• Citizens from 43 countries (including EU nations, Malaysia, and newly added South American countries) can enjoy 15-day visa-free transit when entering via Shanghai.
  • Key requirement: Show confirmed onward tickets to a third country.

Best Time to Visit**

  • Spring (Mar-May) & Autumn (Sep-Nov): Mild weather, fewer crowds.
  • Avoid National Day (Oct 1-7) when attractions are extremely crowded.

Must-Download Apps**

  • Metro Map & Didi (ride-hailing): Essential for navigating the city.
  • Alipay/WeChat Pay: Most vendors don’t accept cash/cards.

Top Attractions Strategy**

  • The Bund: Visit at dusk for daytime + night views.
  • Disneyland: Buy tickets online to skip queues; arrive at 7:30 AM.

Food Safety Tips**

  • Stick to busy local eateries (e.g., Yang’s Fry Dumplings) for hygiene.
  • Avoid raw foods like drunken crab if sensitive to alcohol.

Scam Alerts**

  • Ignore “tea ceremony” invites near Yu Garden—it’s a overpriced trap.
  • Only take official taxis (with meters) or Didi.

Cultural Etiquette**

  • Tipping: Not expected, but appreciated in upscale restaurants.
  • Queuing: Be assertive—locals may cut lines at metro stations.

Language Hacks**

  • Learn 4 key phrases:
    • Xièxie (Thank you)
    • Nǎlǐ yǒu cèsuǒ? (Where’s the toilet?)
    • Duōshǎo qián? (How much?)
    • Wǒ bù yào (I don’t want it).

Money-Saving Tricks**

  • Metro: ¥3-7/ride vs. taxis (¥30+ for short trips).
  • Free attractions: Tianzifang arts district & Xintiandi.

Emergency Contacts**

  • Police: 110 | Ambulance: 120 | Tourist Hotline: 12345.
  • Save your embassy’s number (e.g., U.S. Embassy: +86-10-8531-3000).