Attractions in Shanghai for Black Tourists: Top Things to Do

20 May 2025

Contents

This guide is for all travellers regardless of where you come from, but is especially written for Black people and people of color who seek a real and reassuring perspective. I have visited China on numerous occasions as a black man, and I therefore hope this guide will enable you to explore the top attractions, hidden gems, and must-dos through my own personal lens.

Exploring Iconic Shanghai Attractions

As someone who’s wandered around the streets of Shanghai and stood in awe at the scale of its skyline, I can say that the city leaves a powerful first impression — a blend of old-world charm and modern ambition. You can stroll through traditional Chinese neighborhoods in the morning, take in futuristic skyscrapers by afternoon, and relax at a rooftop bar by night. That variety is what makes Shanghai so special. Whether you’re a first-time tourist or planning a detailed Shanghai tour, there are countless sights to see that reflect the city’s unique energy.

Why Shanghai is Great For First-Time Black and People of Color Tourists

The district of Shanghai city is a wonderful metropolitan city with international appeal from both a business and tourist perspective. This means that Shanghainese people are more accustomed to seeing foreigners, although these tend to be more caucasians from Western countries, than black people and people of color.

So why do I say it’s a great place for a first time tourist if as you have guessed, you will receive a lot of attention both warming and unwelcome? My honest response to you is that the cultural and visual experience you will get from visiting Shanghai is worth a bit of discomfort or annoyance. Shanghai is unique, and for the majority of the time, the attention you get will be of curiosity, and through genuine warmth in wanting to know about you. People will look at you wherever you go, and a lot of people will make you feel like a film star by wanting to take a photo with you! However as nice as taking photos with people is in the main, some people can be pushy in taking one with you rather than asking you, and in very few occasions doing the thing we hate which is sneaking photos of you for a negative purpose.

Despite this, I have never felt worried about my safety, and to be frank I have far more reservations these days about visiting a number of European countries than I do for going to China!

So please take the opportunity if it arises to visit this wonderful city. Just make sure you are well prepared for the cultural differences. I have a number of other blogs you may find helpful in your planning, including:

10 Unforgettable Things To Do In China

5 Best Places to Visit in China: First Time Itinerary for Black Travelers

Is China Safe To Travel To And Tourist Friendly?

How Tourists Can Get Foreign Internet Access In China Via VPNs.

1. The Bund: Waterfront Experience Along the Huangpu River

The Bund in Shanghai is more than just a top tourist attraction in Shanghai — it’s the city’s open-air gallery, historic promenade, and architectural showcase all in one. During my visit, I found myself drawn here over and over again as a photographer. Whether I was starting my day with a quiet stroll or ending it under glowing city lights, the Bund always had something different to offer. This scenic walkway stretches along the Huangpu River and delivers some of the best views of the city. It’s where the energy of downtown Shanghai meets the timeless charm of old Shanghai, making it a must for every tourist.

Walking along the Bund, you’ll notice how the buildings on one side reflect Shanghai’s colonial past, with grand banks and consulates built in the early 1900s. On the opposite side, across the Huangpu River in Pudong, you see the modern icons of Shanghai: the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Shanghai World Financial Center, and the Shanghai Tower — some of the tallest buildings in China. The skyline of Shanghai illuminated at night from the promenade is one of the best panorama photos you can take. For Black tourists like myself looking to experience life in Shanghai, the Bund felt both welcoming and visually unforgettable — a place to pause and reflect while also taking in the iconic sights of the largest city in China.

You can take a taxi using an app or hail one on the street— just show the address written in Mandarin.

For google map location click here

2. Nanjing Road: Shopping Top Attractions in Shanghai

Nanjing Road is where Shanghai turns up the volume — a lively stretch packed with shops, lights, and people from all over the world. If you’re looking for attractions in Shanghai that capture the city’s hustle and bustle, this is it. I remember stepping onto Nanjing Road for the first time and being swept up in the energy. It’s one of the busiest shopping streets in the world, and for good reason. You’ll find everything here — from global fashion brands and tech outlets to traditional Chinese arts and crafts. Whether you’re browsing or buying, there’s something thrilling about just being in the crowd and soaking in the atmosphere.

