
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Shanghai, China

1. Shanghai Marriage Market
- At People’s Park, parents gather to find matches for their children by sharing details on paper sheets. It lets travelers glimpse a unique cultural practice in social matchmaking.
- Cultural Insight: Offers insight into traditional matchmaking.
- Schedule: Open on weekends.
- Photography: Limited photo opportunities due to privacy.
- Language Barrier: Most interactions are in Chinese.
- Weather Dependent: Best visited on a dry day.

2. Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre
- This hidden basement museum houses an impressive collection of Chinese propaganda art from the 20th century. It presents a unique perspective on China's history through art.
- Historical Context: Displays historical propaganda art.
- Location: Tucked away in a residential building.
- Language: Includes English descriptions.
- Museum Hours: Limited visitors per day, plan accordingly.
- Atmosphere: Small and intimate setting.

3. 1933 Old Millfun
- A former slaughterhouse transformed into an artsy labyrinth of cafes, boutiques, and creative spaces. Its unique architectural design is a draw for photography and exploration.
- Architectural Interest: Distinctive industrial design.
- Creative Space: Hosts various art installations.
- Accessibility: Multi-level building with many stairs.
- Location: In the Hongkou District.
- Event Venue: Often hosts events, can be crowded.

4. Longhua Cemetery for Revolutionary Martyrs
- A solemn and beautifully maintained cemetery dedicated to martyrs of China’s revolutionary history. It offers a quiet retreat and a glimpse into China's past.
- Historical Importance: Honors revolutionary heroes.
- Serenity: Peaceful environment.
- Guided Tours: Available for more historical insights.
- Accessibility: Easy access from central Shanghai.
- Photography: Permitted, respectful snapshots recommended.

5. Thames Town
- A British-themed town with cobbled streets, red telephone booths, and a church reminiscent of English countryside villages. It provides a quirky and scenic contrast to Shanghai's urban landscape.
- Replica Experience: Mimics British architecture.
- Photography: Popular spot for wedding pictures.
- Distance: Located 30 km from downtown Shanghai.
- Facilities: Limited dining options available.
- Timing: Best visited during daylight for full effect.

6. M50 Creative Space
- An art district housing contemporary galleries, studios, and cafes in a renovated industrial setting. It's an exciting destination for modern art enthusiasts.
- Creativity Hub: Features innovative art exhibitions.
- Accessibility: Urban art experience in Shanghai.
- Interaction: Speak to artists during gallery hours.
- Evolving Exhibits: Exhibits change regularly.
- Navigation: Maps available to guide through galleries.

7. The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel
- An illuminated subterranean tunnel with a light show connecting the Bund to Pudong. It offers a quirky alternative to experiencing the city's landmark crossing.
- Unique Transport: Underground light show ride.
- Ticket Cost: Relatively expensive for short distance.
- Language: Announcements in Chinese and English.
- Duration: Approx. 5-minute ride.
- Effectiveness: Best at night for lighting effect.

8. Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center
- Features a massive scale model of Shanghai, providing visitors an unusual view of the city's development. It's ideal for travelers interested in urban planning and architecture.
- Scale Model: Impressive city model detail.
- Location: Situated in People’s Square.
- Educational Value: In-depth urban planning exhibitions.
- Tour Option: Guided tours add context.
- Opening Hours: Usually open every day except Mondays.

9. Shanghai Museum of Glass
- A museum dedicated to glass art and innovation, showcasing creative works and interactive exhibitions. It's a must-visit for those interested in modern art and industrial design.
- Glass Art: Features exceptional contemporary glass pieces.
- Hands-On Exhibits: Interactive sessions available.
- Location: Situated in the Baoshan District.
- Accessibility: Well connected by metro.
- Shopping: Glass creations for sale in the gift shop.

10. Dishui Lake
- An artificial lake with clear waters surrounded by recreational activities such as sailing and cycling. It offers an unusual and peaceful escape from the urban chaos of Shanghai.
- Recreational Activities: Hosts water sports and cycling.
- Calm Environment: Less crowded than city parks.
- Location: Far from city center, offers respite.
- Facilities: Rentals available for boating and bikes.
- Seasonal Constraints: Best visited during warmer months.

