Shanghai

Key highlights of Shanghai:

• Iconic skyline featuring the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower
• Rich cultural heritage evident in its museums and historical sites
• World-class shopping and dining experiences
• Efficient public transportation system
• Vibrant art scene with numerous galleries and exhibitions

Some History First

Shanghai’s fascinating history spans over a thousand years:

• Originally a small fishing village in the 11th century
• Rose to prominence as a major trading port in the 19th century
• Became known as the “Paris of the East” in the 1920s and 1930s
• Experienced rapid development and modernization since the 1990s

Notable historical events:

• Opium Wars (1839-1842 and 1856-1860)
• Establishment of foreign concessions
• Japanese occupation during World War II
• Communist takeover in 1949

Shanghai Today

Modern Shanghai is a testament to China’s economic prowess and global influence:

• Population: Over 24 million inhabitants
• Economy: Major financial and commercial center
• Innovation: Hub for technology and startups
• Education: Home to prestigious universities and research institutions

Key sectors:

• Finance and banking
• Manufacturing and technology
• Fashion and design
• Entertainment and media

Is Shanghai Safe?

Shanghai is generally considered a safe city for tourists and expats alike. However, as with any large metropolitan area, it’s important to exercise common sense and take standard precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets
• Use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing services
• Respect local laws and customs
• Emergency number: 110 for police, 119 for fire, 120 for ambulance

Where is Shanghai?

hanghai is strategically located on the east coast of China:

• Situated at the mouth of the Yangtze River
• Borders the East China Sea
• Coordinates: 31.2304° N, 121.4737° E
• Neighboring provinces: Jiangsu and Zhejiang

Fun fact: Shanghai’s name (上海) literally means “Upon the Sea” in Chinese.

What is the Best Time to Visit Shanghai?

Shanghai experiences four distinct seasons, each offering a unique perspective on the city:

• Spring (March to May): Pleasant temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms
• Summer (June to August): Hot and humid with occasional rain showers
• Autumn (September to November): Ideal time to visit with comfortable weather and clear skies
• Winter (December to February): Cold with occasional snow, but festive atmosphere

Best months to visit: April, May, October, and November

Tips for visitors:

• Check the lunar calendar for Chinese holidays, as attractions can be crowded during these times
• Book accommodations in advance during peak seasons
• Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and better deals

How to Get to Shanghai & Around

Getting to Shanghai:

• By air: Two major airports serve Shanghai:
  • Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG): Primary hub for international flights
  • Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA): Mainly domestic flights and some regional international routes
• By train: High-speed rail connections to major Chinese cities
• By bus: Long-distance buses from neighboring provinces

Getting around Shanghai:

• Metro: Extensive and efficient subway system covering most of the city
• Buses: Comprehensive network, including sightseeing buses
• Taxis: Abundant and relatively affordable
• Ride-hailing: Apps like DiDi (similar to Uber) are popular
• Bicycles: Bike-sharing programs available for short trips

Tip: Consider purchasing a Shanghai Public Transportation Card for convenient use across multiple transport modes.

Things to Do in Shanghai

Discover top attractions and activities in Shanghai:

1. The Bund: Iconic waterfront promenade with colonial-era buildings
2. Yu Garden: Traditional Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty
3. Shanghai Tower: World’s second-tallest building with spectacular views
4. Nanjing Road: Premier shopping street with a mix of local and international brands
5. Shanghai Museum: Houses an impressive collection of ancient Chinese art
6. Xintiandi: Trendy district with restored shikumen houses
7. Jade Buddha Temple: Famous Buddhist temple with two jade Buddha statues
8. Shanghai Disneyland: Magical theme park for families and Disney enthusiasts
9. Tianzifang: Labyrinth of alleys filled with boutique shops and cafes
10. Shanghai Science and Technology Museum: Interactive exhibits for curious minds

Don’t miss: Taking a night cruise on the Huangpu River for breathtaking views of the illuminated skyline.

Where To Stay In Shanghai

Shanghai offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference:

Luxury:

• The Peninsula Shanghai
• Mandarin Oriental Pudong
• Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund

Mid-range:

• Les Suites Orient, Bund Shanghai
• URBN Boutique Shanghai
• The Yangtze Boutique Shanghai

Budget:

• Captain Hostel
• Blue Mountain Bund Youth Hostel
• Shanghai Fish Inn East Nanjing Road

Best areas to stay:

• The Bund: For iconic views and proximity to attractions
• People’s Square: Central location with easy access to transportation
• French Concession: Charming area with tree-lined streets and boutique hotels
• Pudong: Modern district with luxury hotels and close to business centers

What To Eat In Shanghai

Shanghai’s cuisine is a delightful mix of local specialties and international flavors:

Must-try local dishes:

• Xiaolongbao: Soup dumplings filled with pork and savory broth
• Shengjianbao: Pan-fried pork buns
• Shanghai hairy crab: Seasonal delicacy (best in autumn)
• Scallion oil noodles: Simple yet flavorful noodle dish
• Red-braised pork belly: Rich, sweet, and savory meat dish

Where to eat:

• Din Tai Fung: Famous for xiaolongbao
• Jia Jia Tang Bao: Local favorite for soup dumplings
• Old Jesse: Traditional Shanghai cuisine in a cozy setting
• Yang’s Fry-Dumplings: Best for shengjianbao
• M on the Bund: Upscale dining with stunning views

Tip: Don’t miss out on Shanghai’s vibrant street food scene in areas like Fangbang Lu and Sipailou Lu.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Visitors to Shanghai must comply with China’s entry regulations:

• Visa: Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter China
  • Check with the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate for specific requirements
  • Some visitors may be eligible for visa-free transit for stays up to 144 hours
• Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay
• Customs: Be aware of restricted and prohibited items

Important: Always check the most up-to-date information from official sources before your trip, as requirements may change.

What To Pack For Your Trip

Ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay in Shanghai by packing these essentials:

• Clothing:
  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics for summer
  • Layers for spring and autumn
  • Warm coat and thermals for winter
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Travel adapter (China uses 220V, 50Hz with Type A and Type I plugs)
• Portable charger/power bank
• Reusable water bottle (tap water is not safe to drink)
• Basic medications and first-aid items
• Sunscreen and hat (especially in summer)
• Umbrella or rain jacket
• VPN service (if you need access to blocked websites)
• Translation app or phrasebook

Tip: Leave some space in your luggage for souvenirs and shopping finds!

Remember to respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites or traditional areas.

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