The road is divided into two main parts: East Nanjing Road, which is more commercial and modern, and West Nanjing Road, where luxury malls and high-end hotels dominate. As a tourist, I found both ends worth visiting. East Nanjing Road is especially pedestrian-friendly, with street performers, light displays, and historic buildings that add character. If you have kids, they will love the cute colorful mini sightseeing trains in this part of central Shanghai. For Black tourists and people of color traveling through the city, it’s a great place to feel the rhythm of everyday life in Shanghai while enjoying some shopping retail therapy. Getting here is also easy by taxi so no need for a tour guide to help out.

Get here by taxi ideally, or if you feel adventurous by metro. Just make sure you have the address written in mandarin.

For google map location click here

3. Shanghai Tower: Skyscraper with Stunning Sights to See

Standing at over 630 meters, the Shanghai Tower isn’t just the tallest building in China — it’s one of the most awe-inspiring skyscrapers in the world. I still remember the feeling of craning my neck upwards as I stood photographing and filming at its base looking at it’s curvy form. For any visitor seeking top attractions in Shanghai, a stop here is a must. What makes it even more impressive is that it doesn’t just rely on height — the design, the views, and the technology inside all make the Shanghai Tower one of the best things to see in the city.

Riding the ultra-fast elevator to the observation deck was an experience in itself. In under a minute, I was standing on one of the highest publicly accessible observation decks on Earth. The views of the city from the top of this skyscraper is nothing short of breathtaking. You can see the Huangpu River curling through the city, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower just below, and the intricate grid of downtown Shanghai stretching far into the distance. Looking out, I had a true sense of just how massive the city is. The deck also offers interactive screens and exhibits to learn more about the development of Pudong and modern Shanghai. Among all the sights to see in Shanghai, the Shanghai Tower at night stood out as one of my favourite China experiences.

Book a taxi through a ride-hailing app or flag one down, and be sure to show the address in Chinese characters.

For google map location click here

4. Shanghai Museum: One of the Top Tourist Attractions in Shanghai

The Shanghai Museum is one of the most important cultural institutions in the city, offering visitors an immersive introduction to traditional Chinese history and art. Located in the heart of People’s Square, the museum stands out with its distinctive round roof and square base — a design inspired by ancient Chinese cosmology. Inside, you can explore a large collection of more than 120,000 artifacts showcasing China’s rich and diverse heritage.

The museum is organized over several floors and themed galleries, making it easy for visitors to focus on specific interests. Highlights include ancient bronzes, traditional Chinese calligraphy, classical paintings, ceramics, and sculptures. One of the most admired exhibits is the jade collection — featuring intricate white jade carvings that date back thousands of years. Visitors can also view Ming and Qing dynasty furniture, ethnic minority costumes, and delicate artworks that showcase China’s artistic evolution across centuries. The exhibits are well-labeled in English and Chinese, and the layout encourages a natural flow from one historical period to the next. Entry is free, but you need to make an online reservation. This makes it an accessible option for all travelers, including families and those visiting on a budget. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, the Shanghai Museum offers an enriching and visually stunning way to understand the depth of Chinese civilization — all within the center of modern Shanghai.

Getting there is easy: use a taxi app or catch a street cab, and display the Mandarin address. No need for a tour guide unless of course you want someone to give you that added in-person narrative.

For google map location click here

5. Shanghai History Museum: Understanding the City’s Past

The Shanghai History Museum is a good destination if you want to get an understanding of the background of this global city. Located right next to the Oriental Pearl Tower in the heart of Pudong, it’s one of the most accessible and informative attractions in Shanghai. You can explore a wide range of exhibits that trace the city’s transformation from a small fishing village to the modern financial powerhouse it is today. What makes the museum especially engaging is its use of immersive displays. It includes life-size street reconstructions, period dioramas (three-dimensional replicas of scenes) and multimedia presentations that bring historical scenes to life.

