Best Places to Visit in Shanghai

Best Places to Visit in Shanghai: Huangpu, Pudong, Xuhui, Hongkou.

Helen Tang
1440 Words/6 Minutes, By Helen Tang, Updated July 25, 2025

Which city is both fashionable and historical, besides Beijing and Guangzhou ? Shanghai is the top choice. As a newly emerging tourist destination, Shanghai captivates visitors with a rich blend of history and modernity. In the Puxi area—including Huangpu, Xuhui, and Hongkou districts—you’ll find historical and cultural treasures as a window into traditional Shanghai life. Across the Huangpu River, Pudong District offers a strikingly modern contrast, boasting one of the world’s most impressive skylines. Beyond the urban core, Qingpu District is renowned for Zhujiajiao Water Town, a charming ancient settlement with canals, stone bridges. Today, Shanghai stands as a “showcase” of the world’s fastest-growing economy—where tradition meets transformation at every turn.

Top 1: Huangpu District

Huangpu District is not only Shanghai’s first administrative district but also its very heart and showcase. President Xi Jinping once described Huangpu as the “heart, window, and calling card of Shanghai”. The district bears witness to over 700 years of the city’s urban development and more than 180 years of its history as an open port. It is home to four designated historic and cultural zones, including the Bund and Yuyuan Garden, as well as 563 outstanding historic buildings, making it a living archive of Shanghai’s rich past and vibrant evolution.

Huangpu District is a prime destination in Shanghai, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and modern flair. Stroll the bund admiring the stunning skyline and colonial-era architecture, or dive into the vibrant shopping experience on Nanjing Road. The historic Yuyuan Garden offers a glimpse into classical Chinese landscaping and architecture, while the nearby City God Temple area bustles with traditional folk culture, beliefs, and famous local snacks. For deeper cultural immersion, visit the Shanghai Museum in people’s Square, or enjoy a Huangpu River night cruise for breathtaking views of the illuminated cityscape.

Top 2: Pudong New Area

While Huangpu new area represents the cultural and historical heart of Shanghai, Pudong is undoubtedly the city’s financial powerhouse. Lujiazui is home to over 30 skyscrapers that soar above 200 meters, including the iconic “Lujiazui Trio” — Shanghai Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and the Shanghai World Financial Center. Pudong is not only famed for its world-class skyline and cutting-edge architecture, but also boasts a number of historic towns and cultural landmarks such as Xinchang Ancient Town and Chuansha Old Town, as well as major museums like the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum.

For leisure, Pudong offers a rich array of parks and theme attractions, including Century Park, Shanghai Disneyland, and the Shanghai Wild Animal Park. At the revolving restaurant inside the Oriental Pearl Tower, diners can enjoy a meal while taking in panoramic views of the city. The Shanghai Science and Technology Museum is a comprehensive, interactive institution perfect for family visits and science lovers alike.

Top 3: Xuhui District

Xuhui, a district where sycamore leaves weave poetry into the streets, offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and modern lifestyle. The twin-spired St. Ignatius Cathedral (Xujiahui Cathedral), often dubbed the "Grandest Church in the Far East," stands as a Gothic masterpiece. Nearby, the Longhua Temple, with a history spanning over 1,700 years, and the iconic Longhua Pagoda, remain treasured examples of ancient architecture.

Hengshan Road, stretching from Taojiang Road in the east to Huashan Road in the west, is lined with towering plane trees and grand European-style buildings. Ivy-draped balconies and charming old villas now house stylish cafés, art galleries, and boutique hotels. Not far away, Wukang Road, home to the landmark Normandie Apartments (Wukang Mansion)—a photogenic icon often called " Shanghai’s top internet-famous building "—offers a quieter stroll through leafy lanes dotted with heritage homes and historical plaques.

Don’t miss the Xuhui Riverside Greenway, where open river views, jogging trails, and modern public spaces invite leisurely exploration. While Pudong showcases Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, Xuhui reflects its colonial elegance and scholarly spirit, inviting visitors to slow down and soak in the timeless charm of old Shanghai.

Top 4: Hongkou District

There are many reasons why people love Hongkou. Duolun Road Cultural Celebrities Street is home to the former residences of 48 renowned figures such as Lu Xun and Guo Moruo, and showcases classic Shikumen architecture—a signature of old Shanghai. The district features one of the city’s largest clusters of Shikumen alleyways, with eight lanes and 60 buildings reflecting the essence of Haipai culture. The North Bund Riverside Promenade offers a scenic 3.2-kilometer stretch along the confluence of the Huangpu and Suzhou rivers, perfect for walking or cycling.

Other highlights include the Shanghai Postal Museum, the creative hub of 1933 Old Millfun, and Peace Park’s family-friendly summer playground. New landmark overlooking Shanghai. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Bund from the Stage at the White Magnolia Plaza, VUE Bar at the Hyatt on the Bund, or the riverfront rooftop bar Tops at Banyan Tree Shanghai. With its mix of history and innovation, tranquil corners and dazzling skyline, Hongkou leaves a lasting impression.

Top 5: Qingpu District

Qingpu District is the tranquil garden behind the bustling metropolis—a peaceful land where every scene feels like poetry frozen in time.

Take a leisurely stroll through Zhujiajiao Water Town, cross ancient stone bridges, and witness the misty charm of Jiangnan. Go boating on Dianshan Lake and admire its scenic beauty, especially in autumn when the lake’s famed hairy crabs are in season.

Step into the Grand View Garden and relive the dreams of Dream of the Red Chamber; pay tribute to a great statesman at the Former Residence of Chen Yun. Savor the elegance of traditional Chinese landscaping at Qushui Garden and listen to serene Buddhist chants at Qinglong Temple.

Travel Tips: The best time to visit Shanghai is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and ideal for all kinds of outdoor activities.

Water Town

Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town(Qingpu District): Often called the “Venice of Shanghai,” Zhujiajiao is a well-preserved ancient town with charming canals, stone bridges, and Ming-Qing architecture.

Nanxiang Ancient Town (Jiading District): is known for its classical gardens, including Tan Garden, which features exquisite Ming Dynasty wood carvings and a pair of Five Dynasties pagodas that reflect the area's deep cultural heritage. Don’t miss the famous Nanxiang soup dumplings while you're there.

Chuansha Water Town (Pudong): A lesser-known historic town blending ancient charm with local life, home to cultural landmarks and the tomb of Ming dynasty explorer Xu Guangqi.

Fengjing Ancient Town (Jinshan District): showcases the quintessential charm of a Jiangnan water town. By day, its arched bridges, winding canals, and ancient buildings—some over a thousand years old—create a picturesque and timeless scene.

Xing chang Water Town (Pudong): With a history of over 800 years, Xinchang features quiet lanes, arched bridges, and riverside teahouses that reflect traditional Jiangnan charm.

Gaoqiao Water Town (Pudong): An old trading hub near the Yangtze estuary, Gaoqiao offers unique cultural fusion with colonial-era buildings, folk temples, and old streets.

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Helen Tang

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