. The former French Colonial concession retains a distinctly European character.

Must do: Walk along Wukang Road (the “most beautiful street in Shanghai”), explore Tianzifang (labyrinthine arts and crafts alley), browse the independent shops on Fumin Road.

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Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden)

A classical Chinese garden built in 1577 in the old city. Beautiful rockeries, pavilions and zigzag bridges. Surrounded by a bazaar of traditional architecture.

Entry: ¥40. Allow 1 hour. Crowded at weekends — go on a weekday morning.

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Tower Views

Shanghai Tower: The world’s second-tallest building (632m). Observation deck at 118th floor — views extend to visible curvature of the earth on clear days. ¥180.

Oriental Pearl TV Tower: The iconic three-sphere tower. ¥150–180. Slightly less impressive view than Shanghai Tower but more distinctive architecture.

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Shanghai Food

Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings): Shanghai’s most famous dish. Thin dumpling skin encasing pork filling and a spoonful of hot broth. Eat carefully — bite a small hole first. Din Tai Fung is the famous chain. Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant (Yu Garden) is the historic option.

Shengjianbao: Pan-fried pork bun. Crispy bottom, juicy inside. Da Hu Chun restaurant is famous.

Hairy crab: Seasonal delicacy (October–November). Female crabs eaten for roe, males for fat. Expensive (¥100–300 each).

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