Shanghai

上海

Shanghai, China's economic powerhouse, is a dazzling metropolis where Art Deco architecture meets futuristic skyscrapers. Known as the 'Pearl of the Orient', it offers world-class dining, shopping on Nanjing Road, the historic Bund waterfront, and a vibrant nightlife scene. The city seamlessly blends Eastern and Western influences, creating a unique cosmopolitan atmosphere.

24.87 million
Population
Humid subtropical
Climate
52
Attractions
50
Restaurants

📍 Overview

Shanghai cityscape
The Bund Oriental Pearl Tower Yu Garden
Legend:
Attractions
Restaurants
Transport
Emergency
🗺️

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🌤️ Best Time to Visit

Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather. Summers are hot and humid with frequent rain. Winters are cold but rarely snowy. Typhoon season is July-September. Pack layers and an umbrella.

March April May October November
Summer: 28C (82F)
Winter: 4C (39F)

Top Highlights

The Bund - Historic waterfront boulevard
Oriental Pearl Tower - Iconic skyline landmark
Yu Garden - Classical Chinese garden
Nanjing Road - Premier shopping street
Xintiandi - Historic shikumen houses

Quick Facts

🗣️
Language
Mandarin Chinese + Shanghainese dialect
💰
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB)
🛂
Visa
Most nationalities require visa (144h transit visa available at airport for eligible nationalities)
Electricity
220V/50Hz, Type A/C/I plugs

🍜 美食亮点 本地人真心推荐

Discover local food highlights in Shanghai

本地美食亮点

Shanghai本地人真心推荐

查看全部

🍜 探索Shanghai全部美食

米其林、黑珍珠、本地推荐 — 三层筛选

美食地图Navigate to food map
Legend:
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🗺️

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🗺️ Three-in-One Food Map

Layer controls: Michelin stars, Black Pearl rankings, and local recommendations

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🏛️ Must-Visit Attractions (52 places)

Discover the best attractions in Shanghai

Legend:
Attractions
Restaurants
Transport
Emergency
🗺️

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The Bund
1

The Bund

Historical

外滩

Shanghai's most iconic waterfront boulevard lined with 52 Gothic, Renaissance, and Art Deco buildings from the colonial era.

Open 24 hours
🎫Free
1-2 hours
Huangpu River viewsPeace HotelCustoms House clock towerNight illuminations
💡

Best visited at sunset for golden hour photos. Walk from the Bund to Nanjing Road pedestrian street. Evening light show on the river.

📍 Zhongshan East One Rd, Huangpu District

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street
2

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

Modern

南京路步行街

The world's busiest shopping street, stretching 1.3km from People's Square to the Bund.

Open 24 hours (shops 10:00-22:00)
🎫Free
2-3 hours
Modern shopping mallsHistoric shopsCentury-old brandsStreet performers
💡

Start at People's Square and walk to the Bund. Look for Century 21 and Shein flagship stores.

📍 Nanjing East Rd, Huangpu District

Yu Garden (Yuyuan)
3

Yu Garden (Yuyuan)

Cultural

豫园

A classical Chinese garden dating from the Ming dynasty with pavilions, halls, rockeries, and ponds.

09:00-17:00 (Garden), shops until 22:00
🎫30¥ (garden only), 50¥ (with City God Temple)
2 hours
Grand RockeryHuge Jade StoneMoon-viewing PavilionOld City God Temple
💡

Arrive early to avoid crowds. The surrounding Yuyuan Bazaar is great for souvenirs and local snacks.

📍 218 Anren St, Huangpu District

Shanghai Tower
4

Shanghai Tower

Modern

上海中心大厦

China's tallest building and the world's second tallest, with a 118th floor observation deck offering panoramic city views.

08:30-22:00
🎫180¥ (upper floors), 120¥ (94F)
1 hour
Seated cable cars insideSky Lobby360 city viewsCloud technology exhibition
💡

Book online to avoid queues. Best time is sunset. Combine with visit to nearby Shanghai World Financial Center.

📍 501 Yincheng Middle Rd, Pudong

Xintiandi
5

Xintiandi

Cultural

新天地

A trendy entertainment district featuring restored shikumen (stone gate) houses, upscale restaurants, bars, and boutique shops.

Shops and restaurants 10:00-02:00
🎫Free
2-3 hours
Shikumen architectureInternational restaurantsNightlifeShanghai Shikumen Museum
💡

Great for evening dining. The area has both upscale and casual options. Photogenic for sunset shots.

