In the bustling heart of Shanghai, a city known for its dynamic blend of tradition and modernity, lies a collection of world-class sports facilities that cater to athletes and enthusiasts alike. These premier facilities not only showcase cutting-edge design and technology but also reflect the city's passion for sports and its commitment to fostering a vibrant, active community.

And the Olympic Qualifier here in Shanghai also injects some serious adrenaline into the city's sports scene. It's not just about the thrill of sports; it's igniting a whole new wave of passion for all things athletic, transforming our stadiums into bustling hubs of activity.

So, let's take a look at some of the most famous sports venues in Shanghai and explore what makes each of them unique.

Alright, let's start with the backstory of Xujiahui Sports Park. This sprawling sports haven has been a cornerstone of Shanghai's athletic landscape since the swinging 1960s. Nestled within its grounds are three of the city's most iconic sports arenas: Shanghai Stadium, Shanghai Indoor Stadium, and Shanghai Swimming Center.

You may have seen the huge construction taking place in this area on the nearby elevated highway. In a bold move to level up the game, the old Olympic Club at Xujiahui Sports Park got the wrecking ball treatment, paving the way for an epic transformation. Enter the "Xu Jiahui Sports Park Complex (Wanti Hui)" – a shiny new sports mecca rising from the rubble. So, buckle up as we dive deep into these three titans of the sports world and get acquainted with the sleek and revamped "Xu Jiahui Sports Park Complex."

Shanghai Indoor Stadium

Ah, the Shanghai Indoor Stadium, a true titan among venues. Erected back in '75, locals affectionately dub it the "stadium for ten thousand people," though truth be told, it can pack in a whopping 18,000 fans. This place isn't just a stage; it's the beating heart of major events, both on the home front and across the globe.

Picture this: a mammoth circular dome soaring high above, stretching 110 meters in diameter and weighing in at a cool 600 tons. But that's not all. Its exterior boasts a stunning facade adorned with light blue thermal insulation glass, a game-changing innovation courtesy of the Shanghai Yaohua Glass Factory.

Once hailed as a crown jewel in Shanghai's architectural skyline, this beauty has had a facelift. Now, it's rocking movable grandstands and nearly 13,000 plush seats, all spread across a sprawling 40,552 square meters of prime real estate.

Address: 1111 Caoxi Rd N.

Shanghai Stadium

Behold the Shanghai Stadium, a colossus completed in '97 that's earned the moniker "Eighty Thousand People" for a good reason – it's a beast, with room for a staggering 80,000 fans to cheer in unison. This ain't just any stadium; it's a bona fide icon, spanning a jaw-dropping 190,000 square meters and playing host to a slew of world-class showdowns.

Now, picture this: an outer ring embracing a circular form, while nestled within, an elliptical inner ring. But here's where it gets interesting – the west end stands tall, a tad higher than its eastern counterpart, creating a mesmerizing wave-like effect on this colossal canvas. It's like a giant's playground, with a cone-shaped structure soaring skyward, wider up top and tapering down below. And when viewed from above, it's a memorable view of Shanghai's beloved symbol – the white magnolia, in all its majestic glory.

This behemoth stadium got a makeover, with its core sports field dug down by an additional 1.7 meters. Now its primed for accommodating an additional 16,000 spectators for a grand total of 72,000. And that's not all. It also significantly enhanced interactive facilities for sports and entertainment, making it one of the highest-standard stadiums in the country.

Address: 666 Tianyaoqiao Rd

Shanghai Swimming Center

The Shanghai Swimming Center, a gem that's been making waves since its opening in '83. Once hailed as an architectural marvel, this spot has been host to many world-class events.

After a round of renovations to meet global standards, the center's now a sprawling 15,800 square meters of aquatic paradise. And it is a massive space. Four floors, with four pools! You've got your standard swim spots, a training pool, and even a diving pool for the daredevils.

But here's the big renovation gift to the city: the third floor's been transformed into a kiddie haven. Yep, toddlers, get ready to paddle because now there's a pool just for you, open to all pint-sized swimmers, being a pool exclusively open to the public.

Step through the entrance and you're greeted with a design that's straight out of Poseidon's playbook. Swirling motifs and ripple effects transport you to the depths of the ocean, even before you take your first stroke.

The whole place is a vision in minimalist white, with splashes of blue hues reminiscent of the pools. Sunlight streams in, creating an atmosphere that's as refreshing, creating a bright and airy ambiance.

