Our family (including our daughter, Sara ‘26) loves exploring Shanghai together. And having lived here for over 20 years, I am thrilled to share my recommendations with the LAS Global Family—I hope you’ll come visit!

Don’t miss…

Even if you only have one day, don’t miss these top cultural and historical sites in Shanghai:

• The Bund: One of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks and known as the "Wall Street of the Far East," The Bund is a window into Shanghai’s historical transformations. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the Huangpu River and the modern skyscrapers in Lujiazui across the water. The night view is especially impressive when the neon lights illuminate the skyline.
• Yuyuan Garden: This classical garden, built during the Ming Dynasty, is renowned for its tranquility and beauty— its name means "Garden of Happiness." Inside, you'll find picturesque spots like the Nine-Bend Bridge, the Mid-Lake Pavilion, and the Exquisite Jade Rock, perfect for photos. Outside the garden, the bustling Chenghuang Temple Snack Street offers local Shanghai delicacies like soup dumplings and pan-fried buns, providing a taste of authentic Shanghai flavors.
• Suzhou Creek: Known as one of Shanghai’s "mother rivers," Suzhou Creek witnessed the city’s transformation from a fishing village to a global metropolis. Along the river, you can see many historical buildings, each preserving the city’s industrial legacy. Today, this area blends industrial charm with modern art elements—the art district along Suzhou Creek has become a hub for creative industries and home to contemporary art and design studios, gallery exhibitions, and art events.

Get culturally curious…

If you're interested in exploring the history and culture of China and Shanghai, the Shanghai Museum (one of China’s most important cultural institutions) is a great place to start. Its architectural design—seen from a distance, the top is circular while the base is square– was inspired by the shape of an ancient Chinese bronze vessel called a ding, and reflects the traditional Chinese philosophical concept of "round heaven and square earth." There are 13 permanent exhibition halls (each transporting you to different periods of ancient Chinese history) housing a vast collection of ancient Chinese artifacts from the Neolithic period to the modern era. You can also view original works by renowned Chinese calligraphers and painters. 

Every year during the Spring Festival, a grand light show is held at The Bund, one of Shanghai’s most dazzling events and an ideal opportunity to experience the city’s unique cultural atmosphere. Artists incorporate elements of traditional Chinese culture into dreamlike light installations on Shanghai’s iconic buildings, creating stunning visual art pieces. Accompanied by music and sound effects, the light show narrates stories of Shanghai’s historical evolution and modern development, making it a feast for both the eyes and ears! During the festival, there are also dragon and lion dances and traditional opera performances, creating a joyous festive atmosphere alongside the charm of Chinese heritage.

The Shanghai Exhibition Center hosts an Art Fair in mid-November each year, gathering top galleries and artists from around the globe. It showcases a wide range of contemporary artworks and features special programs like art forums and artist talks. The fair presents exhibits from diverse fields such as art, design, fashion, and architecture, allowing visitors to explore the stories behind each piece. You might even encounter art superstars and have the chance to engage in face-to-face discussions with them!

Discover a hidden gem…

One of my top “hidden gem” recommendations is the Shanghai Film Museum. The museum has a modern exterior, yet its interior retains parts of the original Shanghai Film Studio (which shared its location), giving the sense of having stepped back in time. Inside, a corridor showcases the evolution of Chinese cinema—from silent to sound films and from black-and-white to color—with numerous precious posters, scripts, props, and costumes on display. The Hall of Fame features stories of famous screenwriters and directors in Chinese film history. The Film Art Experience and Exhibition Area provides interactive activities such as simulating film shooting and post-production. Here, visitors can personally experience the joy of filmmaking!

Find a shopper’s paradise…

Nanjing Pedestrian Street (known as the "First Commercial Street of China") is one of the city’s bustling commercial areas and a must-visit for tourists wanting to experience Shanghai’s shopping culture! Stretching from The Bund in the east to Jing'an Temple in the west, the street is lined with numerous shops offering an incredible variety of goods, from fashion and electronics to jewelry. There are unique handmade items and traditional products on display, such as paper cuttings, Chinese knots, clay figurines, and jade pendants—items that not only carry traditional Chinese charm but also make excellent souvenirs!