Inside, you’ll find collections organised by era, highlighting different aspects of Shanghai’s development. There are exhibits on local folk culture, old transportation systems, foreign concessions, and even social customs from the Qing and Ming dynasties. The museum also features restored trams, vintage advertising, traditional Chinese clothing, and replicas of early 20th-century storefronts. All of these help paint a vivid picture of life in old Shanghai. Check it out during your visit to Shanghai If you’re a tourist interested in how Shanghai’s identity has been shaped over time.

Either book a taxi through your app or wave one down, then show them the Chinese address.

For google map location click here

6. China Art Museum: Cultural Things to See in Shanghai

The China Art Museum is one of the most striking cultural landmarks in Shanghai, instantly recognizable by its bold red design inspired by traditional dougong interlocking brackets. Located in the former China Pavilion from the 2010 World Expo, the museum stands out both architecturally and artistically. It offers a deep and visually engaging dive into modern Chinese art for anyone looking for cultural things to see in Shanghai. Its galleries showcase works from the 20th century to the present, offering insights into how art can reflect the country’s shifting social and political landscape.

Inside, you can view an extensive collection of oil paintings, ink works, calligraphy, and multimedia installations. A key highlight is the “Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival”. It’s a wonderful immersive large-scale animated display based on a classic painting from the Song Dynasty, brought to life with digital projections. The museum also features rotating exhibitions that spotlight contemporary artists from across China and beyond. Spread over multiple floors, each gallery provides a different perspective on Chinese identity, creativity, and modern life. The spacious layout and clear signage make it easy to navigate. Anyone interested in art, history, or curious about how modern Shanghai links with its cultural roots, wiil thoroughly enjoy the China Art Museum. It’s one of the top places to add to your Shanghai tour if you’re looking to see the city through a creative lens.

Hail a taxi or use an app—just make sure to show the address in Mandarin characters.

For google map location click here

7. Jade Buddha Temple: A Spiritual Retreat

The Jade Buddha Temple offers a quiet, contemplative experience in the middle of one of the busiest cities in the world. For those searching for more peaceful attractions in Shanghai, this Buddhist temple is not just a beautiful place to see — it’s one of the most revered spiritual sites in the city. As a visitor you will see the rich tradition of Chinese Buddhism up close, with incense drifting through the air and chanting echoing softly from the main halls.

The temple’s most famous feature is its two jade Buddha statues, each carved from pure white jade and imported from Myanmar. The seated Buddha, nearly two meters tall, is housed in the Grand Hall and represents calm and wisdom. The smaller reclining Buddha, representing the Buddha’s passing into nirvana, is equally moving. You can explore several halls within the temple complex, each filled with detailed statues of Bodhisattvas, golden lanterns, and intricate woodwork that reflects traditional Chinese artistry. Monks are often seen carrying out daily rituals, and it’s not uncommon to see local devotees in prayer. For tourists, the Jade Buddha Temple offers not only visual beauty but also a chance to reflect, pause, and connect with a deeper cultural experience.

Call a taxi on the app or flag one from the street; the Mandarin address helps avoid confusion.

For google map location click here

8. Yu Garden: Escape the Hustle and Bustle in a Tranquil Oasis

Wandering through Yu Garden was one of the most mesmerizing moments of my time in Shanghai. After days of exploring busy roads and towering skyscrapers, stepping into this classical garden felt like entering another world. It’s easy to forget you’re in central Shanghai when you’re surrounded by koi ponds, stone bridges, and traditional Chinese pavilions.

Built during the Ming dynasty, Yu Garden is filled with carefully designed spaces meant to inspire reflection. Every detail seems deliberate, from the curved roofs of the buildings to the white walls that contrast against the lush greenery. Following the winding paths and pausing at rockeries and gazebos that offer views into hidden corners is fun. One of the garden highlights is the Exquisite Jade Rock, a tall, porous limestone centerpiece with a story dating back hundreds of years. The whole garden layout encourages you to slow down. It’s not a place you rush through — it’s one you absorb. Anyone needing a bit of serenity in the largest city in China should definitely visit this Shanghai retreat. For Black and people of color travellers, please note that Yu Garden is a very popular destination for chinese tourists. You will therefore get a lot of attention due to the closeness of the spaces, so be prepared, but not daunted.