Address: 1111 Lingling Rd

Xu Jiahui Sports Park Complex

Say hello to the Xujiahui Sports Park Complex, aka "Wan Ti Hui," another jewel in Shanghai's sporting crown. Now, "Wan Ti" might sound like a tongue twister, but it's got history. It pays homage to the old "stadium of ten thousand people," a nod to its roots. And "Hui"? This part of their name corresponds with Xujiahui, which aims to be a hub for all things sports.

This newly built Xujiahui Sports Park Complex has two floors. It was built entirely underground to preserve the beautiful views of the Shanghai Stadium, Shanghai Indoor Stadium, and Shanghai Swimming Center.

Inside, you'll find the badminton hall of your dreams, the largest in the whole city. Plus, ping-pong tables, tennis courts that even the ATP Tour would approve of, and outdoor hoops for some b-ball action.

Address: 1111 Lingling Rd

Looking for more places to play besides Xujiahui Sports Park Complex?

Here are a few other top picks:

Yuanshen Sports Center Stadium

Yuanshen Sports Center Stadium, which broke ground in 1997, stands as the largest and most versatile public sports facility in the Pudong New Area. It is a major hotspot for community fitness enthusiasts.

The center boasts an impressive outdoor stadium that seats 20,000 spectators and an indoor arena with a capacity for 5,500, complete with a swimming pool.

But that's not all – there is also a 5,570-square-meter indoor sports hall dedicated to table tennis and badminton.

The sports center offers a wide array of over 20 activities. You can enjoy programs such as soccer, basketball, tennis, table tennis, badminton, swimming, taichi, and gym workouts. For those looking for something a bit different, there are also bowling, yoga, taekwondo, and paddle tennis.

And here's a great perk: since August 2012, the stadium's rubber track has been open to the public for free. So whether you're a fitness buff or just looking to have some fun, Yuanshen Sports Center Stadium has something for everyone.

Address: 110 Yuanshen Rd

Hongkou Football Stadium

Let's head to the north of Shanghai and explore the Hongkou Football Stadium, China's first professional soccer venue!

Let's take a trip down memory lane to the Shanghai Hongkou Stadium, a true icon dating all the way back to 1951. Nestled snugly next to Lu Xun Park (yep, the one that used to be called Hongkou Park), this place has seen it all. With a sprawling 72,900 square meters and seating for a cool 35,000 fans, it's more than just a stadium – it's a sports mecca.

Rewind to 1993, when it played host to the grand opening of the East Asian Games. Talk about making history! And let's not forget that jaw-dropping moment in 1983 when local hero Zhu Jianhua leaped into the record books, clearing a mind-boggling 2.37 meters and leaving the world speechless.

But what really sets this place apart is its design. Every seat's a winner, thanks to some seriously smart architecture. And that grass? It's not your run-of-the-mill turf – it's lush, warm-season grass all the way from the U.S. Talk about going the extra mile for that evergreen charm!

Fast forward to today, and the Shanghai Hongkou Stadium is more than just a relic of the past. It is a historic landmark, and a buzzing hub of activity, drawing in locals and tourists alike for a slice of the sporting action. Whether you're on the field or cheering from the stands, this place is where legends are made.

Address: 444 Dongjiangwan Rd

World Expo Huangpu Sports Park

Welcome to the World Expo Huangpu Sports Park, nestled beneath the Nanpu Bridge in Puxi. Since its inauguration in 2017, this expansive 30,000-square-meter haven has redefined the sporting scene.

At its heart lies a football field boasting prime views of the Nanpu Bridge, decked out with FIFA-approved artificial turf – a magnet for professional events and football enthusiasts alike.

But that's just the beginning. This park is a playground for sports aficionados, offering a plethora of top-notch facilities including tennis courts, a badminton hall, and an indoor basketball court. Plus, there's a dedicated children's playground, billiards and ping pong tables, and a fully-equipped gym – all open to the public.

Address: 1353 Waima Rd

Jiangwan Sports Center

Jiangwan Sports Center, whipped up in 1935 and once dubbed the "First Sports Stadium in the Far East," is less a sports venue and more a full-blown Shanghai icon. Its designer, the legendary Chinese architect Dong Dayou, mixed modernist vibes with traditional Chinese motifs, crafting a spot that's as much about style as it is about sports.

Above the main entrance to the west grandstand, you'll find the name "Shanghai Jiangwan Stadium," inscribed by none other than former Shanghai Mayor Chen Yi himself. The joint rocks an oval shape with red brick walls and those signature arched doorways – truly a beacon of athletic glory.

