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A Local’s Guide to Shanghai
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A Local’s Guide to Shanghai
Hi there! I’m Arianna, a seasoned ex-pat and travel photographer who spent 2 years living and teaching English in Shanghai, China.To get more news about Shanghai scenic spots, you can visit shine news official website.
Like most Americans in China, I spent my time searching for the hottest spots to hang, the best Chinese food in the world, and the coolest coffee shops that aren’t Starbucks. A huge, international city like Shanghai can be overwhelming for newcomers.The best weather in southeast China is during the springtime; it is the sweet spot between when the rainy season is letting up and right before it gets too hot to be outside.
However, avoid going during the month of May at ALL costs. The first weekend in May is China’s Labor Day, and the entire country has it off. March and April are ideal, but it is the beginning of peak season and prices are high.
If you are booking on a budget, opt for September/October. If you are lucky, you’ll be able to squeeze in your trip before the monsoon season and save a little money.If you’re in a hurry, you’d be better off taking a DiDi, given that it’s not rush hour. DiDi is China’s version of Uber, and widely used by foreigners because the app is English-friendly.
Whether you take a DiDi or a normal taxi, it’s unlikely that the driver will speak English. Always have the Chinese translation of the address handy in case there is a communication issue. This will keep you from getting booted out of many cabs.
This world-class hotel is a hidden gem; meaning it is literally hidden underground. The InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland is a stunningly unique work of architecture, built into the side of a quarry 288 feet below the surface of the earth.Standard rooms start at $350 with stunning views of the quarry and cascading waterfalls; the deluxe suite can range upwards of $2,400. A small price to pay for essentially a penthouse with a built-in floor to ceiling aquarium.In the heart of downtown, just 8 minutes from East Nanjing road, is a tiny, stone grey hostel tucked away from the bustling streets in a side alley. Although it doesn’t sound or look like much on the outside, the inside is Instagram-worthy. This is the Mingtown Shanghai Etour International Youth Hostel.
Central outdoor Koi pond, 24/7 bar with beer, iced lattes, and everything in between, and a rooftop garden to sit and enjoy your drink with a view. For less than $10 a night, that’s what a budget backpacker would call a steal.Yes, Yu Garden is on every must-see listicle for Shanghai, but for good reason. This unmissable sight is a classic botanical garden with traditional east Asian architecture planted smack in the middle of a modern city, and the contrast is stunning.
Plan a few hours to wander along the waterways, exploring each tiny nook and cranny of every incense- scented temple. Yu Garden is especially beautiful in spring when the cherry blossoms are blooming, and in fall when the leaves are changing color.
The Bund
The Bund is considered the hotspot of central Shanghai. Located on the bank of the Huangpu River, the surrounding skyscrapers make great viewing platforms for the city and the riverboats gliding down below.The iconic Oriental Pearl Tower is found here and no trip to Shanghai is complete without seeing this quintessential landmark.