5 ways to see a different side to Shanghai

By Lauren Reid
Published: Friday, December 8, 2017

When you think of Shanghai, you may think of the bright lights of its skyline, but dig a little deeper and you'll see there's so much more to be discovered. Here are five of our favourite ways to see a different side to Shanghai.

1. See the Bund – from above or below

Take a ride in a driverless carriage through the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel. It’s a convenient and speedy way to travel from one side of Shanghai to the other, under the Huangpu River. But it’s also a very scenic way to go, too, as the tunnel is filled with stunning light projections.

If you’d prefer to stay above ground, the government has recently upgraded the walking track alongside the river so you can enjoy the views. The goal is for the track to reach 42km long – enough for a marathon!

Train moving through Bund tunnel, Shanghai

2. Get a glimpse into the future – and the past

Head to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Centre and check out the scale model of Shanghai’s cityscape – including developments that haven’t even happened yet.

Or join in on some of the interactive games and multimedia exhibits, like a 360-degree virtual reality video of the metropolis – you’ll feel like you’re flying through the streets.

Nearby is Shanghai Museum, which has spectacular displays of Ancient Chinese art and cultural artefacts.

3. Dancing in the street

Before the 1940s Chinese Revolution, Shanghai was famous for its dancing scene – particularly ballroom dancing.

Now, you can visit one of the revived dance halls to quickstep back in time – or just visit a park to see locals practise their moves.

Early morning or late evening are the best times to catch some park dancing but if you want to join in, you’re best to head to the People’s Square at about 7pm.

People dancing in Fuxing Park, Shanghai.

4. Eat a ‘Portuguese’ tart

A creamy egg-based tart with caramelised topping might sound distinctly Portuguese but locals, expats and tourists alike will tell you that the best egg tart can be found at Lillian Cake.

This beloved bakery sells plenty of other treats too, but it’s the egg tarts that really shine. Try them early in your visit so you’ve got time to go back for seconds – or thirds or fourths.

5. Join the circus (or maybe just watch)

Shanghai is home to some of the best acrobatic troupes in the world, so don’t forget to leave time to catch a show.

The groups all have slightly different styles and specialities – from plate-spinning and balancing acts to performers being circled by motorbikes in a ‘cage of death’ – so do your research beforehand.

Bonus tip: Catch an AFL game

China is embracing AFL and our own Port Adelaide, so why not time your visit to coincide with the next game? Saturday 19 May is the date you’ll need to pop in the diary.