Text: Pavel Shubsky

The fate of the inhabitants of Vladivostok is to travel to Asian countries. For those who are thinking about where to go this year, Vl3000 continues to talk about cities and countries where we spent a lot of time ourselves.

In the third issue, photographer and copywriter Pavel Shubsky talks about the most advanced Chinese metropolis of Shanghai and answers important questions that concern any traveler: how to get from the airport at night, where to eat the most delicious shawarma in the world, why you shouldn’t talk to random Chinese women on the embankment, why Chinese clubs pour foreigners for free and much more.

Shanghai, spread over an area of ​​6,340 square kilometers, is home to over 23 million people. In fact, these figures have no sacred meaning - all city life and points of interest are concentrated in a small central area, a historical center called Puxi and, to a lesser extent, in the new business center pudong. Beyond them - a deaf, unremarkable Chinese province, plants and factories, communist five-story buildings and cattle.

I would like to clarify one thing: Shanghai is not about culture and historical values. Shanghai is about the new China, where all the most beautiful is combined with the most terrible, where money is considered the main happiness in life, where there is no place for centuries-old folk wisdom, where another glass skyscraper no longer has any logical explanation, where everything is mixed up once and for all. The metropolis has developed from a small port village in just 20 years, having lost all its charm and English-language street names in the process of restructuring. No Great Walls, ancient temples, imperial palaces. Shanghai is a food city, ladyknight city, skyscraper city, formula 1 city, concert city. If all of the above appeals to you, then we ask you to visit.

How to get there

There is no direct flight Vladivostok - Shanghai, so tourists will have to make at least one change in any case. The most affordable, adequate in time and proven way is to fly to Beijing on S7 aircraft (8000-9000 rubles one way), then transfer to Chinese airlines, which will deliver directly to your destination (650 yuan one way). You can book a ticket online on the website ctrip.com, they take a minimum commission and do not cheat.

Pudong International Airport, photo by Yuya Sekiguchi

Shanghai has two airports - warm lamp hongqiao and new glossy . It is worth choosing the first one. It is located within the city, so a taxi ride to the hotel will cost 60-70 yuan or 4 yuan and not too long on the subway. In the case of PVG, there are several ways to get to the city: by taxi for 150-250 yuan, depending on the time of day, a very long time by subway for a penny, a very long time by bus for a penny.

Maglev, photo Roving I

There is another way - a transport system based on the principle of magnetic levitation. Short 4-car trains fly along it at a speed of 430 kilometers per hour and deliver to a sane location, from where you can leave either by metro or by taxi. Alas, Maglev does not work around the clock. In case you arrived at night, there is only one option left: a taxi. You can negotiate with the driver for the required amount (say, 170-200 yuan), but of course they do not speak English.

Train to Shanghai, photo by doevos

An alternative and, in general, even more pleasant option is to travel from Beijing on a comfortable high-speed train (550 yuan one way). Tickets can be bought directly at the airport. It remains to get to the South Station, find the right exit to the platform, go to the soft reclining chair and for five hours enjoy the views of the endless construction site with rare patches of greenery. The train from Beijing delivers to all the same Hongqiao.

Where to settle

How to get around

Shanghai has the longest subway in the world. Inside is clean, comfortable, almost does not stink, warm in winter and cool in summer. Trips to any distance cost 3-4 yuan. On nice new trains you can quickly get to any chosen point. Shanghai metro map

If you don’t feel like pushing in the cars, you can catch a taxi on the street. Boarding costs 14 yuan during the day and 18 yuan at night. Next - by mileage. As practice shows, the average trip to the desired distance within the city costs 30 yuan. It is important to understand that Chinese drivers do not speak any language other than two or three varieties of Chinese. They do not know and do not want to know what People's Square, Marriott City Center or Panda Hostel. The only salvation is a piece of paper or a smartphone screen with an address in hieroglyphs. You can get any instructions on the website. smartshanghai.com, it contains the addresses of all the establishments, attractions and hotels you need (installing the application of the same name for iOS and Android is your first step before the trip).

Taxi, photo by Dengyoh

A note about taxis. The city has several public taxi companies, as well as many private companies. All state cars are light colors. Green, blue, yellow, white. Their services can and should be used. There are also burgundy, private ones. It is with them that unpleasant stories are most often associated: the meter was spinning like crazy, the driver demanded something, he was driving too fast, and so on. Don't get into burgundy cabs with tinted windows unnecessarily.

