Alexander P.

Guide: Guide in China

Discover the magic of night Shanghai!

Book your evening tour

Evening Shanghai Tour — Magic of Night Lights

Discover the magic of night Shanghai! A walk along the shimmering Bund, sparkling Pudong skyscrapers, bustling Nanjing Road, and unforgettable views of the illuminated city. The perfect route for a romantic evening and stunning photos.

🌃 Night lights
📸 Best photo spots
⏱️ 3-4 hours
🚶 Walking tour

Key stops on the evening route

Old Town — traditional lanterns and atmosphere

The Bund — classic view of night Shanghai

Pudong — modern skyscrapers and light show

Observation deck — night city panorama

Huangpu cruise — night boat ride

French Concession — European atmosphere at night

What awaits you on an evening Shanghai tour

  • Walk along the shimmering Bund. You'll stroll along the famous waterfront where colonial-era buildings are bathed in golden light, contrasting with the neon Pudong skyscrapers.
  • Pudong skyscrapers light show. Witness a stunning light spectacle as the Shanghai Tower, Jin Mao, and World Financial Center come alive in colorful lights.
  • Visit bustling Nanjing Road. Walk along China's most famous shopping street, which turns into a sea of neon signs and bright shop windows at night.
  • Ride up an observation deck. Ascend one of the world's highest observation decks (Shanghai Tower, Jin Mao, or SWFC) to see a bird's-eye panorama of the night city.
  • Romantic stroll through the French Concession. Immerse yourself in old European charm on the quiet streets of the former French concession, where lanterns create a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
  • Photo session with illuminated landmarks. Take stunning professional photos against the backdrop of Shanghai's main night symbols from the best angles.
  • Dinner with a city view (optional). If you wish, enjoy dinner in a restaurant with a panoramic view of the illuminated metropolis.
  • Huangpu River boat ride. Embark on a river cruise to see Shanghai's panorama from the water — the most picturesque view of the night city.
  • Experience Xintiandi nightlife. Visit the trendy area with restored traditional houses where the local bohemian crowd gathers in the evening.
  • Explore the illuminated Old Town. See how the historic quarter transforms at night when traditional Chinese lanterns light up.
  • Visit the Bund observation deck. Go up to the rooftop of one of the buildings along the waterfront for a unique view of Pudong.

Sample evening tour itinerary

*Times may be adjusted depending on the season and your preferences.

Time Program stage Details
6:30 PM Meeting the guide Meet at your hotel or a metro station (arranged in advance).
6:30–7:30 PM The Bund and sunset Walk along the Bund, watch the sunset, first shots as evening lights come on.
7:30–8:30 PM Pudong and observation deck Cross to Pudong, ascend one of the observation decks (ticket paid separately). Night city panorama.
8:30–9:30 PM Nanjing Road and dinner Walk along the main shopping street, stop at a restaurant or café (optional).
9:30–10:00 PM French Concession / Xintiandi Final walk through cozy evening streets, last photos.
10:00 PM Tour ends Return to hotel or city center as desired.

💡 Important notes:

  • Building lights come on around 6:00–7:00 PM and turn off at 10:00 PM (9:30 PM in winter).
  • Comfortable shoes are a must — lots of walking.
  • For night photos a tripod or a smartphone with night mode is recommended.
  • A light jacket is useful even in summer — it can get cool by the water in the evening.

Price and conditions

Evening tour cost

Walking tour

Popular

Services of a Russian-speaking guide, escort throughout the evening. Transfers between locations by metro and taxi.

$100 per group of 1–3 people
Groups larger than 3 people — individually

Additional expenses

  • Observation deck ticket 180–240¥ (~$25–35)
  • Evening Huangpu cruise 150¥ (~$21)
  • Dinner with a view 200–400¥ (~$28–56)
  • Transport (metro+taxi) paid separately
*Prices are approximate, exchange rate may vary.

Tour duration

3-4 hours
of a romantic evening in Shanghai

Additional services

Airport transfer
+$100
Minivan rental
+$80

Frequently asked questions

What time does the evening tour start?
Usually we start at 6:30–7:00 PM to catch sunset and the gradual transition to night lighting. The time can be adjusted to your schedule.
Is dinner included in the price?
No, dinner is paid separately. The guide will help you choose a restaurant with a nice view or local cuisine as you wish.
What if it rains?
The tour takes place in any weather. In the rain, the city looks especially atmospheric. Just bring an umbrella and waterproof shoes.
Do I need to bring a tripod for photos?
For high-quality night shots, a tripod is highly recommended. If you don't have one, the guide will help you get good shots using a support or the Night mode on modern smartphones.
Can I combine the tour with a river cruise?
Yes, that's one of the options. We can include an evening Huangpu River cruise in the program (ticket paid separately).
Until what time are the building lights on?
The main lighting of the skyscrapers and the Bund usually turns off at 10:00 PM (in winter at 9:30 PM). The tour is timed to catch the brightest time.
⚠️

Booking conditions

The indicated prices are valid at the time of offer for private individuals. The cost and availability of vehicles, interpreter and guide services may change.

Booking of services is made only after receiving 100% prepayment. The conversion rate is calculated according to the current Central Bank rate on the payment date.

If a booking is cancelled less than 24 hours before the start of the event, the payment is non-refundable.

In the event of force majeure circumstances that make the execution of the tour program fully or partially impossible (national holidays, large-scale forums, official visits, etc.), the organizer reserves the right to make changes to the program and its duration.

The cost of services does not include and is paid additionally: transport expenses, tickets for events, entrance fees and other similar expenses.