From legendary landmarks to prestigious shopping destinations, The Westbund Hotel’s concierge shares their favourite places to visit in Shanghai. For the definitive insider experience when visiting the Paris of the East, be inspired with these exceptional Shanghai highlights.
Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar
Pagodas, pavilions, ponds and pretty rockeries make Yuyuan Garden one of Shanghai’s most tranquil spots. Created 400 years ago, this alluring green space makes a wonderful urban retreat. When visiting, stop at Yuyuan Bazaar opposite to shop traditional handicrafts made by local artisans.
Long Museum West Bund
With a cluster of incredible galleries and museums, the West Bund is Shanghai’s arts epicentre. The Long Museum is one of the area’s highlights, showcasing a mesmerising collection of contemporary and classic works from the private archive of owners Liu Yiqian and his wife Wang Wei.
Oriental Pearl Tower
A cloud-piercing monument that dominates Shanghai’s skyline, the Oriental Pearl Tower is a must-visit when in the city. It looks its best at night when illuminated, as does Shanghai when viewed from the tower’s incredible observation deck, 259m in the air.
Plaza 66
The luxurious Plaza 66 offers an unparalleled shopping experience in Shanghai.
A glittering mall with wall-to-wall designer boutiques, here you can shop the new season’s collections at Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Dior among others. Call in at its VIC Lounge for private runways and personalised shopping events.
The Bund
Lined with stunning Art Deco and Neoclassical buildings, the Bund is Shanghai’s main promenade and a window to the city’s past and present. Visit at daybreak for a serene glimpse of Tai Chi-practising locals and enjoy the relative calm before the Bund gets busy.
Longhua Temple
Among Shanghai’s shimmering skyscrapers the city’s ancient ancestry is very much present. Longhua Temple is a beautiful example of its Buddhist heritage, with a striking tall pagoda and golden hallways containing exquisite treasures.
Tianzifang
To get acquainted with Shanghai’s arts and craft scene, Tianzifang is a stylish enclave home to trendy boutiques, bars and restaurants. It’s worthwhile to spend the afternoon wandering its alleyways and stumbling upon quaint art galleries and design studios.
Dong Liang
Discover delightful, up-and-coming local designers at concept store Dong Liang. Occupying a three-floor vintage villa, the distinguished boutique houses China’s finest new talent in the fields of fashion, art and interiors.
Jiashan Market
See Shanghai like a local at Jiashan Market. This gastronomic hotspot unites the city’s best artisanal producers on one Saturday every month. Weave your way around the stalls to sample freshly baked treats and craft drinks.
Qiao Bing Shan Fang
Get acquainted with the ancient Chinese ritual of tea drinking and purchase some excellent varieties at tea store, Qiao Bing Shan Fang. You’ll find exquisite types like oolong and white tea alongside handmade teaware, and you can even take a Cha Dao ceremony lesson.
Image Credits:
Asian fan © istock/Rawpixel
Chinese tea © istock/gaus-nataliya
Longhua temple © istock/gionnixxx
Pudong Shanghai © istock/VitalyEdush
Yuyuan Gardens istock/savola
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