Yue’s Yappings

People frequently ask me what they should do when they visit Shanghai. And now that my friend Paul asked me, since his son will be visiting next week, I decided it was finally time to write something down.

So here are Shanghai’s must-sees for first time visitors.

1. The Maglev Train

International flights arrive at Pudong airport, which is 30 km east of the city center. The best way to get to town is via the new Maglev train that connect the airport to Longyang Road Station. From Longyang Road station, you can either take a taxi or the subway to your final destination.

The Maglev train is a wonder of modern engineering. Its the first commercial high speed maglev line in the world and can accelerate to 350 km/hr (220mi/hr) in under two minutes, with a top speed of 431 km/h (268 mi/h). The train ride takes less than 10 minutes - versus 40 minutes for a taxi or car (assuming no traffic of course).

2. The Jinmao Tower

The Jinmao tower is the tallest building in Shanghai and third tallest in Asia. Although Shanghai has many other tall buildings, the Jinmao tower stands out for its elegance and style. It has 88th floors, with an observation deck on top, that has by far the best view of the city. There is also a bar and restaurant on the 88th floor, so if you have time, you should stop by have a drink or so.

The tower is right on the river - so go outside and take a walk. There is a nice park and you’ll have great views across to the older part of the city. When you get tired stop at the nearby Starbucks and grab a drink. The view of the bund on the other side of river is usually spectacular.

3. The Bund.

The Bund is the financial district of Shanghai. It’s made up of a number of older buildings constructed by foreigners between 1840 to 1930.

4. Chenghuang Temple & Yuyuan Garden

This is a famous landmark, and probably the most visited tourist site in Shanghai. During Chinese New Year, many locals visit the temple to receive blessings for the upcoming year. The temple is surrounded by many shops and restaurants - so its a good to spend an afternoon. And right next to the temple is a delightful garden called Yuyuan. The garden has many courtyards, corridors and foot bridges - its well worth a visit.

5. Nanjing Road

Nanjing road is the major shopping street in Shanghai. Part of it is pedestrian only, and is packed wall-to-wall with people almost all the time. My favorite time to visit Nanjing road is in the evening, where all the neon signs light up. It’s really quite amazing.

6. Huaihai Road

Huaihai Road is another major shopping street in Shanghai - and my favorite place to go shopping. It includes many boutiques as well as department stores.

7. Xin Tian Di District

Xin Tian Di is known for its restaurants, western style bars and clubs, and fancy shops. Its a favorite hangout for tourists and expats. I like to come here with my American friends, especially in the evening, to have a drink or hangout at the street cafe and bar.

8. Shanghai Museum & People square

This is my mother in-law’s favorite place in Shanghai - its one of the best museums in China. It includes a number of exhibits on Chinese history, art and culture and has a great gift store.

9. Night clubs

There are many cool night clubs in Shanghai. Some of my favorites are Face Bar (118 Ruijin 2 road), New Height Bar (No3 Bundt, 7th floor), and if you like dancing, try JZ Club, 46 West Fuxing Road.