Shanghai Adventures - From Historic Bund to Iconic Oriental Pearl Tower

Our final stop in China is Shanghai, a dynamic city brimming with remarkable attractions. After being inspired by the popular TV series "Blossoms Shanghai" (蘩花), it became the top destination on our list. Shanghai is divided by the Huangpu River into two distinct areas: one side is home to the historic Bund, while the other features the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower. On our first day in Shanghai, we found several fantastic spots offering stunning views of the Huangpu River and the Oriental Pearl Tower, all free of charge. Our first stop was the Duoyun Bookstore, located 239 meters above the ground on the 52nd floor of the Shanghai Tower. This bookstore is not only the highest in the city but also boasts impressive and modern architecture. The highlight of the bookstore is its café, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the Huangpu River and the Bund. The bookstore's circular design allows visitors to take a complete walk around and enjoy a 360-degree view of the city. We arrived early to secure a seat, as it tends to get crowded in the evening. We stayed until sunset, witnessing the sky transform into a beautiful blend of pink and purple hues and later watching the city light up, including the Oriental Pearl Tower. It was an unforgettable experience. Next, we visited the Lujiazui Circular Pedestrian Bridge, which provides an even closer view of the Oriental Pearl Tower. This elevated walkway connects several towering skyscrapers in Pudong, offering a unique perspective of the area. The views from the skywalk were stunning and allowed us to appreciate the Pearl Tower's architectural beauty from a new angle. Address: Duoyun Bookstore (Shanghai Tower) · 52/F, 501 Yincheng Zhong Lu, near Huayuan Shiqiao Lu. Pudong District Entrance fee: Free but you need to get a beverage to enter the viewing area. On the second day, we strolled along Nanjing Pedestrian Street, a bustling area filled with numerous shops and eateries. The street, stretching approximately 5.5 kilometers from the Bund to the intersection of Jing'an Temple, is a true shopping paradise. We spent the day walking, eating, and shopping, making the most of this vibrant thoroughfare. Given its length, exploring the entire street can be quite the workout, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes! Since our accommodation was near People's Park, we headed towards the Bund, where we were treated to stunning views of the Huangpu River and the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower. This area is rich in history, with its impressive colonial-style buildings that house the financial and legislative institutions. Address: Shanghai, Huangpu On the third day, we visited Yu Garden and the Town God Temple (城隍庙). The garden is incredibly scenic, featuring beautifully preserved ancient architecture that makes for perfect photo opportunities. The surrounding ancient street is filled with stalls selling food and souvenirs, providing another excellent shopping experience. Address: NO.1, Yichen Road, Huangpu District Our day in Shanghai was filled with breathtaking sights and memorable experiences. From the heights of the Duoyun Bookstore to the vantage point of the Lujiazui Pedestrian Bridge, we were able to fully immerse ourselves in the city's dynamic skyline and vibrant atmosphere.