Shanghai

Asia

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China

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Shanghai

Shanghai, with a population of around 24 million, is one of China's largest and most populous cities. The most convenient mode of transportation in this city is the Metro. The Metro route in Shanghai is the longest in the world, with over 800 kilometers in length. The city also offers a high-speed maglev train service connecting Pudong International Airport to the city center. The Shanghai maglev train is the world’s fastest train service.

Nicknamed “the city that never sleeps”, Shanghai is famous for its lively night views. In the evening, the cityscape is illuminated by lights from various corners. Besides its vibrant nightlife, Shanghai is also well-known as a shopping paradise. Tourists can find many products, from luxurious international brands to high-quality local brands. Several popular shopping destinations include Nanjing Road, Huaihai Road, North Sichuan Road, Xujiahui Shopping City, New Shopping City, and Jiali Sleepless City.

While Shanghai is a metropolitan city, it also has districts that preserve its traditional culture, such as Zhujiajiao and Wuzhen. These areas are characterized by flowing rivers, arched bridges, stone-paved alleyways, riverside teahouses, and traditional-styled residences with white walls. Shanghai is a city that gracefully combines history and modernity.

Get to Know Shanghai

Take a tour of this destination's highlights

Travel Tips for Shanghai

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Shanghai

A guide to Shanghai's local transportation

Metro

Bus

Car Rental

Ferry

High-Speed Rail

The Metro is the best way to get around Shanghai. Shanghai has two metro types: the underground metro (Shanghai Subway) and the Shanghai MTR. Both are already integrated and reach all districts. The length of the metro line in Shanghai is about 803 km, making it the longest in the world. Not only that, but the metro in Shanghai can also be the main choice when you want to travel at night. This is because the metro operates from 03:00 am to 11:30 pm daily. You won't have to wait long to get on the metro in Shanghai. During peak hours, the metro in Shanghai will be available approximately every 1-3 minutes. Currently, there are 19 routes with 515 stations in Shanghai. All of these routes pass through both inner-city and suburban districts. Shanghai Metro fares are around RMB 2.84 for short distances and RMB 8.53 for long distances. The payment system uses a special card. You can get this card by buying it at the counter. Don't forget to always check the metro route you will be using and make sure you are on the right track.

Practical Tips for Shanghai

Things to prepare and best way to visit

When is the best time to go on vacation to Shanghai?

During autumn from October to November, Shanghai is at its best for a visit. The weather during this season offers cooler temperatures, perfect for leisurely walks. For those who admire cherry blossoms, March is the ideal time to explore Shanghai.

What is the ideal duration for a vacation in Shanghai?

A five-day vacation in Shanghai is ideal for exploring famous attractions and savoring the city's culinary delights.

What are the must-see tourist sites in Shanghai?

Shanghai embodies a seamless blend of modernity and tradition in every corner. As you explore its diverse landscapes, you'll feel like you're traveling through time. Begin your adventure at Yu Garden, an ancient garden that has existed for over four centuries. Here, you will find a garden with bonsai trees and rocks, surrounded by a small river. Nearby, admire the row of Renaissance-style buildings adorning The Bund. Another intriguing attraction is the 1933 Old Millfun, which was originally a slaughterhouse transformed into a "creative garden." This unique space showcases architectural styles that beautifully blend Western and Eastern influences. Here, you'll find a variety of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants waiting to be explored. For art enthusiasts, Tianzifang is a must-visit, bustling with galleries, teahouses, cafes, workshops, and studios. All these captivating attractions are nestled within charming old Chinese buildings that date back to the 1920s. Meanwhile, families and children can have a fantastic time at Shanghai Disneyland, an iconic amusement park established in 2016. Another ideal destination for families is Shanghai Wild Animal Park. Here, you can interact with over 200 animals in a zoo setting.

What's the best public transportation in Shanghai?

Shanghai offers various public transportation options to explore its fascinating tourist spots. The Shanghai Metro is one of the best transportation options to overcome traffic congestion in this Chinese metropolis. The Metro boasts an extensive network that spans across areas in Shanghai. The Shanghai Metro fares are affordable, too, starting from RMB 3 for trips under six kilometers. Then, you have to pay an extra fee of RMB 1 for every ten kilometers. Another transportation option available is the Maglev, a high-speed train that links Pudong International Airport with downtown Shanghai. The Maglev is renowned as the world's fastest train. For a more comfortable travel experience, you have the option to use a taxi or rent a private car. However, it is important to note that these choices come with higher costs.

Where is the shopping center in Shanghai?

Shanghai offers an extensive selection of shopping destinations to cater to the diverse preferences of tourists. Throughout the city, there are several "shopping paradise" locations: Nanjing Road, Huaihai Road, North Sichuan Road, Middle Tibet Road, Yuyuan Bazaar, Xujiahui Shopping City, and New Shopping City. Here, you can find a wide range of goods, from high-end international brands to local brands.