In Shanghai, neon lights are more than just a backdrop—they are a vital part of the city’s identity, shaping the urban landscape and creating an unforgettable experience for anyone who visits. For foreigners, the allure of the neon lights comes from their ability to capture the city’s modern energy, evoke nostalgia, and offer a unique cultural experience.
Neon Lights as a Symbol of Shanghai’s Modern Energy
Shanghai is one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities, a place where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge modernity. Neon lights serve as a visual representation of this unique mix.
Many visitors come to Shanghai expecting the feeling of a global metropolis, and the neon lights deliver just that. The lights are a bold declaration of the city’s identity—bright, energetic, and ever-evolving.
Walking through streets lined with glowing signs in Chinese characters and neon-lit advertisements, tourists can’t help but feel swept up in the city’s electricity, an experience unlike any other.
One thing I find amazing about China, especially in Shanghai and other big cities such as Chongqing and Beijing, is that neon lights are everywhere, and that definitely makes China stand out. Those lights also make China very safe since you would hardly find a dark spot in China.
Why foreign people are attracted to the neon lights in China
Western Countries’ City Lights: The lighting in most western cities tends to be more focused on illuminating streets, buildings, and landmarks rather than creating a coordinated aesthetic. Neon lights are iconic in certain U.S. areas like Las Vegas or Times Square, where flashy advertising dominates. However, outside of these entertainment hubs, the city lighting tends to be more muted. The use of LED and neon lights is usually reserved for billboards, advertisements, and commercial areas rather than being integrated into the entire urban landscape.
China’s City Lights: On the other hand, in major Chinese cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen, the urban planning often incorporates neon lights and LED displays as an integral part of the city’s visual identity. The lights in Chinese cities are not just functional but serve as artistic expressions that light up entire buildings, bridges, and public spaces. These cities often feature coordinated light shows on skyscrapers, bridges, and rivers, creating a more cohesive and visually stimulating nighttime experience.
The best viewpoints to experience the neon lights of Shanghai
- The Bund (外滩): The Bund is perhaps the most iconic spot for viewing Shanghai’s neon lights. From here, you get an unobstructed view of the futuristic skyline of Pudong across the Huangpu River, featuring landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and the Jin Mao Tower—all beautifully illuminated at night. The contrast between the modern skyscrapers and the colonial-era architecture along the Bund creates a picturesque scene.
- Shanghai World Financial Center Observation Deck: Located in Pudong, the observation deck on the 100th floor of the Shanghai World Financial Center offers a bird’s-eye view of the entire city. You can see the neon lights stretching across the Bund and far beyond. It’s a panoramic experience that showcases Shanghai’s expansive and dazzling nightscape.
- Oriental Pearl Tower: Standing inside the Oriental Pearl Tower offers a unique vantage point. While you can admire the neon lights from its observation decks, the tower itself is also part of Shanghai’s iconic neon-lit skyline. The 360-degree views give you a spectacular look at the city’s glowing streets and buildings.
- The Cool Docks (老码头): This riverside area is less crowded than the Bund, offering a more relaxed atmosphere while still providing great views of the Pudong skyline. The Cool Docks feature trendy bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal or drink while watching the neon lights illuminate the city.
- Rooftop Bars in Pudong and Puxi: Shanghai is known for its luxurious rooftop bars that offer spectacular views of the neon-lit skyline. Popular spots like Bar Rouge on the Bund or Flair in the Ritz-Carlton in Pudong offer an upscale experience with incredible views of the city’s lights. These locations provide a blend of nightlife and sightseeing, perfect for those who want to take in the view with a drink in hand.
- Best time to visit: At night when the city is fully illuminated. The view point often stays open late, allowing for prime nighttime viewing.
