Shanghai, the pulsating heart of the Yangtze River Delta, is where ancient lanes converge with towering skyscrapers. Once a humble fishing village, it has transformed into China’s commercial and financial epicenter. Beyond its iconic Bund skyline, the city tells tales of its opulent past through colonial-era mansions, the whispers of old Shikumen houses in narrow alleys, and the hum of its bustling markets. The aroma of Xiaolongbao wafting through streets, juxtaposed with the glitter of Pudong’s skyline, captures Shanghai’s essence — a city forever reimagining itself while honoring its deep-rooted heritage.
Quick facts
– Population: Approximately 26.2 million (as of 2022)
– Area: 6,340 km² (slightly larger than the state of Delaware!)
– Language Spoken: Shanghainese and Mandarin.
Most important spots to visit & how long to stay
– Major historical sites: The Bund, Jade Buddha Temple, Yuyuan Garden, Longhua Temple, Old City Walls and City God Temple.
– Other sites/ areas to visit: Tianzifang Art Street, Nanjing Road, Oriental Pearl Tower, Xintiandi, Shanghai Disneyland, Lujiazui skyline, Jing’an Temple area.
– Recommended duration for exploration: You can easily spend 4 to 6 days exploring the most significant places. A minimum of 2 to 3 days is essential to cover the basics.
Where to stay
For luxury travelers, it is like a paradise, where you can find almost all the international and local luxury brand hotels.
Unique and exclusive experiences
– LOAD.
Culinary Delights
– Xiaolongbao (Shanghai Dumplings): Renowned steamed buns filled with meat, typically pork, and a savory broth inside, making them juicy.
– Sheng Jian Bao: Pan-fried buns stuffed with pork and gelatin that turns into a flavorful soup when cooked.
– Hairy Crab: A seasonal delicacy from nearby Yangcheng Lake, especially enjoyed in autumn months.
– Scallion Oil Noodles (Cong You Ban Mian): Noodles mixed with a flavorful sauce made from spring onions and soy sauce.
– Shanghai Stir-fried Rice Cakes: Chewy rice cakes stir-fried with vegetables and often with pork or shrimp.
Local Tips & Recommendations
– Best modes of transport within the city: Shanghai boasts one of the most efficient and extensive metro systems in the world, supplemented by numerous bus lines and easily available taxis. Renting a bicycle for areas like the Former French Concession can be delightful. However, for efficiency and to avoid communication problems, having a car and a driver is the most optimal way to navigate the city and get everywhere you want to go.
– Cultural norms or etiquettes to be aware of: Be prepared for a bustling crowd, especially in popular areas. As with many places, it’s wise to avoid discussing politically sensitive topics.
– Weather: Shanghai experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers (June to September) are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 35°C (80°F to 95°F). Winters (December to February) are chilly and damp, with temperatures hovering between 1°C to 8°C (34°F to 46°F). The city sees rainfall mainly during June and September. Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) are generally mild and are the most pleasant times to visit.
A few curiosities most people don’t know about the city
– Origins of the Name: “Shanghai” translates to “Upon the Sea.” (Shang – Upon; Hai – Sea). Historically however, most of the area that is now Shanghai was once below sea level and was slowly built up with silt deposits from the Yangtze River.
– World’s Fastest Commercial Train: The Shanghai Maglev train, which connects Pudong International Airport with the city, is the world’s fastest commercial train. Using magnetic levitation technology, it can reach speeds of up to 431 km/h (268 mph)!
– Shanghai Marriage Market: Every weekend in People’s Park, parents of single adults convene to exchange details about their children, aiming to find a suitable match. This gathering is a mix of traditional matchmaking and contemporary expectations.
– The skyscrapers in Lujiazui have become the iconic representation of modern Shanghai. However, it’s intriguing to know that just 30 years ago, this area was mainly farmland. The transformation from fields to some of the world’s tallest buildings is a testament to Shanghai’s rapid growth and its role in global finance and commerce.
Final thoughts & conclusion
Any journey to China would be incomplete without exploring Shanghai. While it might not always be on everyone’s return itinerary, its stature as China’s financial powerhouse and a treasure trove of historic landmarks makes it stand out. Differing significantly from the capital’s political pulse or the tranquil landscapes of the countryside, Shanghai presents a distinctive mosaic of experiences. Boasting all sorts of activities for all ages and interests, the city guarantees a memorable dive into the essence of modern China.
