Choose from 62 Fun Things to Do in Eastern China
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 62 listings.
Lupu Bridge
When Shanghai’s Lupu Bridge was completed in 2003, it was the world’s longest spanning steel arch bridge. The bridge with a total length of 12,795 feet (3,900 meters) and a main span of 1,805 feet (550 meters) takes its name from the two districts that it connects, Luwan and Pudong, and it extends across the Huangpu River.
The Basics
Lupu Bridge, built to serve the rapidly developing areas on the southern side of the Huangpu River, is the river’s seventh bridge. Known for its use of cable-stayed, arch, and suspension technology, it was in the 2010 Shanghai World Expo and won the 2008 IABSE Outstanding Structure Award. The bridge accommodates six traffic lanes and allows ships up to 70,000 tons to pass underneath. Some Huangpu River cruises offer views of the bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The observation deck at the top of the bridge is no longer open.
- Pedestrians are not allowed on the bridge.
- The Luwan district was merged into the Huangpu district in 2011.
- Book a cruise for a close-up look at the Huangpu River.
How to Get There
From Pudong, Lupu Bridge can be accessed from the on-ramps to North-South Elevated Road, northbound on Jiyang Road or westbound on Yaohua Road. From Huangpu, the bridge can be accessed from Luban Road interchange. Various buses also lead to the bridge, with the closest access points at Luban Road stop or Lupu Bridge stop. You can also take the metro, Line 13, to Shibo Dadao Station.
When to Get There
The bridge can be crossed as a motorist at any time, although traffic conditions vary depending on time of day. The best views of the bridge are at night, when it’s lit up.
Views of the Bridge
Although the bridge can no longer be accessed by pedestrians, it is still an impressive bridge to see. If driving across isn’t an option, visitors can get good views of the bridge from the site of the 2010 World Expo or on a Huangpu River cruise.
Address: Lu Ban Lu, Huang Pu Qu, Shanghai, China
From $ 142
Suzhou Silk Museum
Suzhou is famous for being the silk capital of China – the city was the center of silk production for imperial families throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties. Suzhou Silk Museum provides an opportunity to learn about how silk has been produced and used throughout the centuries, dating as far back as 2000 BC. It’s also a chance to admire the crafts, embroidery, and clothing made from silk, and perhaps purchase a souvenir to take home.
Those interested in architecture will note that Suzhou Silk Museum combines a sense of ancient civilization with a modern design, with white walls representing the purity of silk and round edges symbolizing its softness. The museum is divided into several sections, each offering a different angle on the life and times of silk. In the silkworm-rearing room, you can see live worms enjoying mulberry leaves, their favourite food, before being transported through time in the silk-weaving workshop, where ancient looms reveal the past grandeurs of the silk industry.
A visit to Suzhou Silk Museum is a captivating experience, combining history, culture, and art. To provide the most context, it is best visited as part of an extended cultural tour of the area, with stops at the Classical Gardens of Suzhou, Suzhou Museum, plus several other key attractions in the city. It can also be visited as part of various day trips, which might include entry into one or two classical gardens, as well as time to explore the city’s ancient streets.
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of an organized tour with transport included, the quickest and easiest way to reach Suzhou from Shanghai is to take the high-speed express train between the two cities.
Did You Know? The larvae of a moth, a silkworm cocoon can produce a single thread of raw silk up to 900 meters long. The cocoons are put in boiling water to ease their unravelling.
Address: 2001 Renmin Road, Suzhou, Eastern China 215001, China
Hours: Tues-Sun 9am-5pm
From $ 85
Suzhou Museum
Located near the famous Humble Administrator’s Garden, Suzhou Museum is a must-visit for all history, art, and culture lovers visiting the city. This modern museum was designed by the award-winning I.M. Pei, a Chinese American architect. With more than 15,000 pieces to admire, from calligraphy and ancient paintings, to cultural relics and woodcarvings, the museum provides a crucial insight into Suzhou’s history and culture.
The city of Suzhou is famous for its well-designed classical gardens, and a visit to the museum is the perfect opportunity to discover how natural landscapes and buildings blend harmoniously within them. Explore ancient Chinese paintings, calligraphy, and handmade crafts, along with tens of thousands of books, documents, and stone inscriptions that reveal much about the various dynasties that have ruled China over the centuries, including the Yuan, Song, Ming, and Qing Dynasties.
