As a Shanghai native who has witnessed this city’s incredible transformation, I’m excited to share my insider’s guide to the most fascinating things to do in Shanghai. Beyond the typical tourist attractions, let me take you through the authentic experiences that make this city truly special.
Morning Adventures in Local Life
One of my favorite things to do in Shanghai starts early in the morning. Head to any local wet market around 6 AM, where you’ll find the most authentic slice of Shanghai life. Watch as elderly locals haggle over the freshest vegetables and listen to the melodic calls of vendors selling their produce. The market on Xiangyang Road is my personal favorite - the xiaolongbao maker there has been perfecting his craft for over 30 years.
Hidden Gems in the Former French Concession
While tourists flock to Yu Garden, we locals prefer spending our weekends exploring the tree-lined streets of the Former French Concession. Wukang Road (武康路) is particularly special in autumn when the plane trees form a golden canopy overhead. Here’s where you’ll find some of Shanghai’s best activities: vintage shopping at independent boutiques, sipping coffee at historical villas turned cafes, and discovering secret speakeasies hidden behind unassuming facades.
Evening Entertainment Like a Local
When asking what to do in Shanghai at night, forget the tourist-packed Bund (though admittedly, it’s beautiful). Instead, join locals at the Yuyintang live house for underground rock shows, or visit the jazz clubs along Fuxing Road. For a truly authentic Shanghai evening, find a rooftop terrace in the old lane houses of Jing’an district - these hidden spots offer spectacular views of the city without the crowds.
Embracing Modern Shanghai
While preserving our traditions, Shanghai is also a city embracing the future. The best Shanghai attractions aren’t always the obvious ones - try visiting M50 art district on a Tuesday when it’s less crowded, or join the morning tai chi groups in Xujiahui Park. These authentic experiences showcase the perfect blend of old and new that makes Shanghai unique.
Remember, the real Shanghai lives in its details: the smell of fresh shengjianbao in the morning, the sound of mahjong tiles clicking in lane houses, and the sight of elderly neighbors chatting on bamboo chairs during summer evenings. These are the true things to do in Shanghai that make our city special.
Whether you’re planning to visit or already here, I hope this local’s perspective helps you discover the authentic Shanghai that we locals love so much.
