Shanghai Travel Guide

The wealthiest city in the country is also billed as one of its most glamorous and cosmopolitan yet these attributes do little in the way of compromising the city’s cultural heritage. Combining a fascinating colonial past with modern facilities and attractions, Shanghai presents itself as a highly viable visitor destination and one that is well worthy of the title ‘Oriental Paris’, by which it is frequently referred.

As is usual with Chinese destinations, historical and cultural attractions take precedence and the reclining Buddha at the Jade Buddha Temple is a must-see, followed by the Jin Mao Building and the Bund waterfront. The Bund is especially interesting for its collection of Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque and Renaissance architecture, and its contemporary entertainment options.

With its collection of over 1,000 animals, the Shanghai Wild Animal Park, located about 20 miles from the city, makes for a good daytrip destination, while those visitors with pockets full of cash or credit cards which they’re desperate to do damage to should head for the Nanjing road, where some 600 retail outlets are available. At the end of the day, fine Shanghai cuisine can be enjoyed at any of the many sophisticated eateries in the city.

Shanghai Attractions

Residence of Dr Sun Yat Sen: once the home of the famous revolutionary and political leader, this house is now a fascinating museum offering genuine artifacts which once belonged to the doctor and his wife.

Jade Buddha Temple: built between 1911 and 1918, this Buddhist temple is best known for the two metre tall white jade Buddha that resides within.

The Bund: once the political, economic and cultural center of Shanghai, the Bund is a scenic waterfront where visitors can view a variety of architectural treasures from different periods.

Yuyuan Gardens: built during the Ming Dynasty, these lovely gardens cover a massive 20,000 square metres and feature over 40 landscaped beauty spots.

Oriental Pearl TV Tower: one of the city’s most notable landmarks, this 1,500-foot high tower has a visitor level which offers some amazing views across the city.

Shanghai Museum: established in 1952, this respectable museum is home to more than 120,000 piece of art collected from across China and other parts of the world.

Shanghai Art Museum: housed in a building which was formerly host to a British racecourse club, visitors can admire everything from pop art to traditional Chinese works.