Explore Shanghai's top spots via direct metro access

As summer draws to a close, why not embrace spontaneity and set out on an easy adventure? With Shanghai's metro system offering direct access to some of the city's most captivating attractions, every journey is bound to be light-hearted and memorable. Here's a list of must-visit destinations:

Waving Cube sci-fi museum

The cantilever design of the building gives the illusion of a futuristic city suspended in the air.jpg
​An aerial view of the museum. [Photo/Waving Cube]

Nestled within Jinhai Lake in Fengxian district, the Waving Cube sci-fi museum brings to life elements from the acclaimed Chinese sci-fi novel The Three-Body Problem. With six themed spaces and more than 30 interactive experiences, the museum has become a hub of technology, cultural creativity, and sci-fi wonder.

📍Address: Jinhai Lake, Hangnan Road, Fengxian district

🚇Transport: Metro Line 5, Jinhai Lake Station

The Stage observation deck

The observation deck, a new landmark in Shanghai, offers a 360-degree view of Shanghai
​The observation deck, a new landmark in Shanghai, offers a 360-degree view of Shanghai's skyline. [Photo/The Stage]

Perched atop a 66-story tower shaped like a blooming magnolia, the observation deck soars 320 meters above the city. Take in the sweeping panorama of the Huangpu River and Shanghai's skyline, featuring the iconic Lujiazui area and the vibrant North Bund.

📍Address: No 588 Dongchangzhi Road, Hongkou district

🚇Transport: Metro Line 12, International Cruise Terminal Station

The VERS immersive exploration center

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​Visitors explore a virtual world with VR equipment. [Photo/Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism]

Step into the future at The VERS immersive exploration center in HKRI Taikoo Hui. Spanning over 1,000 square meters, it features a large virtual reality zone where up to 70 visitors can embark on immersive adventures. Guests can choose from a variety of experiences and explore through interactive free movement.

📍Address: No 789 West Nanjing Road, Jing'an district

🚇Transport: Metro Line 13, West Nanjing Road Station

Shanghai Museum East

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​Shanghai Museum East. [Photo/Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism]

Shanghai Museum East spans nearly 120,000 sq m, showcasing over 15,000 artifacts across 20 exhibition halls. Current exhibitions include Legends of Dragon, the Ancient Civilization of Hongshan Culture, and The Spiraling Glory: Treasures from Guyuan, Ningxia, which features important archaeological discoveries and exquisite relics. Visitors can also take part in unique experiences such as watching artifact restoration, exploring creative zones, and collecting stamps.

📍Address: No 1952 Century Avenue, Pudong New Area

🚇Transport: Metro Line 2, Shanghai Science and Technology Museum Station

Shanghai Disney Resort

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​The resort's summer season features Mickey and friends. [Photo/Shanghai Disney Resort]

Experience the magic at Shanghai Disneyland, home to eight themed areas, including the whimsical Mickey Avenue and enchanting Gardens of Imagination. The iconic Enchanted Storybook Castle and vibrant parades promise a unique, magical experience for visitors of all ages.

The park's summer season is in full swing, featuring limited-time performances, water parties, and adventure tours — perfect for a last-minute summer visit.

📍Address: No 310 Huangzhao Road, Chuansha New Town, Pudong New Area

🚇Transport: Metro Line 11, Disney Resort Station

Yuyuan Garden

The classical garden transforms into a dreamlike realm as light and shadow intertwine.jpg
​The classical garden transforms into a dreamlike realm as light and shadow intertwine. [Photo/Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism]

Step back in time at Yuyuan Garden, a historical gem and cultural symbol of Shanghai, celebrated as the "crown of southeast gardens".

The newly introduced night tours offer an immersive experience through light and shadow shows. The guided tours take you on a 50-minute journey along a 350-meter route, showcasing 24 innovatively designed spots.

📍Address: No 279 Yuyuan Old Street, Huangpu district

🚇Transport: Metro Line 10/14, Yuyuan Station

Panlong Tiandi

A variety of child-friendly water fun facilities make it the perfect summer outing spot for the entire family..jpg
​A variety of child-friendly water fun facilities make it the perfect summer outing spot for the entire family. [Photo/Panlong Tiandi]

Panlong Tiandi combines art, culture, and entertainment in a 50,000 sq m commercial zone. Boasting an expansive 230,000 sq m green space and a 3-kilometer waterway, it is an ideal spot for a refreshing summer escape. The recently upgraded play areas, including nearly 1,000 sq m dedicated to water activities, make it especially inviting.

📍Address: No 123, Alley 8, Panding Road, Qingpu district

🚇Transport: Metro Line 17, Panlong Road Station

Expo Culture Park

A night view of Expo Culture Park.jpg
​A night view of Expo Culture Park. [Photo/Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism]

Discover the magic of night at Expo Culture Park with activities ranging from greenhouse garden tours to poetic light shows, starlit lawn movies, and art exhibitions. Each visit promises a new surprise.

📍Address: No 1750 Expo Avenue, Pudong New Area

🚇Transport: Metro Line 13, Expo Avenue Station

Shanghai Circus World

An aerial view of Shanghai Circus World.jpg
​An aerial view of Shanghai Circus World. [Photo/Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism]

Renowned as one of China's premier circuses, Shanghai Circus World captivates visitors with its golden dome and dazzling performances. Its signature show, Spirit of Shanghai, combines French artistry with Chinese elements through acrobatics and advanced stage technology, creating a spectacle that appeals to all ages.

📍Address: No 2266 Gonghexin Road, Jing'an district

🚇Transport: Metro Line 1, Shanghai Circus World Station

Source: shanghaigov