Shanghai Nights and Lights Evening Walking Tour with Local
Ready? OK! Our adventure starts at two lovely local landmarks, Jing’an Temple and Jing’an Park, which face each other from across the West Nanjing Road. The temple is nearly 1,800 years old and is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in China. The good news for you is that she only unveils her true magnificence at night. Never has a temple shone so brightly! Jing’an Park, by contrast, is quiet and tranquil. Surprisingly this used to be a cemetery for expats up until 1943, so we advise you to whisper so that you don’t wake up the ghosts.
Travellers often compare Shanghai to New York City, Tokyo or Hong Kong, and you’ll see why as we walk down the road, surrounded by neon lights, gigantic billboard advertisements, ultra-modern shop windows, and, somewhat surprisingly, a copy of Dali’s surrealist masterpiece, the Melting Clock.
After the glitz of West Nanjing Road, we’ll take a soothing stroll along the Fu Min Lu and check out the unique architecture of the Former French Concession as well as the funky bars and restaurants that are loved by locals and expats alike. Jot down the names of the bars that catch your eyes because you may just want to come back and linger longer. In this area, we’ll also pop into a unique gift shop called Madam Mao’s Dowry, where you can shop for Chinese propaganda-themed souvenirs.
Shanghai’s frenetic reputation has a lot to do with its colourful nightlife. Our next stop will be Chang Le Lu and Dong Hu Lu, the scene of many a cocktails-after-work session.
If this is not your cup of tea, don’t worry, we have something else up our sleeve: dancing in the park! Or if you fancy martial arts, why not try out Tai Chi in the park instead?
After a little workout, we’ll take a walk along the Middle Huai Hai Road, where we’ll talk about Shanghai’s transformation from the post-Opium War era to today.
We’ll then do a pit-stop at one of our favourite snack bars, famous for its traditionally Shanghainese delicacies, before heading to our final destination. Tian Zi Fang is a buzzing cluster of the 1930s’ Shi Ku Men that has slowly evolved into Shanghai’s artsy version of SOHO. Be careful and follow your guide so you don’t get lost in this fabulously-lit maze.
This is our parting point, although your night is still young and more fun certainly awaits you here in Tian Zi Fang. Enjoy! Don’t forget to ask your local guide for hints and tips on what else to see, do and eat during your stay in Shanghai.
