The moment I landed in Shanghai, I felt like I’d stepped into a movie set — but with a Malaysian twist! Coming from KL’s humid buzz, the towering skyline of Lujiazui 🏙️ and the cool, crisp air gave me that instant “wah” feeling. Imagine Orchard Road vibes, but dialed up with futuristic skyscrapers and a sprinkle of old-school charm from shikumen alleyways. As a Malaysian, food is always top of mind, and trust me — from spicy street-side xiǎolóngbāo (soup dumplings) to upscale modern Chinese fusion 🍜🍢, your taste buds are in for a joyride. Plus, Shanghai weather can be a surprise — chilly in spring, blazing in summer — so pack smart!
What I love most is how Shanghai blends the ultra-modern with the deeply traditional. Whether you're capturing Instagrammable shots at The Bund 📸 or strolling through Tianzifang’s artsy lanes, there’s always something exciting around the corner. And the best part? Things here can be surprisingly wallet-friendly 💳 — especially when it comes to street food and local brands. Not sure where to stay in Shanghai? Don’t worry, I’ve got tips for every budget and style. Ready to explore? Here's where to go in Shanghai! 🚀🗺️
🍜 A Stroll Through Tastes and Traditions in Yuyuan Old Street
Walking through Yuyuan Old Street was like being transported into a living painting. The scent of freshly fried scallion pancakes and sweet osmanthus cakes filled the air as red lanterns swayed gently above cobblestone alleys. Traditional Chinese roofs curved like brush strokes, and the chatter of street vendors blended with the rhythmic clink of teacups in century-old tea houses. I wandered past jade shops, silk stalls, and intricate woodwork stores, all while snacking on local eats like shēngjiān bāo 🥟. It felt like a more historic version of Jonker Street in Melaka — but with Shanghainese flair.
📖 About Yuyuan Old Street
Nestled beside the famous Yuyuan Garden, this neighborhood is one of the most iconic cultural districts in Shanghai. Known for its preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and traditional markets, it’s a top pick among the best neighborhoods in Shanghai for experiencing local heritage and cuisine.
Name of the Place | Yuyuan Old Street |
✅ Opening hours | Daily, 9:00am – 10:00pm |
📍 Location | Huangpu District, near Yuyuan Garden Station |
💰 Cost | Free entry |
📅 Best time to visit:
Weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid tourist crowds
📍 How to get there:
Take Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station (Exit 1)
💰 Cost:
Free to explore, but budget for food and shopping
💡 Pro Tips
- Don’t miss the hidden tea house on the zig-zag bridge — it’s charming and scenic ☕
- Bargain politely at souvenir shops; it’s expected! 🎁
- Try the crab soup dumplings near the corner bakery — super addictive 🦀
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Perfect for families and culture-loving couples. The area is walkable and full of visual and culinary delights for all ages.
Top Things To do In Shanghai
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😀Important Note
- Restaurant Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM.
- Lunch: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
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🏯 Time Travel at The Bund’s Colonial Waterfront
As I stepped onto the promenade of The Bund, I was greeted by a cool breeze from the Huangpu River and a golden hour glow that lit up the grand colonial buildings lining the waterfront. 🚶♂️✨ On one side, neoclassical facades whispered stories from Shanghai’s cosmopolitan past; on the other, futuristic skyscrapers in Pudong pierced the sky like scenes from a sci-fi movie 🏙️. The mix of old-world charm and modern energy reminded me of a stroll through Penang’s George Town — but amplified. Street musicians played jazzy tunes, the scent of roasted chestnuts wafted through the air, and locals snapped selfies with the iconic skyline. It felt like standing on the edge of two worlds.
📖 About The Bund
The Bund is one of the best landmarks in Shanghai, famous for its stunning contrast between historic Western architecture and the gleaming skyline of modern China. It's a must-visit for any first-time traveler.
Name of the Place | The Bund (外滩) |
✅ Opening hours | Open 24 hours |
📍 Location | Zhongshan East 1st Road, Huangpu District |
💰 Cost | Free |
📅 Best time to visit:
Evening around sunset for the best skyline views
📍 How to get there:
Take Metro Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station, then walk 10 minutes
💰 Cost: Free
💡 Pro Tips
- Visit just before sunset to catch both daytime and night views 🌇
- Bring a tripod if you’re into photography — the skyline is stunning at night 📷
- Walk all the way down to the Waibaidu Bridge for a less crowded spot
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Ideal for families with kids and elderly visitors. The area is flat, wide, and easy to navigate.
