Sunrise and Sunsetin Shanghai, China

Shanghai stretches along the Huangpu River, with the historic Bund on one side and the Pudong skyscrapers on the other. Both banks and several elevated points offer strong vantage points for sunrise and sunset.

Best sunrise spots in Shanghai

1. The Bund (Waitan)

   Iconic waterfront promenade facing east across the Huangpu toward the Pudong skyline. The sun comes up behind the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and SWFC. Arrive before 6 AM to beat the crowds. Metro: East Nanjing Road (Lines 2/10).

2. Binjiang Forest Park

   At the northern tip of Pudong where the Huangpu meets the Yangtze. Open estuary views with no buildings in the way. A 6 km riverside path runs through the park. Quieter and more natural than central Shanghai.

3. North Bund (Hongkou Waterfront)

   2.5 km promenade at a bend in the Huangpu, facing southeast toward Lujiazui. The Pudong towers are silhouetted against the sunrise. Much less crowded than the main Bund.

4. Shanghai Tower Observation Deck

   Floors 118-119 at 546 metres. 360-degree views over the Yangtze Delta and the whole city. Admission around CNY 180. Advance booking recommended.

Best sunset spots in Shanghai

1. Lujiazui Sunset Corridor

   Free viewing platform next to the Museum of Art Pudong, facing west across the Huangpu toward the Bund. Elevated walkway with unobstructed views. Popular with locals and photographers. Metro: Lujiazui (Line 2).

2. Xuhui Riverside (West Bund)

   8.5 km west-facing promenade along the Huangpu in Xuhui district. Passes repurposed industrial buildings and art museums (Long Museum, West Bund Museum). Less crowded than central waterfront spots. Metro: Yunjin Road (Line 11).

3. Nanpu Bridge

   Red steel arches of Shanghai's first cross-river bridge frame the Pudong skyline. Riverside parks near the spiral on-ramp offer good views. South of the Bund, fewer tourists. Metro: Nanpu Bridge (Line 4).

4. North Bund (Hongkou Waterfront)

   Evening light hits the glass facades of the Lujiazui towers from behind the viewer. The curved river provides a wide view stretching from Pudong to the Bund.

5. Shanghai Tower Observation Deck

   Same platform. Westward views as the sun goes down and the city transitions to its nighttime lights. Last entry typically at 8 PM.