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Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum (Ohel Moshe Synagogue)
The Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum (Shanghai Youtai Nanmin Jinianguan) is housed within the restored Ohel Moshe Synagogue, which played a key role in the lives of the 20,000 European Jewish refugees who settled in the city during World War II. The museum highlights their story through photos, films, documents, and personal items.
The Basics
The Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum includes the Ohel Moshe Synagogue, a permanent exhibition hall, a rotating exhibition hall, and a courtyard. Don’t miss the 111-foot-long (34-meter-long) copper Memorial Wall in the courtyard inscribed with the names of 13,732 Jews who found refuge in Shanghai during World War II.
Explore the museum on your own or join a guided tour that includes other key sites in Shanghai’s Jewish Quarter. Some tours include attractions elsewhere in and around Shanghai.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in World War II and Jewish culture.
- Allow yourself two hours to fully appreciate all the exhibits.
- Visitors can purchase a combo ticket including a cup of coffee from the historical White Horse Inn across the street.
How to Get There
The Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum is located at 62 Changyang Road, near Zhoushan Road. To get there by public transit, take the metro, Line 12, to Tilangqiao (Exit 2) and walk northeast for 10 minutes. You can also take City Sightseeing Bus, Line 5, to Shanghai Youtai Nanmin Jinianguan, or bus 134 or 875 to Haiman Lu Changyang Lu.
When to Get There
Not among Shanghai’s blockbuster sights, the Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum is rarely crowded, so it’s a good bet when other attractions are busiest. If you’re interested in a guided tour, given by volunteers on occasion, be sure to check ahead for timing and availability. The museum is open daily from 9am to 5pm.
The Ohel Moshe Synagogue and the White Horse Inn
Established in 1927, the Ohel Moshe Synagogue played a prominent role in Shanghai’s Jewish community until it was confiscated in 1949 after the communist takeover of China. In 2007, the Hongkou District government restored the synagogue and reopened it as a museum. Across the street from the synagogue, the White Horse Café had been a popular gathering place for Jewish refugees. Demolished in 2009, the café was rebuilt in 2015 and renamed the White Horse Inn.
Address: 62 Changyang Road, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 38
Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall
Located within People’s Square, the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall may not sound like something a tourist would be interested in, but it’s actually one of the city’s best museums. Opened in 2000, the exhibition space within the modern, fives-story building showcases Shanghai’s development from ancient times well into the future.
The museum’s crowning jewel is a massive scale model of the city as it might look come 2020 (with the inclusion of buildings green-lighted for construction) and a wraparound 3D theater that gives visitors a glimpse into Future Shanghai. The museum space also features art and design exhibitions by Chinese and international artists.
To fully appreciate your time in Shanghai, kick off your time with a morning or afternoon at the museum. Be sure to pick up an English audio guide -- well worth the extra fee -- to help you understand each of the exhibits.
The museum’s crowning jewel is a massive scale model of the city as it might look come 2020 (with the inclusion of buildings green-lighted for construction) and a wraparound 3D theater that gives visitors a glimpse into Future Shanghai. The museum space also features art and design exhibitions by Chinese and international artists.
To fully appreciate your time in Shanghai, kick off your time with a morning or afternoon at the museum. Be sure to pick up an English audio guide -- well worth the extra fee -- to help you understand each of the exhibits.
Practical Info:
Routes to take by transit: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8 (at People's Square Station).
Address: No. 100 Renmin Ave, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
Hours: Tue-Thu: 9am - 5pm; Fri-Sun 9am - 6pm. Closed Mondays, except National Holidays.
Admission: Adult: 30 RMB; Disabled: 24 RMB; Student: 15 RMB
From $ 34
Shanghai Museum (Shanghai Bowuguan)
Considered one of the finest museums in China, the Shanghai Museum has a vast collection of Chinese artifacts from the Neolithic period onward. The museum’s 11 state-of-the-art galleries display ancient bronze, jade, and ceramics; painting, calligraphy, and ancient sculptures; and Ming and Qing dynasty furniture.
The Basics
The collections of the Shanghai Museum are so extensive, visitors would do well to prioritize the sections of interest to them. One highlight is the impressive ancient bronze gallery, featuring the world’s largest collection of ancient Chinese bronze artifacts. Other top galleries include the ancient sculpture gallery, the painting gallery, and the jade gallery.
