Lujiazui: A Century Leap from a "muddy ferry Road" to a Global financial Center

The origin of place names - The imprint of the Lu Shen family
The origin of the name "Lujiazui" is not the creation of modern business, but rather stems from a profound family history. During the Ming Dynasty, the Huangpu River made a bend here, washing out a mouth-shaped alluvial beach. The family of Lu Shen (1477-1544), a scholar of the Hanlin Academy in the Ming Dynasty, settled here. His ancestral tomb and former residence are both located on this tidal flat, and thus this place was named "Lujiazui". The Lu Shen family operated the land here, built gardens (such as "Back Garden"), and promoted local development. Their cultural influence was imperceptibly integrated into the urban genes of Shanghai.

The Road to Rebirth - From the Tidal Flat Ferry Crossing to the World's Forefront
The modern rise of Lujiazui is a grand national strategic epic, writing the "Pudong miracle" of China's reform and opening up.
- Silence along the riverside (before 1990) : In the 1980s, in sharp contrast to the "Exhibition of International Architecture" along the Bund, Lujiazui was still a backward area dotted with farmlands, shantytowns and shabby docks (such as the famous "Muddy Ferry Road"). A folk song describes it like this: "By the Huangpu River there is a mudu Ferry, and by the mudu road there is a Mudu Ferry Town. Pedestrians pass by without good clothes or trousers."
National Strategy (1990) : On April 18, 1990, the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and The State Council announced the development and opening up of Pudong and approved the establishment of the only national-level development zone in China named after "Finance and Trade" - Lujiazui Finance and Trade Zone. This spring thunder completely changed the fate of this land.
- Global Planning and rapid Construction (1990s to present) : The planning of Lujiazui has a highly international perspective. At the beginning, it gathered design proposals from five countries: China, Italy, the United Kingdom, Japan, and France. After drawing on the strengths of all, it was optimized and implemented. Since then, landmarks such as the Oriental Pearl Radio and Television Tower (1994), Jin MAO Tower (1999), the Shanghai World Financial Center (2008), and the Shanghai Tower (2016) have sprung up like mushrooms after rain, shaping the city skyline that has shocked the world at an average speed of "building a 30-story building every 12 days".
- Financial core and global Status: Here, 12 national-level factor markets such as the Shanghai Stock Exchange and the Shanghai Futures Exchange are gathered. It is home to over 40% of foreign-funded legal person banks and more than 90% of foreign-funded private equity and asset management institutions in the country. In 2023, Lujiazui, with only 0.5% of Shanghai's land area, contributed nearly 14% of the city's economic output, truly becoming a "standing financial street".

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Natural creation - The urban stage of Huangpu River Bay
The "natural" landscape of Lujiazui is essentially a magnificent theater shaped by the joint efforts of geography and human power.
A Golden Glimpse of the Huangpu River: Lujiazui is located on the convex bank of a key bend of the Huangpu River, forming a unique peninsula terrain. This geographical layout offers a 270-degree wide view of the river, not only forming a natural port but also serving as an ideal stage to appreciate the historical buildings along the Bund and the urban landscape of Puxi. The river water here seems to have deliberately drawn a natural boundary for Shanghai, separating history from the future and allowing the two to have a dialogue across the river.
The magic of skyline Light and Shadow: Weather and light and shadow are the eternal themes here. Under the clear sky, the glass curtain wall building and the blue sky and white clouds are reflected in the river, with sharp lines and a strong sense of power. When the fog is thick, the "three-piece set" appears and disappears in the clouds, just like a sci-fi scene. When night falls, the lights of the buildings on both banks are lit up one after another. The skyscrapers in Lujiazui transform into brilliant sculptures of light, and the Huangpu River turns into a flowing golden ribbon. This scene is hailed as a paradise for photography enthusiasts.

