
Most Instagrammable Places in the World in Shanghai, China

1. The Bund
The Bund offers stunning views of Shanghai’s skyline along the Huangpu River, creating an iconic backdrop for photos. It's a blend of classic and modern architectural styles in one frame. These views are best at sunset, capturing the city's shift from day to night.
- Scenic View: Offers breathtaking vistas of modern skyscrapers juxtaposed with classic colonial architecture.
- Lighting: The skyline lights up beautifully after sunset.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by metro or taxi.
- Popularity: Often crowded, especially during weekends or evenings.
- Weather: Clear weather enhances photo quality.

2. Oriental Pearl Tower
This unique tower with its spherical design allows for creative photography shots from both inside and outside. It's especially mesmerizing with its lights on during the night. The glass floor observation deck adds an element of daring adventure to your photos.
- Architecture: Unique design that stands out in every photo.
- Viewpoints: Panoramic views from its observation decks.
- Time: Best visited in the late afternoon for sunset photos.
- Entry Fees: Requires a ticket to enter.
- Weather: Views can be affected by mist or fog.

3. Yu Garden
Yu Garden presents a traditional Chinese garden with pavilions, rockeries, and ponds perfect for capturing tranquil scenes. It’s an ideal spot to experience ancient architecture and landscape design. The garden’s intricate details make close-up photography especially rewarding.
- Historic Value: Offers a look into classical Chinese garden design.
- Detailing: Endless opportunities for detailed close-ups.
- Timing: Best to visit early to avoid crowds.
- Preservation: Respect the cultural setting.
- Lighting: Natural lighting through trees enhances photos.

4. Jing'an Temple
A golden architectural marvel amidst the modern cityscape, Jing’an Temple offers a contrast of tradition meeting modernity. Capture the temple's golden roofs glowing with sunlight. The incense smoke adds a mystical effect to photos.
- Religious Significance: Important for understanding local spiritual culture.
- Contrast: Golden rooftops against a backdrop of skyscrapers.
- Entry Fee: Small fee to enter and explore.
- Visitors: Can be crowded, especially during festivals.
- Lighting: Best captured in the morning light.

5. Tianzifang
An artsy enclave with narrow alleyways, Tianzifang combines traditional Shikumen architecture with modern shops and cafes. The eclectic mix of shops and art present endless photography opportunities. Every corner offers a unique narrative.
- Atmosphere: Vibrant and artistic community setting.
- Diversity: Features traditional crafts as well as modern art.
- Exploration: Easy to get lost in the numerous little streets.
- Lighting: Best captured during daytime with natural light.
- Space: Narrow lanes can be challenging to photograph when crowded.

6. Shanghai Disneyland
Capture the enchantment of Disney with its blend of Capitan America rides, and a giant castle—the tallest of all Disney castles—set in a distinctly Chinese context. It's a dreamland for fairy-tale themed photos. The evening fireworks add magic to nighttime photography.
- Familiarly Magical: Classic Disney ambiance with unique Shanghai touches.
- Attractions: Opportunities for fun and interactive shots.
- Entry Fee: Significant cost for park entry.
- Timing: Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid long queues.
- Lighting: Vibrant lighting for evening photography.

7. Longhua Temple
With an impressive seven-story pagoda, Longhua Temple is the oldest and largest temple complex in Shanghai, offering an aura of serenity amidst the bustling city. The peaceful environment enhances its meditative appeal for photographers. Its historic architecture provides varied photo angles.
- Historic Landmark: Important for its age and resilience.
- Serenity: Offers a peaceful atmosphere throughout the grounds.
- Architecture: Traditional design perfectly preserved.
- Entry Fee: Requires a small entrance fee.
- Timing: Ideal to visit during weekdays for less crowd.

8. French Concession
Known for its tree-lined streets and European-style buildings, the French Concession possesses charming corners throughout. Photograph the juxtaposition of vintage and trendy spots. Walking or cycling enhances the exploration of its many photogenic streets.
- Architecture: European influence in design makes it stand out.
- Greenery: Lush tree canopies offer beautiful natural frames.
- Timing: Enjoyable during all seasons, with special charm in spring.
- Traffic: Pedestrian-friendly streets.
- Exploration: Best explored at a leisurely pace by foot or bike.

9. Shanghai Tower
As the second tallest building in the world, Shanghai Tower offers a bird’s eye view of the entire city. Its glass façade reflects light playfully at different times of the day. The elevator ride alone is an exhilarating experience to capture.
- Iconic Height: One of the world's tallest architectural feats.
- Panoramic View: Unmatched city views from high above.
- Entry Fee: Tickets are needed for access.
- Visibility: Check weather for optimal clear-sky days.
- Technology: Futuristic and fast elevators add excitement.

10. Zhujiajiao Water Town
Known as the "Venice of Shanghai," Zhujiajiao has ancient bridges, canals, and buildings to capture. This water town offers a unique opportunity to photograph reflection shots on the waterways. Wooden boats provide an authentic touch to the scenic landscape.
- Historic Charm: Offers a glimpse into an ancient lifestyle.
- Waterways: Unique perspective due to beautiful reflections.
- Transportation: Visits are a day trip from central Shanghai.
- Setting: Tranquil and picturesque setting perfect for long shoots.
- Peak Hours: Early morning or late afternoon provides soft light.

