Shanghai

上海

China's largest city and a global financial hub where ultramodern skyscrapers meet colonial architecture along the Huangpu River. The Bund, Yu Garden, and Oriental Pearl Tower showcase the city's blend of tradition and cutting-edge modernity.

Things to do

• The Bund — Stroll along this historic waterfront promenade lined with colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers overlooking the Huangpu River.
• Yu Garden — Explore this classical Chinese garden from the Ming Dynasty featuring intricate rockeries, pavilions, and traditional landscaping in the heart of the Old City.
• Oriental Pearl Tower — Ascend this iconic TV tower for panoramic views of Shanghai's skyline from observation decks and visit the Shanghai History Museum at its base.
• Jing'an Temple — Visit this active Buddhist temple rebuilt in its original Song Dynasty style, featuring ornate gold decorations and serene courtyards amid the bustling city.
• Shanghai Museum — Discover ancient Chinese art, bronze vessels, ceramics, and calligraphy in this world-class museum housed in a modern building shaped like an ancient Chinese ding tripod.
• French Concession — Wander tree-lined streets filled with restored villas, boutiques, cafes, and galleries that preserve the neighborhood's early 20th-century European character.
• Zhujiajiao Water Town — Take a day trip to this ancient water village with arched bridges, narrow canals, and traditional Ming and Qing architecture just outside Shanghai.

Food to try

• Xiaolongbao — Shanghai's most famous dumpling with a thin wrapper filled with seasoned pork and a pocket of rich soup broth, best eaten in one bite with a spoon.
• Shengian — Crispy fried buns with a thin shell and juicy meat filling, typically served as a breakfast or snack with black vinegar for dipping.
• Hairy Crab — A seasonal delicacy from nearby Yangcheng Lake, prized for its rich roe and tender meat, best enjoyed steamed with vinegar and ginger in autumn.
• Smoked Fish — Shanghai's traditional smoked and braised freshwater fish served cold as an appetizer, with a dark mahogany color and savory-sweet flavor.
• Noodle Soup — Shanghai-style thick noodles served in a rich broth with toppings like shrimp, pork, and bok choy, a comforting local staple.
• Mooncakes — Sweet pastries with lotus paste or salted egg yolk filling traditionally eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival, widely available year-round as souvenirs.

Local customs & good to know

• Metro Etiquette — Shanghai's subway is efficient but crowded; let passengers exit before boarding and avoid eating or speaking loudly.
• Bargaining Customs — Haggling is expected in wet markets and small shops but not in malls or restaurants; start at 70-80% of the asking price.
• Gift Giving — Avoid gifts in sets of four or wrapped in white/black paper, as these are associated with death in Chinese culture; gifts in red or gold are preferred.
• Dining Customs — Arrive on time for restaurant reservations, use chopsticks respectfully, and never stick chopsticks vertically in rice as it resembles funeral incense.