To provide the most context, Suzhou Museum is best visited as part of an extended cultural tour of the area. It can also be visited as part of various day trips of the city, which might include entry into several classical gardens as well as time to explore the ancient streets.
Did You Know? Pei’s most famous work is the glass pyramids at the Louvre in Paris, which, while controversial during design and construction stages, went on to become incredibly popular and much-loved by Parisians and tourists alike.
Practical Info
The entrance to Suzhou Museum is located at the crossroad of Dongbei Street and Qi Men Road. Guided tours are available in English and Mandarin but must be booked in advance, while audio guides in English, Japanese, and Cantonese are available in the lobby.
Address: 204 Dongbei Street, Suzhou, Eastern China, China
Hours: Tues-Sun 9am-5pm
From $ 64
Lingering Garden (Liu Yuan)
One of the four most famous classical gardens of Suzhou, the Lingering Garden (Liu Yuan) has World Heritage status and also showcases two UNESCO Intangible World Heritage Arts: Pingtan and Guqin music. The garden makes fantastic use of space, with a harmonious layout of temples, statues, rockeries, halls, bridges, and ponds.
Covering almost six acres, the garden is divided into four areas: the east, west, central, and north sections, all of which are connected via a half-mile (700-meter) corridor featuring calligraphy carved into its stone walls. The central area features many buildings surrounding a pond and grotto, while the east garden includes a miniature mountain modeled after Tiantai Mountain, as well as the Celestial Hall of Five Peaks, the largest hall in the garden. The west section is mostly natural, with a large rockery built during the Ming Dynasty, while the north garden, once used to grow vegetables, now showcases a range of potted plants.
Popular among families, the Lingering Garden is often visited on day trips from Shanghai that also include other famous classical gardens in Suzhou. It's common to combine a trip here with visits to the famous water towns of Zhouzhuang and Tongli, but other options include visits to Shantang Old Street and Tiger Hill. For a unique day out, book a Suzhou culture and art tour, which includes a Suzhou opera performance at the Master of Nets Garden.
Insider Tip: There are many classical gardens in Suzhou. Aside from the Lingering Garden, you shouldn't miss the Humble Administrator's Garden or Lion Grove Garden.
Practical Info
Suzhou is located about 62 miles (100 km) west of Shanghai and is connected by high-speed train. Some tours include the high-speed train, while others use road transport. Suzhou can also be reached by bus; take Tourist Bus No. 1 and alight at the Liuyan stop.
Address: 338 Liuyuan Road, Suzhou, Eastern China 215004, China
Hours: Daily 7:30am–5pm
Admission: CNY 45–55
From $ 55
Jade Buddha Temple (Yufo Si)
Jade Buddha Temple (Yufo Si) is a working Buddhist monastery—one of the few in China. The star attractions of the Jade Buddha Temple are two figures brought to Shanghai from Singapore by a monk from Burma in the 19th century: a 6.5-foot (2-meter) seated jade Buddha encrusted with semiprecious stones and a smaller white jade reclining Buddha.
The Basics
While fairly new by Chinese standards—it was completed in 1918—the Jade Buddha Temple remains one of the city’s most popular attractions thanks to the jade Buddha statues within. Just about every Shanghai sightseeing tour stops at the temple, along with other popular points of interest, such as the Bund, Yu Garden, the French Concession, and the Shanghai Museum, depending on the option chosen. Shanghai’s hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus also stops at the temple.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The temple is a must-see for first-time visitors and those interested in Chinese religion.
- Leave yourself about an hour to enjoy the temple grounds, a bit more if you plan to eat at the on-site vegetarian restaurant.
- The temple charges separate entrance fees for the temple itself and for the hall where the sitting Buddha is housed.
- Shanghai tours that visit the Jade Buddha Temple often last about eight hours.
- Photography is not permitted within the Jade Buddha Chamber.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to the temple is to take the Shanghai Metro (Line 13) to Jiangning Road Station and leave through exit 4. From there it’s about a 5-minute walk to the temple along Anyuan Road.
When to Get There
Since the temple is a popular stop on guided tours, those visiting independently should arrive first thing in the morning when the temple opens. Avoid visiting during the Lunar New Year when tens of thousands of Chinese Buddhists come to pray for prosperity.
