Shanghai

Communist China’s abode for ‘Better Style, Better Living’ is culminated in Shanghai. Situated on the Huangpu River, the word ‘Shanghai’ literally means ‘on the sea.’ One of the most popular cities in China, it provides a grand view into the lifestyle revolution of the Mandarin-speaking world. It is the epitome of China’s economic progress and, that’s what the traveler will get in this ‘dim-sum’ eating locality. A myriad sense of architecture, a touch of spirituality, the nostalgic monuments of the Ming dynasty as also the varied revelry spots of urban entertainment – Shanghai is the ‘ever growing’ robe of Asia.

The Bund

A past of colonialism has shaped the skyline of Shanghai. The Bund houses European – styled buildings that face the Huangpu river. A ‘good morning’ at the Bund will be greeted by the big clock tower of the Customs House and the Sun will shine its way through the stunning green pyramid roof of the Peace Hotel. A stroll on the Bund Promenade and you will be mingling with the locals, all busy with tai chi or the hustle of life. The neighbourhood boasts of the former British Consulate building, while the Bund History Museum is where photographers can rejoice. Various artifacts and some breath-taking views of the Bund are on display. And, not to mention the fashionable hotels! Only a connoisseur will go ga-ga at the Shanghai Classical Hotel.

Yuyuan Garden and Bazaar

Be prepared to visit the era of the Ming dynasty – the garden design was its offering. You can see the Exquisite Jade Rock – what would once have been the imperial court in Beijing, but for the ship which sank under its weight. Get mesmerized by the beautiful stage enveloped by the gilded carved ceilings and accompanied by the excellent acoustics and the Tea lovers, treat your taste buds at the MidLake Pavillion Teahouse near the entrance. And, don’t you let the zigzag causeway be the hurdle towards the bazaar! For the Bazaar is a spicy way to snacking and there’s no stopping the yummy whiffs even as you take a look at the souvenirs. Traditional food and local goods flavour the speciality shops.

People’s Square

Every city has its art convention and this is the meeting ground of the creativity juices. The Shanghai Museum is a historical delight for the child with you or within you. Then, the Grand Theatre, Exhibition Centre and the Art Museum and so the People’s Park for nature lovers is in store for you. Remember to saunter around the massive fountain named ‘The Light of Huangpu River’

Shanghai Grand Theatre

The Shanghai Grand Theatre holds both national and international opera, dance, ballets and music concerts.

Huangpu River Cruise

Let the cynosure of your eyes be just the astonishing skyline of the Bund. Enlist the varied styles of Gothic, Romanesque arches, the revived Renaissance ones and the ornate baroque buildings. Experience the thrill of the envisage of the Peace Hotel, Customs House, Huangpu Park, Jin Mao Tower, Pudong Tower, the English – stylized Yangshupu Water Park and the Yangpu Cable Bridge (the world’s 1st slant – stretched bridge). Behold your excitement till you reach the Wusong Kou, where the Huangpu River empties into the Yangzi River. And, if your stars just got lucky then, witness the 3 colors of the rivers. It’s due to the confluence of the Yangzi river (yellow), Huangpu (gray) and the South China Sea (green), which allows such a spectacle.

Xujiahui Cathedral

Rekindle your soul with religion at the largest Catholic Church in China. But, do let the architectural eye soak in background against which it is set and Thank God for it.

Jade Buddha Temple

Brought from Burma are the two idols of Buddha. Located on the corner of Anyuan Road and Jiangning Road, lies in the center of the temple a 2-metre high white jade marvelous statue of the deity. Freshen up your spirit with the enriched environment.

Yunnan Road

A trip to this place and you will realize why it’s called ‘A Gourmet Kingdom.’ The Ben Bang Cuisine, (‘local’ for unawares) is a rich mixture of fresh fish and soya bean sauce. Prepare to be amused by the grandma dishing out noodles for your hungry palate. Also, beware of meifan (trouble), but relish mifan (rice) with deep fried scorpions.

Fuxing Park

Truly, it’s a globalized world. The French laid out the city’s most pleasant park. Wander aimlessly as you pass by the elderly folk, the tai chi practices, and the kiddies’ playground or just lend an ear to the itinerant musicians. Their camouflaged refuge is what livens up the atmosphere.

Jin mao Tower

Architectural beauty, that’s what Shanghai’s claim to fame, is. Explore the most spectacular building, seen from everywhere. A 360° panoramic view can be observed from the 88th floor. And, while one is at it do peek inside the world’s highest hotel ‘Grand Hyatt’ on the 54th to 87th floor.

Pudong

Puxi and Pudong, Shanghai is divided into them. Again, marvel at the Oriental Pearl Tower, a unique shaped building whose globes are meant to simulate pearls. It’s kudos to mankind - alternating the skyline.

Nanjing Road

‘The Shopping Paradise’, ‘The Oriental Paris’… It’s not for nothing that Shanghai got these crowns. Shopaholics rejoice as you buy, bargain and buy more at China’s No. 1 Commercial Street. One of the busiest shopping street, do all your last minute presents buying on this shopping spree.