How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Pudong, China

1. Shanghai Tower Observation Deck

Avoid peak hours for a less crowded experience, and explore the city from multiple viewpoints without overpaying.

Timing: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid long queues.
Cost Efficiency: Multiple observation decks in Pudong offer comparable views but with varying ticket prices.
Variety: Explore alternative viewpoints like the FreeTV Park for a different perspective of the city.

Skip the touristy and overpriced Bund Sightseeing Tunnel; instead, take a ferry ride along the Huangpu River for breathtaking views.

Alternative Transportation: Ferry rides offer an alternative way to cross the river and enjoy scenic views.
Cost Savings: Ferries are a cost-effective means of transportation compared to the tunnel.
Unique Experience: Enjoy the fresh river breeze and the changing cityscape during your ferry ride.

Ditch the tourist bus for a self-guided exploration of Pudong at night using public transportation.

Independence: Plan and navigate your route independently to discover hidden gems.
Cost Efficiency: Public transportation offers a more cost-effective way to explore the city at night.
Authentic Experience: Immerse yourself in local life by visiting markets and neighborhoods off the beaten path.

Experience authentic local food at street vendors instead of overpriced tourist eateries.

Authenticity: Street vendors offer traditional dishes that are more affordable and delicious.
Variety: Discover a wide variety of local specialties, from soups to snacks.
Local Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the lively and bustling atmosphere of the street market.

Avoid overpriced souvenirs by exploring local markets and shops outside major attractions.

Price Comparison: Compare prices at various stores to find the best deals.
Local Artisanship: Support local artisans and their unique handmade souvenirs.
Cultural Insight: Learn about the history and cultural significance of traditional Chinese souvenirs.

Avoid the tourist crowds and explore lesser-known water towns like Zhouzhuang or Wuzhong.

Off-the-beaten-path: Explore quieter, less crowded water towns for a more authentic experience.
Cost Savings: Smaller towns tend to have lower prices and fewer crowds.
Historical Significance: Discover the rich history and architecture of China's water towns.

Avoid overcharging by using ride-hailing apps or negotiating fares beforehand.

Ride-hailing Apps: Use apps like Didi to book and pay for your taxi rides electronically.
Negotiating Fares: Always agree on the fare before starting your journey with a taxi driver.
Avoid Peak Hours: Travel during off-peak hours to avoid surge pricing and long wait times.

Avoid overpriced or fake goods by being cautious, researching prices in advance, and negotiating with vendors.

Research Prices: Know the average price of items before visiting night markets.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate with vendors to get a fair price for your purchases.
Beware of Fakes: Be wary of counterfeit goods and look for reputable sellers.

Book tickets in advance from reputable providers to avoid overpaying or being scammed.

Reputable Providers: Choose well-known cruise operators for a hassle-free experience.
Booking in Advance: Secure your tickets early to ensure availability and avoid long lines.
Avoid Street Vendors: Do not buy tickets from street vendors or unofficial ticket sellers.

Avoid overpriced and low-quality shows by doing research on circuses with good reviews.

Good Reviews: Choose circuses with positive customer feedback and recommendations.
Cost Efficiency: Compare prices and opt for affordable, yet high-quality shows.
Check Performance Times: Make sure to check performance times and plan accordingly.

Avoid overpriced teas by exploring local tea farms and markets outside major attractions.

Local Tea Farms: Visit local tea farms to learn about different varieties of tea.
Cost Savings: Purchase tea directly from the source for lower prices.
Tasting Experiences: Sample teas before purchasing to find your favorite varieties.

Avoid overcharging by researching prices in advance and negotiating with the KTV establishment.

Price Comparison: Compare prices of KTV establishments to find the best deal.
Negotiating Prices: Always negotiate the price for your room, drinks, and food beforehand.
Check Contracts: Avoid hidden fees by carefully reviewing contracts and asking questions.

Avoid overpaying for performances or souvenirs by watching a few minutes of the show and negotiating prices.

Watch Before Paying: Take a moment to watch the performance before deciding to tip or pay.
Negotiate Prices: Ask for a reasonable price and be prepared to walk away if the request is too high.
Know Your Limit: Set a spending limit for tips and souvenirs to avoid overspending.

Avoid overpriced or contaminated street food by choosing established vendors and watching the cooking process.

Established Vendors: Look for well-established street food vendors with clean surroundings.
Watch the Cooking Process: Ensure that food is prepared fresh and in a sanitary manner.
Ask Locals: Ask local residents for recommendations on popular and safe street food vendors.

Avoid overpaying for nightclub cover charges by researching prices in advance and visiting during off-peak hours.

Research Prices: Check the average cover charge for different clubs to find a reasonable price.
Off-peak Hours: Visit nightclubs during off-peak hours to avoid higher cover charges.
Negotiating Cover Charges: Always ask the door staff if there are any discounted entry rates or promotions.