Things to do in Shanghai in February

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Overview

February is a good time to visit Shanghai. The weather is usually cold and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 38—49°F (3—9°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Shanghai during this time. Some of our top recommendations: participate in a traditional Chinese calligraphy workshop, take a day trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town, explore the Shanghai Museum, and more!

Shanghai has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your February trip to Shanghai. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to February. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Shanghai in February. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout February, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Don't take our word for it
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Best events and things to do in Shanghai in February

Top experiences in February
Participate in a traditional Chinese calligraphy workshop
In February, visitors can partake in a traditional Chinese calligraphy workshop to learn the art of brush writing. Led by experienced calligraphers, the workshop provides hands-on instruction in the techniques and principles of Chinese calligraphy, allowing participants to create their own beautiful and meaningful artworks. It offers a creative and educational experience, enabling guests to gain a deeper appreciation for this revered form of artistic expression.
Take a day trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town
In February, visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of Shanghai by taking a day trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town. This ancient town is known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and traditional bridges, offering a tranquil and charming setting. Visitors can stroll along the cobblestone streets, take a boat ride on the waterways, and explore the local shops and eateries, providing a peaceful and scenic retreat.
Explore the Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum is a must-visit attraction in February, offering a comprehensive collection of Chinese art and artifacts. Visitors can admire ancient ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, and sculptures, providing insight into the rich history and culture of China. The museum also hosts special exhibitions and events during the Chinese New Year period, making it an enriching and educational experience.
Attend the Lantern Festival at Yu Garden
The Lantern Festival at Yu Garden is a spectacular event that takes place in February to mark the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations. Visitors can marvel at the intricate lantern displays, participate in traditional activities, and enjoy performances by local artists. The festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of traditional Chinese customs.
Take a Huangpu River Night Cruise
In February, the Huangpu River offers a stunning backdrop for a night cruise. Visitors can admire the glittering skyline of Shanghai and the illuminated landmarks along the river, such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Bund. The cruise provides a romantic and unforgettable experience, allowing guests to see the city from a different perspective.
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Holidays in Shanghai in February
February
  • Spring Festival Golden Week holiday (January 30February 3)
  • Lantern Festival (February 12)
Other notable holidays
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Weather in Shanghai in February

Temperatures on an average day in Shanghai in February

The average temperature in Shanghai in February for a typical day ranges from a high of 49°F (9°C) to a low of 38°F (3°C). Some would describe it as cold and breezy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Shanghai, August, has days with highs of 88°F (31°C) and lows of 79°F (26°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 46°F (8°C) and lows of 36°F (2°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Shanghai in February based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in February
49°F
highs
38°F
lows

General weather summary

Cold and breezy
Feels like
34%
Chance of rain
0.132 in
Amount
15.2 mph
Wind speed
77%
Humidity
11.0 hrs
Daylight length
6:36 AM
Sunrise
5:38 PM
Sunset
51%
Cloud cover
Jacket
What to wear
What to wear in February
With an average high of 49°F (9°C) and a low of 38°F (3°C), it generally feels cold and breezy. There might also be a small chance of rain. With that in mind, most people would dress in something warm like a jacket
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Best attractions for Shanghai in February

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Shanghai has to offer for travelers in February, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Shanghai that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Shanghai for February.
The Bund
1. The Bund
4.7
(4460)
Historical place
Sights & Landmarks
Historic, 1,500-meter-long waterside promenade showcasing distinctive modern & colonial buildings.
Yu Garden
2. Yu Garden
4.4
(2860)
Botanical garden
Nature & Parks
5-acre garden built in 1577 that features Ming dynasty pavilions, ponds, rockeries & arched bridges.
Shanghai Pudong New Area Public Security Bureau Shanghai Orient Pearl Radio And TV Tower Security Office
3. Shanghai Pudong New Area Public Security Bureau Shanghai Orient Pearl Radio And TV Tower Security Office
Police department
Sights & Landmarks
Shanghai Museum
4. Shanghai Museum
4.4
(947)
Art museum
Museums
Huge, free museum with extensive displays including bronze & jade artifacts, sculptures & paintings.
Nan Jing Lu Bu Xing Jie
5. Nan Jing Lu Bu Xing Jie
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Shanghai World Financial Center
6. Shanghai World Financial Center
4.6
(719)
Landmark
Sights & Landmarks
One of the world's tallest skyscrapers, with 101 floors, an elevated hotel, views, shops & eateries.
Shanghai French Concession Needle General Yard Former Site
7. Shanghai French Concession Needle General Yard Former Site
4.4
(16)
Scenic spot
Sights & Landmarks
Repurposed factory with shops & restaurants, in a pedestrianized area with a creative vibe.
Huangpu River
8. Huangpu River
4.6
(187)
River
Nature & Parks
Shanghai Disneyland Park
9. Shanghai Disneyland Park
4.5
(1072)
Theme park
Water & Amusement Parks
Famed resort with rides & shows modeled on Disney movies, plus souvenir stores & theme restaurants.
Shanghai Zhujiajiao Ancient Town Tourist Zone
10. Shanghai Zhujiajiao Ancient Town Tourist Zone
4.3
(1372)
National park
Sights & Landmarks
Ancient water town & tourist site with waterways, gardens & shrines, plus an entertainment complex.
Shanghai Tower
11. Shanghai Tower
4.6
(1915)
Sights & Landmarks
Observation Decks & Towers
632-m. megatall skyscraper with 2 observation decks, plus restaurants, bars, shops & a hotel.
Jade Buddha Temple
12. Jade Buddha Temple
4.6
(468)
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Active Buddhist temple known for its large, ornate jade Buddha sculptures.
Shanghai Urban Planning Exhib. Ctr.
13. Shanghai Urban Planning Exhib. Ctr.
Building
Museums
Jing'an Temple
14. Jing'an Temple
4.3
(596)
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Buddhist temple complex comprising 3 main halls & a massive sitting jade Buddha.
Bin Jiang Da Dao
15. Bin Jiang Da Dao
Nature & Parks
Parks
Jin Mao Tower
16. Jin Mao Tower
4.6
(434)
Sights & Landmarks
Architectural Buildings
88-story, spired skyscraper offering restaurants, offices, a Grand Hyatt hotel & observation deck.

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Shanghai?

Get inspired for your trip to Shanghai with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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