Shanghai sights and landmarks guide

Doing it the Shanghai Way

Shanghai is situated on the central eastern coast of China. Shanghai is divided by the Yangtze River into the Puxi area, the city's historic center, on the west and the Pudong, the new financial district on the eastern bank. It is the country's largest city based on its population of 18 million and considered as the most developed city of China.

Foreign trade involving fish and textiles was the starting point from which its commerce flourished making it the center of east and west trading. Despite the fall in foreign investments in the past, Shanghai rose up and proved to be a strong city with its concentrated development and financing.

Tradition and Modernity on Every Street

Experiencing Shanghai is immersing all senses to both the old and the new China. Despite the commercialization, one can still feel China from its yesteryears while walking along Fuxing Road and seeing the old buildings. Yuyuan Gardens is yet another place to visit to get a feel of the old China with its classical architecture. With a peaceful and calm ambience, one will appreciate its Chinese architecture with the network of rock gardens, bamboo stands, stone bridges, and pools.

Shanghai Highlights

Also one of the city's highlights includes the French Concession, so called because it is reminiscent of Paris, infusing both Chinese and European styles. It is known for its refurbished shikumen houses, and it is fast becoming famous for its shopping areas, and interesting restaurants and cafes. Also a premier shopping destination is Nanjing Road.

Shanghai is also famous for the Bund, the riverside that boasts of early 20th century architecture. At night, the bank of Huangpu River showcases a myriad of lights-a feast for the eyes. And for the 21st century architecture, one will be in awe just staring at Pudong's skyline.

The Oriental Pearl Tower is but one of the distinct structures that adorn the area together with the Shanghai World Financial Center, the mainland's tallest skyscraper, and the Shanghai International Convention Center. Proud of its culture, Shanghai showcases its rich collections in the Shanghai Art Museum and Shanghai Natural History Museum.

See the Sights, Taste the Food

There are a lot of things to do in Shanghai, and sightseeing is just one of them. After satisfying the thirst for art and form, it is now time to satiate the hunger with the city's food. There is a wide array of establishments to choose from. Be it a simple meal of street food, a modest sit-down meal, or a fine-dining experience, one can never miss out on experiencing Shanghai.

Be it fancy eating in the restaurants of Xintiandi or the cheap-but-good treats of Wujiang Road, one must try the following dishes: xiao long baozi (steamed dumplings), zui ji (steamed chicken), you tiao (donut-like pastry), and xiefen shizitou (meatballs of pork and crab).

Vegetarians need not worry as they can enjoy a vegetarian Buddhist meal at the Longhua Temple and the Jade Buddha Temple as they savor the tranquility of the place. They can also go for the famous Vegetarian Life Style for a fancy experience.

Shanghai is definitely one of the more promising cities to visit and immerse your senses. Seeing, hearing, and feeling Shanghai is a unique experience.