Enjoy the high life in Shanghai
SHANGHAI is best explored through its architecture, from the modern high-rises that epitomise its economic boom, to the Europeanstyle buildings that serve as reminders of foreign occupation in its recent history…
DAY ONE MORNING
Start in the financial district of
Pudong. This area was once Shanghai’s poorest quarter, populated by slums and brothels, but now it’s packed with skyscrapers. There are several impressive observation decks but the views from the 118th floor of
Shanghai Tower (shanghaitower.com), currently the second-tallest building in the world, take some beating.
Head west towards the waterfront area of The Bund, where all of the buildings hold historical significance – the clock and bell at Customs House were built according to the plans for Big Ben.
If you fancy crossing the water here, you can either test the rather psychedelic Bund Sightseeing Tunnel or catch one of the commuter boats for a fraction of the price.
AFTERNOON
A couple of blocks west and you will find the pedestrianised portion of
Nanjing Road East, the premier shopping district of old Shanghai. After browsing in the department stores, hop on the underground to Jing’an
Temple to explore a Buddhist sanctuary said to date back to the year 247.
Taiwanese dim sum chain Din Tai Fung (dintaifung.com.tw) has a branch nearby – pop in for a late lunch and order a basket or two of Shanghainese soup dumplings.
Shanghai comes alive at night, so work your way back to The Bund after dark to see the iconic skyline all lit up – or book a table at one of the many restaurants for dinner with a view. Mr & Mrs Bund (mmbund.com) is a firm favourite.
DAY TWO MORNING
Yu Garden has some of the best examples of classical Chinese architecture. Originally built in the 16th Century, it’s been damaged and restored numerous times due to political unrest. Now it’s one of the city’s few tranquil spots.
The faux Imperial-era bazaars surrounding the garden offer plenty of street food options, or go instead to nearby Sipailou Road for more authentic dishes from one of the hole-in-thewall vendors.
AFTERNOON
Go for a lovely stroll in the tree-lined former French Concession, centred around Huaihai Middle Road. Many of its Art Deco and Renaissance-style buildings remain, including the Cathay Theatre. It’s here that you’ll also find the former residences of notable Chinese political figures, such as Chiang Kai-shek, which are now open as museums. Even if you don’t go in, the charming villas are worth admiring from the outside.