Kuala Lumpur to Shanghai Flight
- Pergi Balik
- Sehala
- direct cheapest
KUL18:505j 30mTanpa hentiPVG00:20Kuala Lumpur - Shanghai|Jum, 9 Jan|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)PVG01:355j 55mTanpa hentiKUL07:30Shanghai - Kuala Lumpur|Kha, 15 Jan|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)TRY 8,854TRY 10,03012% OFF12% OFFTRY 10,030TRY 8,854 - KUL23:155j 30mTanpa hentiPVG04:45Kuala Lumpur - Shanghai|Jum, 6 Mac|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)PVG06:005j 55mTanpa hentiKUL11:55Shanghai - Kuala Lumpur|Rab, 11 Mac|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)TRY 8,926TRY 10,03011% OFF11% OFFTRY 10,030TRY 8,926
KUL20:0018j 15m1 hentianPVG14:15Kuala Lumpur - Shanghai|Kha, 5 Mac|Vietnam AirlinesPVG15:2527j 25m1 hentianKUL18:50Shanghai - Kuala Lumpur|Sab, 7 Mac|Vietnam AirlinesTRY 8,186TRY 10,03018% OFF18% OFFTRY 10,030TRY 8,186
KUL1:00 PM3j 5mTanpa hentiSHA2:00 PMKuala Lumpur - Shanghai|Sat, Dec 13|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)
SHA1:00 PM3j 5mTanpa hentiKUL2:00 PMShanghai - Kuala Lumpur|Sat, Dec 13|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)Cari Penerbangan LainCari Penerbangan Lain
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🎨 Discover Old Meets New in Tianzifang
Wandering into Tianzifang felt like uncovering a secret maze tucked inside Shanghai’s urban sprawl. Narrow lanes wound between old Shikumen houses, their brick facades now home to cozy cafes, tiny art galleries, and boutiques selling handmade jewelry and quirky homeware. 🎭🧵 Aromas of sizzling street food mingled with the scent of freshly brewed coffee, and I caught snippets of Mandarin, English, and even French as I strolled. One moment I was admiring a mural of a dancing cat, the next I was sipping iced jasmine tea in a tucked-away courtyard café. Despite the buzz, it all felt charmingly intimate—like a living museum meets a creative studio.
📖 About Tianzifang
Tianzifang is one of the best neighborhoods in Shanghai for travelers seeking local culture with an artistic twist. It’s a reimagined residential area turned arts and lifestyle hub, blending old Shanghai charm with modern indie spirit.
Name of the Place | Tianzifang (田子坊) |
✅ Opening hours | Most shops/cafes open 10:00am – 10:00pm |
📍 Location | Taikang Road, Dapuqiao, Huangpu District |
💰 Cost | Free to explore, but budget for food and shopping |
📅 Best time to visit:
Late morning or early evening on weekdays
📍 How to get there:
Take Metro Line 9 to Dapuqiao Station (Exit 1), walk 3 minutes
💰 Cost:
Free to explore, but budget for food and shopping
💡 Pro Tips
- Look for the postcard shop that lets you send mail straight from Tianzifang 📬
- Visit the rooftop cafes for a peaceful escape and hidden views 🌿
- Some shops are cash-only, so bring a little yuan just in case 💵
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Best enjoyed by adults and teens who appreciate arts, culture, and crafts. Lanes can be narrow and crowded, so it’s not ideal for strollers or large groups.
Recommended Hotels In Shanghai
🌳 Breathe Easy in Century Park
Century Park felt like a green hug in the middle of buzzing Shanghai. As soon as I entered, the sound of honking cars faded into birdsong and the rustling of leaves 🍃. I wandered along shaded walking paths, where families picnicked under sycamore trees and couples paddled leisurely across a sparkling lake 🚣♀️. Kids flew kites in the open fields, and I even saw a group of elderly locals doing tai chi near a lotus pond. The scent of grass and earth was calming—so different from the city’s concrete rush. I kicked off my shoes, sat on the lawn, and let the gentle sunshine melt my stress away. It reminded me of Putrajaya’s Taman Saujana Hijau, but with a more urban edge.
