Best Shanghai One-Day Itinerary: Explore History and Modernity

Hi, I’m Alex Chen, a passionate Chinese traveler who loves independent travel. Exploring hidden corners of the world and sharing budget-friendly travel tips, especially in China, is my passion. This article will guide you through an exciting one-day journey in Shanghai. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking for a fresh perspective, this itinerary has something for you!

Recommended One-Day Itineraries

• Itinerary 1: Classic and Iconic Shanghai
  • Route: Wukang Mansion → Wukang Road → Jing’an Temple → Jin Mao Tower/Shanghai Tower/Shanghai World Financial Center → Yu Garden/City God Temple → Nanjing Road → The Bund
• Itinerary 2: Culture and Modern Contrasts
  • Route: Wukang Mansion → Wukang Road → Shanghai Museum (People’s Square) → Huanghe Road → Nanjing Road → Beijing East Road → Waibaidu Bridge → North Bund Dome → Lujiazui → The Bund → Yu Garden/City God Temple

Itinerary 1: Classic and Iconic Shanghai

• Route: Wukang Mansion → Wukang Road → Jing’an Temple → Jin Mao Tower/Shanghai Tower/Shanghai World Financial Center → Yu Garden/City God Temple → Nanjing Road → The Bund
• Ideal For:
  • Travelers who love architectural photography
  • Visitors with limited time who want to explore Shanghai’s cultural and modern highlights
  • Those fascinated by the blend of history and modernity

Wukang Mansion

Built in 1924, Wukang Mansion is a classic French-style building often referred to as a “photography hotspot” due to its unique ship-like design. This historic landmark has appeared in several movies and TV shows, attracting countless visitors.

• Ticket Information: Free entry
• Opening Hours: Open all day
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Walk approximately 5 minutes to the entrance of Wukang Road.

Wukang Road

Spanning 1.2 kilometers, Wukang Road exudes a rich historical and cultural atmosphere with its tree-lined streets and French-style architecture. Along the road, you’ll find notable residences of famous figures such as Ba Jin and Soong Ching-ling, making it perfect for strolling and photography.

• Ticket Information: Free entry
• Opening Hours: Open all day
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Walk or take a taxi to Jing’an Temple, about a 10-minute drive.

Jing’an Temple

Jing’an Temple, with a history of over 1,800 years, is one of Shanghai’s most renowned Buddhist temples. It beautifully blends traditional Buddhist culture with modern urban charm. Its iconic golden roof stands out among surrounding skyscrapers, making it a peaceful retreat.

• Ticket Information: RMB 50
• Opening Hours: Daily 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Take Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station, about a 20-minute ride.

Jin Mao Tower

Jin Mao Tower is a modern skyscraper standing at 420.5 meters. Its 88th-floor observation deck offers a 360-degree panoramic view of The Bund and Pudong, making it an excellent spot to experience the vibrancy of Shanghai.

• Ticket Information: Adults RMB 120, Children RMB 60
• Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last admission at 8:30 PM)
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Walk 5 minutes to Shanghai Tower.

Shanghai Tower

Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world, reaching 632 meters. Its 118th-floor observation deck provides unparalleled views of Shanghai. The tower is also home to one of the fastest elevators globally, making the ride a thrilling experience.

• Ticket Information: Adults RMB 180, Children RMB 90
• Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Last admission at 9:00 PM)
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Walk approximately 8 minutes to Shanghai World Financial Center.

Shanghai World Financial Center

Shanghai World Financial Center is renowned for its iconic “bottle opener” design, making it one of Shanghai’s most distinctive skyscrapers. While the 100th-floor skywalk observation deck is now closed, visitors can still enjoy its architectural beauty and take stunning photos of the building’s exterior.

• Ticket Information: Free
• Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Take Metro Line 10 to Yu Station, then walk approximately 10 minutes to Yu Garden.

Yu Garden

Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden built in the Ming Dynasty. It features intricate pavilions, rockeries, and ponds, reflecting the elegance of Jiangnan-style architecture. The surrounding Yu Bazaar and City God Temple offer a glimpse into Shanghai’s traditional culture and cuisine.

• Ticket Information: RMB 40 (Peak season), RMB 30 (Off-peak season)
• Opening Hours: Daily 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Walk about 10 minutes to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street.

Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s most bustling shopping street, stretching 5.5 kilometers. It is a paradise for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The street becomes even more vibrant at night with its dazzling neon lights.

• Ticket Information: Free
• Opening Hours: Open all day
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Walk 20 minutes or take a taxi to The Bund.

The Bund

The Bund is Shanghai’s most iconic landmark. The waterfront area along the Huangpu River features 20th-century European architecture on one side and modern skyscrapers on the other, symbolizing the city’s fusion of history and modernity. The Bund is particularly stunning at night with its illuminated skyline.

