Shanghai Songcheng: Open This Giant Magic Box and Unlock a New Way to Experience Shanghai at Night!

Recently, my unlimited flight pass ended, and I’m not used to staying in Xiamen on weekends without traveling. I still want to get out and explore, so since Shanghai Songcheng opened this May Day and I haven’t been, I quickly made plans to visit this trendy attraction in the Magic City! Shanghai Songcheng is located by the Huangpu River, inside the Expo Park. It focuses on interactive experiences and spectacular shows, with over 20 theaters and performance venues including a Grand Theater, Bird Show Theater, Forest Theater, and Cliff Theater.

Shanghai Songcheng is different from other Songcheng parks. It’s not only a brand-new performance park but also designed as an indoor, multi-level venue, so you never have to worry about summer heat, winter chill, or rainy days. It's perfect for girlfriends to snap photos, couples to enjoy a leisurely weekend, and families to entertain kids during summer vacation. You can spend a whole day here, taking Instagram-worthy photos, watching amazing shows, and enjoying various interactive experiences. The evening ticket is a fantastic deal! Come with me to Shanghai Songcheng and unlock a new way to experience the Magic City at night!

Stepping into Shanghai Songcheng feels like opening a magic box full of surprises. The evening ticket grants entry from 5 p.m. You can start by changing into a cheongsam at the costume shop on the first floor. While it’s still light, head to the top floor for photos. The Elf Valley on the top floor feels like entering a fairy tale kingdom—step into a fantasy space and experience a Hobbit home. Also, the 'Liaozhai Thrill' ride is absolutely heart-pounding; if you're brave, you must try it.

In the evening, enjoy the 'Cliff Concert' on the Cliff Terrace while taking in the stunning night view of the Huangpu River—it's breathtakingly beautiful. Feel the breeze on the terrace and savor a relaxing moment.

The 'Colors' water-splashing interactive fun at Music Square gives you a cool summer treat—this is how nights should be, wild and joyful! On Magic Street, don’t miss the super cool 'Punk Flash Mob.' When the music starts, you can dance along, let loose, and even take photos with your favorite performers. The 'Miracle' magic show is also on Magic Street. There are two adorable alpacas you can pose with, but if you don't offer them treats, watch out—they might spit at you, haha. Plus, a small shop with nostalgic snacks will hit you right in the feels.

One thing you can't miss at Shanghai Songcheng is its shows! The highlight of the night ticket is the large-scale 5D live experience show 'The Great Earthquake.' You can even sign up to join the performance on the spot and feel the moment of the earth shaking and mountains crumbling—you might end up in tears. It tells a rescue story when an earthquake strikes, reminding us how precious life is and to cherish the present.

Finally, experience the thrilling 'Ghost Ship' and the large-scale interactive 'Warfire' project, which challenge all your senses. Or head to the Sky Market on the 6th floor, filled with exotic accessories that make for great photos—in an instant, you'll feel like you’re abroad. You can also buy some to decorate your home. Don't miss the 'Crystal Ball' performance there. If you still haven't taken enough pictures, strike a pose in the Modern Times area on the 4th floor. Surrounded by various vintage objects, you'll instantly be transported back to the last century.

Beyond the many photogenic spots, there are also various shows to watch, like the martial arts competition at the 'Jingwu Arena.' You’ll be tempted to jump in and take on the challenge.

Also, I have to recommend this retro-style shop where you can find all kinds of nostalgic snacks—it's a total blast from the past.

Recommended evening itinerary:

Enter the park → Costume Shop → Ghost Ship → Time Travel Street → Sky Market → Modern Times → Elf Valley → Cliff Terrace → 'The Great Earthquake' show → Magic Street 'Miracle' magic show → 'Colors' water party → Punk Flash Mob

Must-visit photo spots: Elf Valley, Cliff Terrace, Sky Market, Modern Times, Magic Street.

Address: No. 1750, Shibo Avenue, Pudong New District, Shanghai.

Transportation: Take Metro Line 13 to Shibo Avenue Station, or Metro Line 8 to China Art Museum Station; the scenic area is within walking distance.

Tip: To avoid getting lost and to not miss any exciting shows, scan the QR code to follow the Shanghai Songcheng WeChat official account for a park map and the day’s real-time performance schedule.

Recommended accommodation: Shanghai Hongqiao Baixiang Garden Hotel. Reason: very close to the airport, great value for money, and especially convenient for late-night or early-morning flights.

Recommended one-day itinerary in Shanghai: Morning: Shikumen—Sinan Books—Fuxing Garden—Antique Garden—Tianzifang; Afternoon: Shanghai Songcheng; Evening: City God Temple—the Bund night view