Asia Pacific · China
Shanghai Travel Guide
Shanghai is China's most cosmopolitan city — futuristic skyline on one bank, colonial grandeur on the other. The Bund, French Concession, and dumplings are unforgettable.
How Do You Get to the Bund?
From Wusongkou: shuttle or taxi (1-1.5 hrs). From downtown terminal: walk 15 min. Metro is cheap and efficient.
What Can You See?
The Bund — Colonial buildings facing futuristic Pudong skyline.
Yu Garden — Classical 1559 Chinese garden with surrounding bazaar.
French Concession — Tree-lined boulevards, Art Deco, boutiques, and cafes.
Pudong — Shanghai Tower observation deck (632m).
Where Should You Eat?
Xiaolongbao: Soup dumplings. Din Tai Fung or Jia Jia Tang Bao.
Shengjianbao: Pan-fried buns. Yang's Fried Dumplings.
Worth Exploring Independently?
Metro makes it easy. Main challenge is language and digital payments — bring cash.
Useful Local Phrases
Ni hao
Hello
(nee HOW)
Xie xie
Thank you
(syeh-syeh)
Duo shao qian?
How much?
(dwoh shaow chee-EN)
Local Tips
- •Download a VPN before arriving — Google and WhatsApp blocked.
- •Cash dominates. International cards not widely accepted.
- •Metro has English signage. Use instead of taxis.
- •Shanghai Maglev hits 430 km/h.