No metropolis is complete without a bus service, and Shanghai is no exception. However, you can only use municipal buses here if your smartphone can plot accurate routes and tell you which stop to get off at (Google Maps can). Otherwise, it will not work to understand the intricacies. And keep in mind that Chinese buses are driven, it seems, exclusively by racers who really wanted to, but did not break into professional sports - they “fly” along conventionally allocated lanes, not paying any attention to the cars around them. Case in point: Chinese pedestrians, who usually don't think about traffic lights and the number of highway lanes, never start to cross in front of a bus. And you shouldn't.

where to go

French Concession, photo by arlyna

It was said about traditional Chinese cultural and historical values ​​at the beginning, but there are still many interesting things in the city. For example, the old French Quarter, French Concession- many narrow streets with authentic two-story houses, where foreign settlers and merchants lived until the middle of the 20th century. The quarter has been rebuilt many times, but still retains its European charm and is considered a popular Shanghai attraction. Getting to the French Concession is as easy as shelling pears: just come to the station of the 1st metro line Hengshan lu and go deeper into the alleys. It is better to plan a trip during the day - by the evening the area is dying out.

Embankment Bund

However, the main city attraction is the embankment. Bund with neoclassical colonial architecture from the most famous architects of the past. The spirit of the old school hovers here, and from the shore there is a stunning view of the skyscrapers of the financial center, the same signature view from Shanghai postcards and Google search results. Absolutely obligatory point. To get to the Bund, just come to the station East Nanjing Lu 2nd metro line, and then follow the signs through the neon-lit walking street. But be careful. Numerous scammers operate in this tourist area. For example, cute Chinese girls who get to know themselves and then offer to go to a classic tea ceremony with them. The price for such pleasure will be more impressive than you expect.

The glamorous splendor of the Bund, where all the most expensive restaurants and clubs of the city work, dilutes the poverty of the slums located just south and west of the neoclassical monuments. Creepy in appearance, but kind inside, the quarters of low houses, assembled from improvised materials, will offer the most authentic species - fish and meat hanging right on the windowsills, shops of street greenery vendors, pens with chickens for slaughter, seafood displays. Don't miss the butcher cutting the carcass right in the middle of a busy street.

Lujiazui, photo by Topster*

Further, it makes sense to take a ferry for 2 yuan and cross the river Huangpu, to the skyscrapers. It's good to walk there in warm weather, except that the neck quickly gets tired from trying to make out the tops of buildings. By the way, the ensemble of skyscrapers will soon complement Shanghai Tower- 632-meter spiral, an ode to the never-ending international competition for the title of the tallest building in the world. However, the new skyscraper will still not beat the Arab Burj Khalifa.

Note to tourists, on the upper floors of all skyscrapers there are viewing platforms from which views of the endless city open. The rise costs 150-200 yuan, which, by the way, is great for coffee and cake or a glass of wine in hotel restaurants and bars located just a few floors below.

Contemporary art lovers should visit at least three art zones - M50, and Minsheng Sculpture Space. The first contains galleries and artists' shops, several exhibition halls, where unusual exhibitions are often held. The second is an old power plant converted into art (all Russian-speaking citizens are surprised why it says "Energetic Palace of Culture"). The third is a separate cluster with sculptures. But keep in mind, all the listed areas close at 5 pm, like any government facilities in China.

Finally, we can recommend a beautiful town on the water, located far from the center, but still within Shanghai. The place is called, and the best way to get there is by sightseeing buses from one of the stadiums ( Hongkou Football Stadium or Shanghai Indoor Stadium from where the tour buses leave.

Where to eat

Xiaolongbao, photo by weizor

When you go to China, eat Chinese food. Confident travelers will say. Residents of Vladivostok, who have seen more or less real Chinese cuisine, however, will be upset. It will be problematic to find dishes popular on Sportivka. Southern customs are quite different. The signature dishes of Shanghai eateries are steamed Xiaolongbao meat buns, Hundun dumplings floating in soup, all kinds of noodles with gravy. All this is quite edible and tasty, but at one time.

However, in Shanghai it is not at all necessary to eat exclusively local food. The international character of the city attracts restaurateurs from all over the world. Here you can find Italian pizzerias, where an elderly Italian fries pizza in the oven right in the middle of the hall, American burgers with excellent chopped cutlets, French bistros with homemade baguettes and croissants, Canadian cafes with eggs Benedict and German breweries with sausages and sauerkraut.

