Shanghai is more than its flashy skyscrapers

Shanghai, the most modernised city in China, after Hong Kong, has emerged as the epitome of development and modernisation. Once a small fishing village, Shanghai has transformed itself into a dazzling destination with incessant construction and modernisation. And its obsession with constructions seems to be incurable. On your visit you will see countless cranes and several underdevelopment projects that speak volumes about its urge for rebuilding. The magnificent remains of its colonial past can also be seen besides skyscrapers and glittering shopping malls.Here we reflect on must visit attractions of Shanghai.

Shanghai World Financial Center

Apart from serving as financial hub Shanghai World Financial Center in Pudong also does a great job for being a vantage point to the city. This 101 floor 492m high building is an architectural marvel and one of the major draw cards for travellers.

Peace Hotel

Built in 1929, Peace hotel is one of the most impressive buildings in Chinese commercial capital. The guests can take a walk through its lobby, eighth-floor ballroom and get to its rooftop that offers a panoramic view of the surroundings including the Bund and Nanjing Lu.

Xin Tian Di

With several restaurants and bars dotting the street Xin Tian Di remains abuzz with the tourists and locals even during off season. Divided into the North and South Blocks, it is the fine example of urban renewal efforts. Shikumen architecture of the North Block is complete contrasts with modernistic architecture of South Block.

Yu Yuan Garden

Situated in the heart of Old Town, in proximity to the Bund, the Garden of Peace offers a much needed respite from the hustle and bustle of the modern city. Spread over 5 acres of landmass this 16th century garden add some old world charm to the city. There are several temples and halls but Grand Rockery is a show stealer.

Nanjing Lu

Want to have a great shopping experience in Shanghai then head to Nanjing Road which is the most popular shopping street in the city. The street remains jam packed with the tourists and shoppers most parts of the day. During evening its neon lit streets reminds you of Las Vegas strip. With countless shops and restaurants lining the street the vacationers are sure to find a place as per their whim and fancy.

Jade Buddha Temple

Thousands of devotees and tourists flock to Jade Buddha Temple which is one of the most visited temples in the city. A statue of Buddha carved from a single slab of Burmese jade is popular attraction here. Ancient carvings, paintings and timeless Buddhist cultural relics are other things tourists might see during their visit.

Huangpu River Cruise

You might have enjoyed an aerial view of the city or have seen this megapolis from a vantage point and now it is your turn to see the city from river. With several river cruises available you don’t have to make effort to find one. On the way you will see the various historical landmarks from a totally different perspective; The Bund, Jin Mao Tower, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and Huangpu Park are some of the city attractions you might see while cruising.

Shanghai Museum

One of the finest museums in China; the Shanghai Museum leaves museum hoppers overwhelmed with 11 galleries and over 120,000 historic artefacts. The Stone Sculpture Gallery and the Bronze gallery with their 18th century B.C collection are hot favourite among. Special exhibitions are also organised time to time to educate visitors on various topics.

Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe

Never miss a thrilling performance by this world-famous acrobatic troupe that performs nightly at the Shanghai Center Theatre. Their heart pounding performance and balancing acts are something you will never find elsewhere.

The Bund

The Bund has been a tourists’ favourite for more than 200 years. From this famous waterfront you can catch the glimpse of Shanghai colonial past and its promising future. During this 1 mile walk you will come across historic buildings and futuristic skyscrapers. An early morning view is highly recommended.

Get to Shanghai with a cheap flight from Birmingham.