Shanghai is set to dazzle both locals and international visitors alike during this year's National Day holiday and Mid-Autumn Festival with a variety of programs. From gourmet experiences and shopping perks to light-filled art displays, the city has prepared three themed events.

A feast of flavors

Food lovers can dive into Shanghai's rich culinary culture through the "Must-Eat Guide" series, launched in partnership with Meituan and Dianping. The guide highlights top-rated restaurants across the city, making it easier for visitors to enjoy both Chinese classics and global cuisines.

Special food route maps are available at major shopping areas, with posters and brochures in Chinese, English, and Korean to help international travelers find the city's best bites. Visitors who complete designated food challenges can also win exclusive prizes.

Shopping rewards for travelers

To welcome international visitors, Shanghai has prepared a wide range of shopping promotions in collaboration with tax refund agencies, shopping centers, and retail brands.

Gifts with tax refund purchases: In partnership with banks such as Bank of China and China Construction Bank, tax refund agencies are offering city-themed souvenirs and stylish Chinese gifts based on the value of holiday purchases.

Exclusive discounts: Major shopping malls, department stores, and brand outlets are offering extra discounts linked to tax refund spending.

Payment bonuses: Payment providers are rolling out additional perks, which can be combined with tax refund savings.

Global promotion: Airlines and platforms like Trip.com are promoting the campaigns in Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia to attract more holiday travelers.

Click here to learn more about the instant "refund upon purchase" service in Shanghai.

Nights of light and art

As evening falls, Shanghai transforms into a stage of light, culture, and creativity. Highlights include:

Museum of Art Pudong: Light Up Map projection show (until Oct 26, nightly 9:30 to 11:30 pm).

Yuyuan Garden: Traditional lantern displays recreating Mid-Autumn celebrations, along with a new food court at Hefeng Lou.

West Nanjing Road: Dunhuang-themed pop-up shop at No 1649 West Nanjing Road (until Oct 31, daily from 10 am to 10 pm).

L+ Mall, Lujiazui: Pop Mart's new exhibition featuring the popular "Twinkle Twinkle" character (Sept 30 to Nov 30, 10 am to 9:30 pm).

Shanghai No 1 Shopping Center: 3D light shows projected onto the facade (until Oct 8, nightly from 7:30 pm).

Taikoo Li Qiantan: A dazzling tree installation where the leaves are replaced by firework-shaped flowers (until Oct 20) and a Yunjin brocade art space showcasing treasures from the Nanjing Yunjin Museum (until Oct 14).

Sources: Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce, official WeChat account of Shanghai Jing'an Media Center at "jaxwzx", Taikoo Li Qiantan