Top Attractions in Shanghai: From Zhujiajiao Ancient Town to Yuyuan Garden

Intro

I had been in Shanghai for a few days now, and had explored it a little bit, besides having gone to Disneyland Shanghai. You can see more of these Round the World Trip adventures here:

Kickoff to My RTW24 Adventure: From Newark to Shanghai

Disneyland Shanghai: First Time, Zootopia and Pirates of the Caribbean

Shanghai Disneyland Highlights: Toy Story, Tron, and More

Ultimate Guide to Disneyland Shanghai: Top Attractions and Tips

Starbucks Reserve Roastery

Now, it was time to explore more of this city, before I head north to Beijing. Woke up early after a long day at Disneyland Shanghai, and not too far from my hotel a famous Starbucks was the attraction.

Took the train 1 stop south and here I was, by the Starbucks Reserve Roastery. And you would ask, why would I go to a Starbucks on the other side of the world? Well, first, because I can lol. Second, because the Reserve Roastery stores around the world are way more special, like the one in New York.

The architecture not only outside but inside was very attractive. The use of wood and the spaces was amazing.

After getting my well deserved coffee, I had to decide if I’d do my next destination. It was a 40 min ride, 50 km (31 miles) away from where I was. So of course, I had to be sure about that. I decided I should go, i had time anyways, and might have to rush through stuff later.

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

And this next destination was Zhujiajiao Ancient Town. The train ride was pleasant. It is so amazing you could get here, so far away, just using the subway system. I used my Google Translate everywhere to see instructions. English is not found too often on these systems.

Some people were following my steps and were also walking towards the Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, which is still a 20 min walk from the station.

After some time, I arrived to it, but not the heart of the town yet.

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town is a charming water town located on the outskirts of Shanghai, China. Often referred to as the “Venice of Shanghai,” it is celebrated for its picturesque canals, ancient bridges, historic architecture, and tranquil ambiance. Key Features

1. Canals and Bridges
   Zhujiajiao is crisscrossed with narrow waterways lined by quaint buildings. Over 30 ancient stone bridges span the canals, each with its own unique design and history.
   • Fangsheng Bridge, the largest and most famous, dates back to the Ming Dynasty and is adorned with intricate carvings of dragons and lions.
2. Historic Streets
   The town’s cobbled streets, such as North Street, are lined with well-preserved houses from the Ming and Qing dynasties. These streets host tea houses, shops selling traditional crafts, and small restaurants.
3. Cultural Sites
   • Ke Zhi Garden: A classical Chinese garden featuring pavilions, ponds, and a grand hall.
   • Yuanjin Buddhist Temple: A peaceful temple showcasing traditional Buddhist architecture.
   • Post Office of the Qing Dynasty: A museum-like space displaying ancient letters and postal relics.
4. Traditional Activities
   Visitors can take boat rides through the canals, offering a serene perspective of the town. The streets also feature vendors selling handmade souvenirs and local snacks like zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and smoked tofu.
5. Festivals and Events
   The town comes alive during traditional Chinese festivals, with lantern displays, folk performances, and market fairs adding to its charm.

Definitely, it was a challenge walking all these narrow lonely streets in this heat to get into the center of the town. But at least they were cute.

I started seeing some tourists, and that is how I realized I was close to the temples. There are maps all over indicating the location of bridges, temples and other important locations.

The old architecture mixed with the canals is definitely something picturesque that anyone visiting Shanghai has to see.

Suddenly I was at the heart of the town. With this heat there was not many people outside, but there were still a lot of tourists.

The heat brought me to Starbucks (once again lol), because I really, really, needed something cold like a Frappuccino for these high temperatures and humidity.

The view of the water, temples, and bridges was amazing though. I was glad I decided to come here, even if the trip was long on the metro.

Leaving Zhujiajiao

It was 34 C (93 F) and felt like 43 C (109 F). Very extreme heat wave.

Since I had been walking basically north for more than an hour now, I was far from the station. I decided to take a Didi using the Alipay app to take me to the subway station. I highly recommend packing umbrellas for this season, the sun is very harming.

Using the MetroMan app I saw how long it was going to be to my next destination, and it was 1 hr and 16 min, but at least I would be in the center of Shanghai. All this time and distance, for only 8 Chinese yuan which is $1.11 USD, just amazing!

Yuyuan Old Street, Yu Garden

The Shanghai tower is just so big, I could not believe a couple of days earlier, I had been up there.

But my next destination, was Yuyuan Old Street, a vibrant pedestrian area filled with traditional Chinese architecture, teahouses, and shops selling souvenirs, antiques, and local snacks. The street’s lively atmosphere and historic charm make it a favorite spot for exploring Shanghai’s cultural heritage.

Yu Garden is a beautifully preserved classical Chinese garden built during the Ming Dynasty. It features ornate pavilions, serene ponds, rockeries, and lush greenery, creating a tranquil escape from the city’s bustle. Highlights include the Exquisite Jade Rock and the intricately designed Nine-Turn Bridge.

Keeping my promise that I would only eat dumplings during this part of the trip in China (lol), I had to get more at the market located on this street. They were so good.

Nanjing Rd

After finishing, I took the metro a little bit north towards Nanjing Rd, to see the skyline of Shanghai once again, but during the day.

As always crowded, this street is very famous for all the stores, and restaurants, and because it connects to The Bund and the famous view of the Shanghai skyline.

The Bund

Now, it was time to see the skyline was again. Today it was very crowded for some reason, and difficult to get to the bank (park) where you could see the buildings across the river.

I was able to make it, and here there were, like that night before. Such an iconic skyline.

Tianzifang

It was almost night time, but was I going to be able to squeeze another spot for my last day in Shanghai? I think I was able to. So I took the train to Tianzifang, a trendy and artistic enclave located in Shanghai’s French Concession. Known for its narrow alleys and distinctive Shikumen-style architecture, it has transformed from a residential area into a bustling hub of creativity.

The area is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, cafes, and bars, offering a blend of traditional charm and modern flair. Visitors can explore unique local crafts, enjoy diverse cuisines, and soak in the lively, bohemian atmosphere.

Jia Jia Tang Bao

My last last stop in Shanghai was going to be a restaurant: Jia Jia Tang Bao. I took a Didi using Alipay, and went to this famous restaurant, and got myself, you know…

… some dumplings lol.

But my adventures in China were not finished. I still had to take the fast train to Beijing. See in the next entry how that went.