📍 Xintiandi, Huangpi District

Showing 5 of 52 attractions
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🚇 Transport Guide

Getting to and around Shanghai

Getting to Shanghai

✈️ air

Major international airports worldwide

Duration: Varies (10-14 hours from Europe/Americas)
Price: 1200-9000¥
Frequency: Multiple daily flights

💡 PVG handles international flights, SHA mainly domestic. Maglev train from PVG reaches 430km/h.

🚄 train

Beijing (4.5h), Hangzhou (1h), Suzhou (0.5h)

Duration: 0.5-4.5 hours
Price: 200-900¥
Frequency: Multiple daily departures

💡 High-speed trains extremely punctual. Hongqiao station connects to metro and airports.

Getting Around

🚇 Metro

  • 19 lines covering all major areas
  • Single ride: 3-10¥ depending on distance
  • Longest automatic driverless system globally
  • English signage at major stations

Recommended Transport Apps

🚗
DiDiEN
Book taxis, private cars, and rides with English interface. Supports international credit cards and English destination input.
iOSAndroid
🚄
Trip.com TrainsEN
Easy train ticket booking with English interface. Supports international credit cards.
iOSAndroid
🚇
Metro Now
Scan QR codes to enter metro stations in Shanghai and other cities. Links to Alipay/WeChat Pay.
iOSAndroid

🚌 Bus

  • Extensive network, less tourist-friendly
  • Most routes operate 05:00-23:00
  • Use Moovit app for navigation

🚕 Taxi

  • Starting fare: 14¥ (first 3km)
  • Waiting: 0.8¥ per minute
  • Didi app preferred for non-Chinese speakers
  • Van option available for groups

🚴 Bike

  • Hellobike, Mobike widely available
  • Unlock: 1¥, then 0.15¥ per minute
  • Designated bike lanes on major roads
  • Electric bikes popular but require license

🏨 Where to Stay

Browse 180 vetted hotels across 6 categories in Shanghai

💳 Payment Guide

How to pay in Shanghai

💙

Alipay

Dominant payment method in Shanghai, accepted everywhere

How to Use:

  • 1. Download Alipay before arrival
  • 1. Bind international credit card or open local bank account
  • 1. Scan merchant QR code to pay

Tips:

  • Most modern city - foreign cards work at more places
  • Still download for backup
  • Some small vendors may only accept local cards
💚

WeChat Pay

Essential for local transactions and WeChat services

How to Use:

  • 1. WeChat app required
  • 1. Link card through WeChat Pay in settings
  • 1. QR code scanning for payments

Tips:

  • English version available in settings
  • Required for Didi打车
  • Good for group payments
💳

Cash (RMB)

Accepted but increasingly rare in Shanghai

How to Use:

  • 1. ATMs at every bank
  • 1. ICBC, HSBC, Standard Chartered have English interfaces

Tips:

  • Keep 200-500¥ as backup
  • Bank cards generally work at any ATM
💳

Apple Pay / Contactless

Increasingly accepted at international venues and convenience stores

How to Use:

  • 1. Works at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, some Starbucks
  • 1. Add international card to Apple Wallet

Tips:

  • Convenient for quick purchases
  • Not universal but growing acceptance
💳

UnionPay

China's domestic card network, essential for ATM withdrawals and widely accepted

How to Use:

  • 1. Works at all UnionPay ATMs
  • 1. Accepted at most merchants in Shanghai
  • 1. International cards with UnionPay logo work

Tips:

  • Best for withdrawing RMB with lower fees
  • Widely available at all banks and ATMs
  • Works at supermarkets and convenience stores
💳

Apple Pay / Google Pay

Increasingly accepted at modern venues, convenience stores, and international chains

How to Use:

  • 1. Works at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, all major convenience stores
  • 1. Works at Starbucks, some restaurants
  • 1. Add international card to Apple Wallet

Tips:

  • Most reliable foreign payment option after cards
  • Works offline which is helpful
  • Not universal but growing rapidly

💳 Recommended Payment Apps

💬
WeChatEN
Essential messaging, payments, mini-programs, and social platform for daily life in China. Supports English interface.
iOSAndroid
💰
AlipayEN
China's dominant payment app. Pay anywhere, transfer money, access government services. Full English support available.
iOSAndroid
💳
WeChat PayEN
Link your foreign card to WeChat Pay for QR code payments at stores and restaurants throughout China.
iOS
💳
Wise (TransferWise)EN
Best rates for currency exchange. Get a Wise card for travel with real exchange rates and low fees in China.
iOSAndroid

💡 Switch to English mode in app settings if you see Chinese interface. Both Alipay and WeChat Pay support foreign credit cards.