What's inside: the main building is a triple threat with a stadium, gymnasium, and swimming pool. The stadium itself is a behemoth, stretching out for 1,000 meters with a concrete grandstand that can pack in a whopping 40,000 fans. Its sleek, geometric design keeps things spacious and chic, making every game feel like the place to be.

In 2016, the center underwent a serious renovation. They didn't just tweak things; they transformed the grounds into four international-grade 11-a-side football pitches and threw in a couple of smaller pitches for some 7-a-side action. After buffing up the fitness track around the football fields, it reopened to the public on September 1, 2023, fresher than ever. Whether you're here to catch some top-tier football or just soak in the architectural splendor, Jiangwan's got the goods.

Address: 346 Guohe Rd.

Oriental Sports Center

The Oriental Sports Center, spanning 188,000 square meters along the banks of the Huangpu River in Shanghai, stands tall as a beacon of architectural marvel. Adjacent to the Expo Park, this colossal complex embodies Shanghai's ethos of progress and innovation as it steps into a new era.

Picture these expansive outdoor spaces: large plazas, parking lots, sports fields, and extensive greenery complemented by artificial lake landscapes – a seamless blend of modernity and nature's beauty.

Step inside the comprehensive 78,000-square-meter sports complex, boasting a main stadium and training facilities catering to 18,000 spectators.

The sports center spans five floors, with the underground levels serving distinct purposes. The first subterranean level houses exclusive VIP lounges and media zones, while the second floor below ground is dedicated to event operations, featuring specialized facilities for athletes and a generous ceiling height of 3.8 meters to accommodate logistics and transportation needs. The third floor above ground boasts spectator stands, thoughtfully equipped with seating for differently-abled attendees.

Built to global standards, this facility is a sports enthusiast's dream, hosting a myriad of indoor sports events, from basketball to volleyball, tennis, and more.

Dive into the indoor swimming arena, covering 48,000 square meters, primed for international A-level competitions in swimming, diving, and synchronized swimming, all while championing sustainable design.

Outside, the diving pool sprawls across 11,000 square meters, once playing host to the grand opening and diving events of the 2011 FINA World Championships – a testament to its versatility and world-class appeal.

Address: 701 Yongyao Rd

Shanghai Pudong Football Station

In the latter part of 2021, a new football sanctuary emerged in Pudong, Shanghai – the Shanghai Pudong Football Station. As the first professional football arena in China meticulously crafted to FIFA standards, the stadium instantly captured the spotlight upon its unveiling.

Inspired by the elegance of traditional Chinese porcelain, its design mirrors a radiant jade-like bowl, affectionately dubbed the "white jade bowl."

Boasting a capacity of 33,765 fixed seats and a maximum capacity of 37,000, the stadium stands ready to host a myriad of premier football events, both domestic and international.

A standout feature is the intimate connection between spectators and the field, with the closest distance between front-row fans and the pitch being a mere 8.5 meters.

Noteworthy is the circular layout of the home team's dressing room, a novel concept domestically but reminiscent of renowned clubs abroad like Manchester City F.C. and A.C. Milan. This circular setup enables the head coach to engage and strategize with all players more effectively.

Furthermore, the stadium offers public access to a variety of activities, bookable in advance via the "Shanghai Pudong Football Station" official WeChat mini program. The ground-floor commercial zone features an array of sporting facilities, including fencing, squash, rugby, artistic gymnastics, indoor golf, and more.

Address: 1288 Jinxiang Rd

Dachang Sports Center

Dachang Sports Center, nestled in Baoshan District, spans an impressive 8,460 square meters, catering to fitness enthusiasts with a plethora of amenities including swimming, fitness, badminton, squash, table tennis, and both English and American pool.

Outdoors, it boasts a scenic 200-meter rubber fitness trail alongside standard outdoor basketball courts.

On April 10, 2024, Dachang Sports Center unveiled its revamped swimming pool and fitness center, featuring state-of-the-art facilities.

Step into the indoor heated swimming pool, measuring 25 meters, where advanced equipment ensures a safe and enjoyable aquatic experience. Prices range from 30 to 40 yuan per 1.5 hours, while kids under 1.3 meters enjoy a discounted rate of 20 yuan.

For fitness enthusiasts, JOYWAY gym offers a comprehensive array of workout equipment. The badminton hall features eight expansive courts, with hourly rates ranging from 50 to 70 yuan, depending on the time slot. Stay tuned for the upcoming Super Flamingo dance room!

Following renovations, the center has also introduced a cozy cafe, relaxation zones, camping facilities, tennis courts, and leisure areas, promising a holistic fitness experience for all.

Address: 2010 Hutai Rd.