Halls of the Jade Buddha Temple
The temple is divided into several different sections, the most notable being the Jade Buddha Chamber and Reclining Buddha Hall where the two famous statues are housed. Before you get there, you’ll pass through the Hall of Heavenly Kings, where four statues look toward the four cardinal points, and the Grand Hall with its copper-colored statue of Guanyin. The Grand Hall leads to a quiet courtyard, where stairs lead to the jade Buddha chambers.
Address: Anyuan Lu, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 31
Mt Huangshan (Yellow Mountain)
Mt Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1990, has featured in Chinese art and literature since the eighth century. Considered one of China’s most beautiful mountains, this peak rising above a sea of clouds in Anhui Province is famous for its irregular granite formations, gnarled pine trees and perpetual mist.
The mountain’s name, however, is a bit misleading; Huangshan isn’t a single mountain but a series of peaks, many of which reach over 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) in height. Paths winding through the park are well-maintained, and many include handrails and paved walkways. It’s also possible to take a cable car to the top and explore on foot from there. Tourists hoping to catch a sunrise or sunset can stay at one of half a dozen hotels located on the mountain top.
Practical Info
Mt Huangshan is at its most crowded from May to October, particularly during Chinese national holidays.
Address: Huangshan, Anhui Province, China
Admission: Y230 during high season, Y150 during low season
From $ 139
World Expo Museum
In 2010, the eyes of the world turned to Shanghai as it hosted the Shanghai Expo 2010, a World’s Fair held on the banks of the Huangpu River. The record-breaking event saw 192 countries participate and more than 73 million visitors pass through the gates. The China Pavilion, nicknamed the Oriental Crown, was the largest national pavilion to show at the Shanghai Expo and cost an estimated $220 million to build.
Most of the Expo pavilions were dismantled after the event concluding, but the China Pavilion was converted into a permanent history museum. The structure, painted in seven different subtle shades of Chinese red symbolizing Chinese culture and good fortune, has already become a Shanghai landmark. While the building itself is impressive, the collection of Chinese art within is worth a visit on its own.
Most of the Expo pavilions were dismantled after the event concluding, but the China Pavilion was converted into a permanent history museum. The structure, painted in seven different subtle shades of Chinese red symbolizing Chinese culture and good fortune, has already become a Shanghai landmark. While the building itself is impressive, the collection of Chinese art within is worth a visit on its own.
Address: No. 818 Mengzi Road, Shanghai, China
From $ 142
National Tea Museum
The National Tea Museum is the only tea-themed museum in China. It was opened in 1991 and is located in Westlake Village in Shuangfeng, Hangzhou. The museum is surrounded by clusters of tea farms and features various exhibition halls that depict the history and development of tea over thousands of years.
The museum's Evolution Hall showcases the production process of Chinese tea, as well as a variety of imported types. As the name suggests, the Teaware Hall traces the evolution of Chinese teaware, as well as concentrating on the planting, production, and tasting of tea. The Tea Customs Hall is devoted to the impact that tea has had on the lives of various minority groups in China throughout its long history, while the Kaleidoscope Hall features hundreds of different kinds of tea, including the six classic types in China.
Practical Info
To reach the National Tea Museum, take tourist bus Y3 or K27 and alight at Shuangfeng Station. Audio tours are available at the museum entrance.
Address: 88 Longjing Lu, Hangzhou, Xihu District 310000, China
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: 8:30am-4:30pm / Closed on Mondays
From $ 62
People's Square (Renmin Guang Chang)
The massive People’s Square, or Renmin Guang Chang, is in the heart of Shanghai. Surrounded by the city’s municipal government headquarters, a park, and several top museums, the major landmark makes for a popular meeting spot, as well as being at the center of politics, culture, transportation, and tourism in Shanghai.
The Basics
Covering an area of 1.5 million square feet (140,000 square meters), People’s Square can hold 1.2 million people. People’s Park provides a welcome green space in the urban area. Other attractions include the top-rated Shanghai Museum, Shanghai History Museum, Shanghai Museum of Contemporary Art, and Shanghai Grand Theater. There’s also a vast shopping area underneath People’s Square.
Combine a visit to People’s Square with a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Shanghai, a Huangpu River dinner cruise, or a half-day, full-day, or evening sightseeing tour that includes other top Shanghai attractions, such as the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, or Xintiandi. Cruise ship passengers, those on a layover, and others who want personalized attention might consider a customized private tour with a stop at People’s Square.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It’s free to visit People’s Square.
