Shanghai
Shanghai (Shàng: hǎi)
Location
Shanghai, China’s largest city and global financial hub, is located on the eastern coast of the country, where the Yangtze River meets the East China Sea. The city blends modern skyscrapers with historical colonial architecture and is home to iconic landmarks such as The Bund, Lujiazui, and Yu Garden. It experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons.
How to get there?
1. Via Plane
Shanghai is served by two major international airports:
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) – Handles most international and long-haul flights.
- Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) – Primarily serves domestic and some regional flights.
Both airports are well connected to the city via metro, maglev train, and taxis.
2. Via Subway
Shanghai’s Metro system is one of the world’s largest, with 20+ lines covering almost every part of the city. Signs and announcements are available in both Chinese and English, making it convenient for tourists.
3. Via Maglev Train
The Shanghai Maglev Train is a high-speed rail connecting Pudong Airport to Longyang Road station in just 8 minutes, reaching speeds of 431 km/h (268 mph).
4. Via Taxi
Taxis are widely available, but many drivers do not speak English. It is advisable to have your destination written in Chinese or use ride-hailing apps like DiDi for smoother communication.
When to visit?
- March–May (Spring): Ideal for pleasant weather and blooming cherry blossoms.
- September–November (Autumn): Comfortable temperatures with clear skies.
- December–February (Winter): Cold but less crowded, with festive decorations during the Chinese New Year.
Visa Conditions
Travelers need a passport valid for at least six months. China offers a 144-hour visa-free transit policy for certain nationalities arriving in Shanghai, Suzhou, and Hangzhou, allowing short-term visits without a visa. Longer stays require a tourist visa, typically costing between $30 and $140, depending on nationality and visa type.
Places to visit
1. The Bund
A historical waterfront area lined with colonial-era buildings from Shanghai’s past. It offers breathtaking views of the modern Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River. The Bund is especially mesmerizing at night when the skyscrapers are illuminated.
2. Oriental Pearl Tower
One of Shanghai’s most recognizable landmarks, featuring observation decks with glass floors, a revolving restaurant, and a history museum showcasing the city's past.
3. Shanghai Tower
The second tallest building in the world, standing at 632 meters. Its observation deck offers a stunning panoramic view of the city.
4. Yu Garden
A traditional Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty, featuring picturesque pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. Nearby, the City God Temple Bazaar is a great place to shop for souvenirs and taste local snacks.
5. Nanjing Road
One of the busiest shopping streets in the world, lined with luxury boutiques, department stores, and traditional teahouses.
6. Shanghai Disneyland
The first Disneyland in mainland China, featuring unique attractions like Tron Lightcycle Power Run and the Enchanted Storybook Castle, the largest Disney castle worldwide.
7. Tianzifang
A charming artsy district known for its narrow alleyways filled with boutique shops, cafés, and art galleries.
8. Zhujiajiao Water Town
An ancient water town often called the "Venice of Shanghai," where visitors can take a boat ride through canals lined with Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture.
9. Jade Buddha Temple
A Buddhist temple housing two exquisite white jade Buddha statues brought from Myanmar.
10. Longhua Temple and Pagoda
One of the oldest temples in Shanghai, dating back over 1,700 years. Its towering pagoda is an iconic landmark.
Parks & Natural Attractions
1. Century Park
Shanghai’s largest urban park, perfect for cycling, boating, and picnics.
2. Chenshan Botanical Garden
A beautiful garden showcasing exotic plants and an impressive glass conservatory.
3. Binjiang Forest Park
A peaceful retreat along the Yangtze River, ideal for nature lovers.
Museums
1. Shanghai Museum
A must-visit for history enthusiasts, displaying ancient Chinese ceramics, calligraphy, and bronze artifacts.
2. China Art Museum
Located in the former Expo 2010 China Pavilion, this museum houses modern and contemporary Chinese artworks.
3. Shanghai Science and Technology Museum
An interactive science museum featuring exhibits on robotics, space exploration, and wildlife.
4. Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum
A historical site commemorating the Jewish refugees who sought shelter in Shanghai during World War II.
Places to eat
Shanghai is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Street Food: Try Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and Sheng Jian Bao (pan-fried dumplings) at local food stalls in Huanghe Road Food Street.
- Traditional Cuisine: Jesse Restaurant serves authentic Shanghai hairy crab and red-braised pork belly.
- Western Cuisine: The Bund area has upscale restaurants offering international fine dining.
- Vegetarian: Fu He Hui, a Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurant, is famous for its creative plant-based dishes.
Best Foods to Try in Shanghai
- Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings) – A must-try Shanghainese delicacy.
- Sheng Jian Bao – Crispy-bottomed pan-fried pork buns.
- Shanghai Hairy Crab – A seasonal delicacy, especially popular in autumn.
- Scallion Oil Noodles – Simple yet flavorful.
- Red-Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou) – A rich, caramelized pork dish.
- Beggar’s Chicken – A unique dish wrapped in lotus leaves and clay-baked.
- Cifantuan – Sticky rice rolls filled with savory or sweet ingredients.
Places to stay
Tourists can book accommodations via platforms like Agoda, Booking.com, and Trip.com. Popular areas to stay include:
- The Bund – Luxury hotels with stunning skyline views.
- Jing'an District – Ideal for business travelers.
- Xintiandi – A trendy area with boutique hotels.
- Pudong – Close to financial centers and modern attractions.
Conclusion
Shanghai is a mesmerizing blend of ancient and modern, where futuristic skyscrapers stand alongside traditional gardens and historic temples. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, the city offers an endless array of experiences. From strolling along The Bund to tasting mouthwatering Xiaolongbao, Shanghai ensures an unforgettable journey, making it one of the world’s most captivating cities to explore.