📶 SIM Cards & eSIM

Stay connected in China with the best data options

📱 eSIM (Recommended)

eSIM is the easiest way to get data in China. No physical SIM needed - activate instantly on arrival.

📱
Airalo eSIMEN
Stay connected in China with affordable eSIM data plans. No physical SIM needed. Supports China data packages.
iOSAndroid
🌏
Holafly eSIMEN
Unlimited data plans for China. Easy setup, instant activation. Perfect for travelers who need reliable internet.
iOSAndroid

💡 Pro Tips

  • • eSIM works best if your phone supports it (iPhone XS+ and most Android flagships)
  • • Download eSIM apps before arriving in China
  • • Airalo and Holafly offer China-specific plans with unlimited data options

📱 Essential Apps

Download these apps before arriving in China

📱Essential Apps for Shanghai

Download these apps before arriving in China

16 with English13 Essential
💬
WeChatENEssential

Essential messaging, payments, mini-programs, and social platform for daily life in China. Supports English interface.

Download
💰
AlipayENEssential

China's dominant payment app. Pay anywhere, transfer money, access government services. Full English support available.

Download
💳
WeChat PayENEssential

Link your foreign card to WeChat Pay for QR code payments at stores and restaurants throughout China.

Download
🚗
DiDiENEssential

Book taxis, private cars, and rides with English interface. Supports international credit cards and English destination input.

Download
🗺️
Baidu MapsENEssential

Navigate with turn-by-turn directions in English. Search places using English. Works offline with download.

Download
🍜
MeituanENEssential

Order food delivery, browse restaurant menus (with translation), find deals. Has English menu feature for local restaurants.

Download
📚
Pleco Chinese DictionaryENEssential

The ultimate Chinese learning companion. Camera OCR, flash cards, example sentences. Essential for reading menus and signs.

Download
🌐
Google TranslateENEssential

Point your camera at Chinese text for instant translation. Download offline Chinese language pack.

Download
📕
XiaohongshuENEssential

Chinese social platform with local recommendations, reviews, and travel guides. Great for finding hidden gems and local tips.

Download
🚄
Trip.com TrainsENEssential

Easy train ticket booking with English interface. Supports international credit cards.

Download
🍽️
DianpingENEssential

The Yelp+Groupon of China. Browse restaurant reviews, find deals, and book tables. English interface available.

Download
💳
WiseENEssential

Best rates for currency exchange. Get a Wise card for travel with real exchange rates and low fees in China.

Download
📱
Airalo eSIMENEssential

Stay connected in China with affordable eSIM data plans. No physical SIM needed. Supports China data packages.

Download
🗺️
AmapEN

High-precision navigation, real-time traffic updates, and walking directions. Popular among locals.

Download
🤖
AI TranslationEN

More accurate than Google for nuanced Chinese. Great for menu translation and conversations.

🌏
Holafly eSIMEN

Unlimited data plans for China. Easy setup, instant activation. Perfect for travelers who need reliable internet.

Download
🍔
Ele.me

Major food delivery platform with wide restaurant coverage. Track your order in real-time.

Download
🚇
Metro Now

Scan QR codes to enter metro stations in Shanghai and other cities. Links to Alipay/WeChat Pay.

Download

💡Download before arriving in China — app stores may be restricted.

🎎 Cultural Tips (25 tips)

Essential cultural knowledge for Shanghai

Shanghainese Dialect

Medium Priority

While Mandarin is universally understood, Shanghainese (上海话) is the local dialect. Many locals appreciate when visitors try a few phrases.

Dining Scene

High Priority

Shanghai is China's culinary capital with incredible diversity. Reservations essential for popular restaurants. Peak dining is 7-8pm.

Dress Code

Medium Priority

Shanghai is fashion-forward. Smart casual is standard for restaurants and bars. Some upscale venues have dress codes.

City Rhythm

Medium Priority

Shanghai is a 24-hour city. Shops often open late, and many restaurants take last orders at 9-10pm. Night markets come alive after 8pm.

