If you’ve been following me for a long time, you may have noticed some changes in the places I write about. I used to write only about places that I had personally visited. Several months ago I decided to start including places that I haven’t been to yet, but want to go to. There are several cities in Asia I would like to visit. I’ve already written about Singapore and Tokyo. Another city that is on my list is Shanghai, China.
Here are some of the things I would like to see in Shanghai.
1. Jade Buddha Temple
Founded in 1882, the Jade Buddha Temple is one of Shanghai’s few remaining active Buddhist monasteries. The temple is famous for its Buddha statues made of jade, which are believed to have been brought from Burma by a Buddhist monk. All around the temple complex, various statues of Buddha are ornately encrusted in jewels and gold. This temple is considered a must-see.
2. Shanghai Skyline
Shanghai stands out in many ways, but one thing that defines this city internationally is the stunning skyline that can be viewed from a waterfront promenade called the Bund. The highlights of the skyline are the Shanghai Tower (the world’s second-tallest building–still under construction in the photo below), the Shanghai World Financial Center (looks like a bottle opener), and the Oriental Pearl Tower (with the pink spheres). It’s ideal on a sunny day as the skyline you see is quite surreal and vibrant.
After you see the skyline from The Bund, you might be interested in a different perspective–the bird’s-eye view. The Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and Oriental Pearl Tower all offer observation decks with fabulous views.
At night, the beauty of the skyline doubles. The lights glitter brightly off the water, and synchronized lighting systems put on a show with fast-paced videos, advertisements, and text swirling around the buildings.
3. Shanghai Museum
This museum is easy to recognize: a short circle atop a rectangle. Inside, you find more than a million historical artifacts, with descriptions in both Chinese and English. Entrance is free and it’s known as one of the best museums in China. It’s an ideal way to get a lesson in Chinese history.
4. Yuyuan Garden
Built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), Yuyuan Garden is a treasure. It occupies five acres in the northeast of the Old City of Shanghai.
The garden is divided into six distinct areas that are separated from the other by “dragon walls.”
Don’t miss the 5-ton Exquisite Jade Rock. I love gardens and can’t wait to explore this one.
5. Zhujiajiao Water Town
On the outskirts of Shanghai is the water town of Zhujiajiao, which was established 1,700 years ago. With so many canals, much of the transportation around Zhujiajiao is by boat. You can visit historic buildings, shop for souvenirs, and taste its cuisine.
6. Ride the world’s fastest train
The Shanghai maglev train uses magnetic levitation technology to achieve incredible speed–270 miles per hour! It connects the city with the Shanghai Pudong International Airport. In just over 8 minutes, it travels 19 miles. And if you want to learn more about the train, you can also visit the Shanghai Maglev Museum.
So, what do you think? Is Shanghai now on your must-see list? I would love to help you plan a trip to Shanghai. Read about how my planning services work here. Or, maybe you’d like to go with me when I visit. If there are enough of you, I’d be willing to plan a group trip. Let me know if you’re interested.
