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Shanghai, which was just a marshy land couple of centuries ago, is now one of the most modern cities of the world buzzing with architectural growth, economic development and lifestyle revolution. In fact Shanghai's rapid development from a provincial capital to international metropolis surprises many.
It is said that the tallest buildings in Asia are in Shanghai and it boasts of more cars than the rest of China put together. In fact on Aug 28, 2008 the World Finance centre, which is now China’s tallest skyscraper at 1600 ft, was inaugurated. It boasts of a 101-storied structure, designed in the shape of a bottle opener. It is said that 300 of the top 500 important brands exist in Shanghai, which also has a world-class trade zone. The city continues to grow with new highways, bridges, a swish new airport and the most modern stock exchange in the world. These economic achievements, which are symbols of China’s economic powerhouse status, are due to its progress in the fields of politics, finance, trade, culture, science and technology.
Various important international events are held here which include political conventions, commercial conferences, academic forums, sports events, cultural exhibitions, film festivals and fashion shows. In spite of phenomenal economic growth, poor pockets do exist in certain old parts of the city, which are overcrowded, confusing and not too clean. The best time to visit Shanghai is Sep-Nov when the weather is moderate.
Winters can have sub zero temperature while summers are hot and humid. Another time to avoid is the Chinese New Year, which falls in Feb because everything is closed at that time and one can see maddening crowds everywhere.
The places worth a visit are the Oriental Pearl Tower, Bund, Jade Buddha, Confucious temple etc. there are also many museums and gardens here.
Confucious temple is peaceful and tranquil. Kings garden is like most gardens of the East, reclusive and serene and in harmony with nature. Jade Buddha is a large Buddha carved out of Jade, the oriental pearl TV tower is the tallest in Asia and third tallest in the world at 468 m situated behind the Hyangpu river. There is a bund alongside the east bank of Hyangpu river which is a beautiful place for strolling along the riverside offering an insight into modern China.
There is a statue overlooking a square where musicians gather in the evenings and the whole place comes alive with a lot of youngsters, tourists and local people out for an evening stroll. The lights on the buildings being reflected in the river multiply the magical effect.
For shopping one can go to Nanjing Road, Yuynan shopping city and North Sichuan road which are modern centres.
Food available includes the not-to-be-missed steamed dumplings, and there are various combinations of noodles, meat and vegetables served in Shanghai restaurants. Also there is no dearth of multinational chains such as Pizza Hut, Mc Donalds, Starbucks etc.
Not to be missed while in Shanghai is the experience of traveling by Magleu which is the fastest train in the world going at a speed of 430 km/hr. it connects the city to the airport, a distance of 30 km in about 7 minutes |
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