CIIE 2025 | Your guide to culture, tours, and deals
The 8th China International Import Expo is set to take place in Shanghai from Nov 5 to 10. To help visitors make the most of their stay, the city has launched a range of cultural and tourism activities and special offers, ranging from city sightseeing and river cruises to suburban getaways and heritage tours.
This guide brings together essential offers and travel tips to help you experience the best of Shanghai with ease.
??Tourist transport benefits
Free sightseeing bus pass
From Nov 5–10, exhibitors and visitors can enjoy free rides on 11 double-decker sightseeing bus routes covering more than 60 major downtown attractions. Advanced booking is required through the Suishenxing platform, and passengers should present their reservation with a valid CIIE badge when boarding.
Discounted Huangpu River cruise
Until Nov 25, CIIE attendees can purchase special cruise tickets for just 100 yuan ($14.07) per person via Suishenxing online or at ticket counters. Present your CIIE badge at designated piers to board and enjoy day or night routes showcasing the city's historic riverside architecture and the modern Lujiazui skyline. Group discounts are also available.
Qingpu shuttle buses
Qingpu district's Micro Holiday Bus offers two free shuttle routes with stops at popular destinations such as Zhujiajiao town, Panlong Tiandi, and Bailian Outlets. These shuttles provide convenient travel between the expo venue and local cultural and commercial hubs.
??How to book via Suishenxing
Step 1:Search for the "隨申行 (Suishenxing)" mini program in WeChat
Step 2:Tap the "Shanghai CIIE Traffic Mobility Service Zone" on the homepage
Step 3:Switch to English at the top, then select "Cultural & Tourism Section"
Step 4:Browse and book available tours and offers
???Attraction discounts
China Maritime Museum
From Nov 1–30, visitors can enjoy free entry by presenting a CIIE badge, along with discounts on VR and AR exhibition tickets that showcase the innovative charm of maritime technology.
Shanghai Zoo
Throughout November,CIIE badge holders can visit the Shanghai Zoo free of chargeto see rare animals from around the world and enjoy the park's tranquil natural surroundings.
??Around the expo venue
Take time to explore the areas surrounding the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Qingpu. The district has created six themed landscape areas around the venue, featuring floral displays, art installations, and lighting inspired by CIIE.
The central green spaces along Laigang and Zhuguang roads are decorated with 5,400 square meters of floral beds and nearly 3,400 planters. After nightfall, the dynamic lighting design illuminates the entire area, casting a radiant glow that complements the main hall.
Beyond the venue, Qingpu offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions. For a glimpse of both, follow this recommended route:
Stop 1: Shanghai Songze Site Museum
The Shanghai Songze Site marks the birthplace of ancient Shanghai culture. The museum showcases the earliest human footprints and ancient village forms in the region through significant archaeological discoveries such as "Shanghai's first person" and "Shanghai's first village".
Stop 2: Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
Wander through Zhujiajiao, a classic Jiangnan water town interlaced with canals and historic bridges. On an autumn day, the Kezhi Garden, the town's largest manor-style garden, offers a peaceful retreat where Chinese landscape artistry meets subtle Western architectural influences.
Stop 3: Qingxi Country Park
This renowned wetland park in Shanghai is famous for its water forest spectacle. In autumn, the foliage turns brilliant shades of orange and red, mirrored perfectly in the still waters — a breathtaking scene ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Stop 4: Jinze Ancient Town
Step into Jinze, a time-honored "town of bridges", where well-preserved stone bridges from the Song (960-1279) to Qing (1644-1911) dynasties span serene waterways. Stroll along lanes of white-walled, black-tiled houses and cross arches that have witnessed centuries of local life and lore.
Stop 5: Shanghai Grand View Garden
This classical garden is crafted based on scenes from one of China's four great classical novels,Dream of the Red Chamber. It artfully combines the grandeur of imperial-style layouts with the intimate beauty of Jiangnan private gardens.
???Go deeper into Shanghai
Staying on after the expo? Discover more of the city withthis district-by-district guidefeaturing themed routes that highlight classic landmarks, hidden gems, family activities, and cultural walks across all 16 districts.
November also offers a vibrant calendar of arts and culture. Major theaters, galleries, and concert halls will present a rich lineup of performances and exhibitions during the expo period. Take time to enjoy a world-class exhibition, a concert, or a lively local market — perfect ways to blend business with cultural exploration.
Sources: Shanghai Observer, Qingpu district government, attractions mentioned above