You can easily get there using a taxi from the street or via a ride app—show the address in Mandarin. However another option for you if you want a richer cultural awareness experience is to use a travel guide. They can get you there as well as provide you with interesting information as you walk around the garden.

For google map location click here

9. Zhouzhuang or Zhujiajiao Water Towns: Shanghai Tour Day Trip to Explore Traditional Charm

Visiting Zhouzhuang was like stepping into a painting. I took a day trip from Shanghai with the expectation of exploring somewhere older, traditional and quieter — and Zhouzhuang delivered that in every way. Narrow stone bridges arched over peaceful canals, while wooden boats glided slowly beneath them. The rhythm here felt entirely different from the pace of downtown Shanghai. As I wandered along the narrow alleys looking at old courtyard homes, I felt more and more relaxed. I have always loved the look and sound of water around houses, and the traditional Chinese architecure just sets it off nicely.

For those looking to experience a water town closer to Shanghai, Zhujiajiao is another fantastic option — especially if you’re short on time. Just an hour’s ride away, this ancient town is one of the most popular water towns in China. You can explore arched stone bridges like Fangsheng Bridge, walk along quaint streets lined with shops selling traditional Chinese snacks and souvenirs, and take a boat ride down quiet canals. Like Zhouzhuang, Zhujiajiao offers a unique contrast to modern Shanghai with beautiful preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. The town is easy to navigate and makes for a rewarding cultural escape, whether you’re on a short Shanghai tour or planning a full day trip. It’s one of the best ways to explore the softer, more historical side of the region without venturing too far from the city.

All travellers, whether you are a Black and person of color tourist, should ideally spend a night at either water town for two reasons. First, water towns are far far more visually beautiful and enchanting when lit up in the evening and night with lots of reflections. Second, it’s more peaceful and intimate in the evening and early morning when there are no tourist bus crowds getting in your way! You can simply relax and absorb the ambiance.

You will definitely want to use a tour guide to help you plan and get here. And possibly to also help you find a hotel if you wish to stay overnight as recommended.

For google map locations click Zhouzhuang or Zhujiajiao

10. Tianzifang: Art and Crafts in Historical Old Shanghai

Tianzifang is known for being one of the best places in Shanghai to experience local art and crafts and a sense of the city’s history. Tucked inside the French Concession, it’s a neighborhood with a reputation for preserving the charm of old Shanghai while embracing creative energy. The narrow alleys, old stone doorways, and faded walls didn’t disappoint. It had a kind of cool lived-in vibe as I walked through which some people may find a bit touristic, but I loved.

There are many small workshops selling various cool things like unique ceramics, calligraphy brushes, and hand-stitched notebooks. You will find a few trendy artist studios dotted around, and cozy cafés offering not just drinks, but also art exhibits or locally made crafts. What stood out most to me was the creative atmosphere. Tianzifang felt comfortable to wander around as a Black person as it was quieter and more laid back with younger/more cosmopolitan people around you. It’s a great place to slow down, support local artists, and take in a different side of life in Shanghai.

Book a ride on a taxi app or get one on the street, and display the address written in Mandarin.

For google map location click here

11. Shanghai Disneyland Park: Things to Do in Shanghai with Kids

Now this is one attraction I haven’t experienced myself, but for anyone looking for things to do in Shanghai with kids, this theme park is a must-see. Located in the Pudong district, Shanghai Disneyland is one of the top attractions in downtown Shanghai. The park spans a massive area and features a mix of classic Disney magic with Chinese cultural elements. The centrepiece of the resort is the towering Enchanted Storybook Castle — the tallest Disney castle in the world!

