Shanghai Summer events woo tourists

Shanghai is branding a slew of cultural, sports, and fun activities as the Shanghai Summer season to lure tourists from home and abroad.

Running from July 6 to mid-October, the season promises to offer a blend of rich cultural experiences and convenient services while seeking to appeal to a wide spectrum of tourists, from history enthusiasts and art lovers to business travelers and leisure seekers, the China Daily reported.

The launch of Shanghai Summer coincides with China’s 72/144-hour visa-free transit policy, which allows citizens from 54 countries and regions to enjoy up to six days in Shanghai and other designated cities without obtaining a visa, facilitating both short-term business visits and spontaneous tourism.

At the heart of Shanghai Summer are seven benchmark activities, complemented by a lineup of 58 diverse events, including 18 exhibitions, 15 commercial activities, 12 sports competitions, nine cultural performances and four tourism events, the report said.

Among the highlights is the “On the Top of Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt” exhibition at Shanghai Museum, which invites visitors to explore the mysteries and marvels of ancient Egypt, and the inaugural Shanghai International Cruise Festival, which celebrates the city’s status as a major port, tapping into the burgeoning global cruise tourism market.

Journalists are seen at the preview of the “On the Top of Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt” exhibition at Shanghai Museum on July 16, one day ahead of its official opening. Xinhua

For those eager to delve into Shanghai’s urban fabric, the City Walk Pro, Experience Shanghai Now event provides curated walking tours, showcasing the city’s architectural wonders, vibrant local life and more.

The Shanghai International Light Festival in 2024 will showcase the city’s nighttime charm. Music enthusiasts will be thrilled by the STORM Electronic Music Festival, which embraces a science-fictional theme this year to create an immersive experience.

An online event schedule is accessible through the “I GO Shanghai” WeChat mini-program, offering intelligent itinerary planning and bilingual voice consultation services.