About Place
- "A city that never sleeps" – Forbes
- "The perfect blend of modernity and tradition" – Lonely Planet
- "An urban playground for the curious and adventurous" – National Geographic
Reasons to Visit
- Architectural Marvels : Shanghai is renowned for its stunning skyline, featuring some of the world's tallest skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. The juxtaposition of modern marvels with historic architecture in areas such as the Bund offers a visual feast that showcases Shanghai's rapid development and rich history.
- Cultural Melting Pot : The city's diverse cultural heritage is reflected in its vibrant arts scene, eclectic food offerings, and numerous cultural festivals. Visitors can explore the ancient Yuyuan Garden, experience traditional Chinese opera, and visit numerous museums that preserve the city's multifaceted history. The fusion of Eastern and Western influences makes Shanghai a unique cultural hub.
- Bustling Markets and Shopping Districts : From high-end shopping malls on Nanjing Road to the bustling street markets of Yuyuan Bazaar and Tianzifang, Shanghai is a shopper’s paradise. These markets not only offer a wide array of goods but also provide an immersive experience into the local lifestyle and traditions.
Visa
- USA : Tourist visa required, application must be made prior to arrival.
- UK : Tourist visa required, application must be made prior to arrival.
- Australia : Tourist visa required, application must be made prior to arrival.
- Canada : Tourist visa required, application must be made prior to arrival.
- EU Countries : Tourist visa required, application must be made prior to arrival.
- India : Tourist visa required, application must be made prior to arrival.
- Japan : Visa-free entry for stays up to 15 days.
- Singapore : Visa-free entry for stays up to 15 days.
- South Korea : Visa-free entry for stays up to 15 days.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from destination :
- Average round-trip flight cost from major metro cities like New York to Shanghai: $800 per person.
- Total cost for 2 people: $1600
- Hotel cost :
- Average hotel cost per night : $150
- Total cost for 4 nights : $600
- Total cost for 2 people : $1200
- Food cost :
- Average meal cost per person : $20
- Total meals : 8 lunches + 8 dinners = 16 meals
- Total cost for 2 people : $640
- Activity cost :
- Bund night cruise : $30 per person
- Shanghai Museum entry : Free
- Yu Garden entry : $7 per person
- Shanghai Tower observation deck : $30 per person
- Oriental Pearl TV Tower entry : $30 per person
- Jade Buddha Temple entry : $4 per person
- Shanghai Disneyland entry : $80 per person
- Total cost for 2 people : $402
- Near destination travel cost :
- Car rental cost : $50 per day
- Total cost for 4 days : $200
- Total estimated travel expense : $4042
Best Itinerary
Day 1 :
Arrive in Shanghai in the morning and check into your hotel near the Bund. Start your day with a visit to the historic Bund waterfront, where you can admire the juxtaposition of colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Lost Heaven, known for its Yunnan cuisine. In the afternoon, explore the Yu Garden and the adjacent Yuyuan Bazaar, a bustling market perfect for souvenir shopping. Dine at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant to taste Shanghai's famous xiaolongbao. End the day with a night cruise on the Huangpu River, offering stunning views of the illuminated skyline.
Day 2 :
Begin with a visit to the Shanghai Museum to delve into Chinese history and art. Head to the French Concession for lunch at Xibo, which offers a modern twist on Xinjiang cuisine. Spend the afternoon wandering through Tianzifang, an arts and crafts enclave that retains the old Shikumen architectural style. For dinner, enjoy a meal at Fu 1039, set in a historic mansion offering traditional Shanghainese dishes. Conclude your evening at the Bar Rouge on the Bund, known for its panoramic views and vibrant nightlife.
Day 3 :
Take a morning trip to the Shanghai Tower and ascend to its observation deck for breathtaking city views. Have lunch at Din Tai Fung, renowned for its dumplings. In the afternoon, explore the Jade Buddha Temple, a serene oasis in the bustling city. For dinner, head to Hai Di Lao Hot Pot for an interactive and delicious dining experience. Spend your night exploring Xintiandi, a stylish entertainment district with chic boutiques, restaurants, and bars.
Day 4 :
Start your day with a visit to the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, which offers both a museum and observation decks. Enjoy lunch at Mr & Mrs Bund, a modern French eatery with spectacular views of the city. In the afternoon, relax at the Shanghai Disneyland, experiencing various themed lands and attractions. Have dinner at Royal China Club, famous for its Cantonese cuisine. Return to your hotel for a restful night.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Avoid unlicensed taxis and opt for reputable services.
- Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
- Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases or use a translation app.
- Be cautious of scams and touts offering overly good deals.
- Drink bottled water instead of tap water.
- Be aware of traffic rules; pedestrians do not always have the right of way.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples.
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy.
- Have travel insurance that covers health and belongings.
Flights
- Airlines : Delta, Air China, United Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, American Airlines
- Flight duration : Approx. 14-16 hours from New York
- Average cost : $800 per person
Hotels
- The Peninsula Shanghai – Luxury option with river views.
- Shanghai Marriott Hotel City Centre – Centrally located with modern amenities.
- Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World – Known for its excellent service and location.
- Hyatt on the Bund – Offers stunning views of the Bund and the Pudong skyline.
- Les Suites Orient, Bund Shanghai – Boutique hotel with a charming ambiance.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy : +86 21 6275 8882
- Police : 110
- Ambulance : 120
- Firefighters : 119
Country
Closet Airport
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
Nearest City
Beijing
Heritage Sites
The Bund (Colonial Architecture)
Airlines
Delta
Air China
United Airlines
China Eastern Airlines
American Airlines
Currency
- Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Languages Spoken
Mandarin
Shanghainese
Real Story
The Battle of Shanghai (1937) :
The Battle of Shanghai was one of the most significant battles of the Second Sino-Japanese War, marking a turning point in Chinese history. Beginning on August 13, 1937, and lasting for over three months, the battle was fought between the National Revolutionary Army of the Republic of China and the Imperial Japanese Army. Shanghai, at that time, was not only a strategic military target but also an international city with various foreign concessions.
The battle started with a Chinese attempt to prevent Japanese forces from advancing further into China. The Chinese troops, although less equipped and trained compared to the Japanese, displayed remarkable resilience and bravery. The city’s dense urban landscape turned into a bloody battlefield, with both sides suffering heavy casualties.
One of the key moments in the battle was the defense of the Sihang Warehouse. A small Chinese garrison of around 400 soldiers, known as the "Eight Hundred Heroes," held off Japanese forces for several days. This act of defiance became a symbol of Chinese resistance and patriotism, inspiring the nation to continue fighting against the invaders.
Despite the fierce resistance, the battle eventually ended in a Japanese victory. The fall of Shanghai had profound consequences, leading to widespread destruction and significant civilian casualties. It also marked the beginning of a prolonged period of Japanese occupation in China.
The Battle of Shanghai remains a poignant chapter in the city's history, symbolizing the resilience and determination of the Chinese people in the face of overwhelming odds.
Cuisine
Shanghai’s cuisine, also known as Hu cuisine, is renowned for its diversity and rich flavors. A hallmark of this regional fare is the use of fresh ingredients and a blend of sweet and savory tastes. Signature dishes include xiaolongbao, delicate steamed dumplings filled with juicy pork and broth, and shengjianbao, pan-fried pork buns with a crispy bottom and juicy filling. The city's proximity to rivers and the sea means seafood features prominently, with dishes like crab-stuffed buns and sautéed shrimp in soy sauce being local favorites. Additionally, Shanghai’s food scene is influenced by its cosmopolitan history, offering an exciting array of both traditional and contemporary culinary delights.
Culture and History
Shanghai, often referred to as the "Paris of the East," is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and histories. This vibrant metropolis on China's eastern coast has evolved from a humble fishing village to one of the world's most influential economic powerhouses. The city’s culture is a unique blend of traditional Chinese heritage and Western influences, a legacy of its colonial past.
The Bund, with its neoclassical buildings, reflects the city's colonial history, contrasting sharply with the futuristic skyline of Pudong across the Huangpu River. Shanghai is home to various cultural festivals, including the Shanghai International Film Festival and the China Shanghai International Arts Festival, showcasing its rich artistic landscape.
The local dialect, Shanghainese, is widely spoken alongside Mandarin, reflecting the city's regional identity. Shanghai's culinary scene is equally diverse, offering everything from traditional Chinese dishes to international cuisine, with local specialties such as xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) being a must-try.
Shanghai's historical sites, such as the Yuyuan Garden and Jade Buddha Temple, offer a glimpse into its ancient past, while modern attractions like the Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl TV Tower represent its rapid modernization. The city's fashion scene is also notable, with a mix of high-end boutiques and trendy streetwear reflecting its status as a global fashion capital.