Weird & Unusual Attractions in Shanghai, China

Shanghai, China, Shanghai, Unique & Fun, Weird & Unusual Attractions

Weird & Unusual Attractions in Shanghai, China

Shanghai Marriage Market

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.
Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre

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.
1933 Old Millfun

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.
Longhua Cemetery for Revolutionary Martyrs

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.
Thames Town

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.
M50 Creative Space

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.
The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel

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.
Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center

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.
Shanghai Museum of Glass

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.
Dishui Lake

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.
Zhujiajiao Water Town

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.
Shanghai Natural History Museum

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.
Bird and Flower Market

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.
Little Europe (East China Normal University campus)

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.
Qibao Ancient Town

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.
Maglev Train Ride

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.
Tianshan Tea City

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.
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

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.
Sweet Love Road

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.
Guangfulin Ancient Relics Park

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.