Shanghai has pretty much everything you’d want from any global city. Think; amazing nightlife, absolutely tasty restaurants (always a big plus for us), stunning architecture (it’s a great blend of old and new) and a pretty amazing transport system. .
1.) Yu Garden
Covering an area of 20,000 square km, the Garden of Happiness acts as an oasis of calm from the sometimes chaotic streets of Shanghai.
Also, as if that wasn’t enough of a lure, there are some parts of this garden that have been here since the 16th century!
Throughout this beautiful garden, you can find a shed load of traditional Chinese Pagodas, ponds blanketed with Lily pads, quaint bridges and a huge variety of trees, plants, and wildlife.
2.) The Jade Buddha Temple
Located in the Anyuan Lu district, the Jade Buddha Temple is one of the most beautiful temples in Shanghai. Most of all, it’s known for its design and stunning golden statues that adorn the walls.
Looking outside, the exterior is made from traditional designs and a stunning amount of intricate detail. Honestly, if you’re a culture buff (like me), you’ll love it!
This all being said, the main attraction, however, is inside the temple and it is a large statue of a lying Buddha decorated with ornate jewels and fruits.
It’s one of the most sacred in the city and one of the best things to do in Shanghai when you want to explore the city’s temples.
3.) Longhua Temple
This temple complex is the most authentic and well-preserved Song Dynasty monastery in all of Shanghai.
The traditional architecture and design of this fantastic set of structures is typical of the Song era and features many pointed roofs and pagodas that are so unique.
The central attraction, however, is the towering six-tiered pagoda that rises above the surrounding buildings.
4.) The Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum stands as the most important source of ancient Chinese art in the country and is located in the immense People’s Square.
This domineering stone structure provides an insightful look at Chinese art through the ages and some of its artefacts date back to the early Chinese dynasties.
Separated into sections, you can see bronze creations, sculptures, ceramics, jades, calligraphy, together with prized furniture from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Separated into sections, you can see bronze creations, sculptures, ceramics, jades, calligraphy, together with prized furniture from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
5.) The Oriental Pearl Tower
This iconic tower has a totally unique design and is one of the most memorable icons of Shanghai.
At a whopping 467m, this once stood as the tallest structure in all of China, too.
With 15 different observation decks and a revolving restaurant, the Oriental Pearl it’s a fascinating spot to visit in and of itself. Though, the real reason why you have to visit is for the absolutely epic views over Shanghai.
6.) Xintiandi district
Dubbed as the “New Heaven and Earth” (or so I was told), Xintiandi is a very popular entertainment district bang smack in the heart of Shanghai.
If you’re looking for dinner, drinks and a good night out in Shanghai, then this is where you should be! It really is one of the best things to do in Shanghai if you want a night on the town.
