Shanghai’s Best Night Strolls: Two Must-Try Citywalk Routes

Shanghai's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. On one side of the Huangpu River, you'll find the modern, dazzling skyline, while on the other side, you can explore the rich historical and cultural landmarks. There is also the peaceful, tranquil side of the city hidden in quiet corners. If you're tired of spending night after night in bars and clubs, the following two city walk routes will offer you a different perspective of Shanghai after dark.

1.Night Tour of the Bund

The Bund has always been a top tourist destination in Shanghai. In addition to admiring the rare "World Architecture Exhibition," visitors can enjoy the elegance of Waibaidu Bridge and Wusong Road Floodgate Bridge, the charm of Huangpu Park, the ingenious design of the flood control wall, and the beautiful scenery where grand buildings and river waters blend harmoniously. A night cruise along the Huangpu River offers an even more unique experience. With convenient transportation, easy shopping, rich historical anecdotes, and complete tourism facilities, visitors are sure to be captivated.

-Route:Nanjing East Road → Peace Hotel → The Bund → Waibaidu Bridge → Zhapu Road Bridge
-Total distance: 2 km, approximately 60 minutes walking tour.

-Landmarks:

• Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street: Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s most famous commercial district, known as “China’s First Commercial Street.” At night, as the street lights up with neon signs, the various unique buildings become even more breathtaking. Adjacent to the Bund, it attracts a large number of both domestic and international visitors.
• The Bund's World Architecture Exhibition: Located on Zhongshan East 1st Road in Huangpu District, the Bund’s World Architecture Exhibition is one of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks. It features 52 classical revival buildings, earning the name "World Architecture Exhibition" and is one of China's significant modern historical sites.

• Lujiazui: Lujiazui is the core functional area of Shanghai’s International Financial Center, home to many multinational banks' headquarters for China and East Asia. Lujiazui is also famous for its modern architectural marvels like the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and Jin Mao Tower. Along the riverside is the site of the old wharves.

• Waibaidu Bridge: Waibaidu Bridge spans 104.24 meters, starting at South Suzhou Road and ending at North Suzhou Road. Located near the Huangpu River, this bridge is one of old Shanghai’s most iconic structures, serving as a symbol of the city's history, roadways, and scenic charm. It has appeared in many renowned films and television shows, becoming a symbol of Shanghai itself.

• Zhapu Road Bridge: Zhapu Road Bridge is a prime location for photographing Suzhou Creek. From the bridge, you can look eastward to take in the skyline of Lujiazui, the century-old buildings of the Bund Origin, Waibaidu Bridge, and Shanghai Mansions. To the west, the scenery includes the Bellagio Hotel and the Postal Museum, creating a picturesque view.

2. Night Stroll along the Suzhou River

In between the busy working life, there's no need to travel far. Take a citywalk on a fall evening by the Suzhou River and experience the romance and leisure reminiscent of a stroll along the Seine in Paris.

-Route: Wuning Road Bridge — Innovation Tower — Mengqing Garden — Changhua Road Bridge

-Total distance: About 4 kilometers, approximately 40-60 minutes by foot.

-Landmarks:

• Wuning Road Bridge: The citywalk starts at Wuning Road Bridge. At night, the bridge lights up beautifully, with its lights reflecting off the water in a dazzling display. Wuning Road Bridge is a true “hybrid,” modeled after the Pont Alexandre III in Paris, but with a close look, the decorative patterns on the bridge are distinctly Chinese.Beneath the bridge lies a hidden gem of a bar. Enjoy the view with a chilled beer and relish the leisurely summer vibes.

• Innovation Tower: A 10-minute walk east from Wuning Road Bridge along the Suzhou River brings you to the Innovation Tower. This spot is not only a hub for art and creativity but also a popular nightlife destination, hosting various unique night markets periodically. Climbing up to the rooftop, you're greeted with a breeze and a broad view overlooking the panoramic scenery of the Suzhou River's Baoshan Bay. Hidden within the complex are several “treasure shops,” stepping into one feels like entering the mystical garden from Alice in Wonderland. The vintage yet refined decor and each detail exude French romance, making one wonder: Who says this isn’t like Paris?

• Mengqing Garden Eco Theme Park: Continuing along the beauty of the Suzhou River, passing through Zhenping Road Bridge and Jiangning Road Bridge, you reach the summer retreat — Mengqing Garden Eco Theme Park. The park's metasequoia pathway is illuminated by moonlight and lights at night, where every step is marked by interlacing shadows and a cool breeze. The murmuring streams in the park add life and vitality to the tranquil night.

• Changhua Road Bridge: Just a few hundred meters from Mengqing Garden Park, the bustling Changhua Road Bridge appears. Its structure resembles a “butterfly resting on the waves.” Built in 2001, it's one of the best spots for night views along the Suzhou River. Sitting by the bridge, with a breeze on your face and the nearby Tian'an Qianshu shining brightly in the night, it feels like a dreamy forest.