10 Things to do in Shanghai on a Layover
So you’ve got a layover in Shanghai? Don’t fret. We’ve got you covered. Whether you’ve lived in Shanghai for years, or are only staying half a day for a connecting flight, there is a wealth of attractions, dining options, and cultural experiences to check out in this modern metropolis. Here are 10 of our top recommended places in the city that you can consider next time you have a layover in Shanghai.
We are more than happy to offer a layover tour in Shanghai for you, please feel free to contact us.
1. The Bund
No trip to Shanghai is complete without seeing that iconic skyline. Featuring the second (Shanghai Tower at a staggering 2073 ft!) and twelfth (Shanghai World Finance Center) tallest buildings in the world, the Bund is the embodiment of the immense economic growth this once small fishing village has experienced over the last couple centuries. Some naysayers and Beijing lovers like to point fun at Shanghai’s relatively short history, but the city more than makes up for what it lacks in that department by keeping its eyes firmly on the future. And if it really is the history you want to see, the colonial buildings and old banks that line the other side of the Bund will impress as well!
Morning Exercises at the Bund
2. Shanghai Tower Observation Deck
It’s from Puxi (meaning west of the river) and the Bund that you’ll get the best views of that skyline, but after that, you can head across the river to Pudong (east of the river) to take in the Shanghai Tower Observation Deck, which at 562 meters in the air, is the tallest in the world and gives quests some absolutely incredible views of the city.
But how do you get that high up? Don’t worry, they won’t make you take the stairs. This architectural marvel is also equipped with the world’s second-fastest elevator.
Top 3 Tallest Buildings in Shanghai3. Disneyland
Having opened only in 2016, Shanghai’s Disneyland is the newest Disney park in the world and the first in mainland China. The park currently has seven parts: Mickey Avenue, Gardens of Imagination, Fantasyland, Treasure Cove, Adventure Isle, Tomorrowland, Toy Story Land, and an eighth based on Zootopia is expected to start construction in 2019. This park was super popular (i.e. crowded) when it first opened, but as the years go on, the crowds should get more manageable. Try to visit on a weekday. If you’ve got young ones in your company, this might be the perfect addition to your China holiday.
Shanghai Disneyland4. Yuyuan Gardens & Bazaar
Tourist from all over the world doesn't just come to Shanghai to gaze up at towering skyscrapers and enjoy the wild nightlife. Take a break from the chaos and hectic-ness of modern urban life by contemplating the zen and Fengshui of classical Chinese garden design. The Yuyuan Gardens, with its magnificent dragon wall, surreal rock formations, and tranquil koi fish ponds is the perfect place to do so. Take a guided tour of Shanghai's most beautiful gardens to understand the subtleties of China's traditional high culture and don't forget to have a look around the Yuyuan Bazaar afterward for some great souvenir shopping.
Yuyuan Garden5. Koreatown
Shanghai’s Koreatown, the largest ethnic enclave in the whole city, is criminally overlooked when discussing things to do Shanghai. Head to this part of town for some of the best "bibimbap", "kimchi", and "tteok-bokki" in China. Where else in the world might you rub shoulders with Korean-Chinese, Korean-Americans, South Koreans, and even the North Koreans that run the area’s North Korean restaurants?
6. The Former French Concession
The Former French Concession is Shanghai’s most fashionable (or at least most fashion-conscious) neighborhood. It’s more of any area to get lost then one to go to with several landmarks in mind, but do bring some cash and an empty stomach as it’s one of the city’s best spots to dine and shop. Be sure to wander around the alleys of Tianzifang and Xintiandi, and if you really want to dive into Shanghai culture, ask a local to explain what a shikumen is.
The Former French Concession7. Ohel Moishe Synagogue and Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum
During the Second World War, some 20 000 Jewish refugees fled to Shanghai from Europe to escape Nazi prosecution and this synagogue was once the heart of their community. This well-managed museum provides great historical insight into a tragic part of WWII unbeknownst to many. Excellent guided tours from knowledgeable museum staff are included with the price of admission.
8. Shanghai Cuisine
Shanghai, like most areas of China, has a wealth of can’t miss local dishes. For starters, try xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings, small dumplings with delicious broth and pork inside. You’ll find these dumplings all over China, but the best ones are in Shanghai! At the head of the delta were the Yangzi River meets the Pacific, Shanghai is also famous for its seafood. If you happen to be in Shanghai between October and December, don’t miss the seasonal dazhaxie (hairy crabs). Also keep an eye out for braised pork (hongshao rou), crystal shrimp (shuijing xiaren), and lion’s head meatball (shizi tou).
Dazhaxie (hairy crabs)9. China Art Museum
Originally built for the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai, the China Art Museum is in itself a piece of art and has quickly become a Shanghai icon. It’s free to take in the permanent collection of Chinese art (and to enjoy the beautiful, unique exterior), but the ticketed rotating exhibits of world-class art from around the world are often worthwhile too.
China Art Museum10. Zhujiajiao
If you have a longer layover, you might consider taking the time to visit Zhujiajiao, 30km west of Shanghai. You won’t see many skyscrapers here, but what you can find is some excellent Ming and Qing era temples, bridges, and alleyways. Zhujiajiao is still technically in Shanghai, but this small canal town feels like a completely different world.
Zhujiajiao WatertownRelated Tours