- There are 20 exits for the People’s Square metro station so check to see which exit gets you closest to the area of the square you want to see.
- When exploring the area, remember to wear comfortable shoes.
- While People’s Square itself is wheelchair accessible, not all attractions and businesses around it are.
How to Get There
People’s Square is located in the Huangpu district. By metro, take Lines 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square Station. Numerous buses also stop at People’s Square, including bus 18, 20, 23, 37, 46, 48, 49, 108, 109, 112, 123, 145, and 518.
When to Get There
Although People’s Square can be visited at any time, different attractions have different opening hours. Early mornings are a great time to see locals exercising and practicing tai chi. Weekends and holidays can be very busy; visit during the week for smaller crowds.
People’s Park Marriage Market
People’s Square Marriage Market, where parents try to find matches for their grown children, takes place every Saturday and Sunday from noon until 3pm. It’s worth a visit, even if you’re not looking for love. The market takes place just inside Gate 5 of People’s Park. Take Exit 9 of the People’s Square Station and head left on Nanjing Xi Lu to find it.
Address: People's Square, Shanghai, China
From $ 31
Humble Administrator's Garden
Of all the Classical Gardens of Suzhou, the Humble Administrator’s Garden is the largest, most famous, and best preserved. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this uniquely-designed garden takes visitors through scenic pathways, quiet pavilions, ancient bridges, calm ponds, and small, forested areas dating back to the Ming dynasty. The Hall of Drifting Fragrance, a traditional Chinese residence at the garden's center, offers views of vast lawns, flowing water, and crape myrtle trees, while the nearby Small Flying Rainbow Bridge is the only bridge in the garden you can walk across.
A great family activity, you can visit the garden on an easy day trip from Shanghai. Combine your ticket with a visit to the famous Zhouzhuang water village nearby or opt for a private tour of Suzhou's classical gardens to visit Tiger Hill and Master of Nets, as well.
Practical Info
Suzhou is located approximately 62 miles (100 km) west of Shanghai, and the two cities are connected by high-speed train. The garden is open 7:30am to 5:30pm daily from March to November, and 7:30am to 5pm daily mid-November to February. Adult admission is 90 CNY in spring and summer and 70 CNY in winter. Some tours utilize the high-speed train rather than road transport.
Did You Know? The Humble Administrator’s Garden was originally the private garden of a government servant named Wang Xianchen. It was said that Xianchen grew frustrated with his work, and built the garden so that he could lead the simple life of a humble man instead, hence the name of the garden.
Address: 178 Dongbei Street, Suzhou, Eastern China, China
Hours: 7:30am–5:30pm daily (March–Nov), 7:30am–5pm daily (Nov–Feb)
Admission: Varies by season
From $ 69
West Lake (Xi Hu)
West Lake (Xi Hu) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top attraction in the heart of old Hangzhou. With mountains on three sides and plenty of charming gardens, bridges, pagodas, temples, and islands, it’s easy to see why this scenic man-made lake has inspired so many poets and painters through the ages.
The Basics
The 2.5-square-mile (6.5-square-kilometer) West Lake is filled with sights to see, including the Ten Scenes of West Lake, a series of vistas around the water. First compiled during the Southern Song Dynasty, the Ten Scenes gained popularity under Emperor Kangxi during the Qing Dynasty, and include Viewing Fish at Flower Harbour and Moon Reflected on Three Ponds.
To see much of the lake in a short amount of time, rent bicycles, catch an electric cart, or take a leisurely boat cruise around the water. Allot several hours and consider combining a visit to West Lake with a tour of nearby attractions, such as Lingyin Temple and Qinghefang Ancient Street. Full-day tours, including day tours from Shanghai to West Lake, typically also include a visit to a nearby tea plantation. Choose a multi-day tour to gain in-depth insight into Hangzhou and its surrounding areas.
Things to Know Before You Go
- West Lake is a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
- Wear comfortable shoes, if you plan on walking, especially across long causeways like the Su Causeway, which is 1.7 miles (2.8 kilometers) long.
- West Lake is free to visit, but some of its attractions, including Leifeng Pagoda, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, and the Tomb of General Yue Fei, require an admission fee.