📖 About Century Park
As one of the largest parks in Shanghai, Century Park offers a peaceful escape with lakes, gardens, and wide open spaces. It’s a local favorite for jogging, boating, and weekend relaxation.
Name of the Place | Century Park (世紀公園) |
✅ Opening hours | 7:00am – 6:00pm |
📍 Location | Pudong New Area, near Century Park Metro Station |
💰 Cost | ¥10 (approx. RM6) |
📅 Best time to visit:
Spring or autumn mornings for cool air and fewer crowds
📍 How to get there:
Take Metro Line 2 to Century Park Station (Exit 1)
💰 Cost:
¥10 entry; small extra fees for boats or bikes
💡 Pro Tips
- Rent a tandem bike to explore more of the park 🚴♂️
- Bring snacks for a picnic near the lake 🌭
- Head to the north end for peaceful photo spots and fewer people 📸
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Perfect for families with kids and seniors—flat paths, lots of shade, and space to play or rest.
3GB/day 3 Days
- Data3GB Daily
- Validity3 Days
- PriceFrom RM17.83
20GB 5 Days
- Data20GB
- Validity5 Days
- PriceFrom RM37.57
20GB 7 Days
- Data20GB
- Validity7 Days
- PriceFrom RM40.72
🏯 Step Back in Time at Yu Garden
The moment I stepped through the intricately carved entrance of Yu Garden, the chaos of modern Shanghai melted away. I found myself surrounded by tranquil koi ponds, curved stone bridges, and pavilions that looked like they were plucked straight from an ancient painting. 🐟🍃 The scent of sandalwood incense drifted from a nearby temple, and the soft gurgle of water created a peaceful soundtrack to my stroll. As I wandered through zigzag corridors and rock gardens, I couldn’t stop admiring the delicate lattice windows and dragon-topped walls. It felt like stepping into a dream — quiet, poetic, and full of whispers from centuries past.
📖 About Yu Garden
Yu Garden is one of the must-visit historical sites in Shanghai, built during the Ming Dynasty over 400 years ago. It’s renowned for its classical Chinese landscaping, artistic design, and deep cultural roots.
Name of the Place | Yu Garden (豫园) |
✅ Opening hours | 8:30am – 5:00pm (last entry at 4:40pm) |
📍 Location | No. 218 Anren Street, Huangpu District |
💰 Cost | ¥30 (approx. RM19); higher during festivals |
📅 Best time to visit:
Weekday mornings to avoid crowds
📍 How to get there:
Take Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station (Exit 1), then walk 5 minutes
💰 Cost:
¥30; higher during Chinese New Year and peak periods
💡 Pro Tips
- Arrive early for peaceful photos and less foot traffic 📷
- Don’t miss the Exquisite Jade Rock near the center — it’s a famous cultural relic 🪨
- Visit in spring for blooming magnolias and peach blossoms 🌸
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Ideal for families, couples, and seniors. Most paths are flat, though a few rock gardens have steps — wear comfy shoes!
🌿 Find Calm in Gongqing Forest Park
From the moment I stepped into Gongqing Forest Park, I felt like I had escaped the city’s steel and noise. Tall pine trees lined the walking paths, their soft needles cushioning my steps and filling the air with that fresh, woody scent 🌲. Birds chirped from hidden branches, and the distant laughter of families echoed across the park’s open meadows. I wandered past peaceful lakes with pedal boats gently gliding across the surface, and stumbled upon a bamboo grove where everything felt hushed and serene. It was the kind of place where you could truly breathe—just trees, sky, and stillness. I found a quiet spot beneath a willow tree to sit with a book, completely at ease.
📖 About Gongqing Forest Park
Gongqing Forest Park is one of the largest green spaces in Shanghai, known for its expansive woodlands, peaceful atmosphere, and family-friendly outdoor activities.
Name of the Place | Gongqing Forest Park (共青森林公園) |
✅ Opening hours | 6:00am – 5:00pm |
📍 Location | Yangpu District, northeast Shanghai |
💰 Cost | ¥15 (approx. RM10) |
📅 Best time to visit:
Spring or autumn mornings for cool, quiet air
📍 How to get there:
Take Metro Line 8 to Shiguang Road Station, then walk or take a short cab ride
💰 Cost:
¥15 entrance; small fees for activities like pedal boats or rope courses
💡 Pro Tips
- Bring a picnic and relax in the open grassy fields 🧺
- Rent a pedal boat for a relaxing glide on the lake 🚣
- The northern area is quieter—great for reading or a mid-day nap under the trees 😴
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Absolutely—plenty of space for kids to run around, stroller-friendly paths, and shaded areas for seniors. Great for couples too.
