City scores
Practical info
Shanghai's Longhua Temple, with its 1,700-year history, offers a glimpse into the city's spiritual past, often overlooked in favor of more modern attractions. Located in the Xuhui District, this Buddhist temple complex is home to the Longhua Pagoda and hosts an annual temple fair each spring. For a culinary adventure, head to Wujiang Road Food Street, where you can sample xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and other local delicacies. This street is a haven for food lovers, offering an array of stalls and small eateries that specialize in Shanghainese cuisine. The M50 Art District, a former industrial area turned creative hub, showcases Shanghai's contemporary art scene. Wander through galleries housed in repurposed factories to discover works by emerging local artists, making it a unique cultural experience in the city.
Best time to visit
Late March through May — mild weather and cherry blossoms in full bloom, making outdoor exploration pleasant.
Month by month
Cold and damp with occasional snow; best for indoor activities.
Chinese New Year celebrations bring large-scale festivities to the city.
Cherry blossoms begin to appear, especially around Gucun Park.
Cherry blossoms peak; a great time for visiting parks and gardens.
Warm weather, perfect for exploring outdoor sites like Yuyuan Garden.
Early summer heat begins; visit air-conditioned museums during peak heat.
Hot and humid; ideal for evening river cruises to cool off.
Peak summer heat; typhoon season can bring sudden rain.
Cooling down; Mid-Autumn Festival offers cultural events.
Pleasant temperatures; National Day holiday increases domestic travel.
Mild temperatures; good for exploring outdoor markets and streets.
Cool and festive with Christmas markets popping up around the city.
Highlights
- ✦Longhua Temple — 1,700-year-old temple with significant cultural and historical importance.
- ✦Wujiang Road Food Street — Famous for xiaolongbao and other authentic Shanghainese street food.
- ✦M50 Art District — Contemporary art galleries set in repurposed industrial buildings.
- ✦The Bund — Iconic waterfront area with stunning colonial architecture and views of Pudong skyline.
- ✦Shanghai Museum — Renowned for its comprehensive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts.
Hidden gems
Practical tips
- ·Taxis are affordable, but avoid taking them during peak hours (7-9am, 5-7pm) due to heavy traffic.
- ·Use Alipay or WeChat Pay for most purchases, as many places do not accept international credit cards.
- ·Visit popular attractions early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds.
- ·Huangpu River cruises are a great way to see the city skyline but book tickets in advance to secure a spot.
Budget estimate
¥600–900 CNY / day (mid-range)
