Things to do in Yangtze River Delta
Discover the best attractions and experiences Yangtze River Delta has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore iconic sites that reveal the Yangtze River Delta's rich history, from imperial tombs to classical gardens and waterfront promenades.
The Bund
Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade lined with historic architecture from the colonial era. It offers dramatic views of Pudong across the Huangpu River.
Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum
Mausoleum of the first Ming emperor set in a hillside park with monumental gateways and stone carvings.
Humble Administrator's Garden
One of China's most famous classical gardens, showcasing ponds, pavilions, and winding corridors.
Zhouzhuang Ancient Town
Renowned water town near Suzhou with canals, stone bridges, and well-preserved traditional houses.
Museums
Dive into regional art, history, and maritime heritage across Shanghai, Suzhou, Nanjing, and beyond.
Shanghai Museum
A vast collection spanning ancient bronzes, ceramics, painting, and sculpture in a modern building.
Suzhou Museum
I.M. Pei-designed museum blending modern architecture with traditional Suzhou aesthetics.
Nanjing Museum
Nanjing's premier museum presenting regional history and cultural artifacts.
China Maritime Museum
One of the world's largest maritime museums with ship models, navigational exhibits, and seafaring history.
Religious Monuments
Temple precincts, pagodas, and sacred sites scattered across the delta offer contemplative respite.
Jade Buddha Temple
A functioning Buddhist temple housing two jade Buddha statues, set amid a busy Shanghai neighborhood.
Longhua Temple
One of Shanghai's oldest Buddhist temples, featuring a towering stupa and tranquil gardens.
Lingyin Temple
Hangzhou's famed temple complex set among forested hills with grottoes and sculptures.
Nanjing Confucius Temple
Temple complex honoring Confucius with scholarly pavilions and a surrounding cultural district.
National & Theme Parks
From modern entertainment to natural wetlands and sacred mountains, the delta offers diverse park experiences.
Shanghai Disneyland Park
A magical theme park with rides, parades, and character meet-and-greets for all ages.
Xixi National Wetland Park
Urban wetlands in Hangzhou with boardwalks, waterways, and serene birdlife.
Putuo Mountain Scenic Area
Sacred Buddhist site on Zhoushan's Putuo Island, offering temples and mountain scenery.
Nanjing Happy Valley
A large amusement park near the city center with roller coasters and family-friendly rides.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant districts and historic lanes where you can soak up local character and street life.
Xintiandi
A stylish pedestrian district in Shanghai with restored Shikumen houses, shops, and cafés.
Pingjiang Street
Historic canal-side street in Suzhou filled with teahouses, shops, and traditional architecture.
Qinhuai District
Nanjing's riverside neighborhood known for narrow lanes, markets, and traditional charm.
Zhujiajiao Water Town
Ancient water town near Shanghai with canals, bridges, and quaint waterways.
Free Things to Do
Delight in scenic strolls and urban viewpoints that won’t cost a yuan.
Walk along the Bund
Free riverside stroll to admire the skyline and historic façades.
West Lake Footpath (Hangzhou)
A free, scenic circuit around the legendary lake with bridges and hills.
Qinhuai River stroll (Nanjing)
Evening walk along the historic riverbank with atmospheric bridges and lamps.
Old Town walking tours (Suzhou/Shanghai area)
Roam winding lanes and canals at no cost while soaking in local ambience.
Gastronomy
Enjoy regional favorites that showcase Jiangnan flavors and technique.
Xiaolongbao (Shanghai)
Delicate soup dumplings bursting with savory broth and pork filling.
West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy
Hangzhou specialty featuring tender fish in a tangy, aromatic sauce.
Nanjing Salted Duck
Classic salted duck known for its crisp skin and savory flavor.
Suzhou Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish
Iconic Suzhou dish with crisp fish and a glossy, balanced sauce.
Nightlife
Evening hotspots range from stylish districts to lively bars and riverside views.
Xintiandi (Shanghai) nightlife
A hub of stylish bars, live music, and illuminated courtyards after dark.
Nanjing 1912 (Nanjing)
Historic district turned nightlife quarter with bars and trendy venues.
Hefang Street (Hangzhou) by night
Historic pedestrian street with snacks, signs, and lively evening ambience.
Entertainment
Stage productions and traditional arts provide cultural evenings across the delta.
Shanghai Grand Theatre
Host to operas, ballets, concerts, and touring productions.
Nanjing Opera House
A venue for contemporary and traditional Chinese opera and performances.
Suzhou Kunqu Opera
Classic Kunqu performances showcasing refined Chinese theatre.
Sports
Active ways to enjoy the delta's scenery, from cycling to hiking.
Cycling along West Lake (Hangzhou)
Ride a scenic circuit around the lake with views of pagodas and gardens.
Hiking Purple Mountain (Nanjing)
Forest trails and hilltop views in this historic, green district.
Taihu Lake boat ride (Taihu Lake, Suzhou/Wuxi area)
Relaxing water activity amidst the delta's largest freshwater lake.
Off the Track
Seek out lesser-known landscapes and tea-culture experiences away from the crowds.
Longjing Tea Plantations (Hangzhou)
Walk through tea fields and learn about one of China's most famous teas.
Anji Bamboo Forest (Anji County)
Mysterious bamboo groves and peaceful trails in Zhejiang's forested hills.
Moganshan Mountain
A serene escape with bamboo groves and hillside villas in Zhejiang.