There is obviously no lack of activities to do in Shanghai. From museums to clubs to art shows to bars, Shanghai is a smorgasbord of sensations for all those lucky enough to work or visit here. But what if you are looking for something a bit more… extreme? Indeed, extreme sports are gaining momentum here, with daredevils constantly looking for more ways to push their limits. Read on for five of the most popular extreme sports in the city. And for those who might want to ease into things, never fear – all of these activities are also accessible for newbies.

1) Paragliding
While you obviously can't paraglide within Shanghai's city limits, this activity will take you to the outskirts where hills and mountains abound. Paragliding Shanghai takes people of all skill levels on excursions lasting anywhere from a few hours to a few days. As long as the weather conditions are right (ie: the wind is not too strong or coming from the wrong direction), you can fly for around fifteen minutes per jump. For those with no experience or who just want some company up in the air, Paragliding Shanghai offers tandem flies, where you are strapped to an experienced flyer. For those who prefer to go it alone, they also offer solo flights. Keep in mind, however, that the course required to fly solo takes six months and consists of both practical and theoretical training (yes, you are going to have to brush up on your aerodynamics and meteorology).

Paragliding Shanghai
Tel: 134 7256 3988
Website: http://paraglidingshanghai.com

2) BMX BikingView In Map
Biking isn't just for getting to and from Feidan Market anymore. There's a hardcore fan base of BMX biking here in Shanghai, and they use the JiangwanSMP Skate Park as their go-to practice ground. The 40 meter-long half pipes, oversized bowls, and intricate street course give you all the rails and slick surfaces you will ever need to hone your tricks. The largest skate park in Asia, this behemoth was built by the government but is now owned by a BMX bike-loving businessman. Other popular places to practice for BMX riders include the Science and Technology Museum and the Shanghai Concert Hall park – just be sure not to annoy too many pedestrians with your antics, or else the guards will be forced to say something.

SMP Skate Park
Add: 2100 Songhu Lu, near Guohao Lu, Shanghai
地址:上海市松湖路2100号, 近国浩路
Tel: 021 5525 0901
Opening hours: Daily, 9:00 until dark
Website: www.smpskatepark.cn

3) Inline Skating
Jiangwan SMP Skate Park is also called home for those who like to engage in extreme inline skating. With ramps over 15 feet in height, it's a breathtaking way to spend an evening, whether you're participating or just watching. The place is still mostly made up of foreigners, but you will notice a growing number of Chinese participants as well. Visit the skate park during the week (Monday through Friday) and it will only set you back 40 RMB. Weekends (Saturday and Sunday) will run you 60 RMB. Just remember to bring some knee and elbow pads, and – at the very least – a helmet.

 

4) Go Karting
Apparently Shanghai loves its booze-fuelled karting so much that it has room for two separate venues offering this kind of extreme entertainment. Disc Kart Indoor Karting has a 4,500 square meter racing track, which you get to by stepping through the "ticket area" – also known as a full-service bar. Stampede Karting boasts a bigger track (5,000 square metres) and the edition of a new Bose sound system and LED light effects. And while it also houses a full bar to promote the forehead-slapping idea of drinking and driving, it tries to market itself as a family friendly venue – at least during the daytime hours. This kind of extreme sport probably requires the least amount of built in skill, making it perfect for those who want to ease into the idea of adventure.

Stampede KartingView In Map
Add: Basement Section C, Bailian Shopping Center, 1288 Zhenguang Lu, near Meichuan Lu, Shanghai
地址: 上海市真光路1288号C区地下室 ,近梅川路
Tel: 138 1622 9912
Opening hours: 11:00-02:00
Website: www.stampedekarting.com

Disc Kart Indoor KartingView In Map
Add: 809 Zaoyang Lu, near Metro Line 3, Jinshajiang Lu Station, Shanghai
地址: 上海市枣阳路809号, 近地铁3号线金沙江路站
Tel: 021 6222 2880
Website: www.kartingchina.com

5) Rock Climbing
If you happen to be looking for a great workout while you get the adrenaline pumping, look no further than rock climbing. Offered at a variety of places, including Shanghai Indoor Stadium and Hongkou Football Stadium, rock climbing offers you the chance to scale mountains – or at least an artificial rock wall. While this activity is not recommended for those who are scared of heights, chances are you will find the climb both terrifying and empowering. Just be prepared for sore arms and legs the next day.

Shanghai Indoor StadiumView In Map
Add: Bldg 6, 666 Tianyaoqiao Lu, Shanghai
地址: 上海市天钥桥路666号, 上海体育馆6号楼
Tel: 021 426 6666
Opening hours: Daily, 10:00-22:00
Website: www.rockclimb.cn

Hongkou Football StadiumView In Map
Add: 444 Dong Jiangwan Lu, near Sichuan Bei Lu, Shanghai
地址: 上海市东江湾路444号, 近四川北路
Tel: 021 6553 2388
Opening hours: 8:30–17:00

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Keywords: extreme sports Shanghai rock climbing Shanghai paragliding Shanghai inline skating Shanghai