How to Get There
West Lake is in the historic center of Hangzhou, about 19 miles (30 kilometers) from the airport. Visitors from Hangzhou can easily reach it using various transportation. Travelers by train from other cities should get off at Hangzhou Train Station, the closest station to West Lake. From Shanghai, you can take a bullet train and drive a car. Or, book a tour with round-trip transport.
When to Get There
West Lake is a popular destination year-round. Spring is one of the busiest times to visit, when bountiful peach and plum blossoms are in full bloom, while summer visitors often come for the lotus flowers. Fall weather is pleasant, with less rain than usual, and winter is cold and wet with fewer visitors. The rainy season runs from April to September.
Where to Find the Most Photogenic Spots on West Lake
The best panoramic views of West Lake can be found at the Chenghuang Pavilion, the top of Leifeng Pagoda, and Baoshi Mountain. For sunset views, head to Broken Bridge, Su Causeway, Yanggong Causeway, or Xiaoyinzhou Island.
Address: China
From $ 37
World Financial Center Building
Nicknamed the “Bottle Opener” due to its distinctive shape, the World Financial Center is the second tallest building in Shanghai, reaching a dizzying 1,614 feet (492 meters). Its three observatories—in particular, the glass-bottomed observatory on the 100th floor—are the main draw of the building, located in the Lujiazui area of Pudong. There’s also a hotel and a mall.
The Basics
The three observatories in the World Financial Center are on floors 94, 97, and 100. The 97th floor has an observation bridge, while the 100th floor features three transparent glass walkways and panoramic windows for 360-degree views of Shanghai. Find a mall with dining options on the lower levels and a Park Hyatt Hotel on floors 79 to 93.
Purchase admission tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line, or combine a visit to the World Financial Center with a tour. Tours with views of the building include a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Shanghai and Huangpu River dinner cruises. Many half-day, full-day, and evening sightseeing tour include a visit to one of its observation decks with other top Shanghai attractions. Or visit on a private customizable tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The different observatories require separate tickets; a ticket can be purchased to access all three observatories.
- Enjoy free WiFi in the public areas of the building.
- The building is accessible to wheelchair users.
- High-speed elevators take only one minute to reach the 94th floor.
How to Get There
The World Financial Center is located on Century Avenue, in Pudong. By metro, take Line 2 to Lujiazui Station. You can also take bus 1, 81, 82, 86, 96, 119, 483, 792, 818, or 985 to Lujiazui Station. It’s also possible to take a ferry from the Bund across the river, and walk a few minutes to the World Financial Center.
When to Get There
Visit the World Financial Center’s observation decks, open daily from 8am to 11pm, on a clear day for the best views. Or, arrive just before sunset and stay for the nighttime views, when buildings on both sides of the Huangpu River light up.
Tallest Buildings in Shanghai
The World Financial Center is located close to the other three tallest buildings in Shanghai, all of which also offer observatories. The tallest building is the Shanghai Tower. The other two are the Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower and Jinmao Tower.
Address: 100 Century Avenue, Pudong, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 27
Huangpu River
The Huangpu River, extending over 71 miles (113 kilometers), flows through the middle of Shanghai’s, dividing the city into two parts – Pudong to the east and Puxi to the west. The port where the river empties into the East China Sea has now become the largest port in China and in 2012 became the world’s busiest container port.
Walking along the Huangpu River juxtaposes the colonial buildings of Old Shanghai with the towering, ultramodern skyscrapers that now dominate the skyline. While it’s possible to experience the Huangpu River from the banks with a walk along the Bund, the best way to see both sides is on a river cruise.
Most cruises start from the Bund and go upstream before turning south towards the Yangpu bridge. Boats depart throughout the day, but after the sun sets and the buildings to either side of the river light up, the Shanghai skyline becomes even more impressive than usual.
Walking along the Huangpu River juxtaposes the colonial buildings of Old Shanghai with the towering, ultramodern skyscrapers that now dominate the skyline. While it’s possible to experience the Huangpu River from the banks with a walk along the Bund, the best way to see both sides is on a river cruise.
Most cruises start from the Bund and go upstream before turning south towards the Yangpu bridge. Boats depart throughout the day, but after the sun sets and the buildings to either side of the river light up, the Shanghai skyline becomes even more impressive than usual.
Address: Shanghai, China
From $ 30
M50 Creative Park
M50 Creative Park is an artistic area of Shanghai. Situated just south of Shanghai Suzhou Creek, M50 is one of the earliest, largest, and most influential creative industry and modern art clusters in the city.
