Shanghai

Shanghai is one of Asia's most dynamic metropolises, buzzing with new architecture, world-class dining, shopping, arts and nightlife. Of the city's many unique traits, perhaps the most striking is its mix of architectural styles: traditional Chinese, European colonial and ultra-modern. From the dense shikumen, two- to three-story tenements protected by brick walls, to the stately, colonnaded financial buildings on the Bund, to the newest, glass and steel building designed by the world's "starchitects," Shanghai's skyline is one-of-a-kind. But be sure to take note of what Shanghai looks like today - with scores of new developments planned for the foreseeable future, you might not be able to recognize it on your next visit.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

1933 Shanghai

Visit 1933 Shanghai, a gigantic Art Deco-era slaughterhouse repurposed into a thriving cultural center and one of 2010’s hottest spots.

Arts and Crafts

Wander around the tiny arts and crafts enclave of Taikang Lu in the French Concession area. This neighborhood of labyrinthine alleyways has shikumen housing small craft stores, coffee shops, and art studios. Walk down Tianzi Fang, a narrow street with the most interesting establishments.

Colonial Shanghai

Take a guided walk along Shanghai's landmark waterfront, The Bund, a vestige of the city's capitalist days in the first half of the 20th century. As you walk past its 52 buildings over a one mile stretch, you will see the new China in the highly modern architecture of Pudong across the Huangpo River.

French Concession

With your expert guide, get a taste of Shanghai's commercial, Jazz-Age heyday while strolling the tree-shaded streets of the French Concession. Administered by the French from 1849 to 1943, much of the original colonial architecture is present and the wrought iron gates in front of the old houses are very reminiscent of Paris.

History Tour

Remote Lands’ friend, an urban planning expert-cum-Shanghai historian, can provide a highly specialized tour with fascinating insight into the city’s development over the past 150 years.

Jewish History of Shanghai

With Remote Lands’ specialist expert guide, go on a private tour of into the little-known history of Jews in Shanghai. Drive to Hongkou District, an area where Jewish refugees fleeing the Holocaust settled in the 1940s, as well as other important sites in the city. Jews have long been in Asia and the first Jews to arrive in Shanghai, among them the wealthy Sassoon family, came from Iraq via India in the 1840s. The Sassoons were instrumental in transforming this formerly sleepy town on the Huangpu River into the “Pearl of the Orient.”

Moganshan Lu Art Galleries

Peruse the galleries in the Moganshan Lu warehouse district, also known as M50, with an expert in contemporary Chinese art, who will give you a private tour of the top galleries and studios where you will meet renowned curators and artists.

Motorbike Sidecar Tour

For the adventurous, get a thrilling street-level view – literally – of today’s Shanghai from the vantage point of a speeding motorcycle sidecar tour.

Rock Bund Art Museum

With a contemporary art expert, explore the new Rock Bund Art Museum, which opened in May 2010 with an exhibit by the celebrated Cai Guo-Qiang and is the centerpiece of a vast urban renewal effort.

Shanghai Museum

Explore the Shanghai Museum, which contains one of the world’s finest collections of Chinese art and antiquities. The current museum, opened in 1995 although it was established in 1952, is designed in the shape of a Shang Dynasty bronze cooking vessel, symbolizing “a round heaven and a square earth.” The museum contains one of the world’s finest collections of Chinese art and antiquities, spanning 5,000 years from China's Neolithic Period to the Qing Dynasty.

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall

Experience the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. Housed in a striking, modern five-story building made of microlite glass, this is one of the world’s largest showcases of urban development and renewal. Its highlight is an vast scale model of urban Shanghai as it will look in 2020, providing visitors a first-hand glimpse of projects currently under construction.

Tai Chi

Take a private tai chi lesson in the Yu Gardens.

Yu Garden

Visit the Yu Gardens, the most celebrated classical Chinese gardens in Shanghai. The gardens capture the essence of southern Chinese landscape design from the Ming and Qing dynasties and are characterized by an exquisite layout, beautiful scenery, and artistic architecture.

China Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Shanghai Itineraries

Classic China

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,800
See Itinerary

China's Silk Road

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $14,600
See Itinerary

Pursue Your Passion: Celebrate the Arts in Five of Asia's Most Captivating Capitals

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $63,000
See Itinerary

Swing Across China: A Golfing Journey

Duration
18 days / 17 nights
Price Per Person
From $26,700
See Itinerary
Preferred Hotel

Amanyangyun

Shanghai, China

Past and present Chinese traditions alike come together against a backdrop of verdant camphor trees at the Amanyangyun Luxury Resort and Hotel in Shanghai. Transported to Shanghai from rural Fuzhou across more than 700 kilometers, the trees are a notable piece of China’s past that have been preserved alongside the newly refurbished villas of the resort in an ambitious feat of architectural and ecological conservation. Featuring a variety of suites, pavilions, and villas, Amanyangyun guests will note a sense of harmony between the structural, man-made environment and the natural ponds and gardens of the surrounding courtyards and forest. More than just a cultural experience, however, Amanyangyun stands out in its multifaceted approach to dining and wellness while also offering an array of event spaces and a 200-seat banquet hall. Amanyangyun in Shanghai is a perfect choice for guests looking to stimulate all their senses, as “yangyun,” meaning “nourishing cloud,” is a Chinese nod to expanding the mind’s “cloud” of knowledge through experience.

Preferred Hotel

Bulgari Shanghai

Shanghai, China

The highly anticipated Bulgari Shanghai aims to set a new standard of luxury in the Paris of the East. Situated in the visionary Suhe Creek development and a mere few minutes’ walk from the iconic Bund and Shanghai City Center, the hotel offers stunning panoramas of both the classical Bund and dramatic Pudong skyline. The hotel's 82 rooms and suites are located on the top eight floors of a 40-story high-rise. Exclusively designed by Antonio Citterio and Patricia Viel, the rooms and suites feature hand-crafted Italian furniture, rich natural fabrics, and sophisticated technology. No expense was spared to equip the hotel with top amenities such as a 2,000-square-meter SPA, extensive fitness center, and state-of-the-art meeting facilities. The hotel's restaurant features contemporary Italian cuisine and furnishes an extensive wine list with over 500 hand-picked labels as well as rare champagne vintages. The rooftop features a terrace with exceptional views and drinks. Guests can also enjoy a top-floor bar, cocktail, and pastry lounge with styles reminiscent of the Bulgari Hotel in Milan.

Preferred Hotel

Capella Shanghai

Shanghai, China

Catering to today's ultra-luxury travelers, Capella Shanghai is situated in the city’s Xuhui District cultural preservation zone, carrying on the rich tradition of the Jian Ye Li estate. Originally built in the 1930's by a French real estate company (Foncière et Immobiliere de Chine), the property features 22 rows of shikumen (stone gate) townhouse lanes, connecting over 200 two-story houses. Painstakingly restored by a team of experts, today the Capella Shanghai showcases Shaghainese traditional courtyard living with a touch of Parisian flair. The Jian Ye Li estate encompasses 55 shikumen villas and 40 residences. All villas are designed by Jaya International Design, each featuring luxurious king and twin beds, premium bath amenities by Acqua di Parma, personal assistant service, and other cutting edge technological gadgets. The expertly designed rooms marry French-accented furniture with Chinese artwork and accessories. Meals are served from the kitchen of renowned chef Pierre Gagnaire at le Comptoir, Capella Shanghai’s own restaurant providing elegant French cuisine. Additionally, guests enjoy round-the-clock in-room dining services, 24-hour gymnasium facilities, and a former water tower renovated to providebeautiful views of Shanghai's skyline.

Preferred Hotel

Fairmont Peace Hotel

Shanghai, China

Opened in 2010, The Fairmont Peace Hotel breathes new life into the Peace Hotel, a vestige of Shanghai’s pre-WWII glory days. This magnificently decorated building that miraculously survived the Cultural Revolution has sumptuously restored guestrooms and suites, including the famed Nine Nations Suites: the Indian, English, Chinese and American have been preserved from the original hotel, while the French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese and German suites have been redesigned in keeping with their original concepts. There are a few lounges to enjoy a cocktail or cigar: Cin Cin, Jasmine Lounge, which also serves afternoon tea, and the Jazz Bar for live music. There are three restaurants, including a casual French bistro, Victor’s, The Cathay Room for modern European cuisine and Dragon Phoenix for Cantonese. The fitness center has the latest in gym technology and also offers group classes. Willow Stream Spa offers massage and spa and beauty treatments based on ancient Chinese healing. The Fairmont is about one hour’s drive from Pudong International Airport.

Preferred Hotel

Park Hyatt Shanghai

Shanghai, China

Floating above the city on the 79th through 93rd floors of the Shanghai World Financial Center, the Park Hyatt is the highest hotel in the world, With 174 suites and rooms, the hotel’s intimate interior was designed to resemble a modern Chinese residence and is divided by gates, halls and chambers. The rooms, on the other hand, are some of the largest in Shanghai. There is a state-of-the-art fitness center, as well as the Water’s Edge Spa, which offers a full menu of skin and body treatments, as well Western, Thai and Chinese massage techniques. There are two bars and three restaurants; 100 Century Avenue, an integrated three-level fine-dining restaurant (serving Western, Chinese, and Japanese cuisine) is among the best restaurants in the city, and certainly has the best view. Other amenities include 24-hour butler service, a technology concierge, the full complement of business services, and wired and wireless high-speed Internet throughout the hotel. The Park Hyatt is a 40-minute drive from Pudong International Airport (PVG).

