Shanghai, China’s electrifying megalopolis on the eastern shore, is a heady blend of age-old traditions and razor-sharp modernity. As one of the most highly populated cities in the world and a global financial capital, Shanghai entices adventurers with its high-rise skyscrapers, picturesque neighborhoods, tantalizing gastronomy, and flourishing cultural scene.
Regardless if you are smitten by the city’s famous skyline, dreamy water towns, or spirited wet markets, Shanghai presents a bounty of tourist gems. In the following detailed tourist attraction guide, you will take a closer look at Shanghai’s best 10 places to see and a review of the visa you would need before embarking on this trip to China.
Here are the 10 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Shanghai, China
#1 The Bund
Today, the Bund is a testament to Shanghai’s diverse past and rapid growth. The waterfront promenade, located adjacent to the Huangpu River, is a wonderful blend of architectural aesthetics – grand, colonial-style structures juxtaposed with futuristic skyscrapers.
Visitors are encouraged to stroll the Bund’s walkway, past the world-famous Peace Hotel, Customs House and other landmarks. At night, the waterfront dazzles with lights, bringing the story of Shanghai’s past and future to life.
#2 Oriental Pearl Tower
The Oriental Pearl Tower stands majestically above the Pudong skyline and is one of Shanghai’s most iconic structures. This futuristic tower is home to an observation deck with spectacular panoramic views, providing breathtaking views of the city.
They are areas where guests can take an elevator to the top of the tower to view the stunning Huangpu River, the Bund and more from a distance. A museum that chronicles Shanghai’s past and present is located inside the tower, and a revolving restaurant guarantees a memorable dining experience.
#3 Yu Garden
Escape the busy streets of Shanghai and relax in a peaceful paradise at Yu Garden. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this classical Chinese garden is an excellent representation of traditional garden design and architecture. Stroll through winding corridors, tranquil ponds and exquisitely crafted rockeries adorned with ancient sculptures.
Admire the stunning pavilions, assembly halls and square yards decorated with floral carvings and vibrant ceramic tiles. Yu Garden offers a tranquil sanctuary to experience the beauty of Chinese culture and history.
#4 Shanghai Disneyland
Shanghai Disneyland is a dream vacation for families and Disney fans. Located in the Pudong New Area, the park features various Disney mega rides and themed lands, offering magic-filled entertainment and activities.
Shanghai Disneyland certainly brings the magic – from adrenaline-pumping rides like Pirates of the Caribbean to fairy tale Disney characters roaming the streets. At the end of the day, fireworks shows are nothing but magic; It’s breathtaking.
#5 Nanjing Road
Spend the day strolling down Nanjing Road, one of the busiest and lively shopping streets in the world. With a total length of over five kilometres, this shopper’s paradise is filled with department stores, high-end boutiques, Chinese craft stores and contemporary malls.
From huge designer shops to street vendors, you can find everything you need in terms of goods and price. Grab some street snacks while enjoying the lively atmosphere and feeling the heartbeat of Shanghai’s business district.
#6 Tianzifang
Tianzifang is also worth a visit if you don’t desire the more sophisticated atmosphere of Xintiandi. Explore this strange and chaotic maze of narrow streets in the former French Concession. Tianzifang is a dreamland for artists, designers and millions of people, with a diverse selection of shops, art galleries, cafes and bars.
Spend an hour wandering the maze-like streets of formerly restored Shikumen-style residences painted with intriguing murals and off-the-wall artworks. Shop around for exclusive craft products, have a tipple at the artisan café or sip a handcrafted beer while enjoying the atmosphere.
#7 Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum has a wonderful collection of art and objects that reflect the history of China’s civilization. This prestigious institution preserves thousands of years of history in its exquisite treasures of bronzes, ceramics and sculptures.
It is also home to exquisite vases and ceramic vessels, ancient Chinese ceremonial objects and exquisite carvings of jade among various sculptures and paintings.
Wander the vast galleries of the Shanghai Museum and admire awe-inspiring masterpieces ranging from the Neolithic Age to the Qing Dynasty. Some important features include Bronze Age collections, Chinese ceramics and Hindu sculptures.
#8 Jin Mao Tower
From here, climb to the top of Jin Mao Tower, a massive building located in Shanghai’s Lujiazui business district. Standing at a height of over 420 metres, this architectural marvel offers a panoramic view of the city skyline from its observation deck.
The observation deck of the tower is best reached by high-speed elevator, and from the top, the surrounding landscape allows you to see the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center. You can also go shopping at the tower’s luxury mall and enjoy exquisite dining at the local top floor restaurants.
#9 Shanghai World Financial Center
The Shanghai World Financial Center is a massive high-rise building in the Lujiazui skyline, rising more than 490 meters. The building has an observation deck located high on the 100th floor, offering incomparable views of Shanghai and neighboring areas.
Stand there and look out over the city, the Huangpu River flowing like a silver life vein through the forest. Inside, you will find office suites for prestigious firms, big brand hotels and luxury shopping destinations.
#10 Zhujiajiao Water Town
Escape from the busy city life and step into the past with a day trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town, a quaint ancient village located on the outskirts of Shanghai. Known as the “Venice of the East,” this delightful water city features winding waterways, stone bridges, and beautifully preserved Ming and Qing dynasty homes.
Wander the narrow streets filled with unique shops, teahouses and old temples. Additionally, enjoy a relaxing boat trip on delightful waterways, enjoying rural Chinese tranquility and natural beauty.
Visa Information for China
However, before departing for Shanghai, you should be familiar with the visa requirements and the process of obtaining it. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, you may need a Chinese tourist visa. Below you can find a comprehensive guide for your Chinese visa requirements.
Types of Visa: Tourist visas are usually single or multiple-entry visas that allow a person to stay in China for a fixed period of time ranging from 30 to 90 days depending on the state. For example, a common tourist visa is the L visa.
Required documents: The general materials that need to be presented when applying for a Chinese tourist visa are a passport with six months validity before expiry and a small-sized photograph attached, recent passport-sized photograph, round-trip ticket, booking With a completed visa application. In a hotel, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
Submit your application: The application for a Chinese tourist visa can be handed over to the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate in your country of origin. In addition, this document can be submitted through designated visa centers and online services depending on the national policy regulating visa issues.
Pay the fee: Your visa payment depends on the nationality, duration and type of your visa and the time it takes to issue it. Consult with the Chinese Consulate or Embassy to learn about their fees and means of payment.
Attend an interview: In some cases you may be called for an interview to maintain your visa application. Be prepared to answer questions from the Consulate regarding your return home and your residence in China.
Conclusion
Shanghai, A city as vibrant and alive as the sky under the rising sun. A city that was, in fact, based on many different living themes and a vast and populous orchestra playing over many centuries and even millennia.
In fact, Shanghai is known for its destroyed and resurrected ancient cities, so many that their foundations rest on thousands of prayer stones. Planton, 3002. The veins of Shanghai flow with the blood of ancient people, meet, cross, intertwine.
Shanghai is a city that cannot be described: it has to be seen with your own eyes. City of love, happiness, pain. The city of endless dreams, but perhaps only because it takes a lot of time to explore all its hidden secrets.
It is not without reason that Shanghai has become a must-see destination for millions of tourists every year. For all cities within a single city, Shanghai is, in a way, one giant spectacle.
From old to new, from ancient temples and stone bridges to futuristic skyscrapers and the Oriental Pearl Tower – this place has it all, and it’s all stitched together in a strange harmony. In fact, it is impossible to tell where to start exploring Shanghai, as it can all be considered the center of this universe of wonders.
