Shanghai: Is Anyone Actually *There*?
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Alright, I know where you're coming from! Many first-time visitors to Shanghai tend to focus on these two "big attractions," feeling that once they've done those, there's not much left. Let me explain this to you in a way that foreign friends can understand:
- To be honest, I often find myself puzzled too! Whenever friends visit Shanghai, it feels like the only places I can recommend are:
- The Bund (外滩): This is well known right? It's the riverfront area overlooking the Huang Pu River, showcasing classic tall buildings and beautifully preserved European-style structures; the night view is especially stunning!
- Shanghai Disneyland (上海迪士尼乐园): Global hit and universally well-loved, this is a must-go theme park for both kids and adults with unending childlike wonder.
- Beyond that though, on weekends, trying to find new and interesting places to see becomes tricky – no particular standout spots that'd leave an 'awe' impression on foreign tourists.
- However, I've read online that tourist numbers visiting Shanghai are still exceedingly high (notably, many Korean friends seem particularly fond here), which makes me quite curious: what's really drawing them here?
- Is it possible that I haven't cracked the code to experiencing Shanghai yet? Besides these two typical tourist photo spots, are there any other places that truly capture the essence of the city and are worth going?
Travel Tips & Insights
* Cultural Misconception: Don't think Shanghai only has shiny skyscrapers and theme parks! There are numerous hidden cultural treasures and small streets filled with local life and fun things.
* Exploration Suggestions: Consider taking a "City Walk" – exploring old French Concession area for example where there is a charming blend of nicely preserved old houses, uniquely unique specialty shops and coffee houses, making it much more fun when experiencing the place.
* Food Adventure: Shanghai has a plethora of delicious local street food, such as Xiaolongbao and Shengjianbao, not to mention a variety of international cuisines, great to satisfy food lovers!So, sincerely requesting advice from insiders! Are there any lesser-known secrets and recommendations that will make me sound super knowledgeable about Shanghai around my friends.
New perspectives on Shanghai City Walks
Shanghai tours beyond The Bund & Disney
Seeking lesser-known Shanghai gems
Shanghai travel itineraries for international friends
- To be honest, I often find myself puzzled too! Whenever friends visit Shanghai, it feels like the only places I can recommend are:
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Shanghai boasts 973 parks, 165 museums, numerous ACG (Anime, Comics, Games) venues, and weekly exhibitions. The sheer number of stage plays, musicals, dramas, and concerts rivals all other Chinese cities combined. It's home to a top-tier amusement park like Disneyland, the diverse architecture of the Wutong (French Concession) area, magnificent temples, the Songjiang Guangfulin Relics, and cuisine from every corner of the globe. The Bund and Lujiazui are spots most locals don't even bother with anymore. If a city where you can explore something new every weekend for years is considered 'not much fun,' then I truly don't know what place could ever live up to that label.
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I used to feel the same way, coming from a tourist perspective that prioritizes natural landscapes and ancient architecture. But I've since realized that the real reason to come to Shanghai is to broaden your horizons and experience the world.
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There's the Natural History Museum, the Shanghai Museum East Branch, countless art galleries, a wide array of exhibitions, plays, and musicals. Culturally, Shanghai is truly in a league of its own in China.
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What's the Shanghai Museum East Branch exhibiting recently? And is it true that you don't need to book tickets for it anymore?
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Does 'tourism' only mean sightseeing in nature?
There's also 'urban tourism,' and experiencing the vibe of a metropolis is very appealing. Besides, Shanghai took center stage in modern Chinese history. 'To understand modern China, look to Shanghai' – it possesses a unique modern humanistic heritage. -
If you grew up in a big city, you'll likely want to see mountains and nature when you travel, and vice versa. It's all about going to places where others have grown tired of living.
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Exactly! 'The places others are tired of'—that's the core of tourism.
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Prosperity and bustle are a sight to behold in themselves.
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Don't we all go to places other people are tired of and treat them like treasures to explore?
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It's because other places are even less fun. I used to think Shanghai wasn't all that interesting, but after visiting other cities, I find myself thinking, 'Yeah, let's just go back to Shanghai...'
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That's because your idea of 'fun' is still stuck on just sightseeing in nature.
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I feel like even just casually strolling around the streets offers a great experience.
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Absolutely stunning!
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So many performances! Hahahaha.