Travel Guide to Shanghai

Discover the Wonders of Shanghai

Shanghai, located on the east coast of China, is a bustling metropolis and a popular tourist destination. It is known for its iconic skyline, rich culture, and delicious food. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, dining options, and accommodations in Shanghai.

Top Attractions:

There are many must-see attractions in Shanghai, but some of the most popular include:

• The Bund is a waterfront area that offers a stunning view of Shanghai's skyline. Here, you can take a leisurely walk along the Huangpu River and enjoy the view of the city's famous skyscrapers, such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower. You can also take a boat tour to get a closer look at these impressive buildings.
• Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden that was built in the Ming Dynasty. It features beautiful pavilions, rock formations, and ponds, all set amidst lush greenery. This garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, and it's a great place to relax and take in the scenery.
• The Shanghai Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Chinese history and art. It houses a vast collection of ancient Chinese artifacts, including ceramics, bronze, jade, and calligraphy. The museum is designed in the shape of a traditional Chinese teapot, and it's located in the heart of the city.
• Shanghai Disneyland is a popular destination for families with children. It's the first Disney theme park in mainland China, and it offers a wide range of attractions, including roller coasters, shows, and parades. The park is divided into several themed areas, such as Fantasyland and Adventureland, and it's a great place to spend a fun-filled day with the family.

Dining Options

Shanghai is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of traditional Chinese dishes and modern fusion cuisine. Here are some of the best dining options in the city:

• Din Tai Fung is a popular Taiwanese chain that specializes in xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings. These dumplings are filled with pork or shrimp and a savory broth, and they're served steaming hot. Din Tai Fung has several locations in Shanghai, and it's a must-visit for anyone who loves dumplings.
• Jia Jia Tang Bao is a small, unassuming restaurant that's famous for its xiaolongbao. The restaurant only serves two types of dumplings - pork and crab - but they're both delicious. The dumplings are made fresh to order, and they're served piping hot with a side of black vinegar.
• Yang's Fried Dumplings is a local chain that specializes in shengjianbao, or pan-fried pork buns. These buns are filled with ground pork and a savory broth, and they're fried until crispy on the bottom. Yang's Fried Dumplings is a popular spot for breakfast or a quick snack, and it's a great place to experience the local cuisine.
• Lost Heaven is a stylish restaurant that serves modern Yunnan cuisine. Yunnan is a province in southwestern China that's known for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Lost Heaven's menu includes dishes such as spicy grilled lamb and stir-fried wild mushrooms. The restaurant also has a great selection of cocktails and a rooftop bar with a view of the city.

Accommodations

Shanghai offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the top options.

• The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi

The Langham is a luxury hotel located in the trendy Xintiandi district of Shanghai. The hotel features elegant rooms with modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and a marble bathroom. The hotel also has a spa, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. The Langham is a great choice for travelers who want to experience the high-end side of Shanghai.

• URBN Boutique Shanghai

URBN Boutique Shanghai is a stylish and eco-friendly hotel located in the Jing'an district of Shanghai. The hotel features sleek and modern rooms with recycled materials and energy-saving technology. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace, a restaurant, and a bar. URBN Boutique Shanghai is a great choice for travelers who want to stay in a unique and environmentally conscious hotel.

• Campanile Shanghai Jing An

Campanile Shanghai Jing An is a budget-friendly hotel located in the Jing'an district of Shanghai. The hotel features simple and comfortable rooms with a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a restaurant and a bar. Campanile Shanghai Jing An is a great choice for travelers who want to stay in a convenient location without breaking the bank.

• InterContinental Shanghai Jing'An

InterContinental Shanghai Jing'An is a luxury hotel located in the Jing'an district of Shanghai. The hotel features spacious and elegant rooms with a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and a marble bathroom. The hotel also has a spa, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. InterContinental Shanghai Jing'An is a great choice for travelers who want to stay in a high-end hotel in a convenient location.

Getting Around

Shanghai has a comprehensive public transportation system, which includes buses, subways, and taxis. Here are some tips for getting around the city:

•  Subway

The subway system in Shanghai is fast, efficient, and affordable. The subway network covers most of the city, and the trains run from early morning until late at night. You can buy tickets at the station or use a rechargeable transportation card.

• Bus

Buses in Shanghai are also a good option for getting around the city. The buses cover more areas than the subway, and they're a good choice for traveling to outlying areas. You can buy tickets on the bus or use a rechargeable transportation card.

• Taxi

Taxis in Shanghai are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. You can hail a taxi on the street or book one through a ride-hailing app like Didi. Taxis in Shanghai are metered, and the fare is based on distance traveled.Culture and CustomsShanghai is a city with a rich history and culture, and it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Here are some tips for experiencing the local culture:

• Dress Code

Shanghai is a modern and cosmopolitan city, but it's still important to dress appropriately when visiting temples, museums, and other cultural attractions. It's best to avoid shorts, tank tops, and other revealing clothing, and to dress conservatively.

• Language

Mandarin is the official language of China, but many people in Shanghai speak English. It's a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin, such as hello (nǐ hǎo) and thank you (xièxiè), to show respect to the locals.

• Etiquette

Chinese culture places a strong emphasis on politeness and respect. It's important to be courteous to others, especially when interacting with the elderly or those in positions of authority. It's also customary to exchange business cards when meeting someone for the first time.

Food and Drink

Shanghai is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, and there are many local dishes and specialties to try. Here are some must-try foods and drinks in Shanghai:

• Xiao Long Bao

Xiao Long Bao, or soup dumplings, are a Shanghai specialty. These small, steamed dumplings are filled with pork and a savory broth, and they're typically served with a dipping sauce of vinegar and ginger.

• Sheng Jian Bao

Sheng Jian Bao are pan-fried pork buns that are crispy on the bottom and fluffy on top. They're a popular street food in Shanghai, and they're often served with a side of soy sauce.

• Scallion Oil Noodles

Scallion Oil Noodles are a simple but delicious dish made with noodles, scallions, and a sauce of soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar. This dish is a favorite of locals and visitors alike.

• Baijiu

Baijiu is a strong, clear liquor that's popular in China. It's made from fermented grains and has a high alcohol content, often ranging from 40% to 60%. Baijiu is usually served at banquets and other special occasions, and it's often enjoyed in small glasses.

Attractions

Shanghai is a city with many attractions and landmarks, from historic temples and museums to modern skyscrapers and shopping districts. Here are some must-see attractions in Shanghai:

• The Bund

The Bund is a waterfront area on the Huangpu River that's known for its beautiful views of the city skyline. The area is lined with historic buildings from the early 20th century, and it's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

• Yu Garden

Yu Garden is a traditional Chinese garden located in the Old City of Shanghai. The garden features pavilions, rock formations, and ponds, and it's a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city.

Shanghai Museum

The Shanghai Museum is a world-class museum that showcases Chinese art and culture. The museum's collection includes ancient ceramics, calligraphy, and jade, and it's a must-visit for anyone interested in Chinese history and art.