Admission to the museum is free, but tickets are required; pick up a free ticket on the day of your visit. Many half-day and full-day Shanghai tours include a visit to the museum along with other city highlights such as Yuyuan Garden, the Bund, and Jade Buddha Temple. Some tours include a cruise on the Huangpu River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Shanghai Museum is a must for those interested in Chinese history or art.
- Audio guides in different languages are available for a fee.
- Luggage can be stored at the museum with a security deposit.
- The Shanghai Museum is fully wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available to use free of charge.
- There are two restaurants and a teahouse on-site.
How to Get There
The Shanghai Museum is located at 201 Renmin Avenue, People’s Square. To get there by public transit, take metro line 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square Station (Exit 1) and walk south. Alternatively, take the City Sightseeing Bus, line 1 or 2, and get off at the museum.
When to Get There
With over 120,000 items, the museum has a lot to see, and visitors can easily spend half a day or more trying to cover it all. Arrive early to secure one of the 8,000 tickets issued daily and visit the galleries in order of your personal interest. Weekday visits are more peaceful, and the museum is closed Monday.
Shanghai Museum’s Unusual Design
The design of the museum is a visual representation of the Chinese concept of a round heaven and a square earth—a round structure on a square base, similar to the design of many ancient buildings. It also reflects the shape of an ancient bronze cooking pot known as a ding, many examples of which are on display in the ancient bronze gallery.
Address: People's Square, Shanghai, China
Admission: Free. Some special exhibitions may be ¥20
From $ 31
Shichahai
Shichahai is a scenic area in the northwest of Beijing that’s home to three lakes – Qinghai, Houhai, and Xihai. Dating back to the Jin Dynasty, Shichahai was once an important commercial district but is now an area for recreation. The government in Beijing declared it a Historical and Cultural Scenic District in 1992.
Shichahai literally means ‘Ten Temple Lake’, and there are indeed ten famous Taoist and Buddhist temples in the area. There are also a number of places of historic interest and remnants of old-style royal mansions, including the Prince Gong Mansion and the Prince Chun Mansion. A rickshaw ride through Shichahai’s winding narrow laneways (known as hutongs) is a popular way to see the cultural attractions of the area.
Despite its historical backdrop, these days Shichahai is more known for its lively bars and restaurants, plus its vibrant lakeside atmosphere, where locals and visitors play sports and games in the wide open spaces.
Practical Info
As it’s close to the Bell and Drum Towers and the north gate of Beihai Park, visitors can take buses from central Beijing in this direction and spend some time in Shichahai from here.
Address: Beijing, China
From $ 45
Sheung Wan
Situated in the northwest of Hong Kong Island, the exotic and eclectic neighbourhood of Sheung Wan is an atmospheric place to spend a few hours. An interesting mix of traditional Chinese businesses and more modern shopping experiences, Sheung Wan is a busy (and at times chaotic) working-class district.
The historic Western Market sits within an Edwardian-style mall and is home to an array of handicraft outlets. To the east of here, antiques and curio shops huddle around Cat Street, while designer outlets and trendy restaurants line up along Gough Street.
There are plenty of dried fish shops along Wing Lok Street and Bonham Strand West, where you can buy seafood and other foodstuffs alongside the locals purchasing their weekly groceries. There are also a number of traditional Chinese medicine and herbs shops, particularly along Koh Shing Street.
Practical Info
Sheung Wan is served by the Sheung Wan Station on the MRT. Trams also run through Sheung Wan.
Address: Hong Kong, China
From $ 65
Shaolin Temple
Set at the base of Shaoshi Mountain, nine miles (15 kilometers) west of Dengfeng, lies the Shaolin Temple, famous not for its Buddhist history but for its martial arts. The original monastery was built in 495 during the Northern Wei Dynasty as a place for meditation.
According to temple legend, an Indian monk by the name of Bodhidharma came to the monastery and meditated in a cave for nine years, and as part of his practice, he developed a series of exercises mimicking animal movements that eventually became Shaolin kung-fu.
Today, the Shaolin Temple is a hotbed for martial arts enthusiasts from around the world who come here to study at the dozens of martial arts schools within the monastery. Visitors not interested in practicing kung-fu themselves can still tour the temple and watch a free martial arts show at the Shaolin Martial Arts training Center.
Practical Info
You can get to Shaolin Temple by catching a direct tour bus in Zhengzhou.
