Shanghai in June?! Your Sis's ULTIMATE Guide to Dodging ALL the Tourist Traps!

[Leticia Ritchie]

Hello everyone, sisters and brothers alike! Shanghai is about to embark upon its peak tourist season in June. I've recently returned from a trip, so allow me to share some valuable insights and tips:

• For you photography enthusiasts eager to capture city nightscapes:

  • If you aspire to capture the beauty of Shanghai's Bund at night, refrain from haste! The lights will remain illuminated until eleven o'clock at night, providing you with ample time.
    • Mini Tip: Shanghai Bund is a famous riverside viewing area, offering spectacular views of the myriad of towers over on the opposite shore, known as Lujiazui.
  • If you wish to avoid shooting amid congested crowds, why not head north from Shanghai’s Bund towards Bund18 or simply find North Bund?
    • The crowds are significantly less and scenery just as mesmerizing!
  • Both the Bund and Lujiazui (located across the river from the Bund) and Jing’an Temple (an attractive temple located in the heart of the city) offer more beautiful photo shots at night!
    • Small Notice here: Jing'an Temple illuminates only on Fridays and Saturdays after six PM. As for Shanghai’s Bund and Lujiazui, lights up almost around six PM.

• Travel and Accommodation Tips:

  • Whether you’re arriving at Shanghai Railway Station or opting for Hongqiao Railway station (which also has a nearby airport!), taking the metro into the heart of the city will make things much easier for you.
    • In my opinion, Hongqiao station is more convenient. Connecting directly to hotspots like Xintiandi (a trendy bustling shopping and dining district) or Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (one of Shanghai’s commercial landmarks) by subway.
  • Choose to stay in areas along Huaihai Zhong Lu.
    • This stretch serves as a bustling district within Puxi (the old portion of Shanghai located west of the Huangpu river). From these locations, it’s only a few kilometers to most attractions within the city.

• How to make the best out of Shanghai?

  • In addition to all the required photo stops like Bund, it’s highly advised to allocate a whole day towards doing a city walk!
    • Start by relaxing with a lazy morning sleep, enjoy brunch leisurely in the morning. Take some time to enjoy coffee in the afternoon.
    • Start your urban walk from Huaihai Zhong Lu as slowly walking through this area allows you to fully experience the historical “Platanus Avenue” zone (this area retains distinct traces of French colonial architecture).
    • Areas like Wukang Road, Huyuan Road, Yanqing Road, and Anfu Road – each street has its unique charm and style, so much to explore!
  • Sister who enjoys Japan’s anime, manga, games culture will be thrilled!
    • Shanghai offers plenty in terms of resources! Both Nanjing Road East (yes, the same bustling shopping street!) and Jing’an Joy City (a grand shopping mall) have diverse offerings.
    • Should your preference be purchasing fan goods, the possibilities here are almost endless.
  • If you find yourself with more time to spare, opt for a trip to Xuhui Riverside or World Expo Riverside Park.
    • Perfect spots for a picnic, these locations serve as refuges amidst the fast-paced life of Shanghai. Ideal location for personal peace, contemplation, spending quality time talking with friends or playing with them.

• Food and Drink Notes:

  • You have the choice of indulging or spending modestly in Shanghai.
  • Some local delicacies worth trying include Butter Sweets (a type of dessert), Pork Ribs with Rice Cake (savory snacks), Fresh Meat Mooncakes (characteristic Shanghai treats with meat fillings). These items aren’t expensive but worth the taste test.
  • Shanghai-style noodle soups and pan-fried buns are budget-friendly options which are delicious and value-packed!

• Pay special attention! Travel reminder:

  • Temperature Difference: Shanghai can get hot during its summer days but might get chilly at night. The temperature difference between day and night can be significant.
    • Here’s what to do: take along a light jacket, ensuring you don’t catch a chill at night!

[Orville DuBuque]

Planning a 10-day trip with kids and elderly in late May/early June. What's the weather like then, and will it be crowded?

[Daisy Hermiston]

I just got back. The weather there is hot right now, but very comfortable.

[Florence Stark]

Excuse me, where was picture four taken?

[Lorraine Rau]

Same question! It's so beautiful.

[Jose Beahan]

I'm a college student coming to Shanghai for the May Day holiday. Are there any affordable youth hostels? Do I need to book in advance? I'm planning to arrive at Shanghai Railway Station.

[Jermaine Satterfield]

How many days are you planning to stay?

[Shawna Keebler-Satterfield]

Where was picture seven taken?

[Jesse Paucek]

Where was the ninth picture taken? It's so beautiful!

[Lewis Larkin]

I didn't see this coffee shop when I went the other day. There's a mirror like this at the DQ entrance, though.

[Beatrice Thiel]

Could everyone recommend some clean, hygienic, conveniently located, and relatively affordable hotels?

[Kathryn Hermiston]

Such a detailed guide!

[Morris Schneider]

The last picture is stunning!

[Faye O'Conner]

Keep it up!

[Melinda Wilderman]

Do you recommend going on the weekend?