Top Things To do In Shanghai
🎉 Dance & Dine Along Hengshan Road
Hengshan Road after dark is pure magic — a blend of buzzing bars, mellow music, and that classy European touch. 🌃 As I walked beneath the leafy plane trees, fairy lights twinkled above restored colonial villas, now home to upscale lounges, cocktail bars, and jazz cafés. The scent of grilled skewers mixed with perfumes from nearby diners dressed to impress. I stopped at a sidewalk bar for a smoky old fashioned 🍸, while soft live jazz drifted out of an open window. The vibe felt upscale but chill — a welcome contrast from louder party zones. For a Malaysian who loves chill-but-stylish hangouts, this was my kind of nightlife in Shanghai.
📖 About Hengshan Road
Hengshan Road is one of the most elegant entertainment streets in Shanghai, popular with locals, expats, and international visitors. It’s known for its sophisticated nightlife, art deco charm, and laid-back energy.
Name of the Place | Hengshan Road (衡山路) |
✅ Opening hours | Most venues open 5:00pm – 2:00am |
📍 Location | Xuhui District, near Xujiahui |
💰 Cost | Free to explore; drinks and meals vary by venue |
📅 Best time to visit:
Weekends after 7pm
📍 How to get there:
Take Metro Line 1 to Hengshan Road Station (Exit 4)
💰 Cost:
Free to explore; drinks and meals vary by venue
💡 Pro Tips
- Try “The Shelter” for underground music vibes 🎶
- For a quieter start, come early and enjoy al fresco dining 🥂
- Walk towards Wukang Road if you love photogenic, quieter spots 📸
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Better for adults and couples. Early evenings are fine for relaxed dinners, but late nights get lively and loud.
🌃 Feel the Pulse of Shanghai on Wukang Road
Wukang Road after dark is effortlessly cool. ✨ The streetlights cast a golden glow over sycamore-lined sidewalks, and there’s this low hum of laughter and music floating from stylish cafes, wine bars, and hidden speakeasies tucked behind old French-style facades. I strolled past sleek cocktail lounges, then ducked into a cozy rooftop bar with skyline views and jazz playing softly in the background. 🍷🎶 The scent of truffle fries from a nearby bistro mingled with the sweetness of fresh crepes, and the whole vibe felt intimate yet lively. What I loved most was how chill it felt—more slow-sip than shot-glass, perfect for a night out where conversation flows as easily as the drinks.
📖 About Wukang Road
Wukang Road is one of the most romantic and artistic entertainment streets in Shanghai, known for its heritage architecture, upscale wine bars, and creative crowd. It’s the perfect spot for couples or anyone looking for a sophisticated yet laid-back evening.
Name of the Place | Wukang Road (武康路) |
✅ Opening hours | Most venues open 5:00pm – 2:00am |
📍 Location | Xuhui District, near the Former French Concession |
💰 Cost | Free to explore; drinks and meals vary by venue |
📅 Best time to visit:
Weekends after 7pm
📍 How to get there:
Take Metro Line 10 or 11 to Jiaotong University Station, walk 10 mins
💰 Cost:
Free to explore; drinks and meals vary by venue
💡 Pro Tips
- Try “UNDEF/NE” for craft cocktails in a minimalist setting 🍸
- Bring a camera—Wukang Mansion is a favorite photo spot, especially at night 📷
- For a quieter vibe, go on weekdays or arrive early for golden hour
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Better for adults and couples. It’s relaxed and elegant, but not suited for young kids or strollers in the evening.
Recommended Hotels In Shanghai
🛍️ Shop, Snack & Soak It All In at Nanjing Road
Walking down Nanjing Road felt like stepping into a high-energy festival of lights, sounds, and endless shopping possibilities. ✨ The street pulsed with life — LED signs flashed above mega malls, pop music played from store speakers, and the scent of roasted chestnuts, bubble tea, and fried dumplings 🍢 floated through the air. Shoppers brushed past, arms filled with bags from both international fashion brands and quirky local stores. I ducked into a side alley and found a small shop selling retro Shanghai posters and embroidered fans — perfect souvenirs with a story. Whether you're into skincare, street food, or streetwear, this is shopping in Shanghai at its most iconic.
