Visiting Shanghai's Old City
Dec 8 , 2011
Visiting Shanghai’s old city, known as Nanshi, is an experience of a lifetime, and one that should be savored and appreciated. From gardens to shops to temples, there's something for everyone. Check out these sites worth a visit during your trip.
Shanghai Old Street: If you want to really get a feel for what Shanghai’s old city was like back in its heyday, take a walk through the Shanghai Old Street, known as Fangbin Road. Take in the stunning architecture of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, shop the hundred-year-old shops, or enjoy a warm drink at a tea house.
Fuyou Antiques Market: For thrifters and shopaholics, the Fuyou antiques market is a must-visit in Shanghai’s old city. With everything from furniture to art to decor to plain old junk, this shopping destination is a true treasure trove -- and if you’re patient and lucky enough, you may find some treasure of your own. If you’re in town on a Sunday, be sure to stop by for the liveliest day of the week and four floors of vendors.
Yu Yuan Garden Complex: Adjacent to the Old Street is the beautiful Yuyuan Garden Complex, one of the most well-known and extravagant Chinese gardens in the country. Visitors can stroll the peaceful ponds and gardens for hours, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.
Bridge of Nine Turnings: As Chinese legend goes, demons have a natural aversion to corners. So, this zig-zagging bridge is believed to be a safe haven from the devil -- and while there are no evil spirits in sight, there certainly are plenty of tourists. As you pass over the bridge, take a peek down below at the hundreds of goldfish that inhabit the lake. A short stroll over the Bridge of Nine Turnings will lead you to your next destination, a classic tea house.
Hu Xin Ting Tea House: At this point in your tour of Shanghai’s old city, it’s time for a relaxing break and a cup of traditional Chinese tea. Located within the Yu Yuan Garden Complex, the Hu Xin Ting Tea House is an ancient gathering place in Shanghai and the oldest tea house of its kind China. Be sure to grab a spot by one of the large windows, so you can take some time to peruse the extensive tea menu while enjoying the pleasant view. Small traditional snacks are served with tea -- perfect for a mid-afternoon energy boost!
The City God Temple: Connected to the Yu Yuan Garden is the City God Temple, which acts as the main worshipping place for three of Shanghai’s main protectors, Qin Yubo, Huo Guang, and Chen Huacheng. While in Shanghai's old city, do like the locals do and offer incense to your god of choice. Perhaps you will receive good fortune in return.
Ancient City Wall: Before you finish your day in Shanghai’s old city, you must make a stop at the Ancient City Wall, the only remaining part of the 16th-Century fortifications. Built in 1553, this wall surrounded the city and offered protection from enemies. Today, it has been mostly torn down to allow for smoother economic engagement, but a piece of it remains for travelers to gawk at. Stop by and stare in awe at a monument to China’s long, enthralling past.
Fuyou Antiques Market: For thrifters and shopaholics, the Fuyou antiques market is a must-visit in Shanghai’s old city. With everything from furniture to art to decor to plain old junk, this shopping destination is a true treasure trove -- and if you’re patient and lucky enough, you may find some treasure of your own. If you’re in town on a Sunday, be sure to stop by for the liveliest day of the week and four floors of vendors.
Yu Yuan Garden Complex: Adjacent to the Old Street is the beautiful Yuyuan Garden Complex, one of the most well-known and extravagant Chinese gardens in the country. Visitors can stroll the peaceful ponds and gardens for hours, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.
Bridge of Nine Turnings: As Chinese legend goes, demons have a natural aversion to corners. So, this zig-zagging bridge is believed to be a safe haven from the devil -- and while there are no evil spirits in sight, there certainly are plenty of tourists. As you pass over the bridge, take a peek down below at the hundreds of goldfish that inhabit the lake. A short stroll over the Bridge of Nine Turnings will lead you to your next destination, a classic tea house.
Hu Xin Ting Tea House: At this point in your tour of Shanghai’s old city, it’s time for a relaxing break and a cup of traditional Chinese tea. Located within the Yu Yuan Garden Complex, the Hu Xin Ting Tea House is an ancient gathering place in Shanghai and the oldest tea house of its kind China. Be sure to grab a spot by one of the large windows, so you can take some time to peruse the extensive tea menu while enjoying the pleasant view. Small traditional snacks are served with tea -- perfect for a mid-afternoon energy boost!
The City God Temple: Connected to the Yu Yuan Garden is the City God Temple, which acts as the main worshipping place for three of Shanghai’s main protectors, Qin Yubo, Huo Guang, and Chen Huacheng. While in Shanghai's old city, do like the locals do and offer incense to your god of choice. Perhaps you will receive good fortune in return.
Ancient City Wall: Before you finish your day in Shanghai’s old city, you must make a stop at the Ancient City Wall, the only remaining part of the 16th-Century fortifications. Built in 1553, this wall surrounded the city and offered protection from enemies. Today, it has been mostly torn down to allow for smoother economic engagement, but a piece of it remains for travelers to gawk at. Stop by and stare in awe at a monument to China’s long, enthralling past.
After spending time in the Old City, discover other great attractions in Shanghai.