Address: Zhengzhou, Dengfeng, Henan 207, China
Hours: Daily 7am-5pm
From $ 97
Shanghai Maglev
Experience the world’s fastest commercial train: Shanghai Maglev. The train uses magnetic levitation to “float” along the tracks and can make the 19-mile (30 kilometer) journey between Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Longyang Road Station in Shanghai in just over seven minutes, reaching speeds of up to 268 miles per hour (431 kilometers per hour).
The Basics
The world’s third commercial magnetic levitation line, Shanghai Maglev train opened in 2003. Visitors can purchase single, round-trip, or VIP tickets, with same-day air passengers qualifying for discounts. For convenience, book a package with round-trip transfer from Longyang Road Station to your hotel. Some sightseeing tours include a Maglev train ride and stops at attractions such as Bund, Xintiandi, or Oriental Pearl Tower. Or, book a private tour that includes a ride on the Maglev.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Different trains travel at different speeds; consult the schedule for timing.
- Passengers should check in at least five minutes before scheduled departure.
- Train doors close one minute before the scheduled departure.
- Eating, drinking, and smoking are not permitted on the train.
- Maglev trains are wheelchair accessible; request staff assistance at either Pudong Airport or Longyang Road Station to access elevators and a ramp if necessary.
How to Get There
Flights from all over the world land at Shanghai Pudong International Airport. Catch the Maglev train from the airport directly. From Shanghai, the train runs from Longyang Station, which can be reached by metro Lines 2 and 7. A number of buses also stop at Longyang Road Station.
When to Get There
From Longyang Road Station, the first train departs at 6:45am and the last train departs at 9:40pm. From Pudong Airport, the first train departs at 7am while the last train departs at 9:40pm. Trains run at 15 to 20 minute intervals, depending on the time of day.
Maglev Museum
The Shanghai Maglev Transportation Science and Technology Museum is located at the bottom of Longyang Road Station. It features exhibits on the history, technology, and advantages of the train and technology behind it. With a Maglev train ticket, admission is free.
Address: No. 2100 Longyang Rd, Pudong, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 6
Shanghai Xin Tian Di
A vibrant mix of old and new, Shanghai Xin Tian Di is a fashionable and upscale area full of modern and trendy shops, galleries, cafes, restaurants, bars, and clubs, many housed within traditional Shikumen buildings that have been restored. It’s a place to see and be seen, and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
The Basics
Completed in 2002, Xin Tian Di (the name means “New Heaven and Earth”) covers about two city blocks. It’s one of Shanghai’s most popular entertainment and lifestyle destinations, and many tours feature a stop here. Take a guided walking, bike, or bus tour to explore the area, or pair it with other top attractions in Shanghai, such as City God Temple, Yuyuan Garden, or the Bund. Alternatively, some travelers opt to combine it with a nighttime Huangpu River cruise or an acrobatic show. For a more personalized experience, book a private or small-group tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Xin Tian Di is a must-visit for foodies, shoppers, and those with an interest in architecture.
- Visitors can find both Chinese and Western restaurants in the area.
- Many restaurants offer free WiFi to customers.
How to Get There
Xin Tian Di is located in central Shanghai, south of Huaihai Zhong Lu. Take the metro, line 10 or 13, and get off at Xintiandi Station (exit 6). Or take the City Sightseeing Bus, line 1, to Yida Huizhi Xintiandi, or bus 146 or 805 to Madang Road, Xingye Road.
When to Get There
Xin Tian Di can be visited at any time, though shops, restaurants, and other business will have different closing times. Those interested in the architecture should visit during the day. There’s a vibrant nightlife scene here, and it’s possible to eat, drink, and be merry into the wee hours.
Xin Tian Di’s Communist History
The inspiration for the architecture of Xin Tian Di came from the site where the Chinese Communist Party first met in 1921, in a gray building that sits in the middle of Xin Tian Di. This building is now the Museum of the First National Congress Hall of the Communist Party, and visitors can see a waxwork replica of that first meeting, along with an exhibition hall full of relics, documents, and photos.
Address: Shanghai, China
Admission: Free
From $ 31
Shek O Peak (Dragon's Back)
Considered one of the best urban hikes in Asia, Dragon’s Back runs along a ridge, resembling its namesake, in Shek O Country Park. It’s a great way to escape Hong Kong’s concrete jungle and see stunning views of Shek O beach, Tai Long Wan (or Big Wave Bay), Tai Tam Bay, Stanley Peninsula, and the South China Sea.
