Tips & Answers · Community post
What’s one “touristy” thing in Shanghai that’s actually worth doing, and one that you’d skip?
MarkedShared Aug 21, 2026I feel like popular attractions always get labelled as tourist traps, but some of them must be popular for a reason.
If a friend was visiting Shanghai for the first time, what is one touristy thing you would still recommend, and one you would tell them to skip?
Comments (1)
Totally agree with you. There are a couple of things you really have to check out. For one, the Huangpu River at night — it is so good. You really get a raw sense of modern China there, and the city light show is gorgeous.
Also, those old-style historic neighbourhoods. You do not even need a plan; just aimlessly walk around. If you spot one of those tiny, nice little coffee shops, duck inside for a coffee. Super chill and relaxing.
Skyscrapers do not impress me much. Same with ancient towns. For those, Shanghai cannot hold a candle to other Chinese cities. Even nearby Suzhou or Hangzhou blow Shanghai out of the water when it comes to ancient towns.