An open park, art-lovers and creative types have lots to explore here. It's a thriving hub of galleries and art studios, with exhibitions from both local and international artists. There are a wide range of art forms, from the popular black and white portraits of Shanghai’s urban development, to audio visual and abstract art.
Despite being one of the best-known creative hubs in Shanghai, strolling into M50 Creative Park gives the distinct sense of stumbling across a hidden gem. If you’re looking for a piece of art to take home, this is the ideal place to find something original at a reasonable price.
Insider’s Tip
Notable galleries and studios to visit include the Island6 Arts Center, the LWH Gallery, and the Eastlink Gallery.
Practical Info
To reach M50 Creative Park, take Line 1 of the metro and alight at Shanghai Railway Station, or take Line 3 or 4 to Zhongtan Road.
Address: 50 Moganshan Road, Shanghai 200000, China
From $ 50
Nanjing Lu (Nanjing Road)
Shanghai’s premier shopping street, Nanjing Lu (Nanjing Road) features businesses ranging from small shops and stalls to massive department stores and malls. It’s the world’s longest shopping district, stretching 3.4 miles (5.5 kilometers) from the Bund to Jing’an Temple, and attracts over a million visitors a day.
The Basics
Nanjing Road is divided into Nanjing Road East, which includes the popular pedestrian strip and historical buildings, and Nanjing Road West, which has more modern structures. Though it’s possible to find anything on Nanjing Road, visitors often shop here for local products such as silk, paintings, calligraphy, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Many half- and full-day Shanghai tours feature a stop at Nanjing Road. Choose a walking tour, bike tour, or bus tour and visit the popular shopping street in addition to other top Shanghai attractions, such as the Bund and Yuyuan Garden. Or opt for an evening Nanjing Road visit combined with a Huangpu River cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Nanjing Lu is a must for first-time visitors to Shanghai and those who love to shop.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk the length of Nanjing Road.
- If you get tired of walking, board the tram that runs down the eastern part of the road.
- There are a lot of touts and hawkers on Nanjing Road, and some can be very aggressive. It’s best to ignore them or say no firmly and move away.
How to Get There
The eastern part of Nanjing Road runs from the Bund to People's Square, and the western part runs from People's Square to Jing'an Temple. You can start from the Bund and walk, or you can take metro line 2 or 10 to Nanjing Road East, the start of the pedestrian zone. To reach the center of Nanjing Road, take subway line 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square, then walk east toward the Bund or west toward Jing’an Temple.
When to Get There
Nanjing Road can be visited anytime, but shops tend to be open from about 10am to about 10pm. Visit during the day to admire the architecture and experience the crowds, and come back in the evening, when the street lights up in neon. Nanjing Road is very popular and becomes extremely crowded on weekends and holidays.
Historical Shops of Nanjing Road
Some shops on Nanjing Road date back to the Qing dynasty. They include Shanghai Laojiefu Department (1860), which sells clothes, fabrics, and silks; Duo Yun Xuan (1900), which sells calligraphy and painting; Heng De Li Clocks and Watches Co. (1864), which sells luxury watches and clocks; and Cai Tong De Pharmacy (1882), which specializes in traditional Chinese medicine.
Address: Shanghai, China
From $ 31
Jin Mao Tower
The tallest building in China when it was completed in 1999, Shanghai’s landmark Jin Mao Tower reaches nearly 1,380 feet (420.5 meters). The main draw for most visitors is the observation deck on the 88th floor—the largest in the city—which offers stunning 360-degree views over Shanghai.
The Basics
Also known as the Golden Prosperity Building, Jin Mao Tower combines modern architectural engineering with traditional Chinese design, featuring the auspicious number 8 prominently, from its 88 floors to its octagonal pagoda-like design. The observation deck is the largest in Shanghai, with an area of 16,400 square feet (1,520 square meters) and capacity for 1,000 people. High-speed elevators take only 45 seconds to reach the 88th floor. The tower has numerous dining and entertainment options, as well as a five-star hotel.
Combine a visit to Jin Mao Tower with a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Shanghai, a Huangpu River dinner cruise, or a half-day, full-day, or evening sightseeing tour that includes other top Shanghai attractions. Cruise ship passengers and those on a layover can take a customized private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture stunning Shanghai vistas.