The Basics
Dragon’s Back is one of the most popular hikes in Hong Kong, with a difficulty level ranging from easy to moderately challenging. At 5 miles (8 kilometers) long, it forms the eighth and final stage of the Hong Kong Trail.
With straightforward access and a well-marked trail, Dragon’s Back is easy to navigate independently. Those who prefer to hike with company and who wish learn more about the trail and hiking in Hong Kong can go on a guided hike.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Stock up on supplies in Shau Kei Wan before starting the hike, as there are no ways to restock on the trail.
- A scenic spot overlooks Shek O beach to the east and Dragon’s Back to the northwest.
- Shek O Peak, at 932 feet (284 meters), is the highest point of the trail and a good spot to enjoy views of Shek O and Tai Long Wan.
- Many people choose to hike all the way to Big Wave Bay beach, but you can also catch a minibus for part of the last portion of the hike.
How to Get There
Take the Island line MTR to Shau Kei Wan Station. Take Exit A to Shau Kei Wan Bus Terminus and bus no. 9 to To Tei Wan entrance on Shek O Road. You can also take the Shek O minibus next to the bus terminus. Look for the well-marked trailhead next to To Tei Wan village.
When to Get There
Although it’s possible to hike the Dragon’s Back trail year-round, the Hong Kong summer heat and humidity can be overwhelming for some people. It’s best to start earlier in the morning before it gets too hot and crowded. This is a popular hike, especially on weekends.
Longer Hikes in Hong Kong
Those with more time looking to do a longer hike can choose additional portions, or the entirety, of the Hong Kong Trail, which is 31 miles (50 kilometers) long, from the peak to Big Wave Bay. Other trails to consider include the 62-mile (100-kilometer) MacLehose Trail, the 48-mile (78-kilometer) Wilson Trail, and the 43-mile (70-kilometer) Lantau Trail.
Address: Hong Kong, China
From $ 72
Shantadurga Temple
Surrounded by lush vegetation at the foothills of the village of Kavlem in the Ponda Taluka district of Goa, the Shantadurga Temple is dedicated to Shree Shantadurga, the goddess of peace. A small mud shrine of the goddess once sat at the site, which was then transformed into an elaborate temple in 1738, with further renovations in the 1960s.
According to Hindu mythology, the goddess is famous for playing mediator between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, taking Shiva by her left hand and Vishnu by her right to pacify the warring gods. This is why the idol of the goddess inside the Shantadurga Temple is flanked by statues of Shiva and Vishnu, and why she holds a serpent in each hand – to represent the gods.
Architecturally, the temple is a fusion of Indo-Portuguese styles. There is a main temple and three smaller temples for other deities built around it. The temple building features a series of pyramidal roofs with a dome.
Practical Info
The Shantadurga Temple is easily reached by road from Panaji, Goa’s state capital. All visitors must dress conservatively.
Address: Verem-Nerul Road, Panaji, Goa, India
From $ 44
Shankar's International Dolls Museum
Equal parts kitschy and cute, Shankar’s International Dolls Museum was founded by political cartoonist K. Shankar Pillai to house one of the largest collections of dolls anywhere on the planet. Shankar received a single doll as a gift from the Hungarian Ambassador during the early 1950s and quickly developed a fascination. He began collecting them on his frequent trips abroad until his collection numbered more than 500.
When the museum was opened in 1965, the collection had grown to about 1,000, and another 5,000 were gifted over the next two decades. Today the colorful museum, located within the Children’s Book Trust, displays more than 6,500 dolls from 85 different countries — everything from Spanish flamenco dancers to Japanese geishas. The India exhibit — a highlight of the museum — has 500 dolls dressed in traditional costumes from around India.
Practical Info
Access to Shankar’s International Dolls Museum is through a dedicated entrance of the Children’s Book Trust on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg.
Address: 4 Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi, India
Hours: Open Tues-Sun 10am-6pm
Admission: 17 rupees
From $ 18
Sharp Island
Sharp Island, the largest island within Hong Kong’s Kiu Tsui Country Park, measures only 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) long and a third of a mile (0.5 kilometers) wide. Visitors come to hike the half-mile (1-kilometer) Sharp Island Geo Trail, covered with volcanic rocks from various periods of volcanic activity, and to bask on the island’s two stunning beaches — Half Moon Bay and Kiu Tsui Beaches. At low tide a natural sand levee, or tombolo, allows visitors to walk from Kiu Tsui Beach to neighboring Kiu Tau. Both beaches offer facilities like campsites, changing rooms, showers and beachside barbecue areas.
