2025 'Shanghai Summer' Launches with Smart City Integration and Multicultural Appeal - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Between January and June 2025, Shanghai welcomed 4.25 million inbound visitors—a 38.5% increase year-on-year. Tax-refunded sales by departing travelers rose by 85%. To maintain this momentum, the launch ceremony was held on July 4 at the West Bund Grand Theater, where ten flagship activities, nearly 300 key and customised events, 14 themed offerings, and two new services were unveiled.

To support the 240-hour visa-free transit policy, China Eastern Airlines is offering one million discounted tickets and 100,000 complimentary half-day tours. Navigation tools include the multilingual "HiChina" app by Umetrip and an English version of Amap. Dianping has introduced a multilingual "must-eat" list, while Marriott International is featuring special summer offers across its 19 Shanghai hotels.

China UnionPay has introduced "Shanghai Summer" themed cards to simplify payments across the city. Visa has launched dedicated "Visa Payment-Friendly Demonstration Zones" to encourage cashless transactions. Additional support includes an upgraded Shanghai Pass from SPD Bank and Jiushi Group, as well as two specialized services: tax refund support in 14 languages and the "Easy Go" platform via Alipay International.

More than 300 customized events will bring Shanghai to life, including riverside walks, pop culture festivals, and art showcases. Noteworthy events include the POP MART "POP SUMMER" experience, the Van Cleef & Arpels "Poetry of Time" exhibition, the LI-NING Streetball League, the Yuyuan "Fantasy Summer Night," the MAP "Shanghai Star" cruise, and the "Wind & Waves" performance series at West Bund Grand Theater.

Ten flagship activities will feature international sports, cultural, and lifestyle experiences. Highlights include the Rolex Shanghai Masters (ATP1000) on September 29, the FISE World Series • Shanghai in October, and the Shanghai Tourism Festival Vacation Summer running from July 5 to August 31. Cultural programming features the Shanghai MISA Music Festival, the Shanghai International Light Festival, the Shanghai Summer International Anime Month, and the SS2026 Shanghai Fashion Week, expected to draw over 80,000 industry professionals and guests worldwide.

"Shanghai Summer" is reinforcing the city’s identity as a dynamic international hub for culture, lifestyle, and sports—while boosting inbound tourism and consumption.

Image Credit: © Shanghai Design Week (SHDW)