Humanistic craftsmanship - The Architectural Epic of Vertical Cities
The architectural complex in Lujiazui is not only an office space but also an artistic monument that showcases ergonomics, aesthetics and ambition.
- "Three-piece Set" Skyscraper Legend:
- Shanghai Tower (632 meters) : "China's tallest building", its spiral ascending design is not only elegant but also aerodynamic. Its "Shanghai Summit" observation deck is located on the 118th floor, offering a 360-degree panoramic view without any blind spots.
- Shanghai World Financial Center (492 meters) : The eye-catching trapezoidal wind tunnel design on the top has earned it the nickname "Bottle opener". At the 474-meter-high 100-story observation deck, there is a transparent glass floor, and strolling on it is thrilling and exciting.
- Jin MAO Tower (420.5 meters) : The classic tower shape corresponds to the nickname "syringe". The "Cloud Walk" skywalk project in its 88th floor observation deck allows you to walk on a transparent walkway without guardrails at an altitude of 340 meters, which is a game for the brave.
- Oriental Pearl Radio and Television Tower (468 meters) : A pioneer and spiritual symbol of Lujiazui's development. Although its height has been surpassed, its unique spherical series design has left a deep impression on people. The tower features a variety of facilities such as a suspended sightseeing corridor, a space capsule, and a Shanghai Urban Historical Development Exhibition Hall. It remains a classic landmark for experiencing the charm of Shanghai.
- Binjiang Avenue and Pudong Museum of Art: Unlike the vertical shock of skyscrapers, Binjiang Avenue offers the comfort of a horizontal stroll. This approximately 2,500-meter-long waterfront promenade is the best place to enjoy a panoramic view of the "Exhibition of International Architecture" along the Bund. The Pudong Museum of Art nearby, with its minimalist modern design and rich art exhibitions inside, has injected a strong cultural atmosphere into the financial district.
- Underground Financial City and top-notch business: Beyond gazing, you can also delve deeper. Lujiazui boasts a vast underground corridor system that connects major buildings and shopping malls. The Shanghai IFC Mall and other high-end shopping centers are home to global luxury brands and are hailed as "the place with the most comprehensive Hermes distribution in all of China", perfectly embodying the commercial height of this area.

Photography Tips:
Classic Bund Perspective: The Bund Viewing Platform (middle section), with the panoramic view of Lujiazui as the background, is the standard shooting position for the "Shanghai business card".
Internal perspective of Lujiazui
1. Pudong Riverside Avenue: With the river surface as the foreground, it is suitable for shooting the buildings along the Bund on the opposite bank, especially for night views.
2. Shanghai Tower Observation Deck: Capture the tops of other skyscrapers and the cityscape from the highest point. On a clear day, the view can reach up to 80 kilometers.
3. In front of Jin MAO Tower: A stunning overhead shot of the interwoven composition of three skyscrapers.
4. Dongchang Road Ferry Terminal: Spend 2 yuan to take the ferry and capture the two banks in the middle of the river, obtaining a dynamic and unique perspective.
Special Note: There are strict regulations on drone flights in the city center. Please do not fly without approval.

How to Get There: A Seamless Connection Guide
Lujiazui, as a core node of Shanghai's rail transit network, enjoys extremely convenient public transportation.
- Subway (most recommended) :
Line 2: Lujiazui Station (directly reaches the core area, connecting Hongqiao Airport/Railway Station, Pudong International Airport, Nanjing East Road, Jing 'an Temple, etc.).
Line 14: Lujiazui Station, offering a new east-west option.
- Ferry (Special Experience) : From the Jinling East Road Ferry Terminal on the Bund and many other routes, you can reach the Dongchang Road Ferry Terminal in Lujiazui. It is not only a mode of transportation but also a classic tourist attraction.
- Taxi/ride-hailing: Locate "Lujiazui Ring Road, Mingzhu Roundabout" or the specific destination. The core areas may be congested during morning and evening rush hours and holidays.
- Sightseeing Bus: The Shanghai Urban Sightseeing Bus has a stop at Lujiazui, which can conveniently connect multiple nearby scenic spots.
Important reminder: Parking Spaces in the core area of Lujiazui are tight and expensive. It is highly recommended to drive there.

