Things to do in Shanghai in May

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Overview

May is a good time to visit Shanghai. The weather is usually pleasantly warm and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 63—75°F (17—24°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Shanghai during this time. Some of our top recommendations: explore the Tianzifang Art District, visit the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, visit the Shanghai Botanical Garden, 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 May trip to Shanghai. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to May. 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 May. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout May, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Best events and things to do in Shanghai in May

Top experiences in May
Explore the Tianzifang Art District
Tianzifang is a charming and vibrant art district located in the former French Concession area of Shanghai. The district is known for its narrow alleyways, traditional Shikumen houses, and a thriving arts and crafts scene. In May, you can explore the many galleries, boutiques, and studios, and discover unique artworks, handmade crafts, and stylish souvenirs. It's a great place to soak up the creative energy of Shanghai and support local artists and artisans.
Visit the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum
The Shanghai Science and Technology Museum is a fascinating and educational attraction that is perfect for visitors of all ages. The museum features a wide range of interactive exhibits and displays that cover topics such as astronomy, biology, physics, and technology. In May, the museum often hosts special events and workshops, making it an ideal time to visit and learn about the latest advancements in science and technology.
Visit the Shanghai Botanical Garden
May is a great time to visit the Shanghai Botanical Garden, as the weather is warm and the garden is in full bloom. The garden is home to a wide variety of plant species, including rare and exotic flowers, trees, and shrubs from around the world. You can take a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery, relax by the tranquil ponds, and admire the colorful displays of flowers in the various themed gardens.
Attend the Strawberry Music Festival
The Strawberry Music Festival is a popular outdoor music event that takes place in Shanghai in May. The festival features a diverse lineup of local and international artists performing across multiple stages, as well as a range of food and drink vendors, art installations, and other entertainment. It's a great way to soak up the vibrant music scene in Shanghai and enjoy some live music in the open air.
Take a Huangpu River cruise
In May, the weather in Shanghai is warm and pleasant, making it the perfect time to take a cruise along the Huangpu River. From the water, you can enjoy stunning views of the city's iconic skyline, including the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong and the historic buildings of the Bund. The evening cruises are especially popular, as you can witness the city lights come to life as the sun sets.
Explore the Yu Garden
May is a great time to visit the Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden located in the Old City of Shanghai. The garden is particularly beautiful in May, with its lush greenery and blooming flowers creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere. You can wander through the traditional pavilions, rockeries, and ponds, and admire the intricate architecture and design of this historic garden.
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Holidays in Shanghai in May
May
  • Labour Day (May 14)
  • Youth Day (May 4)
  • Labour Day Holiday (May 5)
Other notable holidays
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Weather in Shanghai in May

Temperatures on an average day in Shanghai in May

The average temperature in Shanghai in May for a typical day ranges from a high of 75°F (24°C) to a low of 63°F (17°C). Some would describe it as pleasantly warm 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 May based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in May
75°F
highs
63°F
lows

General weather summary

Pleasantly warm and breezy
Feels like
34%
Chance of rain
0.213 in
Amount
15.1 mph
Wind speed
74%
Humidity
13.7 hrs
Daylight length
4:59 AM
Sunrise
6:41 PM
Sunset
42%
Cloud cover
T-shirt
What to wear
What to wear in May
With an average high of 75°F (24°C) and a low of 63°F (17°C), it generally feels pleasantly warm and breezy. There might also be a small chance of rain. With that in mind, most people would dress in something light like your favorite t-shirt
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Best attractions for Shanghai in May

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Shanghai has to offer for travelers in May, 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 May.
The Bund
1. The Bund
4.7
(4350)
Historical place
Sights & Landmarks
Historic, 1,500-meter-long waterside promenade showcasing distinctive modern & colonial buildings.
Yu Garden
2. Yu Garden
4.4
(2794)
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
(15)
Scenic spot
Sights & Landmarks
Repurposed factory with shops & restaurants, in a pedestrianized area with a creative vibe.
Huangpu River
8. Huangpu River
4.6
(185)
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
(1354)
National park
Sights & Landmarks
Ancient water town & tourist site with waterways, gardens & shrines, plus an entertainment complex.
Shanghai Tower
11. Shanghai Tower
4.6
(1884)
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
(455)
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
4.4
(578)
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
(430)
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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