 

Slow down the pace…

As the largest city park within Shanghai’s urban area, Century Park is an oasis in the heart of the city! Inside, you are surrounded by lush greenery, spacious lawns, serene lakes, and a variety of plants and flowers. Springtime is particularly beautiful, with cherry blossoms and tulips in full bloom. Bring a book, find a shady bench, and enjoy some leisurely time amidst nature.

Across from The Bund, head to Riverside Avenue in Lujiazui for a bike ride or a stroll on this scenic pathway along the Huangpu River. Walking along the avenue, you can admire Shanghai’s impressive modern skyline and the river views, feeling the vibrant energy of the city. The wide-open views also make this a perfect spot to watch the sunrise or set over the skyline.

For an unparalleled view of the sunset, consider going up the Oriental Pearl Tower! Standing at 468 meters, the tower’s design, inspired by the “string of pearls” mentioned in Bai Juyi’s poem The Song of Everlasting Sorrow, consists of 11 interconnected spheres. From the observation deck with its transparent glass floor, you’ll have a panoramic view of the city as the sun sets, casting a golden-orange glow over the entire sky and giving you the sensation of the world at your feet.

Spice it up with some nightlife…

Xintiandi (one of the most famous nightlife areas in the city) combines history, scenery, and a lively atmosphere. The district retains traditional Shikumen (stone-gated) architecture, yet the interiors have been transformed into modern bars, cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. As evening falls, Xintiandi lights up, offering a variety of dining options to delight your taste buds, along with numerous bars and clubs where you can unwind and enjoy the evening. Xintiandi also frequently hosts cultural events such as music festivals and fashion shows, making it a fantastic destination for a night out.

 

Move around the city with ease…

Shanghai’s transportation system is extensive and well-connected, with over 16 metro lines covering the main urban areas and surrounding districts linking major commercial centers, residential areas, and tourist spots. You can easily purchase a transportation card or use your phone to scan and enter, making it a quick and convenient option.

If you’re not in a hurry, taking the bus is also a great choice and is a popular way for locals to get around—from the bustling downtown to the quiet suburbs. Shanghai even offers double-decker sightseeing buses and nighttime scenic routes that pass by famous landmarks and attractions, allowing you to enjoy the city’s sights at a leisurely pace. 

However, whichever mode of transportation you choose, it’s best to avoid the morning and evening rush hours, or you might find yourself packed in like “sardines”!

 

Follow your nose to the best restaurants…

Shanghai offers an incredible variety of street food and local delicacies, catering to anyone looking to sample traditional snacks or try unique food combinations. Besides the popular Chenghuang Temple Snack Street, another fantastic destination is Qibao Old Street. Located in Minhang District, Qibao Old Street is a well-preserved ancient street filled with traditional architecture and a wide range of local delicacies. A must-try is the sweet rice wine dumplings, a local specialty made from glutinous rice balls in a sweet rice wine soup. The dessert is mildly sweet, with a fragrant aroma, and is one of the signature treats of Qibao Old Street.

If you’re a fan of traditional Shanghai snacks, I highly recommend Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant in Yuyuan Garden. Famous for its Shanghainese snacks, this restaurant's signature dish is the xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), with prices that are very reasonable; around 50-100 RMB per person is enough for a satisfying meal.

For crab dishes, Crab House (蟹家大院) is an excellent choice. This restaurant offers a wide selection of delicacies, from steamed hairy crabs to crab roe soup dumplings. I especially recommend their crab roe tofu, where the fresh, savory meat perfectly complements the tender tofu. Prices are quite reasonable, around 200-400 RMB.