📖 About Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is one of the best shopping streets in Shanghai, famous for its blend of global brands, local specialties, and electric atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for tourists and locals alike.
Name of the Place | Nanjing Road (南京路) |
✅ Opening hours | Most shops open 10:00am – 10:00pm |
📍 Location | Huangpu District, between People's Square & The Bund |
💰 Cost | Free to explore; shopping and food prices vary |
📅 Best time to visit:
Weekend afternoons or weekday evenings
📍 How to get there:
Take Metro Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station
💰 Cost:
Free to explore; shopping and food prices vary
💡 Pro Tips
- Try the street-side shēngjiān bāo (pan-fried soup dumplings) — crunchy and juicy! 🥟
- Head to the pedestrian-only zone for easy strolling and photo ops 📸
- Visit after dark when the neon lights make everything feel extra vibrant 🌃
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes! Wide pedestrian walkways make it stroller-friendly, and the mix of snacks, toy shops, and people-watching is great for kids and seniors.
🛍️ Bargain & Browse at Qipu Road Market
Qipu Road Market was a full-on sensory adventure—from the second I stepped in, I was surrounded by a whirlwind of colors, chatter, and fashion chaos. Neon signs blinked overhead as sellers called out their deals in rapid-fire Mandarin. I squeezed past racks of denim jackets, piles of graphic tees, and glittery handbags, the scent of grilled skewers and bubble tea wafting in from nearby food stalls. 🎽👜🧋 I found myself bargaining for a cute hoodie, laughing with the vendor as we negotiated in a mix of hand gestures and phone calculator screens. It’s not posh, but it’s packed with energy and hidden gems—especially if you're up for the hunt.
📖 About Qipu Road Market
Qipu Road is one of the most iconic local shopping areas in Shanghai, known for its massive variety of fashion, accessories, and street-style finds at wholesale prices. It’s especially popular with younger shoppers and deal-seekers.
Name of the Place | Qipu Road Clothing Market (七浦路服裝市場) |
✅ Opening hours | 9:00am – 6:00pm |
📍 Location | Qipu Road, Jing’an District |
💰 Cost | Free to explore; shopping and food prices vary |
📅 Best time to visit:
Weekday mornings to avoid heavy crowds
📍 How to get there:
Take Metro Line 8 or 12 to Qufu Road Station, walk 10 minutes
💰 Cost:
Free to explore; shopping and food prices vary
💡 Pro Tips
- Haggle politely—most vendors expect it and you’ll score better deals 💬
- Bring cash or Alipay/WeChat Pay—some stalls don’t take cards 💵
- Head to the upper floors for quieter shops and less touristy finds 🔍
👨👩👧👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Not ideal for strollers or small kids due to crowds and narrow aisles, but teens and fashion-forward families will enjoy the treasure hunt.
Final Tips on Where to Go in Shanghai
Shanghai really left its mark on me—not just for the big sights like The Bund or the shopping madness of Nanjing Road, but for the little surprises tucked in each neighborhood. A quiet teahouse in an alley, a street musician near the metro, or that random dumpling shop I’ll dream about for weeks. Sure, it can get crowded (especially on weekends!) and the metro lines feel like a maze at first—but once you get the hang of it, every corner reveals something new and unforgettable. The city’s energy is electric, from the art deco charm of the French Concession to the neon glow of Pudong. If you’re already browsing flights to Shanghai, do it. And definitely check out some great hotels in Shanghai too—there’s something for every budget and vibe. Now’s a great time to plan—there are amazing discounts on flights and hotels in Shanghai right now. Hope you love it as much as I did—safe travels, my friend! ✈️💙
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FAQs: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Shanghai
What’s the best way to get around Shanghai?
If you're visiting Shanghai, public transport is by far the best way to get around. The metro is cheap, efficient, and well-connected, covering almost every major attraction. I highly recommend getting a Shanghai Public Transport Card (SPTC)—it works for the metro, buses, and even ferries. 🚕 Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Taxis are affordable, but many drivers don’t speak English—use Didi (China’s Uber) for a smoother experience. 🚶♂️ Walking: If you’re exploring areas like The Bund or the French Concession, walking is the best way to soak in the city’s vibe.How much should I budget per day in Shanghai?