Practical Info
Boats depart for Sharp Island from the Sai Kung Public Ferry Pier every half-hour throughout the day. The ride takes about 15 minutes.
Address: Hong Kong, China
From $ 33
Shanghai Tower
One of the tallest buildings in the world, the Shanghai Towe has a twisting silhouette that dominates the skyline. Standing 137 stories and 2,073 feet (632 meters) high, the building features some of the world’s fastest elevators, which race to a viewing platform 1,841 feet (561 meters) above the city. On a clear day, the views are spectacular.
The Basics
Shanghai Tower tours typically focus on the observation deck, which can be very popular; it’s well worth securing tickets in advance. Particularly at night, the panoramic views across Shanghai’s surrealist skyline are epic, making the Shanghai Tower observation deck a popular stop on private and custom Shanghai tours.
As there is only so long one can spend looking at the view, any Shanghai Tower observation deck visit is typically just one component of a more comprehensive exploration of the city. Tours that pair a historic water town with the hyper-modern tower offer a lovely sense of the region’s dualities.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Although enclosed, the Shanghai Tower Observation Deck features a lot of glass—acrophobes, this probably isn’t for you.
- Built at a cost of over $2 billion, the Shanghai Tower boasts more than 100 lifts.
- The Shanghai Tower is an eco-friendly building with 270 wind turbines and built-in rainwater- and wastewater-recycling systems.
How to Get There
A landmark that’s visible for miles around, the Shanghai Tower is hard to miss. To get there on public transit, take metro Line 2 to Lujiazui station and walk 15 minutes. You might also choose to cross the river from the Bund by ferry, or simply join a tour that provides transport to the Shanghai Tower and other key sights.
When to Get There
From the bubble-gum pink spaceship of the Oriental Pearl Tower to the glistening lights of river cruises, Shanghai’s skyline comes into its own at night. While the observation deck doesn’t stay open as late as some American tower viewing decks, going after sunset is hugely rewarding. Needless to say, look for a clear day for maximum viewing potential.
The Race to the Top
Construction on the Shanghai Tower began in 2008. After several false starts, it finally opened to the public in 2017. Designed by American architectural firm Gensler, the tower makes a 120-degree rotation to help minimize wind loads. When it opened, it became the world’s second tallest tower after Dubai’s Burj Khalifa and the highest building in China. A project underway in Shenzhen may take its crown in the next decade.
Address: 501 Yincheng Middle Rd, Shanghai, Eastern China, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 27
Shanghai Temple of the Town God (Chenghuang Miao)
The Temple of the Town God (Chenghuang Miao) is one of the main Taoist temples in Shanghai. Originally built during the Ming Dynasty, the temple has a rich history, which has survived its near destruction and renovation over the years. Still an active and lively temple, it’s a beautiful oasis within bustling Old Shanghai.
The Basics
The temple occupies more than 21,500 square feet (2,000 square meters) and includes nine halls. It is dedicated to three local deities, or city gods—General Huo Guang, General Chen Huacheng, and scholar Qin Yubo—although there are statues of other Taoist deities as well. The temple is popular with visitors as well as locals, who come here to pray for good fortune or other favors.
The Temple of the Town God is situated within a large pedestrian zone, along with Yuyuan Garden, Yuyuan Bazaar, and surrounding streets and markets. Many sightseeing tours stop here, along with other Shanghai highlights, such as the Bund, Nanjing Road, or Xintiandi. For a more customized experience, opt for a private guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The temple is a must-see for visitors who are interested in history, architecture, or religion.
- This is a place of worship, so visitors should be quiet and respectful.
- The lively marketplace just outside the temple grounds can be extremely crowded.
How to Get There
The temple is located near Yuyuan Garden, in the Huangpu district. If you’re traveling by metro, take Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station and walk about 10 minutes. You can also take bus 64 or 715 and get off at Fuxingdonglu Guangqilu, or take bus 66, 306, 929, 969, or 980 and get off at Henannanlu Fuyoulu.