11. Shanghai Museum
Capture the elegance of ancient Chinese artifacts with the museum’s impressive architecture. Snap detailed shots of its artifacts offering insights into China’s vast and rich history. The circular design adds a sense of harmony and balance in photos.
- Cultural Experience: Enriching exposure to historical treasures.
- Detailing: Close-ups of intricate artifact designs are rewarding.
- Entry: Free entry but may require timed tickets.
- Hours: Best visited midweek for fewer crowds.
- Lighting: Well-curated spots inside for photography.

12. Nanjing Road
Known for its vibrant energy, Nanjing Road is a bustling shopping street filled with bright neon lights. Capture the hustle and bustle of city life here, as retailers and shoppers create dynamic photographic subjects. Street performers add to the lively atmosphere.
- Vibrancy: Best showcases the liveliness of modern Shanghai.
- Diversity: Blessed with dynamic and varied street life.
- Timing: Especially photogenic during evening with lights on.
- Movement: Explore differently to find interesting viewpoints.
- Activity: Perfect for practicing street photography.

13. Jade Buddha Temple
Home to a stunning white jade Buddha statue, this temple displays breathtaking artistry and spiritual serenity. Capture the interplay of traditional craftsmanship and modern religious practice. The lighting further enhances the peaceful ambiance.
- Unique Craftsmanship: Intricate jade detailing is a must-capture.
- Atmosphere: Offers peace and spirituality amidst city noise.
- Admission: Requires an entry ticket.
- Rituals: Witnessing monks and worshippers enriches photos.
- Lighting: Natural light best captures the serene setting.

14. Xintiandi
This modern area blends Shikumen architecture with contemporary flair, creating excellent contrasts for photography. It's a hub for lifestyle and fashion, offering chic vibes and varied textures for your shots. Urban art installations add creative depth.
- Style: Perfect fusion of old and new architectural styles.
- Energy: Energetic and sophisticated mixed-use area.
- Pedestrian-Friendly: Easily walkable for varying perspectives.
- Activities: Great spot for nightlife capturing unique lighting.
- Traffic: Popular, avoid peak dining hours for less crowd.

15. Propaganda Poster Art Centre
Found within a residential compound, this museum presents colorful propaganda posters from the Mao era with profound historical context. Capture the vivid artwork that reflects a significant part of Chinese history. The unique setting offers unconventional photos.
- Historic: Insight into China’s cultural history through art.
- Color: Bright, educational, and engaging visuals.
- Niche: Unique focus on cultural pieces not widely displayed elsewhere.
- Hours: Ideal for rainy days exploring indoors.
- Size: Small but packed with detail, allows for an intimate experience.

16. Qibao Ancient Town
This town offers a glimpse of ancient life with its well-preserved Song dynasty architecture and waterways. The blend of historic structures and life along the river adds depth to photos. Snack stalls offer tasty bites that also make colorful subjects.
- Authenticity: Capture historical architecture and vibrant street life.
- Culinary: Tempting street food visuals enrich storytelling.
- Timing: Weekdays offer a more peaceful setting.
- Tourist Volume: Busy during weekends; morning visits preferred.
- Climate: Check weather as water reflections enhance images.

17. Fuxing Park
This French-style park is a peaceful green oasis in the urban cityscape, offering paths lined with sculptures and flowers. It’s a spot to capture locals exercising, playing games, or engaging in dance. Capture the relaxed pace and community life in photos.
- Nature: Lush greenery and tranquil waterways.
- Activity: Witness locals in everyday activities.
- Versatility: Works well for diverse types of photography (portraits, landscape).
- Hours: Morning light plus fewer crowds is ideal.
- Space: Spacious enough for panoramic or wide-angle shots.

18. Lujiazui Skyline
Offering an impressive blend of architectural marvels, Lujiazui Skyline is the embodiment of Shanghai’s financial prowess. Capture its futuristic cityscape shimmering under the city lights at night. The skyline is best photographed from across the river.
- Futuristic: Captures the essence of a modern metropolis.
- Night Photography: Best seen after dark for vibrant lighting.
- Accessibility: View from across the river or from The Bund.
- Timing: Late evening when lights are fully illuminated is best.
- Variation: Multiple angles available for diverse shots.

19. Moganshan Road Art District (M50)
A converted industrial area now hosting contemporary art galleries and studios. Capture the vibrant street art and exhibits by local artists. The dynamic art installations and graffiti create bold and colorful composition options.
- Creativity: Offers a unique artsy atmosphere against industrial decor.
- Diversity: Showcases a wide range of art styles and media.
- Entry: Free to explore the galleries and outdoor murals.
- Exploration: Best explored on foot to catch details.
- Tips: Bright daylight helps in capturing true colors.

20. Waibaidu Bridge
Known as Shanghai's first all-steel bridge, Waibaidu Bridge offers picturesque views of the Huangpu River and the distant skyline. Its architectural design provides leading lines to enhance photos. The bridge captures both historical and modern aesthetic contrasts effectively.
- Historic Significance: Represents architectural advancement in Old Shanghai.
- Bridging Views: Great vantage point for waterfront photography.
- Timing: Morning or late afternoon light enhances metallic structure.
- Transport: Easily reachable by foot from The Bund.
- Structure: Strong architectural lines for creative compositions.