China’s tourism will be incomplete if you do not include in your route to the city that hosted the Expo 2010. This is the universal exhibition that put China at the top of world prominence, and that one was a good excuse to visit Shanghai.
From the outset, we will tell you that Shanghai is the best exponent of modernity towards which this great Asian country is inexorably directed. Although in Shanghai you find several samples of the long history and Chinese tradition, above all you have the best example of what is a super modern city in which contrasts are not lacking.
History of Shanghai:
At present, Shanghai is a huge and overcrowded city, with more than 20 million inhabitants, but its history dates back many centuries.
Specifically, the current enclave of Shanghai has its origins 1,000 years BC, although its great boom occurred during the nineteenth century due to its strategic positioning as it is a large river port. Already in the eleventh century said enclave raised its range from village to commercial port, and in the twelfth century, it became an important center of cotton production.
But it was at the beginning of the 19th century when Shanghai became the main commercial and industrial center of China.
After the Japanese occupation during World War II, and a later period, after the triumph of the Chinese Revolution, of transfer of foreign businessmen to Hong Kong, the city of Shanghai has recovered its entire boom and is now one of the main industrial centers of that country.
What to see in Shanghai tours:
Next, we will give you some basic tips that will be useful when planning your trip to Shanghai. At the outset, you should know that on your Shanghai tours you have to combine four different facets.
On the one hand, see the areas that reflect its important colonial history and historical places to visit in China. And on the other hand, stroll through the streets of a very modern city where the great skyscrapers are concentrated; and enjoy its great commercial activity.
Colonial Shanghai:
On one shore you find the colonial area of Bund, and on the other, the super- modern financial district of Pu-dong, with its towering skyscrapers, such as the World Financial Center, the second tallest in the world.
Traditional Shanghai:
The reflection of the long Chinese tradition in Shanghai will be seen in your visits to the Yuyuan Garden and the Jade Buddha Temple. The first dates back to the Ming dynasty and was completed in 1577.
It is the best example of a typical Chinese garden where you will see rockery, ponds and tree-lined areas, including pavilions and sculptural groups such as the Wall of the 5 dragons. For its part, the Jade Buddha Temple is a current sample of a Buddhist temple, which was completed in 1918.
For its large number of rooms and Buddhist figures that can be seen, it is one of the essential visits on a trip to Shanghai.
Modern Shanghai:
The best sample of Shanghai as a super modern city, apart from the financial area of Pudong, you will find by walking from the central square of the Renmin, along the famous Nanjing Street, to the Bund area.
Commercial Shanghai:
Shanghai will also surprise you with its incredible commercial activity. Next to the huge and modern large malls and branded stores of Nanjing shopping street, in Shanghai, you can visit traditional shopping areas, such as Yuyuan Market, and also markets like Yatai Market.
And in conclusion, during your visit, you should not miss tourist activities, such as a cruise on a traditional Chinese boat on the Huangpu River, or ride on the Maglev Levitation Train that connects the city center with the airport.
Or have dinner with panoramic views at the Pearl TV Oriental Tower, one of the great icons of Shanghai. In short, you should consider Shanghai as one of the essential places to visit in China tourism.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shanghai Tours
1) What are the best sources of transportation to travel around Shanghai?
144-hour visa-free transit is a sigh of relief for many travelers. On the other hand, you can reach the city through train, bus, plane, and ship. Once you are in the city, you can take personal cabs to roam around; there are a bunch of chauffeur services in the city that do not require pre-booking. Elevated highways and proper road rings make it easy for travelers to catch a local taxi but don’t forget to agree on the prices before you get into the car. Local bus service is also an excellent way to travel on a budget.
2) How many days does it take to explore all the fascinations of Shanghai?
Travelers are recommended to book a minimum 2days and a maximum 10days Shanghai tour to have a complete glimpse of all the activities going in the city. Though 1day tours offered by various travel companies are a good way of enjoying life but at least 2days are required to visit all the attractions.
3) Which season of the year is best for Shanghai tours?
The city has all four seasons but the best time to visit March to May or October to November.
The fall months are the mildest, temperature-wise. Winter gets cold but is not particularly snowy.
4) Which place of Shanghai marks more travelers throughout the year?
Shanghai Wild Animal Park, Madame Tussauds, Yuyuan Tourist Mart, The Bund, Jewish Refugees Museum and many more.
5) Where are the best places to dine-in and shop in the Shanghai tour?
Make your Shanghai tour incredible by having yummy-licious food at Chenghuangmiao Old Street, Qi Bao Old Street, Yunnan South Road Food Street, and Wujiang Road Food Street. Visit Aura Lounge & Jazz Bar, Flair Rooftop and Scena for fine dining.
Shanghai IFC Mall, Yuyuan Bazaar, Shanghai International Glasses Mall, Kerry Parkside Mall, Raffles Square, Disney Store, and Henderson celebrity Shopping Center are the best places for shopping.