When to Get There
The temple is open year-round. It can be very busy on the weekends; visit during the week for smaller crowds. The most festive times to visit are during festivals times, such as the Sanxun Festival, Lantern Festival, or Double-Nine Festival.
Chenghuang Miao Food Street
The area around the temple is well-known for its cuisine, with numerous restaurants and food stalls serving local delicacies. Some of the most famous purveyors include Nanxing Steamed Buns, Lu Bo Lang Restaurant, Shanghai De Xing Guan, and Songyue Vegetarian Restaurant.
Address: China
From $ 34
Shifen Waterfall
Shifen Waterfall is located in the Pingxi District of Taipei and is one of the most famous falls in Taiwan. At just 20 meters it’s not remarkably tall, but it is the widest waterfall in the country – it spans some 40 meters across – and is both incredibly powerful and majestically captivating. Torrents of water plunge into a deep pool, raising a shroud of mist that creates a dazzling rainbow effect on sunny days. The waterfall’s rocks slope in the opposite direction to the flow of the water in a cascade style similar to that of Niagara Falls, earning it the nickname, “Taiwan's Little Niagara.”
It is a scenic walk from Shifen railway station to the waterfall, with many choosing to extend the hike by alighting the train from Taipei at Sandiaoling and taking three or four hours to complete the Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail.
Practical Info
To reach Shifen Waterfall, take the train to Ruifeng from Taipei Main Station and then transfer to the Pingxi Line, alighting at Shifen. There’s a small entrance fee to see the waterfall and it’s advised to check that it’s open before setting off as there have been reports of recent closures.
Address: New Taipei City, Taiwan
Hours: Check that the waterfall is open before visiting
Admission: Small entrance fee
From $ 52
Shibuya
The area surrounding Shibuya Station—famous for its busy streets, flashing neon advertisements, trendy boutiques, and teeming malls—ranks among Tokyo’s most energetic neighborhoods. Shibuya Crossing, one of the world’s busiest pedestrian intersections, has become somewhat of a tourist attraction in its own right.
The Basics
No trip to Japan’s capital would be complete without some time spent in Shibuya, and just about every city sightseeing tour stops here. For a deeper dive into the neighborhood’s sensical experience, take a nighttime walking food tour of the district to sample local favorites like takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancake), and Kobe beef skewers. Alternatively, take a bit of Shibuya home with you by opting for a photo shoot at the famous crossing in a traditional kimono or samurai armor.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Shibuya is a must-see neighborhood for all first-time visitors to Tokyo.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes; there’s a lot to see and do in this neighborhood.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera—the colorful neon lights, eccentric fashion, and throngs of people make it quite photogenic.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to Shibuya is to ride the train to Shibuya Station. The famous crosswalk sits just in front of the station’s Hachiko Exit.
When to Get There
There’s always something going on in Shibuya, but the neighborhood is at its liveliest (and most photogenic) in the evenings, when the neon lights are flashing and local commuters are out en masse.
Attractions in Shibuya
Shibuya has more on offer than just excellent food and shopping. The neighborhood is home to the famous Meiji Shrine, as well other points of interest like the Toguri Museum of Art and the beloved Hachikō statue. During the spring months, the cherry blossoms of Yoyogi Park explode into beautiful bloom.
Address: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0046, Japan
Admission: Free
From $ 39
Shanghai Zoo (Shanghai Dongwu Yuan)
The Shanghai Zoo houses about 6,000 animals representing more than 600 species, some of which are uniquely native to China, such as the popular giant panda, golden monkey, blossom peacock and South China tiger. These animals are joined by various international neighbors, including giraffes, kangaroos, penguins and the African chimpanzee.
The sprawling zoo offers electric shuttles that whisk you from one exhibit to the next in minutes, allowing you to cover a lot of ground in a relatively short amount of time. The vast grounds are divided into five exhibition areas: Primates, Herbivores, Carnivores, Birds and Amphibians. With thousands of plants and trees, the zoo’s environmental landscape aims to simulate the animals’ natural environment as much as it can.
The Shanghai Zoo is particularly popular among families, and features a dedicated children's area with a petting zoo and pony rides. An information kiosk at the zoo’s entrance offers schedule details for animal shows and feeding times.
Practical Info:
The zoo is located 2831 Hongqiao Road in Shanghai. To reach the site by public transport, take subway line 10 to the Shanghai Zoo stop. It’s also served by a number of bus routes.