- Visitors to Jin Mao Tower may have to undergo a security check before entering.
- Purchase admission tickets ahead of time to avoid waiting in line.
- The observation deck at Jin Mao Tower is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Jin Mao Tower is located at 88 Century Boulevard, Lujiazui District, in Pudong. By metro, take Line 2 to Lujiazui Station (Exit 6) and walk south. Alternatively, take bus 85, 774, 971, or 992 to Lujiazui Station. Or take City Sightseeing Bus Line 2 and get off at Jin Mao Tower.
When to Get There
Time your visit to Jin Mao Tower’s observation deck, which is open daily from 8am to 10pm, for a clear day for the best views. Or arrive visit just before sunset and stay for the nighttime views, when buildings on both sides of the Huangpu River light up.
Jin Mao Skywalk
Those who dare can now walk on the outside of Jin Mao Tower, on the glass-bottomed skywalk running along the 88th floor observation deck. With a length of 196 feet (60 meters) and a width of 4 feet (1.2 meters), the walk has no guardrails. Instead, adventurous visitors wear hard hats and safety harnesses attached to the building that allow them to walk freely along the skywalk.
Address: 88 Shi Ji (Century) Boulevard, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 18
Leifeng Pagoda
Leifeng Pagoda is a five-story tower located on Sunset Hill in Hangzhou, providing panoramic views over West Lake. The original pagoda was built in 975AD during the Five Dynasties and Ten States Period on orders of King Qian Chu to celebrate the birth of his son. However, after a tumultuous history, the structure collapsed in 1924. The pagoda was eventually rebuilt and opened to the public in 2002.
The original Leifeng Pagoda was a five-story octagonal structure too. However, unlike the modern version that stands today, it was built almost entirely from brick and wood. The new pagoda is instead made from 1400 tonnes of steel with 200 tonnes of copper parts. At the entrance there are two escalators to carry visitors to the base of the pagoda, and there are a number of viewing platforms to climb up to in order to marvel at the views. The new pagoda also features such modern amenities such as air-conditioning and speakers, although the ruins of the original building, along with a number of historical artifacts, can still be seen at the site.
Practical Info
To reach Leifeng Pagoda, take the tourist bus Y2 and alight at Jingsi Station.
Address: 15 Nanshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310007, China
Hours: 8am-8pm daily
Admission: CNY40
From $ 54
Lion Grove Garden
Built by a Buddhist monk in 1342, the Lion Grove Garden is one of the oldest classical gardens in Suzhou and one of nine gardens in the area recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its uniqueness lies in its unusual design of grotto mazes, ponds, and pavilions, with a large and elaborate grotto of taihu rocks at its center. Anyone interested in oriental design and architecture, as well as nature and history, will appreciate a visit here.
The garden's massive grotto is made up of a maze of paths winding through 21 caves across three levels, with a pond dividing the grotto into east and west sections. The rocks, dating back to the Yuan Dynasty, are piled up in such a way that they are meant to resemble lions in various positions. Elsewhere in the garden, there are buildings, trees, ponds, and other elements to explore.
Lion Grove Garden can be visited as part of a day trip from Shanghai to Suzhou. Enjoy a stroll in the grotto maze here, followed by lunch and shopping nearby, or perhaps even a boat ride along the canal. The high-speed express train from Shanghai makes the journey easy, and is included on some organized tours.
Practical Info
Lion Grove Garden is situated close to Pingjiang Road in Suzhou. It is open daily from 7:30am to 5:30pm. Admission is 40 CNY in spring and summer, and 30 CNY in autumn and winter. Children under 3'11"(1.2 m) tall can enter the Lion Grove Garden for free when accompanied by an adult. For children under 4'11" tall (1.5 m), entrance is half price. This is a popular site with uneven grounds, so be sure to take your time and watch your step while exploring.
Did You Know? Aside from the Lion Grove Garden, the Lingering Garden, Humble Administrator’s Garden, and the Master of Nets Garden are the most famous of Suzhou's UNESCO-listed classical gardens.
Address: 23 Yuanlin Road, Suzhou, Eastern China, China
Hours: 7:30am–5:30pm daily
Admission: Varies
From $ 89
Lingyin Temple
Lingyin Temple is one of the oldest and most famous Buddhist temples in China and a top attraction in Hangzhou. Situated at the foot of Lingyin Mountain and surrounded by forest, Lingyin Temple is known for its tranquil setting, spiritual atmosphere, and numerous pagodas, grottoes, and Buddhist relics.
