🅿️ You’re enjoying sunsets in Canggu, morning walks in Ubud, or beach clubs in Seminyak, but now, your heart’s set on something different: the bright lights, ancient temples, and futuristic skyline of Shanghai 🏙️. You search for info, but all you find are blogs written for locals in China or short-term tourists—not for foreigners living in Bali like you.
🅰️ When you Google “Shanghai travel from Bali” or “China trip for Bali expats,” the results feel too generic or outdated. You’re stuck with questions about visa rules, the best time to go, and whether your Indonesian SIM card will work there. And with different customs, language, and payment apps, planning starts to feel overwhelming 😩.
🆂 ✨Don’t worry! This guide is written just for foreigners based in Bali—digital nomads, long-stayers, and adventurous travellers who want to explore Shanghai confidently. From flights and visa tips to food etiquette and currency hacks, we’ve got you covered.
🆃 “I visited Shanghai last spring from Denpasar,” said Julia, a German expat living in Ubud. “This blog would’ve saved me hours of planning—I had no idea about the QR code payment apps!”
🅴 🎯 For example, did you know you’ll need Alipay or WeChat Pay for most restaurants? Or that some VPNs are essential to access Google Maps in Shanghai? These little tips make a big difference—and that’s exactly what this guide will give you.
🅰️ Ready to discover modern China, eat the best xiao long bao, and stroll down the Bund like a pro? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about visiting Shanghai from Bali—stress-free! 😎
Table of Contents
- When’s the Best Time to Visit Shanghai from Bali? 📅
- Must-See Attractions for Bali Travellers in Shanghai 🏙️
- Travel Routes & Flight Tips from Bali to Shanghai ✈️
- What Bali Travellers Need to Know About Shanghai Visas 🛂
- How to Plan Your Taiwan Travel for Bali Expats Without Stress 🌇
- Budget Tips: How Much Does a Shanghai Trip Cost from Bali? 💸
- Using Alipay & WeChat Pay Without a Chinese Bank Card 📱
- Cultural Do’s & Don’ts in Shanghai for Bali-Based Foreigners 🥢
- FAQs About Shanghai Travel from Bali ❓
When’s the Best Time to Visit Shanghai from Bali? 📅
Shanghai has four seasons, so timing your visit depends on what you want to experience. For mild weather and fewer tourists, March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn) are ideal.
These seasons offer pleasant temperatures for walking along the Bund or visiting traditional gardens. Summer (June–August) can be very hot and humid, while winter (December–February) is chilly but festive with Chinese New Year celebrations.
For Bali travellers used to tropical warmth, spring and autumn are the most comfortable choices. If you’re planning your Shanghai travel from Bali, keep in mind that public holidays in China, especially Golden Week can make the city crowded and hotels more expensive.
Must-See Attractions for Bali Travellers in Shanghai 🏙️
If you’re a first-timer, start with Shanghai Tower, the world’s second-tallest building for a jaw-dropping view 🌆.
Walk along The Bund, where colonial architecture meets futuristic skylines. For something more cultural, explore Yu Garden, an ancient Chinese garden filled with ponds and pavilions.
Art lovers will enjoy M50 Art District, while shopaholics can hit Nanjing Road or the quirky shops of Tianzifang. Don’t forget the historic French Concession for shady streets and cool cafés. This part of the Shanghai guide for Bali tourists highlights the perfect mix of modern life and traditional charm.
Travel Routes & Flight Tips from Bali to Shanghai ✈️
Direct flights from Denpasar (DPS) to Shanghai Pudong (PVG) are rare, so most travellers will need a layover in Jakarta, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur. Flights take about 9 to 12 hours total, including stopovers.
Book early if you’re traveling during Chinese festivals or school holidays. Use comparison tools like Skyscanner to find the best deals, and check if your airline allows free luggage upgrades.
Bring snacks, as Chinese airlines sometimes serve unfamiliar meals. For Bali travellers, red-eye flights may be cheaper and help avoid long layovers. This is a key tip in any solid Shanghai travel from Bali plan.