Visitors can explore six themed lands, including Adventure Isle, Treasure Cove, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland. The rides range from gentle attractions for younger children to thrilling coasters for teens and adults. One of the most popular features is the “TRON Lightcycle Power Run,” a high-speed roller coaster that’s both futuristic and visually stunning. For younger guests, the many live shows, character parades, and interactive play zones offer plenty of entertainment. Food stalls and restaurants serve both Western favorites and Chinese dishes, making it easy to find something for every palate. The park also includes thoughtful touches like shaded rest areas, stroller rentals, and family-friendly facilities. As part of the larger Shanghai Disney Resort, there are hotels and shopping options nearby for those who want to extend their visit. Whether you’re a family traveling together or just a Disney fan, Shanghai Disneyland adds a playful and memorable chapter to any Shanghai tour.

Getting a cab is simple – use an app or flag one down, but make sure you have the address in Chinese.

For google map location click here

12. Oriental Pearl TV Tower: A Pudong Modern Shanghai Landmark

The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is one of the main Pudong skyscraper landmarks along the Shanghai skyline. With its unmistakable silhouette of pink spheres and needle-like spire, the structure feels both futuristic and uniquely Shanghai. It’s probably the most architecturally stylish skyscraper in the world, for me anyway. The way its spheres seem to float above each other gives the tower a sense of motion, even though it’s firmly anchored.

The beauty of the tower is enhanced by the transformation it undergoes as day turns to night. Once the sun goes down, the entire structure lights up with shifting colors that dance along the spheres and columns. From across the Huangpu River at the Bund, the Oriental Pearl Tower stands out like a glowing sculpture against the dark sky. Inside, the design continues to impress. The observation decks are sleek and thoughtfully designed, with large windows that curve with the tower’s shape, offering panoramic views in every direction. Even the elevator ride with it’s ambient lighting, adds to the overall experience.

Just hail a taxi or book via app, and use the Mandarin address to guide your driver.

For google map location click here

13. Huangpu River Cruise: Scenic Views of Top Sights to See

A Huangpu River cruise is fun relaxing low level way to take in Shanghai’s top sights. Running between the historic Bund and the modern towers of Pudong, the river divides two different faces of the city — and cruising between them offers unbeatable views of both. Day or night, this is a chance to see Shanghai from a completely different angle. For many visitors, it’s a highlight of their Shanghai tour, especially because of the way it connects so many iconic landmarks in one smooth, scenic route.

Most cruises last around 45 minutes to an hour and depart from docks near the Bund. As the boat glides along the water, passengers get sweeping views of the skyline of Shanghai — including the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and the Shanghai World Financial Center. On the western bank, you’ll see the classical European architecture that line the Bund, while the eastern bank showcases the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong. Evening cruises are particularly popular with the city lighting up in color, casting shimmering reflections across the Huangpu River. Glass-enclosed boats and open-air decks are available, giving visitors the option to sit back comfortably or snap photos from every angle. For anyone looking to take in Shanghai’s contrasts — old and new, East and West, tradition and innovation — a river cruise is one of the most visually rewarding things to do in Shanghai.

Cabs are easy to find—use an app or street pickup—and the Chinese address will get you there.

For google map location click here

14. French Concession: Strolling Through History

Walking through the French Concession is like entering an older, quieter east meets west version of Shanghai that is full of character. The wide, tree-lined shaded boulevards gives the area a relaxed charm, far removed from the buzz of downtown Shanghai. It didn’t feel like a typical tourist attraction, more like a fun trendy neighborhood with layers — one that has gone through different eras and held onto pieces of them all.

What I loved most was how every corner seemed to tell a different story. There were colonial-era villas with French balconies, tucked-away art galleries, and quiet cafés that spilled out onto cobbled sidewalks. The mix of European architecture and traditional Chinese touches gave the French Concession its own rhythm — slower, thoughtful, and full of texture. As a Black traveler, it was one of the few places where I felt I could just be — observe, reflect, and soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. If you’re planning to visit Shanghai take a stroll here for sure. It’s not just about what you see — it’s about how the place makes you feel.

Ride-hailing apps or street taxis both work; just show the place name in Mandarin to the driver.