11. Zhujiajiao Water Town
- Known as the Venice of Shanghai, this ancient water town features canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture. It provides a charming historical escape within easy reach of the city.
- Water Town Experience: Traditional canal-town atmosphere.
- Architecture: Ancient buildings line the waterways.
- Accessibility: Short trip from Shanghai's city center.
- Dining Options: Local cuisine available in town.
- Suitable for Short Visits: Ideal for day trips.

12. Shanghai Natural History Museum
- This museum brings a bit of the Jurassic era to Shanghai with lifelike dinosaur replicas and extensive natural history exhibits. It's an unusual yet educational escape for families and dinosaur enthusiasts.
- Paleontology Focus: Features dinosaur exhibits.
- Educational Scope: Broad natural history collections.
- Location: Set within the bustling Jing'an Sculpture Park.
- Interactive Displays: Engage with hands-on exhibits.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for children and adults alike.

13. Bird and Flower Market
- A bustling market where exotic pets, unique flowers, and rare plants are displayed for sale. It's a peculiar shopping experience offering a glimpse into local pet culture.
- Local Culture: Insight into Shanghai pet practices.
- Variety: Wide range of birds and plants.
- Accessibility: Found in the downtown area.
- Language: Vendors primarily speak Chinese.
- Sensory Experience: Rich with sounds and scents.

14. Little Europe (East China Normal University campus)
- Known for its European-style architecture right within a university campus, it's a surprising juxtaposition of East meets West. Perfect for those seeking beauty in academic settings.
- Architectural Style: European-influenced campus buildings.
- Accessibility: Open to the public during the day.
- Cultural Mix: Unique blend of global architecture.
- Peacefulness: Quiet environment.
- Photography: Picturesque scenery for photo enthusiasts.

15. Qibao Ancient Town
- A small but historic water town within Shanghai, where narrow stone paths and streams transport visitors back in time. Experience local snacks and street performances in an old-world setting.
- Historic Value: Features well-preserved heritage buildings.
- Street Food: Offers traditional snacks and sweets.
- Entertainment: Witness local street performers.
- Accessibility: Easy to reach by metro.
- Timing: Can be crowded on weekends.

16. Maglev Train Ride
- The Shanghai Maglev Train offers travelers a futuristic experience, speeding to the airport at over 400 km/h. Experience the world's fastest commercially operating train.
- High-Speed Travel: Unique speed experience.
- Technology: Showcase of advanced magnetic levitation.
- Route: Runs from Pudong Airport to Longyang Road.
- Duration: Journey lasts around 7 minutes.
- Scheduling: Departure every 15-20 minutes.

17. Tianshan Tea City
- A multi-story marketplace packed with a wide variety of teas and tea accessories. Offers an authentic tea shopping experience for those curious about China's tea culture.
- Tea Culture: Deep dive into Chinese tea.
- Variety: Hosts a multitude of tea types.
- Sampling: Try different teas before purchase.
- Language: Some vendors speak English.
- Bargaining: Negotiation common, be prepared.

18. Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
- Set in People's Park, MOCA showcases innovative contemporary art from around the world. It's ideal for travelers looking to experience the cutting edge of the art world.
- Global Art: Highlights international contemporary works.
- Location: Central urban setting in People's Square.
- Rotating Exhibits: New exhibits featured frequently.
- Accessibility: Conveniently accessible by metro.
- Admission Fee: Moderate entry cost for diverse displays.

19. Sweet Love Road
- A uniquely themed road, known for its love-inspired decorations and quirky strolling experience. Ideal for couples and romantic photo ops.
- Romantic Setting: Love-themed street decor.
- Unusual Attraction: Known for its quirky ambience.
- Photogenic: Popular for themed photoshoots.
- Short Walks: Features a brief stretch.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible from the city.

20. Guangfulin Ancient Relics Park
- An archaeological site housed within a park where ancient relics of the Songze Culture were found. Offering a deep dive into the history of civilization predating modern Shanghai.
- Archaeological Interest: Site with historical finds.
- Nature and History: Combines park setting with history.
- Engagement: Interactive exhibits about ancient times.
- Location: Situated in Songjiang District.
- Entrance Fee: Moderate fee required for entry.