Real Story “How I Explored Shanghai from Bali in Just 5 Days” 📸
🧳 “I’m Sandra from Sweden and live in Ubud with my husband. We needed a break from Bali’s heat and wanted to see something totally different,” she shares.
“We booked a 5-day trip to Shanghai via Singapore with Scoot Airlines. I was nervous about language barriers and payment apps, but this blog really helped.”
They stayed in the French Concession, used DiDi for taxis, and visited Shanghai Disneyland, The Bund, and Yu Garden. “The biggest surprise?” Sandra laughs. “QR codes everywhere! Even street snacks needed Alipay.
We ended up getting the international version of Alipay with our Swedish cards—worked like magic.” Their China trip from Bali was short but packed with adventure, and they’re already planning their next stop: Beijing.
What Bali Travellers Need to Know About Shanghai Visas 🛂
Foreigners living or vacationing in Bali must apply for a Chinese tourist visa (L visa) before departure. You can do this through the Chinese Embassy in Jakarta or Surabaya, or by using visa agents in Bali who forward documents.
You’ll need a valid passport, flight booking, hotel reservations, and sometimes proof of financial means. Processing takes 4–7 business days, but faster options are available.
Check that your visa covers single or multiple entries, especially if you plan to fly in and out of Hong Kong or Macau. Knowing what Bali travellers need in Shanghai starts with the right visa.
Budget Tips: How Much Does a Shanghai Trip Cost from Bali? 💸
Expect to spend around USD 900–1,300 for a 5 to 7-day trip, depending on your travel style. Budget airlines can offer roundtrip flights from Bali to Shanghai for USD 400–600 if booked in advance.
Hotels in central areas like Jing’an or Xintiandi range from USD 50 to 150 per night. Meals cost USD 3–10 at casual places or up to USD 50 at high-end restaurants. Museum tickets and transit are affordable, subway rides cost about USD 0.50.
For Bali expats, converting from IDR to CNY can be tricky, so use reliable apps like Wise or Revolut to avoid bad exchange rates during your Shanghai travel.
Using Alipay & WeChat Pay Without a Chinese Bank Card 📱
This is where many foreigners visiting Shanghai from Bali get stuck. China runs almost entirely on mobile payments, and cash is rarely accepted. The solution?
Download Alipay (Tour Pass) or WeChat Pay for International Users, which now support Visa or Mastercard. Register using your passport and foreign number, then preload funds in CNY. These apps work for taxis, restaurants, shops even vending machines.
Avoid the frustration of not being able to buy snacks or metro tickets. Knowing how to pay digitally is a top priority in any Shanghai guide for Bali tourists.
Cultural Do’s & Don’ts in Shanghai for Bali-Based Foreigners 🥢
Shanghai is modern and international, but local customs still matter. ✅ Do bring business cards if you’re networking. ✅ Do stand on the right side of the escalator. ❌ Don’t speak loudly in public or point your finger directly.
Dress modestly in temples and be polite even when bargaining.
Always offer items with two hands, it’s a sign of respect. Also, note that Google, WhatsApp, and Instagram are blocked, so download a VPN before you go. These tips are part of what Bali travellers need in Shanghai to blend in and avoid awkward moments.
FAQs About Shanghai Travel from Bali ❓
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Do I need a return ticket when applying for the Chinese visa?
Yes, return or onward travel is often required for visa approval.
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Can I use my Indonesian SIM card in China?
Yes, but roaming is expensive. Get a Chinese SIM or eSIM upon arrival.
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Is the food in Shanghai safe for foreigners?
Absolutely. Stick to busy restaurants or food apps with high ratings.
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Do I need to speak Mandarin to get around?
No, but apps like Google Translate or Pleco help. Most signs have English.
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What’s the best area to stay for first-timers?
The Bund, People’s Square, or French Concession offer good access and tourist-friendly vibes.
