Shanghai

10 essential sights in Shanghai

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  1. Shanghai World Financial Center

  This unusual skyscraper stands at 492 meters and is characterized by its unusual blunt tip. It features restaurants and a bar for visitors, and its observatory is by far the best place to catch a glimpse of the Shanghai cityscape.

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  2. Shanghai Museum

  Appropriately located on Shanghai's People's Square, this museum is a collection of ancient Chinese art with exhibitions in jade, calligraphy, and ceramics.

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  3. Yuyuan Gardens

  This "garden of the forbidden city" displays include traditional fountains, pavilions, and rock gardens.

• 4. Propaganda Poster Art Center

  These Maoist-era propaganda posters, now valued as art pieces by their collector, will help you understand China's Communist history.

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  5. Jewish Refugees Museum

  During the Second World War, Shanghai received around 20,000 Jewish refugees - this museum goes into more detail about this little-known aspect of history.

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  6. The Bund

  A microcosm of corporate Shanghai, you'll see the buildings that are home to HSBC and North China Daily News.

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  7. French Concession

  This area of Shanghai could well also be called "Little France" - with its Parisian-looking suburbs and quaint bistros, the city has retained portions of its French colonial history.

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  8. Jing'an Temple

  Translated as the Temple of Peace and Tranquility, this Buddhist temple consists of three main halls testifying to culture from several Chinese dynasties.

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  9. Huxinting Tea House

  Constructed during the Ming dynasty, the zig-zag bridge surrounding the tea house is meant to shut evil spirits out. It is considered one of the last authentic Chinese tea houses in Shanghai and has even been visited by Queen Elizabeth II!

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  10. Lu Xun Park

  Located in the Hongkou district and quieter than Yuyan, this park is dedicated to Chinese literary great Lu Xun. You can rent out a boat for the lake, or simply wander around enjoying the tranquility.

Frequently asked questions about Shanghai

Planning Your Visit

• When to go

  The fall months are the mildest, temperature-wise. Winter gets cold, but is not particularly snowy.

• Market scams

  Beware of buying precious minerals like pearl necklaces and jade ornaments from markets - it is common that these are not the real deal.

• English newspaper

  Check out the English-language newspaper, Shanghai Daily, to see what's going on in the city.

• Pollution

  If you suffer from respiratory issues, look into purchasing a mask that covers your nose and mouth before your trip, as the air pollution concentration in Shanghai is very high.