Shanghai is a city that never stops reinventing itself. Skyscrapers rise above the Huangpu River while historic streets still carry traces of another Shanghai. Walk along the Bund, explore the former French Concession, discover hidden lanes, and watch the skyline light up after dark.
Yet Shanghai's character isn't found only in its architecture.
Look closer and you'll discover a city where traditional craftsmanship has evolved alongside modern creativity.
Discover Shanghai Embroidery, an intricate art that combines silk stitching with the principles of Chinese painting. Artists use thread, color and line to create works inspired by portraits, landscapes and fine art.
Then slow down for a cup of tea, explore traditional neighborhoods, or sit down for a meal that reveals another side of Shanghai's history.
The city is constantly changing — but it never completely lets go of where it came from. Shanghai is not old China or new China. It is both, happening at once.
Silk, Thread & Chinese Art
Step into a traditional embroidery studio and watch skilled artisans transform silk thread into intricate works inspired by landscapes, flowers and fine art. For a more immersive experience, try simple stitching techniques yourself and discover how patience, color and detail shape this centuries-old craft.
Stories, Music & the Rhythm of Old Shanghai
Spend an evening listening to Pingtan, a traditional form of storytelling and music from the Jiangnan region. Sit close to the performers, listen to the gentle melodies and discover how voice, instruments and storytelling bring local stories to life.
A Slower Side of the City
Leave the busy streets behind and settle into a traditional teahouse in one of Shanghai's historic neighborhoods. Taste local tea, learn about traditional tea customs and enjoy a quieter moment surrounded by the everyday rhythms of old Shanghai.
Beyond the Modern Skyline
Walk through the city's historic lilong neighborhoods, where narrow lanes, old residences and local shops reveal another side of Shanghai. Explore on foot with a knowledgeable guide, discover hidden courtyards and experience how traditional community life continues within a modern city.
Shanghai's Iconic Waterfront
Stretching along the Huangpu River, the Bund is one of Shanghai's most recognizable landmarks. Walk along the waterfront to admire its historic European-style buildings on one side and the city's futuristic skyline on the other.
Above the Modern City
Rising high above the Pudong skyline, Shanghai Tower is one of China's most impressive modern skyscrapers. Head to the observation deck for sweeping views across the Huangpu River and the city below.
Classical Shanghai
Hidden in the heart of the old city, Yu Garden is a beautifully preserved classical Chinese garden filled with rockeries, pavilions, ponds and winding paths. It offers a peaceful contrast to Shanghai's fast-moving urban landscape.
The Shanghai of Another Era
Explore leafy streets lined with plane trees, historic villas, cafés and boutique shops. Wandering through the former French Concession offers a more intimate view of Shanghai, where architecture, lifestyle and history meet.
Shanghai's Watery Past
Just outside the city, Zhujiajiao is one of the region's best-known ancient water towns. Walk across stone bridges, explore historic lanes and take a traditional boat through the canals to experience a slower side of Shanghai.
The City's Famous Shopping Street
One of Shanghai's best-known commercial streets, Nanjing Road stretches through the heart of the city. Explore department stores, international brands, local shops and dazzling city lights, especially after sunset.
Shanghai cuisine is known for its delicate flavors, rich sauces and balance of sweet and savory tastes. From famous dumplings to everyday local dishes, food offers another way to understand the city's history and lifestyle.
These delicate steamed soup dumplings are filled with savory broth and seasoned meat. Pick one up gently with chopsticks, place it on a spoon, carefully bite a small opening to release the steam, then sip the broth before enjoying the dumpling.
These pan-fried buns are crisp on the bottom and filled with juicy pork and broth. Enjoy them hot, taking a small bite first to release the steam before eating the bun and its flavorful filling together.
Slow-braised pork belly is cooked with soy sauce, sugar and aromatic seasonings until tender and glossy. Enjoy it with steamed rice to balance the rich sauce and bring out the dish's classic Shanghai flavors.
Thin noodles are tossed with fragrant scallion oil and a savory sauce, creating a simple yet deeply flavorful local favorite. Mix the noodles thoroughly so the sauce and scallion oil coat every strand before eating.
Shanghai is famous for the rich, delicate flavor of hairy crab, especially during the autumn season. Traditionally steamed and enjoyed with a light dipping sauce, the crab is prized for its roe and subtle sweetness.
The Bund & Nanjing Road — The best choice for first-time visitors who want easy access to Shanghai's major landmarks, shopping, restaurants and riverfront views.
Former French Concession — Ideal for travelers who prefer tree-lined streets, historic architecture, boutique cafés, galleries and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Jing'an — A stylish and well-connected area combining modern Shanghai with restaurants, shopping, art spaces and historic neighborhoods.
Lujiazui— A good choice for travelers looking for luxury hotels, dramatic skyline views and a contemporary business-district atmosphere.
Xintiandi — Well suited to travelers who enjoy a blend of historic Shikumen architecture, modern restaurants, nightlife and sophisticated city living.
Luxury International Hotels — Five-star properties with panoramic city views, refined dining, spacious rooms and full-service facilities, ideal for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
Boutique Heritage Hotels — Characterful properties housed in historic buildings or inspired by Shanghai's architectural heritage, offering a more intimate sense of place.
Contemporary Design Hotels — Stylish hotels combining modern interiors with subtle elements of Chinese design, suited to travelers looking for something distinctive and sophisticated.
Riverside Hotels — Premium properties overlooking the Huangpu River, ideal for travelers who want to wake up to Shanghai's iconic skyline.
Historic Lane Retreats — Smaller stays inspired by Shanghai's traditional lilong and Shikumen architecture, offering a closer connection to the city's historic neighborhoods.
Navigating Shanghai: Fast, Connected & Effortless
Shanghai is one of China's most connected cities, with an extensive public transport network and multiple options for private travel.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)/Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)
Shanghai is served by two major international airports. Pudong handles most long-haul international flights, while Hongqiao is particularly convenient for domestic travel and high-speed rail connections.
Private airport transfers can be arranged directly to your hotel.
Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station
Shanghai Hongqiao is one of China's major high-speed rail hubs, connecting the city with destinations including Beijing, Hangzhou, Suzhou and Nanjing.
High-speed rail is often one of the most comfortable ways to combine Shanghai with nearby cities.
Fast & Extensive
Shanghai's Metro is one of the easiest ways to move around the city, connecting major attractions, shopping districts and residential neighborhoods.
For visitors staying in central Shanghai, the metro can be combined with walking and short taxi rides for convenient day-to-day travel.
Flexible & Convenient
For a tailored journey, private transportation offers greater flexibility, especially when visiting multiple neighborhoods or traveling outside central Shanghai.
Ride-hailing services are also widely available throughout the city.
Easy for Short Journeys
Official taxis are widely available and can be useful for short trips, particularly when traveling with luggage or after a long day of exploring.
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