Shanghai – Paris of the East & City of the Future.
Following the major economic reforms of the 1990s when it opened it’s doors to trade with “West”, China has become a very popular destination with tourists, and nowhere more so than the city of Shanghai. So why is Shanghai so favoured by visitors.
Shanghai is located mid way up the Chinese coast, on the southern shore of the Yangtze River. The Huangpu River runs through the heart of the city which gives Shanghai it’s beautiful skyline and some great waterfront vantage points from which to watch the fascinating activity on this busy, working river. One of the reasons why Shanghai is a leading financial capital is that it has one of the world’s largest ports, and hence you will see many boats and barges plying the waters.
The fact that approximately 24 million people live in Shanghai could be rather daunting to some potential overseas visitors. But it’s large population has led the city to develop a very comprehensive and efficient public transport system to help get people around with relative ease. You can use the metro, buses, ferries and taxis all with the same Shanghai Public Transportation Card. If you stay at one of the larger branded hotels that have customer service staff who speak English well, they will be happy to advise and assist you, making your visit to the city a lot more enjoyable.
So what are some of the best things to do in Shanghai? Everyone seems to agree that the 2-level “Bund” promenade on the west side of the Huangpu River is the city’s number one attraction. It’s a great place to view the city skyline, activity on the river, and to people watch. Many people say that the best time to visit is in the early evening when the buildings are lit up, but be aware this can also the busiest time. You will see amazing contrasts in architecture between the old and the new: space-age modern buildings like the Oriental Pearl Tower on the Pudong side of the river vs the historical colonial buildings of the former International Settlement on the Bund side. Another part of town where you will get a great feel for Shanghai’s colonial past is the French Concession area.
Perhaps the best view of the city can be had from the top of the Shanghai World Financial Center Building, on the Pudong side of the Huangpu River. it’s the skyscraper that looks like a bottle opener! If you can, go on a cloudless low smog day when the views will be clearer. Try and time your visit for just before sunset so you can orientate yourself to where the main landmarks are before watching the sun set and the city light up.
Being a lover of food, one of my favourite things about the Chinese culture is it’s awesome cuisine. When I visit Shanghai I’ll be sure to go on one or more food tours to explore my love affair further. I like the idea of being able to enjoy traditional Chinese street foods with confidence, while learning some history along the way. Without a guide I’d probably be too nervous to try anything whereas they know where and what is safe to eat.
Shanghai has distinct seasons. It is hot,humid and rainy in the Summer (with temperatures usually in the late 20sC/80sF but some days getting into the high 30sC/90sF), and cold and overcast in the Winter. The best times to visit therefore are Spring (May) or Autumn (September through November). See you on The Bund 🙂 !
Image: Unsplash CC0