💰 Budget Traveler: ¥250-400 (RM200-300) per day 💎 Mid-Range Traveler: ¥600-1000 (RM400-600) per day 🥂 Luxury Traveler: ¥1500+ (RM1000+) per dayIs Shanghai safe for tourists?
Yes! Shanghai is one of the safest cities in China, even for solo travelers. However, here are a few safety tips: ✅ Watch out for scams—Avoid tea house scams or overly friendly strangers inviting you to an overpriced café. ✅ Beware of traffic—Scooters and bikes don’t always follow the rules, so look both ways before crossing streets. ✅ Pickpockets are rare, but always stay cautious in crowded places like Nanjing Road and metro stations.What’s the best neighborhood to stay in?
🏙️ For First-Time Visitors: Stay near People’s Square or The Bund—you’ll be close to top attractions and metro lines. 🎉 For Nightlife & Trendy Vibes: Jing’an and Xintiandi are packed with stylish bars, cocktail lounges, and high-end restaurants. 🎭 For Culture & Local Life: The French Concession is perfect for charming streets, boutique hotels, and historic vibes. 💰 For Budget Travelers: Zhabei or Pudong offer cheaper accommodations but still have good metro access.What’s the best local food to try in Shanghai?
🥟 Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings) – Juicy, flavorful, and a must-try at Jia Jia Tang Bao or Din Tai Fung. 🍜 Scallion Oil Noodles (葱油拌面) – A simple but iconic dish; try it at A Niang Mian Guan. 🦆 Shanghai-style Braised Pork (红烧肉) – Rich, sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth good. 🥢 Sheng Jian Bao (Pan-fried Soup Dumplings) – A crispier, pan-fried version of xiaolongbao—try Yang’s Dumplings! 🐟 Squirrel-shaped Mandarin Fish (松鼠桂鱼) – A local specialty often found in high-end restaurants.What’s a common tourist mistake in Shanghai?
🚇 Avoid rush hour on the metro (8-10 AM & 5-7 PM)—it gets packed! 🛍️ Haggling in malls? Nope. Unlike other cities, Shanghai’s shopping malls have fixed prices—save your bargaining skills for fake markets. 🚫 Forgetting to bring VPN access—If you rely on Google, Facebook, or Instagram, download a VPN before arriving!What’s the best time to visit Shanghai for good weather & fewer crowds?
If you want pleasant weather and fewer crowds, March-May and September-November are ideal. 🌸 Spring (March-May): Mild temps, blooming cherry blossoms, and outdoor festivals. 🍂 Autumn (Sept-Nov): Comfortable temperatures and golden foliage in parks. 🚫 Avoid: Chinese New Year (January/February) and Golden Week (October 1-7)—Shanghai gets super crowded, and prices skyrocket!Do I need cash, or can I use a credit card everywhere?
Shanghai is cashless-first, meaning most places prefer mobile payments like Alipay & WeChat Pay. However, if you’re a tourist without a Chinese bank account: ✅ Most hotels, malls, and high-end restaurants accept credit cards (Visa/MasterCard). ❌ Street food stalls, small shops, and taxis may only accept mobile payments or cash. 💰 Tip: Always carry at least ¥200 ($30) in cash for emergencies.Is tipping expected in Shanghai?
Nope! Tipping isn’t common in China, and most restaurants and services don’t expect it. 🚕 Taxis & Ride-hailing: No tipping needed. 🍽️ Restaurants: No tipping, unless you're in a high-end Western-style restaurant. 🏨 Hotels: Bellboys at luxury hotels might accept a small tip (~¥10-20), but it’s not required.What are the best free things to do in Shanghai?
Good news—you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy Shanghai! Here are my top free experiences: 🌆 Walk along The Bund – Stunning skyline views, especially at night! 🌳 Explore Fuxing Park & Century Park – Great for people-watching and picnics. 🎭 Visit Jing’an Temple (courtyard is free!) – While the inside requires a small fee, the outer courtyard is beautiful and free to visit. 🛍️ Window-shop in Tianzifang & Xintiandi – These trendy districts are perfect for photography. 🎨 Check out M50 Art District – A hidden gem full of free galleries showcasing contemporary Chinese art.