Preferred Hotel

The Middle House

Shanghai, China

Urban sophistication and class become one at The Middle House hotel and residences located in the heart of downtown Shanghai. Designed by renowned Italian architect Piero Lissoni, The Middle House offers 111 guest rooms and 102 serviced apartments — The Middle House Residences — all of which feature a luxurious, yet simple and elegant, style of décor. Further adding to the ambience is an exquisite collection of artistic pieces including porcelain and ceramic works, paintings, photography, and more, which serve to complement Lissoni’s overall design concept of “dignity and refinement”. The Middle House is also service-oriented, with available options for guests such as house vehicles and a hassle-free, paperless arrival and departure system. A multifaceted Spa and Wellness Center with an extensive retail space, juice bar, and 24-hour gym facilities, among other amenities, affords Middle House guests the ability to relax in a tranquil setting after busy days spent in the thick of the city’s hustle and bustle.

Preferred Hotel

The Peninsula Shanghai

Shanghai, China

Located on the Puxi side of the Huangpu River, the Peninsula Shanghai has fabulous views of the Bund, Pearl Oriental Tower and other historic and modern architecture along the Pudong side. Befitting its location in the Pearl of the Orient, the Peninsula’s style is modern while retaining a chic stylistic nod to the city’s Art Deco past. There are 235 guestrooms and suites, which all feature plasma TVs, Nespresso coffee machines, iPod docking stations and wifi access, lending a residential feel to the hotel. Four themed suites – the Astor, Majestic, Palace and Peninsula – set new standards in luxury living. For fine dining within the hotel, Yilong Court for Cantonese cuisine or Sir Elly’s for Western fare in a beautiful setting with views of the Bund are excellent options. The Compass Bar, Lobby and Salon de Ning are lovely places for a night cap. There is a Peninsula spa by ESPA, which offers the brand’s award-winning treatments in a neo-classical setting , indoor pool and fitness center with a DVD library such that gym goers can watch their favorite programs while using the cardio machines. The Peninsula is 40-60 minutes’ drive from the airport, depending on traffic.

Preferred Hotel

Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund

Shanghai, China

The Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund is a true Shanghai landmark, located on the city’s most famous street and offering amazing views of both old and new Shanghai. Its 260 state-of-the-art rooms and suites come with all the latest facilities, including luxury bedding, free internet, cable TV, CD/DVD player and coffee machine. Savor delicious, fresh cuisine from one of six diverse Shanghai restaurants and bars: sip on vintage champagne in the historic Long Bar and relax in plush leather chairs with single malt whiskies and fine Cuban cigars; nibble on modern New York inspired fare at Pelham’s; or indulge in a variety of gourmet Chinese dishes at Wei Jing Ge. The hotel’s fully equipped fitness center offers a fantastic selection of the finest cardiovascular and exercise equipment. Bathe in the hotel’s heated indoor pool or treat yourself to a range of restorative, soothing spa treatments. Relax in the hotel’s sophisticated Library Lounge and unwind in tranquil serenity, or take advantage of complimentary Wi-Fi, available all day, and catch up with work.

Pre-Opening Hotel

Rosewood Shanghai

Shanghai, China

The new Rosewood Shanghai will transform the city's skyline as part of a new 320-meter-tall tower building in the Puxi district, offering convenient access to the emerging business and cultural areas of Jung-An and Suhewan. The property will be composed of 200 guest rooms and suites, five restaurants and bars, as well as Asaya, Rosewood's award-winning wellness concept.
Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai

Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai

Shanghai, China

The 37-storey Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai is located in the city's historic center and was the first Four Seasons property to open in China. Situated between the former French Concession and the Bund, the hotel is comprised of four guest room types and six suite types in a variety of configurations. Facilities include a 24-hour fitness center, a kids' club, an indoor swimming pool with floor-to-ceiling views of the skyline, a whirlpool. sauna and steam rooms, a spa and spa boutique, and a full-service salon. There are four dining spaces: Si Ji Xuan for Michelin-accredited Cantonese dim sum and Shanghainese cuisine, Qi Coffee & Bar for coffee and light bites, Cafe Studio for international favorites and a bistro vibe, as well as the Lobby Lounge for afternoon tea and sundowner cocktails. There is also the option for in-room dining, should you prefer.

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