Things to do in Shanghai

The large metropolis of Shanghai is a mixture of old and new. The Pudong area represents the new and successful side of the city, with modern architecture and huge skyscrapers. On the other side of the Huangpu River lies the Pu Xi district that allows you glimpses of 'old Shanghai'.

The Bund and Frenchtown are the best places to see the remnants of the city’s colonial past. Take a relaxing walk along the river where the old and new cities meet and enjoy some fine views. There is plenty to keep you busy in this fascinating city, from street markets, temples and restaurants to some lovely gardens, parks and museums.

Jade Buddha Temple

The Jade Buddha Temple is situated in the northwest, near the intersection of Anyuan and Jiangning roads. The temple was built between 1911 and 1918 in the style of the Song Dynasty, with symmetrical halls and courtyards, upturned eaves and bright yellow walls. The centrepiece is a 1.9 metre tall white jade Buddha, which was brought here by a monk from Burma in 1882. It is carved out of a single piece of jade, inlaid with diamonds and agates.

The temple now also contains a much larger reclining jade Buddha, donated from Singapore in 1989. There are many other ancient statues, paintings, a complete set of Buddhist scriptures (printed in the Qing Dynasty) and over 7,000 other rare scriptures. The 70 monks who live and work here can sometimes be seen worshiping. Phone: +86 216266 2668.

The Bund

The world-renowned Bund is one of the most recognisable architectural symbols of Shanghai. This famous waterfront is a wonderful display of architecture from different periods and places including Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque and Renaissance.

The Bund was the centre of Shanghai's politics, economy and culture many hundreds of years ago, and numerous consulates, banks and businesses were located here. Although the styles are different, many of the buildings have similar tones and they form a harmonious-looking skyline. The former City Communist Party is one of the grandest buildings to be found here. The wide riverfront promenade on the east bank of the river provides a captivating view of Shanghai, particularly at night.

Jin Mao Building

The design of the building is a combination of traditional Chinese architecture and a Gothic influence. Architects incorporated the theme of the Chinese pagoda and the number eight. The lowest segment of the building is 16 storeys high and each succeeding segment is one-eighth smaller than its predecessor. Two elevators whisk visitors to the sightseeing area, covering 88 floors in only 45 seconds at a speed of nearly 30 feet per second. From here, there are magnificent views over the whole of the city. Phone: +86 21504 75101.

Yuyuan Garden

Yuyuan Garden is situated at the south district of Shanghai. This famous classical garden was built in the Ming dynasty and is representative of the classical architectural style. Covering 20,000 square metres, the gardens have more than 40 scenic areas, divided into six parts by five boundary walls including Grand Rockery, Flower Pavilion, Hall of Heralding Spring, Hall of Jade Magnificence, Inner Garden and Lotus Pool.

In the 400 years of its existence, Yuyuan Garden has undergone many changes. It became very dilapidated during the mid 18th century until some rich merchants bought the gardens and spent more than 20 years reconstructing the buildings. It was then severely damaged during the Opium Wars of the 19th century. A restoration project was launched in 1956, and the gardens were finally re-opened to the public in 1961. Phone: +86 21654 33780.

Nanjing road

Nanjing Road is one of the most important commercial and tourist streets in Shanghai, stretching from the Bund to Yanan Xilu. It is a good place to learn the history and culture of Shanghai. First built in 1851, it was originally a country path and slowly evolved into a major shopping street. Today, over 600 businesses offer countless famous brands, traditional stores and specialty shops as well as restaurants and food vendors.

Grand Theatre

The Grand Theatre is located in the political and cultural centre of Shanghai. It was designed by a French architect and completed in 1998. The 10-storey building is constructed mainly from glass and the reflections of artificial and natural light are very striking. The roof is shaped like an upturned arc, resembling a treasure bowl and said to symbolise Shanghai's openness and progressive spirit. The main theatre auditorium provides a stage for artists from throughout the world and it is always worth checking to see who is performing.

Oriental Pearl TV Tower

Towering over 1,500 feet, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower is one of the landmarks of Shanghai. It is situated in the Pudong New Area and its unique architectural design attracts many visitors. The base of the tower is supported by three seven-metre wide slanting stanchions. Surrounding the 11 steel spheres that are strung vertically through the centre of the tower, are three nine-metre wide columns. There are three large spheres including the top sphere, known as the space module.

The various spheres and columns actually house different attractions; the inner tower is a recreational palace, while the Shanghai Municipal History Museum is located in the tower's pedestal. The large lower sphere has a futuristic space city and a good sightseeing hall. The base of the tower is home to a science fantasy city and the five smaller spheres have hotel rooms. The pearl at the very top of the tower contains shops, restaurants and a sightseeing floor. Phone: +86 21587 91888.

Shanghai Wild Animal Park

There are many rare and endangered animals in this park, about 25 miles from the city centre. It is one of the biggest in China and there are over 200 rare species and over 10,000 animals from all over the world including giraffe, zebra, white rhinoceros and hunting leopards. Some indigenous animals under special protection include giant pandas, golden monkeys, South China tigers and Asian elephants. The park is divided into two areas; one for walking and one which is accessible by bus. The walking area allows a close look at the less dangerous animals on foot, while the bus enclosure takes you among zebra, yak, deer, elephant and tigers.