Attractions in Shanghai · 58 places
Places worth
Landmarks with a story, neighbourhood corners with a slower pace and natural places that deserve more than a photograph. Use this index as a starting point, not a checklist.
Shanghai Old Street Area
Shanghai Old Street Area also known as Fangbang Road is a historic district that preserves the authentic atmosphere of old Shanghai This area dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties serving as the original commercial hub of the city The street stretches approximately 825 meters from Renmin Road to Henan Road and features traditional Chinese architecture with whitewashed walls black tiled roofs and intricate wooden lattice windows What makes this area truly special is its ability to transport visitors back in time while maintaining a lively contemporary atmosphere with shops tea houses and local eateries The area showcases Shanghais unique blend of Chinese and Western influences reflecting its history as a treaty port where Eastern and Western cultures converged
Fuxing Park
Fuxing Park originally known as French Park is one of Shanghais most beautiful and historically significant public parks Located in the former French Concession area it was established in 1909 and designed by French landscape architects The park features classic French geometric garden layouts with symmetrical pathways flower beds and fountains combined with traditional Chinese garden elements Today it serves as a vibrant community space where locals practice tai chi dance and socialize amidst Europeanstyle architecture and lush greenery
Jing'an Park
Jing'an Park is a beautifully designed urban green space located in the prestigious Jing'an District of Shanghai. Originally established in 1955, this park spans approximately 33,000 square meters and serves as a peaceful retreat from the surrounding skyscrapers and busy commercial areas. The park masterfully combines traditional Chinese garden elements with modern recreational facilities, featuring winding pathways, artificial hills, tranquil ponds, and carefully curated plantings that change with the seasons. What makes Jing'an Park particularly special is its harmonious coexistence with the adjacent Jing'an Temple, one of Shanghai's most important Buddhist temples dating back to the Three Kingdoms period (247 AD). The park offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience both spiritual tranquility and natural beauty within one of Shanghai's most dynamic urban centers.
Shanghai Botanical Garden
Shanghai Botanical Garden established in 1974 is one of the largest botanical gardens in China spanning over 81 hectares Located in the southwestern part of Shanghai this living museum houses more than 6000 plant species including many rare and endangered varieties The garden is divided into several specialized sections each representing different botanical themes and ecosystems from traditional Chinese medicinal plants to exotic tropical species The design incorporates classical Chinese garden aesthetics with modern botanical science creating a harmonious blend of natural beauty and educational value Throughout the garden visitors can discover traditional Chinese pavilions winding pathways serene ponds and carefully curated plant collections that reflect Chinas long history of botanical study and appreciation
Century Park
Century Park is the largest urban park in Shanghai covering an area of 1403 hectares Located in the heart of Pudong New Area it serves as the green lung of the city The park was opened in 2000 to commemorate the new millennium hence its name The park features a perfect blend of Chinese and Western landscaping styles with seven distinct thematic areas including the International Garden Area Bird Island and the Central Lake The parks design incorporates elements from both traditional Chinese garden art and modern Western park concepts creating a harmonious space for relaxation recreation and cultural activities
Lujiazui Central Green Space
Lujiazui Central Green Space is a beautifully designed urban park located in the heart of Shanghais financial district. This 100000 square meter green oasis provides a stunning contrast to the surrounding skyscrapers including the iconic Shanghai Tower Jin Mao Tower and Oriental Pearl Tower. The park features meticulously landscaped gardens water features walking paths and open lawns creating a serene escape from the bustling city life. Designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind it serves as a popular gathering place for office workers tourists and local residents alike offering some of the best vantage points for photographing Shanghais famous skyline
Gongqing Forest Park
Gongqing Forest Park also known as Gongqing National Forest Park is the largest urban forest park in Shanghai covering an area of 131 hectares Located in Yangpu District this green lung of the city was established in 1956 and has evolved into a comprehensive recreational area combining natural beauty cultural activities and ecological education The park features diverse landscapes including dense forests open meadows winding waterways and themed gardens creating a perfect escape from the urban hustle
Yuyuan Bazaar
Yuyuan Bazaar, also known as Yuyuan Tourist Mart or City God Temple Market, is a bustling traditional Chinese market complex that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. Situated in the heart of Shanghai's Old City, this vibrant commercial area surrounds the famous Yuyuan Garden and the City God Temple. The bazaar features traditional Chinese architecture with curved roofs, intricate wood carvings, and beautiful lattice windows that transport visitors back to ancient China. The area is divided into several sections including the Old Street, the Mid-Lake Pavilion Teahouse area, and various shopping lanes. Yuyuan Bazaar is not just a shopping destination but a living museum of Shanghai's commercial history, where traditional craftsmanship meets modern tourism. The market has been a commercial hub for centuries, originally serving as a gathering place for merchants during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today, it offers an authentic taste of old Shanghai while providing visitors with a wide array of traditional goods, local snacks, and cultural experiences.
Want the days already arranged?
Open the guidebook