Lupu Bridge Shanghai

Starting the ascent at the base of Lupu Bridge.

What I believe to be one of the best places to view Shanghai from above is the Lupu Bridge Climb.  Originally built as a tourist stop during the 2010 World Expo for views over the Expo ground it remains in operation but for most intents and purposes is a forgotten destination.  Most signs and displays at the “Climb” entrance echo the Expo, but once you find yourself atop the bridge on a clear day the city really opens up and provides a dramatic view.  How it differs from popular observation decks in Pudong (Jin Mao and the World Finance Center) is that it is completely open air including the climb.  What I also find of interest is that the views of Shanghai are a bit different from the standard Shanghai skyline photos seen all over the web.  On a really clear day the landmarks of Pudong can be seen in the distance while the China Expo Pavilion is at the bridge’s feet.  The other common view are really dramatic but the Lupu Bridge just offers a different perspective.  The only down side I see is that the bridge closes just before sundown so no night photography, which would be awesome.

Here are some recent snaps from atop the Lupu Bridge, including some panoramas.  Enjoy!

The journey begins under the Lupu bridge. As you can see rather deserted.

A nice look at the side face of the Lupu Bridge just before the ascent.

Traffic in Pudong with apartments in the background.

Traffic on the Puxi side of bridge. Image was taken on a clear day, problem was facing the sun in the late afternoon causes this haze over the city.

Panoramic facing south from Lupu Bridge.

Panoramic view east from Lupu Bridge.

East view again. This time a little tighter with more boats. Growing up along the Ohio River I was used to river boat traffic but nothing compares to the traffic I have seen along the rivers here in China.