The Basics
Lingyin Temple, aka the “Temple of the Soul’s Retreat,” was founded in AD 326 and has been rebuilt many times since then. First, pass through Feilai Feng, or Flying Peak, which has hundreds of Buddhist statues carved into the hillside, along the river, and inside caves and grottoes. Be sure to visit the main halls of the temple, including the Hall of the Heavenly Kings, the Grand Hall, and the Hall of the Buddha of Medicine.
Lingyin Temple can be visited independently, but many visitors appreciate the extra insight offered by a guided tour. Most day tours of Hangzhou, including those from Shanghai, include Lingyin Temple and other top attractions, such as West Lake and Leifeng Pagoda. Customize which attractions you visit with a private day tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You must enter Flying Peak before you can access Lingyin Temple. Admission fees are required for both.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of ground to cover for both Linyin Temple and the Flying Peak area.
- Flash photography is not allowed inside the temple.
- There is a vegetarian restaurant inside the temple and a number of restaurants nearby.
How to Get There
Linyin Temple is located at No. 1 Fayun Lane, Lingyin Road in the Xihu District of Hangzhou. From Hangzhou Airport, take the shuttle bus (departs every 30–40 minutes) to Hangzhou Railway Station. From there, take bus nos. Y2 or K7, and get off at the Lingyin stop. Taxis are the most direct way of getting to the temple.
When to Get There
Lingyin Temple is extremely popular, especially during weekends and public holidays, and can see thousands of visitors a day when busy. Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat.
Lingyin Temple Highlights
Find the Maitreya (Future) Buddha, manifested as the Laughing Buddha, and the Skanda Bodhisattva, the temple’s oldest statue at more than 800 years old, in the Hall of the Heavenly Kings. The ornate ceiling has paintings of dragons and phoenixes. Gaze at the giant gold-plated statue of Shakyamuni on a lotus flower in the Grand Hall. It's one of the largest wood-carved Buddhist statues in the world at more than 80 feet (24.4 meters) tall.
Address: China
Admission: Varies
From $ 54
The Bund (Waitan)
The Bund (Waitan) refers to Shanghai’s iconic waterfront strip, which runs for 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) along the west shore of the Huangpu River. Renowned for its extensive collection of colonial-era buildings, there’s also pedestrian-friendly promenade perfect for strolling, which offers stunning views of both the Bund and Pudong.
The Basics
No visit to Shanghai would be complete without a visit to the Bund. Admire the architecture of the Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco buildings, many of which have been restored to their former glory and are now home to trendy hotels, galleries, boutiques, restaurants, bars, and clubs. Just about every tour will feature a stop here. Take a guided walking or bike tour, many of which combine it with nearby attractions like Yuyuan Garden and Nanjing Road. Cruise-ship passengers and those on a layover may want to consider a customized private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don’t forget to bring your camera, as there will be plenty to photograph along the Bund and across the Huangpu River.
- There are 2,000 benches and plenty of vending machines along the Bund’s promenade, but not much shade; bring a hat or umbrella to protect against the sun.
- The Bund is free to visit, but there is a fee to take the train through the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel.
- To learn more about the history of the Bund, stop by the Bund Historical Museum, located within Huangpu Park, at the north end of the area.
How to Get There
The Bund is located on the west shore of the Huangpu River. To get there by metro, take line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station, then walk toward the Huangpu River. Or take the City Sightseeing Bus, lines 1, 3, or 5, to Waitan Haiguan Dalou. There are also ferries running between the Dongchang Road Ferry Dock in Pudong and the Bund.
When to Get There
The Bund is pleasant to visit at any time. Visit early in the morning to see locals practicing tai chi or ballroom dancing. It’s also the best time to visit to avoid crowds. At night, enjoy views of the colorfully illuminated buildings along the Bund and Pudong.
Bund Sightseeing Tunnel
The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel runs for 2,122 feet (647 meters) from the Bund to the Oriental Pearl TV Tower in Pudong. There’s a special train that travels the tunnel, complete with a light and sound show, which takes just a few minutes. Contrary to the name, you won’t actually see any of the sights the Bund is famous for on the ride.
Address: Shanghai, China
From $ 30