Did You Know? The site of the Shanghai Zoo was originally a golf course, meaning it is a huge open green space not far from the city center. It is estimated that there are upwards of 100,000 trees at the zoo.
Address: 2381 Hongqiao Road, Shanghai, Eastern China 200000, China
Hours: Mar–Oct 7am–5:30pm; Nov–Feb 7am–5pm
Admission: Adults 40 CNY, children 20 CNY
From $ 6
Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts
The regal white building that houses the Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts dates back to the early 1900s and its French Renaissance-inspired design is just part of what makes a visit to this cultural destination worthwhile.
Visitors who wander the well-kept galleries will find a vast collection of local artwork and artifacts that highlight the city’s history, development and design. Though the museum is relatively small compared to others in the city, travelers say the coin and bill collection and jade and bamboo carvings are some of the best around.
Practical Info
The museum is located at No. 79 Fenyang Road in Shanghai. It is stationed at the intersection of Fenyang and Taiyuan Roads. Entrance to the museum is free.
Address: 79 Fenyang Road, Shanghai Shi, China
From $ 50
Shidu Nature Park
Shidu Nature Park is situated in the southwest of China’s Fangshan District. Sprawled across 300 square-kilometers, this scenic area is ideal for a day trip for those who enjoy nature and the great outdoors. The Juma River snakes through Shidu and is punctuated with striking limestone karst formations, making it a photogenic spot from almost every vantage point.
Adventurous types will enjoy the various activities on offer here, including bungee jumping, rock climbing, and river rafting. You may also wish to stroll around and explore all the different paintings, inscriptions, and memorials within the park. Shidu spills over into villages, with the valley making way for farm animals and scenes of rural life. Be sure to explore places such as Cottage Scenic Spot, Monkey Mountain, Wang Jingxian Valley, and Bali Valley.
If you want the freedom to enjoy Shidu Nature Park at your leisure, book a self-guided private day tour from Beijing. This allows for the convenience of getting there and back in a private vehicle with your own driver, but also the flexibility to spend the day as you wish.
Practical Info
Shidu Nature Park is located around two hours from Beijing. If not arriving as part of a tour, you can reach it by bus or train.
Did You Know? Shidu means ‘Ten Crossings’. In ancient times, ferries were built at each of the 10 main turnings in the River Juna. The name is still in use despite the fact that modern bridges have since replaced the ferries.
Address: Shidu Zhen, Beijing, China
Hours: 8am-6pm
Admission: Cost of various attractions in park varies
From $ 46
Shanghai Old Town (Nanshi)
Nanshi is the collection of narrow streets and alleys once enclosed within the walls of old Shanghai. During the city’s period of foreign concessions, it was the main Chinese district, rarely entered by foreigners. Today, the neighborhood captures the essence of old China, complete with several temples, food vendors, and a crowded bazaar.
The Basics
Most visitors to the old city head for Old Street and Yuyuan Garden, a classical garden also known for its bazaar with antiques and tea shops. The streets and alleys radiating out from this center teem with restaurants, curiosity shops, street food vendors, and temples, including the worthwhile Temple of the Town God.
Many Shanghai tours include a stop in Shanghai Old Town, as well as the Bund and the Shanghai Museum. You might choose to explore Nanshi on a leisurely private walking tour, or combine a sightseeing tour that includes Nanshi with lunch and a river cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Shanghai Old Town is a must-see for first-time visitors, history buffs, and bargain hunters.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- If you’re visiting independently, give yourself two to four hours to explore the area.
How to Get There
Shanghai Old Town is located southwest of the Bund. The easiest way to get to the neighborhood is to take the subway, line 10 to Yuyuan Garden or line 8 to Dashijie.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Shanghai Old Town is on a weekday morning. Weekends tend to be crowded with tourists and shoppers, so plan to arrive early if you’re visiting on a Saturday or Sunday. Garden enthusiasts should aim to visit in early spring, when the trees are budding and the gardens are perhaps at their loveliest.
What to Eat in Nanshi
There are several famous Chinese foods associated with the Old Town area, most notably soup dumplings, or xiaolongbao. Be prepared to line up for this street food favorite. After getting your fill, spend some time sipping tea at Huxinting, one of China’s oldest and most famous tea houses, just outside Yuyuan Garden.
Address: China
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