Best visiting time
Lujiazui is suitable for all seasons and offers beautiful scenery day and night. However, the best time to experience it is on a clear day in spring and autumn, especially in the evening.
The golden season of spring and autumn (March to May, September to November) : The climate is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 13 to 26° C. The sky is clear and visibility is high, making it an ideal time for mountain climbing, sightseeing and outdoor strolls.
- Summer Splendor Season (June to August) : Hot weather (average 26-31°C) and humid with abundant rainfall. However, indoor sightseeing and shopping in the mall are not affected. The gentle river breeze at night is quite comfortable. It is necessary to pay attention to heatstroke prevention and cooling down, and have rain gear ready.
- Winter quiet season (December to February) : The weather is cold and dry (average about 7°C), and there are relatively fewer tourists. At this time, climbing to a high place for sightseeing, the view might be particularly clear and unobstructed. The lighting decorations during holidays (such as New Year's Day and the Spring Festival) also have their own unique charm. It's windy by the river. Please keep warm.

Accommodation options
- Lujiazui Core Area (Ultimate View)
Cloud luxury hotels: such as The Ritz-Carlton, Pudong, Shanghai (located in the International Finance Center), Grand Hyatt Shanghai (located in the upper and middle parts of Jin MAO Tower), and Park Hyatt Shanghai (located in the International Finance Center). Upon check-in, you can enjoy an unbeatable view of the city or the river. Some rooms offer a panoramic view of the Bund.
Suitable for: Tourists who pursue the ultimate urban landscape, anniversary trips, and have a sufficient budget.
- Lujiazui/Pudong Riverside Area (Convenient Option) :
- Experience: Shangri-La Hotel, Kempinski Hotel, etc., also offer views of the Huangpu River and are within walking distance of Binjiang Avenue. Their cost performance is relatively higher than that of hotels in the core area.
Suitable for: Most tourists who hope for convenient sightseeing while also valuing the scenery and cost-effectiveness.
- Puxi Bund Area (A choice across the river) :
- Experience: Living in a complex of buildings from various countries, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Lujiazui's skyline from the opposite bank, with a unique perspective. It's also very convenient to cross the river to Lujiazui by subway, ferry or taxi.
Suitable for: Tourists who prefer the atmosphere of historical buildings and plan to balance their visits to Puxi and Pudong.

IntoTravelChina Accommodation Booking Suggestions
We strongly recommend that you plan your trip and book your favorite river view or cloud accommodation at least 1-2 months in advance, especially during holidays. By booking through us, you can not only get real-time room availability and the best view room types, but also package accommodation, express access tickets to the observation deck, and special dining experiences. You often get combined discounts. Tell us your budget and requirements, and we will match the most suitable "Cloud Home" for you. [Click to contact IntoTravelChina Travel Consultant]

Lujiazui is a microcosm of modern Shanghai and a perfect starting point for exploring the economic and cultural vitality of the Yangtze River Delta.
The Yangtze River Delta Economic and Cultural Corridor: It connects Shanghai (Lujiazui, the Bund) with Suzhou (industrial parks, classical gardens) and Hangzhou (Qianjiang New City, West Lake), allowing you to experience the diverse development landscape of China from an international financial center to an innovation and technology park, and then to the poetic mountains and waters of the Jiangnan region. [Explore the 6-day Journey along the Yangtze River Delta Longitudinal Line]

The story of Lujiazui is about a country's determination to open up, a city's spirit of climbing and an era's dream of innovation. IntoTravelChina is dedicated to creating in-depth, personalized and worry-free travel experiences in China. Our travel experts can help you
- Tailor-made itinerary: Based on your interests and time, we design a perfect route that includes in-depth interpretation of Lujiazui and perfect Tours of Shanghai and even the Yangtze River Delta.
One-stop service: Handle special cloud hotels, VIP access to the observation deck, reservations for financial or art-themed visits, and exclusive vehicles.
Exclusive Experience: Arranged for architectural experts to accompany and explain, internal company visits (subject to policy), guided Tours of the best night photography spots, etc.

Let your visit to Lujiazui be more than just sightseeing and taking photos, but a profound dialogue to understand the pulse of contemporary China's development and experience the new heights of human urban civilization.
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