Shanghai's Futuristic Day: A Glimpse into Tomorrow

Shanghai offers a glimpse into one of China's most futuristic landscapes. Across the Huangpu River from the historic Bund, skyscrapers soar, while world-class observation decks and advanced transportation systems are woven into the city's daily fabric.

Pudong, on the eastern bank of the Huangpu River, vividly showcases Shanghai's transformation. In just a few decades, it has become a financial hub, home to China's most iconic skyscrapers.
To truly experience Shanghai's futuristic side, consider stepping off the traditional tourist path for a day. Imagine looking down on the city, experiencing new technologies, and witnessing the dazzling night views from the Huangpu River.


1. Shanghai Tower: Meet the Future City from 546m Up

The Shanghai Tower (Shanghai Tower) is your first stop for experiencing the city's futuristic charm. Standing at 632 meters with 128 floors, it's a landmark of Chinese super-tall architecture. Its unique design, gently twisting as it ascends, makes it easily recognizable from afar. The main attraction for visitors is the Shanghai Top of Shanghai Observatory on the 118th floor, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of the city from approximately 546 meters above ground.

From the observatory, the skyscrapers of Pudong, including the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center, are laid out beneath you. Look further, and you'll see the contrast between the historic Bund buildings and the modern financial district across the Huangpu River. It's a place that offers a clear understanding of Shanghai's rapid evolution.


2. Oriental Pearl & Lujiazui: Walking Shanghai's Skyline

After descending from the Shanghai Tower, take a leisurely stroll through the Lujiazui financial district. Home to Shanghai's iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower and a cluster of uniquely designed skyscrapers, the area feels like an open-air architectural museum.

The Oriental Pearl TV Tower, completed in 1994, symbolizes Shanghai's rise as a modern international metropolis. In contrast, the Shanghai Tower showcases the super-tall construction technology developed in the decades since. Viewing them together naturally illustrates the evolution of Shanghai's skyline. Lujiazui also features elevated pedestrian walkways connecting the high-rises, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding architecture from above the bustling streets, perfect for capturing memorable photos.


3. Ride One of the World's Fastest Commercial Maglev Trains

For a direct experience of Shanghai's advanced technology, the Shanghai Maglev is a must-try. Connecting Pudong International Airport with Longyang Road Station, this train uses magnetic levitation to float and glide, unlike traditional rail systems. As one of the early high-speed maglev trains in commercial operation, the Shanghai Maglev gained global attention for its potential top speed of 430 km/h, though actual operating speeds can vary depending on the time of day and operational policies.

While it serves as a transport link between the airport and the city, it offers more than just a ride. If you're flying into or out of Pudong International Airport, it's a convenient way to integrate cutting-edge technology into your travel itinerary. It's a tangible way to see how Shanghai has incorporated advanced technology into its urban infrastructure.


4. Huangpu River Cruise: Witness the Futuristic City at Night

The Huangpu River is the perfect place to conclude your day in Shanghai. It divides and connects Shanghai's past and present. To the west lies the Bund, lined with historic European-style buildings, while to the east is Pudong, a dense cluster of modern skyscrapers. As evening falls, the atmosphere of these two areas transforms dramatically.

The skyscrapers, including the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and Shanghai Tower, illuminate with dazzling lights, and the historic buildings of the Bund also glow. A Huangpu River cruise offers a unique vantage point to admire both sides simultaneously. The main appeal is experiencing the city's skyline from the middle of the river, a different perspective than walking along the banks. Especially after sunset, you'll truly understand why Shanghai is renowned for its spectacular night views.


Shanghai's Future Has Already Arrived

What makes Shanghai so captivating isn't just its futuristic architecture. Across the Huangpu River, 21st-century skyscrapers stand alongside early 20th-century historic buildings. Advanced transportation technologies coexist with the daily life found in old alleyways. Descend from the Shanghai Tower, walk among the Lujiazui architecture, experience the Maglev train, and cap off your day with a Huangpu River cruise. You'll get an up-close look at the changes Shanghai has brought about and what its future holds.

WAUG offers tickets for Shanghai's premier attractions, including the Shanghai Tower Observatory, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, and Huangpu River cruises, making your exploration seamless.