China Trip Guides

Appearance

Exploring Shanghai: Your Ultimate Travel Guide ​

Shanghai Travel Guide ​

1. Introduction to Shanghai ​

Shanghai, China's largest city and a global financial hub, is a vibrant metropolis where East meets West. Known for its stunning skyline, rich history, and diverse culture, Shanghai offers travelers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. From the historic Bund to the futuristic Pudong skyline, the city is a tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored.

2. Top Attractions ​

The Bund ​

  • Overview: The Bund is a famous waterfront area that showcases Shanghai's colonial past. It features a stunning promenade along the Huangpu River, lined with historical buildings that reflect various architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco.
  • Highlights:
    • Stunning views of the futuristic skyline of Pudong, featuring the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower.
    • A perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, especially at night when the city lights up.
    • Historic buildings that house luxury hotels, cafes, and galleries.

Yu Garden ​

  • Overview: A classical Chinese garden located in the heart of Shanghai, Yu Garden is a tranquil oasis filled with beautiful pavilions, rock formations, and ponds.
  • Highlights:
    • The Exquisite Jade Rock, a unique rock formation that is over 400 years old.
    • Traditional teahouses and shops selling local crafts in the surrounding Yuyuan Bazaar.
    • Seasonal floral displays and traditional architecture, offering a glimpse into Ming Dynasty aesthetics.

Shanghai Tower ​

  • Overview: As the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world, Shanghai Tower stands at 632 meters and is a marvel of modern engineering.
  • Highlights:
    • An observation deck on the 118th floor offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
    • The world's highest observation deck, where visitors can experience a thrilling glass elevator ride.
    • Innovative sustainable design features, including wind turbines and rainwater collection systems.

3. Local Cuisine ​

Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings) ​

  • Description: Delicate dumplings filled with savory broth and minced meat, usually pork. Best enjoyed steamed and served with vinegar and ginger.
  • Where to Try: Din Tai Fung and Jia Jia Tang Bao are popular spots for authentic Xiaolongbao.

Shengjianbao (Pan-Fried Buns) ​

  • Description: Juicy buns with a crispy bottom, filled with pork and broth. They are pan-fried to achieve a golden crust, making them a delicious street food.
  • Where to Try: Yang's Dumplings and Sheng Jian Bao are highly recommended for this local favorite.

Hairy Crab ​

  • Description: A seasonal delicacy, hairy crabs are known for their sweet and tender meat. Typically served steamed, they are accompanied by vinegar dipping sauce.
  • Where to Try: Local restaurants during the autumn season, as hairy crabs are most popular during this time.

4. Practical Tips ​

Booking Trips ​

  • Ctrip: A comprehensive travel platform for booking flights, hotels, and train tickets. Ensure to create an account for easy access and special deals.
  • Booking.com: Offers a wide range of accommodations. Use filters to find hotels that suit your preferences, and check guest reviews for insights.

Payments with Alipay ​

  • Alipay is widely accepted in Shanghai for payments. Download the app, link it to your bank account or credit card, and use it to pay for services, dining, and shopping easily.

Using Google Translate ​

  • Download the Google Translate app for offline access. Use the camera feature to translate menus and signs instantly, making communication smoother.

Using Didi for Taxi Services ​

  • Didi is the Chinese equivalent of Uber. Download the app, create an account, and set your pickup and drop-off locations. Payment can be made via Alipay or WeChat Pay.

Internet Access and VPN Considerations ​

  • Wi-Fi is commonly available in hotels and cafes. For reliable access, consider getting a local SIM card with a data plan.
  • Many popular sites (like Google and Facebook) are blocked in China, so a VPN is recommended to access these services. Choose a reliable VPN before your trip.

5. Sample Itinerary ​

1-Day Itinerary ​

  • Morning: Visit Yu Garden and explore the Yuyuan Bazaar.
  • Afternoon: Stroll along The Bund and take in the views.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and take a night cruise on the Huangpu River.

3-Day Itinerary ​

  • Day 1: Yu Garden, The Bund, and Huangpu River cruise.
  • Day 2: Shanghai Tower and a visit to the Shanghai Museum.
  • Day 3: Explore the French Concession, visit Tianzifang for shopping, and try street food.

5-Day Itinerary ​

  • Day 1
Shanghai Skyline

Note: This image is for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the exact location.