• Ticket Information: Free
• Opening Hours: Open all day
• End of Itinerary: From here, you can choose to return or continue exploring the city at your leisure.

Itinerary 2: Cultural and Scenic Shanghai

• Route: Wukang Mansion → Wukang Road → Shanghai Museum (People’s Square) → Huanghe Road → Nanjing Road → Beijing East Road → Waibaidu Bridge → North Bund Dome → Lujiazui → The Bund → Yu Garden/City God Temple
• Ideal For:
  • Visitors interested in history and culture
  • Photography enthusiasts who enjoy walking explorations
  • Travelers seeking authentic Shanghai street food and a glimpse of the city’s diversity

Wukang Mansion

Built in 1924, Wukang Mansion is a classic French-style building known for its ship-like appearance. This architectural gem carries Shanghai’s historical charm and has served as a filming location for numerous movies, making it a favorite among photography enthusiasts.

• Ticket Information: Free entry
• Opening Hours: Open all day
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Walk approximately 5 minutes to the entrance of Wukang Road.

Wukang Road

Wukang Road is a historic street stretching about 1.2 kilometers, adorned with plane trees and rich in cultural significance. It features numerous historical residences, including those of prominent figures like Ba Jin and Soong Ching-ling. The street offers a serene atmosphere, perfect for strolling and taking photos.

• Ticket Information: Free entry
• Opening Hours: Open all day
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Take a taxi or walk to Shanghai Museum at People’s Square, approximately 15 minutes by car.

Shanghai Museum

Shanghai Museum at People’s Square is a national museum specializing in ancient Chinese art. Its extensive collections include bronzeware, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings, offering visitors an in-depth understanding of Chinese history and culture. The building itself reflects the traditional concept of “round heaven and square earth.”

• Ticket Information: Free, but advance online reservations are required
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:00 PM, closed on Mondays)
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Walk about 10 minutes to Huanghe Road.

Huanghe Road

Huanghe Road is a foodie’s paradise, renowned for its authentic Shanghai snacks and traditional dishes. Visitors can enjoy delicacies like pan-fried buns (shengjian bao) and soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) at reasonable prices, making it an ideal spot to experience Shanghai’s culinary culture.

• Ticket Information: Free entry (Cost depends on personal dining choices)
• Opening Hours: Open all day (Hours vary by restaurant)
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Walk about 15 minutes to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street.

Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s most famous commercial street, spanning 5.5 kilometers. It’s a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, offering a blend of modern luxury and traditional Chinese goods. The vibrant neon lights at night enhance the lively atmosphere.

• Ticket Information: Free
• Opening Hours: Open all day
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Walk about 10 minutes to Beijing East Road.

Beijing East Road

Beijing East Road connects Nanjing Road and Waibaidu Bridge. This historic street showcases early 20th-century architecture, providing a glimpse into Shanghai’s past glory. Walking here feels like stepping back in time.

• Ticket Information: Free
• Opening Hours: Open all day
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Walk about 5 minutes to Waibaidu Bridge.

Waibaidu Bridge

Built in 1907, Waibaidu Bridge is the oldest surviving all-steel bridge in China. As one of Shanghai’s iconic landmarks, it offers stunning views of the Huangpu River and is a popular spot for photography.

• Ticket Information: Free
• Opening Hours: Open all day
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Walk about 10 minutes to North Bund Dome.

North Bund Dome

North Bund Dome is one of Shanghai’s newest landmarks, located along the riverside at the North Bund. Its spherical design and breathtaking night views make it a must-visit spot for photographers and those seeking a relaxing stroll.

• Ticket Information: Free
• Opening Hours: Open all day
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Walk or take the metro to Lujiazui, about 15 minutes.

Lujiazui

Lujiazui is Shanghai’s financial hub and a showcase of modern urban development, featuring landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and Shanghai Tower. The riverside promenade provides a stunning vantage point to view The Bund across the Huangpu River, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy the city’s skyline.

• Ticket Information: Free
• Opening Hours: Open all day
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Take a ferry across the Huangpu River or Metro Line 2 to East Nanjing Road Station, then walk approximately 10 minutes to The Bund.

The Bund

The Bund is Shanghai’s most iconic destination, featuring a blend of early 20th-century European architecture and modern skyscrapers across the river. At night, the area comes alive with dazzling lights, offering unparalleled views of the city’s skyline.

• Ticket Information: Free
• Opening Hours: Open all day
• How to Reach the Next Stop: Walk or take the metro to Yu Garden, about 15 minutes.

Yu Garden

Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden from the Ming Dynasty, featuring intricate pavilions, ponds, and rockeries. Nearby, the Yu Bazaar and City God Temple offer a taste of Shanghai’s traditional culture and cuisine.

• Ticket Information: RMB 40 (Peak season), RMB 30 (Off-peak season)
• Opening Hours: Daily 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• End of Itinerary: From here, you can choose to return or explore more of Shanghai at your own pace.