Shanghai After Dark
When the sun sets, Shanghai transforms into one of Asia's most vibrant nightlife capitals. From the glittering skyline of the Bund to hidden speakeasies in the French Concession, the city offers an incredible range of evening experiences for every taste and budget.
Bund Night View (外滩夜景)
The Bund (外滩) is Shanghai's most iconic night experience — and it's completely free. Walk along the waterfront promenade and gaze across the Huangpu River at the dazzling Pudong skyline featuring the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and the World Financial Center. The view is magical at any time, but it's especially stunning from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM when all the buildings are illuminated.
💡 Pro Tip
For the best Bund night photos, arrive at sunset to capture the golden hour transitioning into the blue hour as the skyline lights up. The rooftop bars on Nanjing East Road also offer stunning elevated views.
Huangpu River Cruise (黄浦江游船)
A river cruise is the best way to see both sides of Shanghai's skyline from the water. Glide past the colonial-era buildings of the Bund and the futuristic towers of Pudong while enjoying dinner, drinks, or just the view.
- Fare: From ¥68 per person (about $9.50 USD)
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour
- Departure points: Bund Pier or Pudong Shiliupu Wharf
- Best time: Board at sunset for the full day-to-night transition
Bars & Cocktail Lounges
Xintiandi (新天地)
Shanghai's premier bar and dining district, set among beautifully restored traditional Shikumen (石库门) lane houses. The cobblestone streets are lined with upscale cocktail bars, wine bars, and restaurants. It's lively every night of the week and attracts both locals and international visitors.
Cloud 9 Bar — Jin Mao Tower
Perched on the 87th floor of the Jin Mao Tower, Cloud 9 offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city from one of the world's highest hotel bars. The cocktails are pricey, but the sunset views are worth every yuan. Make reservations in advance.
Fuxing Park Bars (复兴公园酒吧区)
The area around Fuxing Park in the French Concession is home to a cluster of trendy bars and late-night venues. From craft cocktail spots to underground DJ bars, this is where Shanghai's hip crowd hangs out.
Live Shows & Performances
ERA — Shanghai Circus (ERA时空之旅)
An world-class acrobatic spectacular that combines traditional Chinese acrobatics with modern staging, music, and technology. Performances at the Shanghai Circus World feature jaw-dropping stunts, contortionists, and aerial acts that leave audiences breathless.
- Ticket price: ¥280–380 (about $39–$53 USD)
- Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
- Show times: Typically 7:30 PM on select evenings
Night Markets (夜市)
For a more local and budget-friendly nightlife experience, head to one of Shanghai's lively night markets:
- 云南南路 (Yunnan South Road) — The city's premier food street, bustling with stalls selling grilled skewers, stinky tofu, fried dumplings, and bubble tea until late
- 昌里路夜市 (Changli Road Night Market) — A local favorite in Pudong with dozens of food vendors, games, and a lively atmosphere; best after 7:00 PM
🌙 Night Market Tip
Bring cash and an adventurous appetite. Night markets are the perfect place to sample Shanghai street food at its most authentic — and at rock-bottom prices. Try the grilled squid, 老上海冰糕 (old Shanghai ice cake), and 盐酥鸡 (Taiwanese-style fried chicken).
Recommended Night Itinerary
Want the perfect Shanghai evening? Follow this route:
- 5:30 PM — Arrive at the Bund for sunset photos over Pudong
- 6:30 PM — Board the Huangpu River cruise for a 1-hour voyage
- 8:00 PM — Head to Xintiandi for cocktails and dinner
- 10:00 PM — Walk to a night market for late-night street food
Plan Your Night Out
Want someone to show you the best of Shanghai after dark? Our Night Tour and Evening Highlights Tour cover all the top spots with a knowledgeable local guide. We also offer a combined Food & Nightlife Tour for the ultimate evening experience.