Social Customs

Medium Priority

Punctuality valued in business. Tipping not expected but appreciated in upscale establishments. Business cards exchanged with both hands.

Haipai Culture

High Priority

Haipai (海派) refers to Shanghai's unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures. This cosmopolitan style influences everything from architecture to cuisine, characterized by openness, innovation, and elegance.

Shikumen Architecture

High Priority

Shikumen (石库门) are historic townhouses with distinctive stone gate entrances that blend Chinese and Western elements. Many have been preserved in Xintiandi and Tianzifang as cultural heritage sites.

Qipao and Fashion

Medium Priority

The iconic qipao (旗袍) was refined in Shanghai during the 1920s-30s. Today, Shanghai remains China's fashion capital with designers blending traditional elements with modern styles.

Nightlife Culture

Medium Priority

Shanghai is China's nightlife capital with bars, clubs, and entertainment venues that stay open until dawn. Popular areas include Xintiandi, Former French Concession, and Jing'an.

Café Culture

Medium Priority

Following European traditions, Shanghai has a strong café culture especially in the Former French Concession. Sunday brunch is a beloved local tradition with friends and family.

🚨 Emergency Contacts (15 contacts)

Important phone numbers in Shanghai

Legend:
Attractions
Restaurants
Transport
Emergency
🗺️

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⚠️ In case of emergency, call the appropriate number immediately. English operators may be available.

💡 Foreign visitors in China should also save +86-10-12308 (Consular Protection Hotline) — the 24/7 English-speaking line of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Quick Dial (Inside China)

Note: The SOS button in the bottom-right corner of any page provides instant access to emergency services with translation and GPS location sharing.

🏥 Hospitals

🏥

Shanghai United Family Hospital

上海和睦家医院

Shanghai Centre, 1376 Nanjing West Rd, Jing'an

English-speaking, accepts international insurance

📞+86 21 2216 3999
🏥

Ruijin Hospital

上海瑞金医院

197 Ruijin Er Rd, Huangpu District

Top public hospital, ER available

📞+86 21 6437 0045
🏥

Huashan Hospital

上海华山医院

12 Middle Wulumuqi Rd, Jing'an District

Top neurology and neurosurgery hospital in China

📞+86 21 5288 9999

🏛️ Embassies & Consulates

🏛️

US Consulate General Shanghai

美国驻上海总领事馆

Westgate Mall, 8 Century Ave, Pudong

ACS: +86 21 8011 2400

📞+86 21 8011 2400
🏛️

UK Consulate General Shanghai

英国驻上海总领事馆

20/F, Westgate Mall, 8 Century Ave, Pudong

For UK citizens: 24h consular emergency line

📞+86 21 6279 7650
🏛️

Japan Consulate General Shanghai

日本驻上海总领事馆

8 Wanzheng Rd, Hongkou District

Japanese citizens: emergency line +86 21 6278 8830

📞+86 21 6278 0980
🏛️

Korea Consulate General Shanghai

韩国驻上海总领事馆

458 West Nanjing Rd, Jing'an

For Korean citizens: consular services and emergency assistance

📞+86 21 6212 2080

📞 Other Emergency Numbers

🚑

Shanghai Emergency Center

上海急救中心

Citywide coverage

English support improving

📞120
👮

Shanghai Public Security Bureau

上海市公安局

Various locations

Tourist Police: 63268823

📞110
🔥

Shanghai Fire Department

上海消防救援

Citywide coverage

Fire and rescue emergencies

📞119

Shanghai Tourist Hotline

上海旅游咨询中心

Citywide coverage

English service available. Tourist complaints, inquiries, emergency assistance.

📞962020

Shanghai Consumer Rights Protection

上海市消费者权益保护

Citywide coverage

Consumer complaints, fraud reports, refund disputes

📞12315

Shanghai City Service Hotline

上海市民服务热线

Citywide coverage

Government services, non-emergency municipal issues, complaints

📞12345

Traffic Accident Emergency

交通事故报警

Citywide coverage

Traffic accidents, road emergencies

📞122

Tourist Emergency Assistance

旅游紧急求助

Citywide coverage

24h tourist emergency hotline for foreign visitors

📞12308

Emergency Numbers

🆘 Emergency SOS
• Tap: Call Police (110)
• Menu: Translation, GPS, Embassy, Culture
Works offline