Use This China City Guide to Find Secret Rooftop Bars in Shanghai
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- Source：The Silk Road Echo
Looking for the coolest, most under-the-radar rooftop bars in Shanghai? You're not alone. As one of Asia’s most electrifying cities, Shanghai blends futuristic skyscrapers with old-world charm — and nowhere is that more evident than at its hidden rooftop bars. These sky-high hideouts offer jaw-dropping views of the Bund, Pudong’s glittering skyline, and a cocktail (or two) you won’t forget.
Why Rooftop Bars Are Shanghai’s Best-Kept Secret
While tourists flock to Nanjing Road or snap selfies at The Pearl Tower, savvy locals and well-traveled visitors are sipping craft gin tonics 40 floors above the city buzz. Rooftop bars in Shanghai aren’t just about drinks — they’re immersive experiences combining design, music, and panoramic views that redefine urban nightlife.
According to Time Out Shanghai, searches for 'hidden rooftop bars' have surged by 68% in the past year alone. Yet many of these spots remain surprisingly low-key, tucked inside boutique hotels or disguised behind unmarked elevators.
Top 5 Secret Rooftop Bars in Shanghai
Buckle up — here are five lesser-known sky lounges worth hunting down:
| Name | Location | Floor | Vibe | Cover/Min Spend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bar Rouge (Hidden Lounge) | Bund 18, Waitan | 7 | Art deco, retro-chic | ¥150 min spend |
| URBN Roof Bar | Xuhui District | 8 | Eco-luxury, intimate | No cover |
| Flask Rooftop | Nanchang Road | 6 | Industrial chic, live jazz | ¥100 cover (Fri–Sat) |
| The Loft Courtyard | Jing’an Temple | 5 | Boho garden escape | No cover |
| Sky39 Lounge | Pudong Shangri-La | 39 | Luxury skyline views | ¥200 min spend |
Pro Tip: Flask and URBN rarely appear on Google Maps — ask your hotel concierge or use local apps like Dianping to find entrances.
When to Go & What to Order
Timing is everything. Arrive by 7:30 PM to catch golden hour over the Huangpu River. Skip weekends if you hate crowds — Thursday through Saturday early evenings are ideal.
- Best Sunset View: Sky39 Lounge — order the 'Shanghai Mule' (¥98), a spicy ginger-vodka twist with lychee foam.
- Local Favorite: URBN’s organic wine list features Yunnan vintages you can’t get anywhere else.
- Instagram Gold: The Loft’s hanging lanterns and potted bamboo make it the most photogenic spot in Jing’an.
How to Find Them Like a Local
Many of these bars don’t advertise. Here’s how to uncover them:
- Follow @ShanghaiSecretBars on Xiaohongshu (China’s Instagram).
- Ask bartenders at popular spots — they often know unlisted after-parties.
- Look for small brass plaques or elevator codes — some require a password after 10 PM.
Remember: dress smart-casual. While Shanghai’s chill, rooftop venues tend to enforce a no-sneakers, no-sandals rule.
Final Sip
Shanghai’s rooftop bar scene is more than a trend — it’s a cultural shift toward intimate, experience-driven nightlife. Whether you’re chasing skyline views or a quiet corner with a bespoke cocktail, these elevated escapes deliver.
So skip the tourist traps. Grab this guide, text a friend, and go find your favorite hidden sky lounge. The city lights are waiting.