For a fusion of Chinese and Western flavors, try Old Wharf Restaurant along the Huangpu River. Their thoughtfully curated menu blends the essence of traditional Shanghainese cuisine with global influences, with dishes like black truffle fried rice, seared foie gras, and signature crab roe tofu. The average cost is about 500 RMB.

For Michelin-starred dining, here are some top picks in Shanghai:

• Jean Georges: One of the top choices for French cuisine in Shanghai, located on The Bund. It’s famous for its classic foie gras and offers a beautiful view of the Bund’s skyline.
• Xin Rong Ji: A must-visit three-Michelin-star restaurant for authentic Chinese cuisine. With several branches in Shanghai, the one on Nanjing West Road comes highly recommended. Reservations can often be arranged through your hotel’s concierge, as it’s a popular spot.
• Mr & Mrs Bund by Paul Pairet: Another Bund favorite for Western cuisine, this restaurant offers a stunning view and an unmissable charcoal-grilled beef rib.

For traditional local cuisine, Lao Zheng Xing Restaurant is a personal favorite. This historic restaurant dates back to the late Qing Dynasty and showcases the evolution of Shanghai’s culinary culture—it’s a beloved gathering spot for locals and an excellent choice for tourists to experience authentic flavors. The menu includes specialties like braised pork, eight-treasure duck, crab roe tofu, and seasonal greens with gluten. The dishes are not only affordable but truly delicious!

 

Eat like a local…

When it comes to Shanghai’s signature dishes, xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) is at the top of the list. Imagine a thin, delicate skin wrapping savory meat filling and rich broth; one bite releases a burst of flavorful soup, filling you with instant happiness. Before eating xiaolongbao, be sure to take a small bite to sip out the broth before enjoying the whole dumpling!

Another favorite is hongshao rou (braised pork). Although this dish varies across China, Shanghai’s version stands out for its glossy red color, tender texture, and balance of sweetness without being overly rich. It’s a regular on the tables of Shanghai families.

Crab roe tofu is another must-try in Shanghai cuisine. This dish combines silky tofu with the rich flavor of crab roe, resulting in a dish that is both delicious and nutritious, enjoyed by people of all ages. The tofu is soft and smooth, while the crab adds an intense, aromatic richness.

 

Embrace a global mindset…

The harmonious fusion of history and modernity, East and West is one of the traits I love most about this cosmopolitan city. As a former international settlement, Shanghai became a frontier for cultural exchange as early as the late 19th century. Feel the French ambiance of the French Concession, admire the European-style architecture along The Bund, and experience the classical Chinese garden aesthetics in Yuyuan Garden. 

Wander the international neighborhoods for a unique opportunity to see diverse cultures up close, with international supermarkets, restaurants, and cafes. Attend an international cultural event or art exhibitions, such as the Shanghai International Film Festival, where artists and cultural enthusiasts from all over the world connect and engage. Explore Shanghai’s dining scene, sampling cuisine from various countries: enjoy French cuisine in the French Concession or indulge in authentic Italian pizza in Xintiandi!

 

Get out of the city…

For a day trips or short getaway, I recommend visiting Suzhou Gardens, located about 100 kilometers (1.5 hours) from Shanghai. Known as "Heaven on Earth," Suzhou is famous for its exquisite classical gardens, such as the Humble Administrator's Garden (Zhuozheng Yuan) with a beautifully designed layout of ponds, pavilions, and rock formations that blend seamlessly with nature. If you visit in the spring, you can enjoy the breathtaking sight of blooming peonies and azaleas within the gardens.

Oriental Land (Dongfang Lüzou) in Shanghai’s Qingpu District (40 kilometers and accessible by metro) is a must-visit for outdoor activities. As one of Shanghai's largest leisure and vacation areas, Oriental Land offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including zip-lining, rock climbing, and archery. The park is shaded by lush trees and surrounded by lakes, creating a beautiful environment where you can take peaceful walks or bike rides, fully enjoying the tranquility and beauty of nature.

 

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