A Wandering Tale of the Magic City: My Twenty-One Encounters with Shanghai
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Discover Shanghai through 21 unforgettable visits—from the Bund to Disneyland, Longhua Temple to Tianzifang. Explore hidden gems, cultural landmarks, and personal stories in this SEO-optimized travel guide.
Introduction: One City, Half a Lifetime
During the Spring Festival of 2002, at the age of ten, I packed my little backpack and set off for Shanghai with a heart full of joy. Back then, I was nothing more than an innocent kid, with no idea that this city would become a destination I'd return to time and again over the years. In my memory, the crisp sound of a Sprite bottle tapping against the stone pillars on the Bund, a snapshot capturing my childish grin on Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, a brief pause on the Zigzag Bridge (Jiǔqǔ Qiáo) at the City God Temple (Chénghuáng Miào), and the majestic Nanpu Bridge visible from a relative's window—these fragments pieced together my first impression of a modern metropolis.
In the years that followed, I returned to Shanghai again and again—for school, exams, exhibitions, book fairs, comic conventions... Each trip brought new discoveries and fresh emotions. Now, I've decided to compile these scattered memories into writing, recording the endless stories between me and this Magic City.
My Digital Memory of Shanghai: Tracking 68 Attractions
As of my most recent trip, I've set foot in 68 different attractions and landmarks across Shanghai. My next goal is 100. This isn't just a numbers game—it's a testament to the deepening bond between me and this city.
A Quick Look at Shanghai's Districts
Shanghai has 16 municipal districts, each with its own unique charm. Over my many visits, I've explored 12 of them: Huangpu, Xuhui, Changning, Jing'an, Putuo, Hongkou, Yangpu, Minhang, Baoshan, Pudong, Songjiang, and Qingpu. The streets, parks, and museums of every district bear my footprints.
The A-Grade Attractions I've Visited
5A-Grade Attractions (1 visited)
- Shanghai Science & Technology Museum ✅
4A-Grade Attractions (partially visited)
Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, Yu Garden (Yù Yuán), Xujiahui Source Scenic Area, Shanghai Museum of Glass, and more.
3A-Grade Attractions (partially visited)
Tianzifang, M50 Creative Park, Lu Xun Park, Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum, Aurora Museum, and more.
[Link: Best Shanghai museums for families]
The Twenty-First Time: First Glimpse of Qingpu and a Bookish Journey (August 17–18, 2019)
Exploring Qingpu District for the First Time
This time, I set foot in Qingpu District for the first time. Shanghai University of Political Science and Law is located here, and though the journey was long, the campus's tranquility was deeply refreshing.
Shanghai Book Fair 2019: A Literary Carnival
My second visit to the Shanghai Book Fair—still packed with crowds. The rustling of pages, the long queues for author signings, the focused eyes of readers—it was a carnival for book lovers.
Long Museum West Bund: Art Meets Waterfront
Located along the Xuhui Riverside, the Long Museum is a work of art in itself. Strolling along the waterfront, I felt the perfect blend of art and nature.
Longhua Temple (Lónghuá Sì): Seeking Inner Peace
In the tolling of bells at Longhua Temple, I sought inner peace. This thousand-year-old monastery has witnessed the ebb and flow of Shanghai's history.
Jing'an Joy City (Jìng'ān Dàyuè Chéng): Neon Nights
At night, Jing'an Joy City shimmered with neon lights—a trendy hub for the city's youth.
The Twentieth Time: Cultural Exploration and City Strolling (June 1–2, 2019)
Sihang Warehouse (Sìháng Cāngkù): A History Lesson
Standing before Sihang Warehouse, the history of the War of Resistance against Japan felt vividly alive. The bullet-riddled walls whispered stories of unyielding national spirit.
Ba Jin's Former Residence: A Literary Pilgrimage
On Wukang Road, Ba Jin's former residence is a pilgrimage site for literature enthusiasts. Stepping into this little building, I could almost sense the image of the great writer bent over his desk.
Shanghai Library & Old Camera Museum: Time Travel
Flipping through pages in the quiet of Shanghai Library, feeling the passage of time at the Old Camera Museum—these places showed me a different side of Shanghai.
Night Run at ECUPL: Campus Serenity
At night, the Changning campus of East China University of Political Science and Law was bathed in soft light. After a run, I grabbed a simple yet lovely Japanese meal with a friend at a nearby小店 (small eatery).
[Link: Top cultural attractions in Shanghai]
The Nineteenth Time: First Taste of Baoshan and the Art of Glass (May 25–26, 2019)
Songnan Park (Sōngnán Gōngyuán): Green Escape
My first visit to Baoshan District—the greenery of Songnan Park was a soothing escape.
Shanghai Museum of Glass: Interactive Wonder
This was the biggest surprise of the trip. The museum not only showcased the exquisite craftsmanship of glass art but also let visitors experience its magic through interactive exhibits. From blowing to painting, every piece left me in awe.
The Eighteenth Time: Where Drama Meets Fairy Tales (February 11–13, 2019)
Wukang Road Historic District: Elegant Strolls
Wukang Road is one of Shanghai's most elegant streets. Old villas shaded by plane trees whispered the charm of Shanghai-style culture.
