Things To Do
in Puxi

Puxi is the historical heart of Shanghai, located on the west bank of the Huangpu River. This vibrant district is known for its mix of colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers, offering a glimpse into both the city's past and its rapid development. Puxi is home to many cultural landmarks, including museums, shopping districts, and bustling streets filled with local eateries.

It serves as a hub for tourists and locals alike, providing a unique experience that captures the essence of Shanghai.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Charm of Puxi
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Shanghai Museum to explore its extensive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts.

afternoon
:

Stroll through People's Park, then head to Nanjing Road for some shopping and street food tasting.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and take a leisurely walk along the Bund to admire the skyline lit up at night.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Scenic Views
morning
:

Visit Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden that provides a tranquil escape in the city.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Yuyuan Bazaar for souvenirs and traditional snacks, then head to the Shanghai Tower for panoramic views from the observation deck.

evening
:

Relax with drinks at a rooftop bar, enjoying the stunning views of the cityscape.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Noodles$3
Coffee$4
🍺Beer$5
🍽️Restaurant Meal$15
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical experiences.
  • Diverse culinary scene with delicious local dishes.
  • Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Crowded tourist areas can be overwhelming.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Mandarin speakers.
  • Air pollution can be a concern, especially during peak seasons.
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "对不起" - Sorry
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?
  • "厕所在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Puxi

Visit one of these nice places.

The Bund

Offers stunning views of the Huangpu River and the futuristic skyline of Pudong, especially at sunset.

Yuyuan Garden

A picturesque garden with traditional architecture, serene ponds, and lush greenery, ideal for tranquil photography.

Shanghai Tower

Capture breathtaking aerial views of Shanghai from the observation deck of one of the tallest buildings in the world.

Culinary Guide

Food in Puxi

Puxi offers a rich culinary scene that reflects both traditional and modern Chinese dining experiences.

Puxi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Xiaolongbao

Steamed soup dumplings filled with pork and broth, a must-try delicacy in Shanghai.

Must-Try!

Shengjianbao

Pan-fried pork buns that are crispy on the bottom and juicy inside.

Scallion Pancakes

Crispy, flaky pancakes made with scallions, often served as a snack or appetizer.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yuyuan Bazaar

A bustling market offering various local snacks and traditional Chinese cuisine.

Tianzifang

A trendy area filled with street food vendors offering unique and delicious bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Puxi experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F) and frequent rainfall. Winters (December to February) are mild, with average temperatures between 3°C to 10°C (37°F to 50°F), and occasional cold snaps. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild and pleasant weather, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals; it's customary to greet them first in social situations.

Dining Etiquette

Use chopsticks properly and avoid sticking them upright in rice, as it symbolizes death.

Personal Space

In crowded places, personal space may be limited; be mindful of this when interacting with locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Puxi is generally safe for tourists, but common sense precautions should be taken. Be aware of your belongings in crowded areas and avoid poorly lit streets at night. It's advisable to have emergency contacts stored in your phone and to keep a copy of important documents, such as your passport.

Tipping in Puxi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

Tipping is not customary in China, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment platforms like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used, so having a digital wallet can be convenient.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time to explore gardens and parks.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather; plan indoor activities during the hottest part of the day.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and clear skies are perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Winter

While winters are mild, occasional cold fronts may occur; dress warmly, especially for evening outings.

Nightlife Guide

Puxi at Night

Puxi boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a plethora of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Bund is famous for its rooftop bars that offer stunning skyline views, while areas like Xin Tian Di and the French Concession are known for trendy pubs and clubs. Live music is popular, and you can find jazz bars and dance clubs catering to various tastes, making it a lively destination after dark.

Hiking in Puxi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Xishan Island Trail

Located about 45 km from Puxi, this trail offers stunning views of the surrounding water and lush landscapes, perfect for a day hike.

Lingshan Mountain

Approximately 120 km from Puxi, Lingshan features various hiking routes with varying difficulty levels and beautiful natural scenery.

Airports

How to reach Puxi by plane.

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport

Located approximately 13 km from Puxi, it primarily serves domestic flights and is well-connected to the city via metro and taxis.

Getting Around

Walkability

Puxi is highly walkable, especially in areas like the Bund and French Concession, where scenic streets and pedestrian-friendly paths abound. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, during peak hours, traffic can make walking less pleasant, so plan your routes accordingly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority are Shanghainese, with a blend of different ethnicities and cultures that influence the city's lifestyle.

Expatriates

A significant expatriate community resides in Puxi, contributing to the diverse cultural landscape and international business environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Table Tennis

Widely played and celebrated in China, table tennis is a popular sport enjoyed by many locals.

Basketball

Basketball has gained immense popularity, with many public courts available for locals and visitors to play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Puxi can be congested, especially during rush hours, with many vehicles and pedestrians sharing the roads. The public transportation system is efficient, with an extensive metro network that makes it easy to navigate the city. Buses and taxis are also readily available, but be prepared for potential delays during peak travel times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Puxi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but be sure to specify your dietary needs.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options can be limited; it's advisable to communicate clearly with restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Puxi is accessible, with numerous hospitals and clinics available. Major hospitals like Huashan Hospital offer services in English and cater to expatriates. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as private healthcare can be costly.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide