Shanghai (Chinese: 上海) is one of the four direct-controlled municipalities of China and one of the most populous cities in the world, with a population of more than 24 million. Shanghai is the transport hub and financial centre of China as well as the most international city of the country. The city borders the provinces of Jiangsu and Zhejiang to the north, south, and west, and is bounded to the east by the East China Sea.
Top 5 things to do in Shanghai
There are many things to do, see, and enjoy while in Shanghai. In my opinion, Shanghai is the most vibrant and expensive city in Mainland China, but it is well worth the trip. I will rank the five best things to do while visiting Shanghai.
1. The Bund
The Bund or in Chinese ‘Waitan’, is a waterfront area in central Shanghai. This is the place to get some of the best views of the city skyline, which includes the Oriental Pearl Tower. I would recommend going at night to see the buildings light up. During the day, the Bund is crowded with foreigners and Chinese people from other provinces who go to get a glimpse of the iconic architecture which differentiates the city from others in the country. Do not be surprised if you get asked to take a picture with curious locals from out of town that are not used to seeing foreigners. This area is a great jumping-off point to see other sites in the city due to its proximity to the city center.
2. Yuyuan Garden
Yu (yuan) Garden is an incredible place to visit in Shanghai. It was built during the Ming dynasty, and its exquisite scenery, along with traditional Chinese architecture, makes it a must-see venue when visiting the economic center of China. I would recommend spending 1-2 hours at Yu Garden, and if you plan on going shopping, check out the Yuyuan Bazaar. The bazaar is situated at the heard of Yu Garden and provides all the essential and non-essential trinkets you need to remind you of your time spent in Shanghai. There are an abundance of street food vendors if you get hungry while walking amongst the magnificent buildings and temples. The best time to visit is in the spring, and I would suggest going right when it opens to avoid crowds.
3. Oriental Pearl Tower
The Oriental Pearl Tower is the most recognizable architectural structure in Shanghai. With a height of 468 meters high, the tower is the 4th tallest structure in Asia and the 6th highest in the world. To get the best view of the building, travelers should visit the Bund right before sunset to get a glimpse of the glorious Pearl Tower in all its wonderment as it works as the centerpiece in lighting up the Shanghai skyline. The Oriental Pearl (Radio & TV) Tower has three different sightseeing floors where travelers can view the Bund and the rest of the city at a distance.
4. East Nanjing Shopping Street
One of the busiest shopping streets in the world, Nanjing Road Shopping Street, attracts millions of visitors yearly. This iconic avenue, with numerous shops, boutiques, and big-budget department stores, is made just for pedestrians so you can take your time and stroll along among the throngs of onlookers gawking at the latest wears to come out of the Orient. You will be approached by many would-be salespeople, offering you everything from Gucci Bags to Rolex watches. My advice would be to steer clear of them, go into the shop of your choosing to peruse, and find the best deal possible. Tired of walking? Hop on the Dangdang sightseeing tram to see the pedestrian street in all its splendor.
5. Tianzifang
Want a taste of a more traditional side of Shanghai? Tianzifang is the place for you. Located right outside of Dapuqiao metro station, Tianzifang is an excellent area to do a little shopping and grab a bite to eat. Work your way through a maze of alleys to find a quaint coffee shop or a craft store where you can bring home a souvenir from China you can’t find anywhere else in the city. Get a glimpse of how people use to live in Shanghai and grab a bite of street food while you’re at it.
Bonus – Nightlife
Shanghai entertainment activities include a night cruise on Huangpu River, an acrobatic night show, night markets, night walks at the Bund, clubs, and bars.
TOP 3 Hip-Hop Clubs in Shanghai
1. Le Baron
ADDRESS:7F, 20 Donghu Lu,
near Huaihai Lu
东湖路20号7楼， 近淮海中路
HOURS:Tue-Sun, 9pm-late
METRO:10 mins walk from South Shaanxi Rd
PHONE:5424 5181
2. Monkey Champagne
ADDRESS:
38 Donghu Lu,
near Xinle Lu
东湖路20号7楼， 近淮海中路
PHONE:5424 5181
HOURS: Tue-Thu, 8pm-3am
Fri & Sat, 8pm-6am
3. Revolucion Cocktail
ADDRESS:98 Yanping Lu,
near Xinzha Lu
延平路98号, 近新闸路
PHONE: 5424 5181
HOURS:Sun-Thu, 6pm–2am
Fri–Sat, 6pm-4am
WEB:http://www.revolucion-cocktail.com