Shanghai Theatre Academy (Shànghǎi Xìjù Xuéyuàn): Artistic Dreams
On Huashan Road, the academy is a cradle of artistic dreams. Walking through the campus, I could almost hear lines being rehearsed in the practice rooms.
Xintiandi & Changfeng Joy City: Modern Meets Traditional
Xintiandi's Shikumen (stone-gate) buildings blend seamlessly with modern commerce, while Changfeng Joy City is a great spot for shopping and leisure.
Shanghai Disneyland: A Fairy Tale Come True
Finally, Disneyland! No matter your age, this place brings back your inner child. The dreamy castle, thrilling roller coasters, dazzling parades—every moment was worth cherishing.
[Link: Shanghai Disneyland tips for adults]
The Seventeenth Time: Putuo by Night and the TOEIC Exam (January 18–20, 2019)
Xikang Road Bridge (Xīkāng Lù Qiáo): Night Views
At night, Xikang Road Bridge was nearly empty. Standing on the bridge, I watched the brightly lit residential buildings on both sides of the river, feeling the city's blend of tranquility and bustle.
Changshou Park (Chángshòu Gōngyuán): Pre-Exam Relaxation
The night before the exam, I took a walk in Changshou Park to relax. The next day, I finished the test smoothly and received news that my friend Kyle had moved to Shanghai—from a returnee overseas to a drifter in the city, life's choices are always full of twists.
The Sixteenth Time: Tianzifang's Lively Charm and Lujiazui's Modern Glamour (October 26–28, 2018)
Tianzifang (Tiánzǐ Fāng): Third Time's the Charm
My third visit to Tianzifang—still packed with people. Every time, I discover something new. This time, I was drawn to a trendy café; next time, I must visit Teddy Bear House. At the nearby Sun Moon Light Plaza (Rì Yuè Guāng Guǎngchǎng), I enjoyed Vietnamese food paired with drip coffee—quite tasty.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery: Coffee as Art
The world's largest Starbucks Reserve Roastery, on Nanjing Road West. Here, coffee is more than a drink—it's an art.
Aurora Museum (Zhèndàn Bówùguǎn): Ancient Treasures
The Aurora Museum's collection focuses on ancient Chinese artifacts, especially Buddhist statues and jade pieces—truly breathtaking.
Waibaidu Bridge & Zhapu Road Bridge (Wàibáidù Qiáo & Zhàpǔ Qiáo): Night Photography
At night, Waibaidu Bridge glittered with lights, offering a perfect spot to photograph the Lujiazui skyline.
[Link: Best photo spots in Shanghai at night]
The Fifteenth Time: Tadao Ando's Space of Light (September 16, 2018)
Shanghai Pearl Art Museum (Míngzhū Měishùguǎn): Architectural Marvel
After two years, Tadao Ando created this art landmark at the Aegean Shopping Park. The museum connects with Xinhua Bookstore through a unique core, forming a "Space of Light."
The exhibition was "Reading the Road: Louis Vuitton Travel Book Art Exhibition," featuring nearly 300 works by 16 artists. A student ticket cost only 30 RMB—a great deal.
Aegean Shopping Park (Àiqín Hǎi Gòuwù Gōngyuán): European Charm
The Mediterranean-style architecture made me feel like I was in Europe. The horse-riding training area on the rooftop made me marvel at the educational resources available to Shanghai's children. The 7:30 PM musical fountain, despite getting sprayed, was worth the fun.
FAQ: Shanghai Travel Tips
Q1: What is the best time to visit Shanghai for cultural attractions?
A: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring museums, temples, and historic districts like Wukang Road and Tianzifang.
Q2: How many days do I need to see Shanghai's top attractions?
A: A minimum of 3-5 days is recommended to cover highlights like the Bund, Disneyland, and cultural sites. For deeper exploration, 7-10 days allows you to visit lesser-known gems like the Shanghai Museum of Glass and Longhua Temple.
Q3: Is Shanghai Disneyland worth visiting for adults?
A: Absolutely! The park offers thrilling rides, world-class shows, and unique attractions like the TRON Lightcycle Power Run. Evening fireworks and themed dining make it a magical experience for all ages.
Q4: What are the must-visit museums in Shanghai?
A: Top picks include the Shanghai Museum (ancient artifacts), Shanghai Science & Technology Museum (interactive exhibits), Aurora Museum (Buddhist statues), and the Shanghai Museum of Glass (unique glass art).
Q5: How can I save money on Shanghai attractions?
A: Purchase a Shanghai City Pass for discounted entry to multiple attractions. Student discounts are available at many museums (e.g., Shanghai Pearl Art Museum for 30 RMB). Visit free attractions like the Bund, Xintiandi, and Wukang Road.
Conclusion: Your Shanghai Adventure Awaits
From the historic Bund to futuristic Lujiazui, from tranquil temples to vibrant book fairs, Shanghai is a city of endless discovery. My twenty-one encounters have only scratched the surface—there are always new districts to explore, new museums to visit, and new stories to write.
Ready to start your own Shanghai journey?
Plan your trip today and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the Magic City always has something new to offer.
Share your Shanghai story in the comments below!
What's your favorite hidden gem in Shanghai? Let us know and inspire fellow travelers.
[Link: Shanghai travel itinerary for 5 days]
[Link: Budget guide to Shanghai attractions]
[Link: Shanghai nightlife guide]
