# 17 Things To Know Before Travelling to Shanghai, China
1. Destination Overview of Shanghai:
Located on the central coast of China, Shanghai is the country’s largest city and a global financial hub. It is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern architecture. Shanghai is also famous for its iconic skyline, bustling markets, and delicious cuisine.
2. What are the Fun things to do in Shanghai?
– Visit the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower for breathtaking views of the city.
– Explore the historic Yuyuan Garden and its traditional Chinese architecture.
– Take a walk along the famous Bund and admire the colonial buildings.
– Shop at Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets.
– Enjoy a traditional Chinese acrobatics show.
– Take a cruise along the Huangpu River.
– Visit the Shanghai Museum to learn about Chinese art and history.
– Sample delicious street food at the bustling night markets.
– Experience the vibrant nightlife at the popular clubs and bars.
– Take a day trip to the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao.
3. Best Places To Stay in Shanghai:
Luxury Places:
– The Peninsula Shanghai
– Mandarin Oriental Pudong
– The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong
Mid Range:
– Grand Central Hotel Shanghai
– Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund
– Le Royal Meridien Shanghai
Budget Friendly:
– Captain Hostel
– Mingtown Etour Youth Hostel
– Blue Mountain Bund Youth Hostel
4. How to Travel to Shanghai?
Shanghai has two international airports – Pudong International Airport and Hongqiao International Airport. Both airports have direct flights from major cities around the world. The city also has an extensive metro system, buses, and taxis for getting around.
5. Must Try Local Food and Drink in Shanghai:
– Xiaolongbao (steamed soup dumplings)
– Shengjianbao (pan-fried pork buns)
– Shanghai-style noodles (la mian)
– Braised pork belly (hongshao rou)
– Hot and sour soup (suan la tang)
– Drunken chicken (zui ji)
– Stinky tofu (chou doufu)
– Bubble tea (zhenzhu naicha)
– Rice wine (baijiu)
– Chinese tea (cha)
6. Best Places to Eat in Shanghai:
Non Vegetarian (Non Veg) restaurant in Shanghai:
– Din Tai Fung
– Jia Jia Tang Bao
– Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant
Pure Vegetarian (Pure Veg) restaurant in Shanghai:
– Vegetarian Lifestyle
– Vegetarian Lifestyle – Xujiahui
– Pure & Whole
Vegetarian (Jain) restaurant in Shanghai:
– Wujie on the Bund
– Gongdelin
– Green Vege Cafe
7. Weather and Climate:
Shanghai has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild and pleasant. Avoid visiting during the summer months (June-August) due to high temperatures and humidity. Winters (December-February) can be cold and windy.
8. Local Customs and Etiquette in Shanghai:
– Tipping is not expected in China.
– Dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites.
– It is considered impolite to point with your index finger.
– Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion.
– Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home.
– Do not stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as it is seen as a sign of death.
9. Popular Scams in Shanghai:
– Overcharging for taxi rides.
– Fake antiques or products sold as authentic.
– Tea ceremony scams, where tourists are lured into a tea shop and charged exorbitant prices.
– Pickpocketing in crowded areas.
– Unsolicited help from strangers, leading to a demand for payment.
10. Suggested Trip Duration:
For a first-time traveler, a 3-4 day trip to Shanghai is sufficient to see the main attractions and get a taste of the city’s culture and cuisine.
11. Total Estimated Budget Per Person:
– Stay:
Luxury: $200-300 per night
Mid Range: $100-150 per night
Budget Friendly: $30-50 per night
– Food: $20-30 per day
– Activities: $10-20 per day
– Tickets: Varies depending on attractions visited
– Other: $10-20 per day (for transportation, shopping, etc.)
12. NearBy Cities:
– Suzhou (74 km)
– Hangzhou (177 km)
– Nanjing (303 km)
– Huangshan (442 km)
13. Local Language and Communication in Shanghai:
Mandarin Chinese is the official language spoken in Shanghai. Some basic phrases to know are:
– Hello: Ni hao
– Thank you: Xie xie
– Excuse me: Qing wen
– How much?: Duo shao qian?
– Do you speak English?: Ni hui shuo Yingyu ma?
English is not widely spoken in Shanghai, but most tourist attractions have English signs and some staff may speak basic English. Hiring an English-speaking guide is recommended for a better experience.
14. Accepted Currency and Money:
The official currency in Shanghai is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Major credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and large stores. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and street food. Tipping is not expected in China.
15. Health and Medical Information:
There are no specific vaccinations required for travel to Shanghai. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before traveling. In case of any medical emergency, there are several hospitals and clinics in the city, including international hospitals.
16. Packing Tips for Shanghai:
– Comfortable walking shoes
– Light and breathable clothing for the summer months
– A light jacket for cooler evenings
– An umbrella or raincoat for the rainy season
– Modest clothing for visiting temples or religious sites
– Sunscreen and sunglasses
– Insect repellent
– Adapter for electrical outlets
17. To sum up:
Shanghai is a vibrant city with a rich culture and history, offering a mix of traditional and modern experiences. From delicious food to iconic landmarks, there is something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. Just remember to be aware of common scams and respect local customs for a safe and enjoyable trip.