Pudong Skyline

浦东

Shanghai's futuristic riverside district dominated by the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Financial District represents cutting-edge modern China with innovation-focused attractions. The observation decks, museums, and waterfront promenades showcase contemporary Asian metropolitan culture.

Things to do

• Oriental Pearl Tower Observation Deck — Visit Shanghai's iconic 468-meter TV tower with multiple observation levels offering 360-degree views of the Pudong skyline and Huangpu River.
• Shanghai Tower Sightseeing — Ascend China's tallest building at 632 meters to the 118th-floor observation deck for panoramic city views and innovative architecture.
• The Bund Waterfront Promenade — Stroll along the historic Huangpu River embankment connecting Pudong's modern towers with views of classic colonial buildings across the river.
• Shanghai Museum — Explore China's ancient bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and contemporary art in this world-class museum located in People's Square.
• Lujiazui Financial District Walk — Navigate through the futuristic business district with cutting-edge skyscrapers, corporate plazas, and modern shopping centers.
• Century Avenue Shopping & Culture — Browse Shanghai's modern boulevard lined with high-end boutiques, galleries, and contemporary restaurants reflecting contemporary urban lifestyle.
• Shanghai Ocean Aquarium — Experience one of the world's largest aquariums with thousands of marine species and an underwater tunnel for immersive viewing.

Food to try

• Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) — Delicate steamed pockets of thin dough filled with seasoned pork and aspic jelly that bursts with savory broth when eaten.
• Shengjianbao (pan-fried soup buns) — Crispy-bottomed steamed buns filled with pork and gelatin that releases hot soup when bitten, a Shanghai specialty found in local dim sum spots.
• Peking Duck — Roasted duck with crispy skin served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and julienned vegetables, available in upscale restaurants throughout the district.
• Eel in Brown Sauce (鳝鱼) — Tender sliced eel stir-fried in a rich soy-based sauce with ginger and scallions, a classic Shanghai comfort dish.
• Hairy Crab (大闸蟹) — Seasonal freshwater crabs with roe, steamed and served with vinegar and ginger, considered a delicacy during autumn months.

Local customs & good to know

• Metro Etiquette — Shanghai's subway is efficient but crowded during rush hours; stand on the right side of escalators and allow passengers to exit before boarding.
• Mobile Payment Standard — Most establishments accept Alipay and WeChat Pay; carrying cash is unnecessary but having a Chinese bank card or mobile app registered is highly recommended.
• Dining Customs — Dim sum restaurants operate on cart service or order-by-checklist; round tables promote family-style sharing, and tapping the table thanks the server for pouring tea.
• English Limitations — While Pudong's tourist areas have signage in English, most restaurants and locals speak limited English; downloading translation apps or learning basic Mandarin phrases is helpful.