Shanghai: The City You Can't Help But Love & Hate.
-
Hi, everyone! Today, I would like to share my thoughts and feelings about Shanghai. From the initial excitement to a slight rejection, followed by an intense love I hold for it now, Shanghai has truly left many stories in my heart.
First Impression: Glittering Metropolis!
I grew up in a small county, and the most information on Shanghai came from the internet. Shanghai was the bright city with busy streets and rich nightlife for me back then.
There were magnificent skyscrapers and stylish people walking around, making the city international. Shanghai felt like the place to make dreams come true, a land for great adventures.Disappointment on Arrival: A Little Disappointing at First
While I didn’t do well on the college entrance exam, I had thought that I would never get to go to Shanghai. But life is full of surprises and I eventually went there somehow.
Those first few days in Shanghai made me feel empty and I didn’t want any part of the city. It wasn't as "warm" as what I conceived before.
The imposing skyscrapers appeared cold due to the lack of humane vibe; people seemed strangers without connection. It felt quite alienating and stressful.
*Tip for beginners: The distance you initially feel when arriving in Shanghai isn’t real. Don’t rush to conclude anything!Adapting Gradually: Uncovering another Side of Shanghai
However, I gradually adjusted my mindset. I tried to talk to more people and learn more by exploring. Then, I discovered that Shanghai was even better than my perception.
In comparison to smaller cities, there are plenty more job opportunities and more paths to earn money.
It might not be as competitive as imagined since living in Shanghai isn’t only about working fiercely to fit into the rapid rhythm, but adapting while keeping your own pace.
Now, Shanghai is known as one of the most economically developed parts of China, including Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces.True Enlightenment: Historical Charm of Shanghai
It was Shanghai’s history that gave me a new perspective.
A visit to the site of the first and second national congress of the Communist Party of China (of fundamental importance in modern Chinese history) and several memorials and tombs were my sources of inspiration: Shanghai exudes a particular sense of morality, being both modern and richly historical.
The art in China and classic films all seem to be born here as Shanghai fuses various elements together: youthful vitality, old people's calmness, local features, and the freedom and openness of Europe and America all coexist harmoniously.Modern Shanghai: Falling In Love with the City
Shanghai in my eyes is now an extremely charming city.
Walking down the street, the sunshine strikes down and people walk at their own pace in different style outfits.
Only then did I realize how peaceful, open, and hopeful Shanghai truly is. Shanghai isn’t just a bustling metropolis but also a place teeming with life.My emotions towards Shanghai evolve over time from a fondness at first, to a phase where I disliked it slightly, then to now, where I have fallen deeply in love with it. Shanghai is a place worth experiencing on its own. The external beauty isn’t the only thing it offers for it also possesses incredible internal charm.
If you are interested in Shanghai, perhaps take the opportunity to explore the city yourself, who knows? You might fall for it just like I did! -
The influx of people from other regions certainly enriches local life with diverse elements. However, this shouldn't lead to the exclusion of locals, nor should disparaging them ever be seen as acceptable or commendable.
-
To put it bluntly, those who succeed financially tend to see things differently, while those who don't often complain that Shanghai is unwelcoming to outsiders.
-
Shanghai embraces diversity, and everyone is welcome here.
-
As a local, I have such mixed feelings. I love seeing how well the city is developing, especially the transportation. But I hate how it's always a hot topic online; I just wish Shanghai could catch a break from the internet drama for a while.
-
You'll only truly experience its charm if you open your heart and embrace it.
-
Well written.
-
Friends who love and truly understand Shanghai are always welcome.
-
Honestly, it just shows a lack of critical thinking. Anyone with a bit of logical reasoning wouldn't think that way.