For google map location click here

15. Shanghai World Financial Center: Skywalk Experience

The Shanghai World Financial Center is one of the city’s most recognizable skyscrapers — known not only for its soaring height, but also for its unique trapezoid opening at the top. Often called “the bottle opener” because of its shape, this towering structure is one of the tallest in Shanghai and an essential stop for anyone looking to explore the city’s modern side. But what makes it truly unforgettable is the skywalk experience on the observation deck, located on the 100th floor at nearly 475 meters above ground.

Ride up the fast elevators to reach the top, and step out into a glass-floored corridor that stretches across the open space near the top of the tower. Walking across the transparent floor panels gives a direct view straight down to the city below. It’s by all accounts a thrilling, slightly dizzying, and completely unforgettable experience for people with head for heights. For me, it was past my comfort zone so i gladly passed on the experience! From this vantage point, you can take in panoramic views of the Huangpu River, the Bund, and nearby skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower. On clear days, the visibility stretches far beyond downtown Shanghai, offering a complete sense of just how vast and vertical the city really is. For tourists seeking excitement with a view, the Shanghai World Financial Center delivers one of the most dramatic observation experiences in the city. It’s a high point — literally and figuratively — of any Shanghai tour.

Either book a taxi through your app or wave one down, then show them the Chinese address.

For google map location click here

Conclusion: Exploring Shanghai as a Black Tourist

So as you can see, Shanghai is a city of contrast, depth, and constant discovery. For Black tourists or people of color, it offers a rich, unforgettable experience filled with moments of awe, learning, and joy. From strolling in historic Bund and French Concession, to cruising down the Huangpu River, or standing at the top of skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower, the city gives you access to both its modern and historic past. Places like Yu Garden and the Jade Buddha Temple, also provide a more relaxed insight into Shanghai’s cultural side.

So whether you’re into art, architecture, shopping, history, or just exploring at your own pace, Shanghai has something to offer. And while language barriers or cultural differences may occasionally present small challenges, they are far outweighed by the hospitality and sheer variety of what’s available. If you’ve been thinking about planning a visit to Shanghai, go for it. It’s a city that respects its roots, embraces the future, and welcomes those ready to experience it all — especially those seeing it with fresh eyes and open minds.

And don’t forget to grab your copy of my free Your Ultimate Travel Packing Checklist Guide For Your Next Trip to help your planning. And use my Free Personalised Online Travel Checklist tool to make sure you have packed everything for your trip.

FAQs

Q: What are some must-see attractions for Black tourists in Shanghai?

A: Definitely check out the Oriental Pearl TV Tower for stunning views of the city, and don’t miss the Shanghai Disneyland Park for some fun and magic. The Shanghai Natural History Museum is also a great spot to learn and sightsee!

Q: How can I get around the city to visit these attractions?

A: The Shanghai Metro is super convenient and affordable! You can easily hop on the maglev train to get to the city center quickly. Plus, the metro will take you close to most of the major attractions.

Q: Is the Shanghai Natural History Museum worth visiting?

A: Absolutely! The Shanghai Natural History Museum is one of the top museums in China, featuring amazing exhibits that showcase the natural world. It’s a great place to learn and explore, especially if you’re into science and history!

Q: Is the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition worth visiting?

A: The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center is an interesting place to visit if you want to understand the city’s development. You can view among other things the impressive scale model of Shanghai and learn about its future plans. It’s a fascinating experience and gives you a deeper appreciation of the city!

Q: What should I know about the Maglev train in Shanghai, China?

A: The Shanghai Maglev Train is the fastest commercial train in the world, reaching speeds of up to 431 km/h (268 mph)! It’s a thrilling ride from the airport to the city, and it’s definitely a unique experience you shouldn’t miss.

Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Shanghai?

A: The best time to visit Shanghai is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. You’ll enjoy sightseeing without the extreme heat or humidity!

Want some help navigating around to these Shanghai recommendations?

I’ve put together a custom Google map featuring all the locations mentioned, making it easier for you to plan your trip to Shanghai. You can save it to your Google Maps app on your phone for convenient access while exploring the city. Have a fantastic time in the country, and feel free to drop me a comment to share how your experience goes!

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