Nighttime Urban Scenery Under a Sea of Lights

This time in Shanghai, I wanted to experience the bustling city nightscape but also avoid staying in overly noisy commercial areas. So, I chose the Shanghai Jing'an Yifei Hotel on Wuding West Road. Walking along the Bund at night to enjoy the lights and Western-style architecture, and then returning to the quiet surroundings of the hotel, was truly a perfect balance! The hotel's location is incredibly convenient. There's a subway station right downstairs, and it's just two stops to Nanjing West Road and the city center. Plus, the subway isn't overly crowded when you get off. Taking a Didi to the Bund, Jing'an Temple, or Xujiahui isn't far either, making transportation super hassle-free. If your schedule isn't tight, there's a convenience store and shopping mall nearby, so you can easily grab anything you need or enjoy a late-night snack. The hotel facilities are my favorite part. The smart toilet and coffee capsule machine are very convenient, and some rooms even have a smart voice assistant to control the lights and curtains, which is pretty cool. Most importantly, the hygiene and cleanliness are excellent. Both the rooms and public areas are spotless, making the stay worry-free. The front desk staff are extremely friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with any questions or issues. However, note that some online reviews mention average soundproofing, so light sleepers might want to bring earplugs. There are plenty of attractions nearby. I highly recommend visiting the Bund at night. The dazzling lights and Western-style architecture create an amazing atmosphere, perfect for photos and social media posts. Even in the rain, the Bund's charm isn't diminished; the reflections of the lights on the wet ground make it even more romantic. For those willing to explore further, you can walk to Jing'an Temple or nearby alleys to experience Shanghai's old houses and local culture. We also spent a day at Disneyland. Even on a weekday, it was quite crowded. Some attractions are similar to those in Hong Kong, so we focused on the ones unique to Shanghai. Despite our laziness—leaving at 10 or 11 a.m. and arriving around noon—we still managed to enjoy many attractions! (We skipped the fireworks to avoid the crowds and instead enjoyed the rides while others watched the show 😂). The Zootopia area is a must-visit—it's stunning and feels like stepping into the world of Zootopia. You could easily spend an hour just taking photos there! Travel tips: For breakfast, you don't necessarily have to eat at the hotel. There are many local eateries nearby. Renheguan, Yuxingji, and Xiaoyang Shengjian are some great spots I tried. Xiaoyang Shengjian's dumplings have thin skins and are filled with juicy broth—perfect for a hot summer day! Also, Didi rides are more affordable than expected, making it reliable for last-minute changes or tight schedules. Booking tips: This hotel is usually reasonably priced on weekdays, but during peak seasons or holidays, it's best to book early. Some higher-floor rooms offer better views, so try requesting a high floor during check-in. Staying in Jing'an District is ideal for those who want to explore Shanghai at a leisurely pace without rushing around day and night. Finally, make sure to set aside time for nighttime adventures in Shanghai. Capture the modern architecture and the Bund, savor coffee or local snacks, and enjoy the unique charm of the city—even in the rain, there's a different kind of cultural beauty.