Highlights
Yuyuan Gardens & Bazaar
A must-see in Shanghai is the picturesque Yuyuan Garden – founded by rich Ming dynasty officials - with its shaded alcoves, shimmering fish-filled pools, authentic pavilions and swaying pines. Wander down the pretty pathways as the sweet scent of blossoms - particularly the fragrant petals of the Magnolia Grandiflora, Shanghai’s flower - fill your nose. Stop for a traditional Chinese refreshment in the famous Mid-Lake Pavilion Teahouse, shaded by magnificent gingko, cherry and willow trees, or browse the bustling Bazaar for some light-hearted souvenirs of your Shanghai adventure.
Oriental Pearl
One of the most iconic city towers in the world - standing at 1536 feet - Shanghai’s futuristic Oriental Pearl is an absolute must-visit. Make your way up the striking Shanghai World Financial Centre, the twisting skyscraper which resembles an enormous bottle opener and venue for the world’s highest observation deck on its 100th floor. It may no longer be the world’s tallest building, but at 1,555 feet, the triple-tiered deck still stands twenty-two metres higher than that of Dubai’s Burj Khalifa. Complete your visit by descending to the lobby museum which details the fascinating history and rapid development of Shanghai.
The Bund's Tourist Tunnel
For a truly unique experience, seek out the marvellous Bund’s Tourist Tunnel. This convenient, yet wholly bizarre, method of crossing from The Bund to Pudong invites you to board an underground cart which travels from one side of the river to the other. In-transit entertainment includes a psychedelic light show, coloured illuminations and dreamy lights projected across the tunnel’s inner walls. The first (and only) of its kind in China, western visitors are left feeling utterly perplexed. Abstract? Yes. Totally compelling? Of course!
Dining & Gourmet
In keeping with China’s love-affair with food, Shanghai boasts an eclectic and unique dining scene, ranging from authentic street food to Michelin star fine-dining. Wander down the narrow lanes of Fangbang Xi Lu food market – or one of the many others in the city – taking in the various smells as you decide which traditional Chinese dish – from steaming wontons to classic noodles – you want to sample. Alternatively, indulge in an exquisite dining experience at one of Shanghai’s finest eateries; The Peninsula Shanghai is the only hotel in mainland China to house two Michelin-starred restaurants, serving gourmet Cantonese and European cuisine.
Temples
Long before the building of Shanghai’s audacious skyscrapers and glitzy shopping malls, a number of intricately-designed Buddhist temples dominated the city – many of which can still be visited today. Jing’an Temple, dating back to 1216AD, is a sacred portal to the Buddhist world that underpins modern Shanghai; its striking statues, tinkling wind chimes and aromatic incense offer a tranquil haven among the bustling city. Meanwhile, Jade Buddha Temple - one of Shanghai’s few active Buddhist monasteries - houses a Buddha effigy made from pure jade.