Wagas

The list of recommendations can be stretched - they are not shy about filling the stomach with curiosities from all over the world. Guests of the city simply need to try huge fresh salads and creative pastas at Wagas and Element Fresh branches, stunningly beautiful and juicy burgers at Beef & Liberty, excellent French cold appetizers at Cuivre, classic cheese pizza and ravioli at Nolita, boiled Belgian mussels with potatoes and sauces at Belga, one of Boxing Cat's seven homemade beers. And don't forget the shawarma! The world's best shawarma (doner kebab) is made in the Turkish restaurant Anadolu. What's even better is that the place stays open until late.

After tasting Western delicacies, you can return back to China - street vendors fry excellent skewers of meat or vegetables, knead excellent noodles with chicken. In street restaurants, depending on the season, you can order crayfish - creatures with huge heads and a small body resemble shrimp, but without a salty aftertaste. They are fried in oil, generously sprinkled with pepper and served with transparent disposable gloves - very greasy. A roll of toilet paper, which will be placed nearby, serves as hand wipes.

They say, "did not eat street food - was not in China." Yes, it is much inferior to, say, Thai counterparts, but you still need to try.

Where to have fun

Shanghai is a real paradise for a visiting party goer. Here you can find music and an institution for every taste. From hits from the 80s and house remixes of Rihanna in beautiful clubs on the top floors of old buildings to uk bass and hard techno in filthy basements without lighting.

The evening begins somewhere in a bar with their endless buy-one-glass-get-a-second-free deals and spontaneous dances at the bar. Then, closer to midnight, the whole company begins to smoothly flow into the clubs of your choice. Somewhere a fashionable French producer is brought in, somewhere jazz is playing, somewhere rockers are jumping, somewhere local DJs turn on old and new hip-hop, somewhere they swing to the beat of tech house.

Yongkang-lu

Start the night with bar hopping on the street of bars Yongkang Lu and try to dodge the flow of water from the basins of angry neighbors from the second floor. Continue among the French and inexpensive wine at one of the Le Cafe des Stagiaires. Stop by the Shiva Lounge for another White Russian. Descend into the legendary The Shelter to the sound of drum and bass. Finish the fun in the morning somewhere in the Amber Lounge with its well-known after-parties throughout the city.

However, the glamorous evening begins differently: dinner at Dr. Wine, cocktails and shisha at Barbarossa, then a taxi to Bar Rouge with its views of skyscrapers, a crowd of dressed up girls and bank employees in suits.

Fans of Chinese aesthetics, in turn, go to completely different clubs - eternally crowded local hangouts for wealthy owners of handkerchief factories. M2, S2, Muse, Myst, Maya. There you can meet a foreign promoter who will offer to go to his table with free alcohol, join, and then crawl away on all fours - such clubs love it when drunk foreigners fall face down on the table for the amusement of the local sugar daddy and their young companions, and pour fake alcohol .

All of the listed establishments are easily located through SmartShanghai.

shopping

Due to the rapid growth of the Chinese economy, the introduction of new taxes on everything that is possible (and especially on foreign products, even if they are produced somewhere nearby), the price tags for clothes and accessories in Shanghai have already exceeded all allowable values. Moreover, much can be bought cheaper in Russia or via the Internet. But it would be foolish not to enter one of the giant malls with all the brands in the world.

There are large shopping centers in any area of ​​the city, but the most popular ones are located closer to the central part or in the very epicenter of city life. Everyone's favorites include Super Brand Mall at the foot of the skyscrapers on Lujiazui, as well as Raffles City on People's Square and the newest IAPM monster with fashion boutiques at the intersection of Shaanxi Nan Lu and Huaihai Zhong Lu. Both, in addition to shops, accommodate all kinds of restaurants, cafes, bars and IMAX cinemas.

Those who want to buy something not quite real at a low price should go to the station of the 2nd metro line Shanghai Science and Technology Museum. Immediately upon exiting the subway, you will be greeted by the familiar atmosphere of Suifenhe with merchants who speak all languages ​​at the same time. Here you need to bargain hard: what is offered for 500 yuan can be bought for 80. Among the assortment you can easily find everything you need - T-shirts and sweaters, watches, hats, fur coats, boots, bags, as well as any souvenirs for friends. It is better to go to the closing, when the traders are already tired and do not want to bend their line.

Another popular tourist destination is Dongtai Lu Antique Street. There you can rent a real old chest or a classic Chinese sofa, antique toys and other little things for next to nothing. But be prepared for the fact that a family of cockroaches lives in one of the boxes of your antique souvenir.

Here is a complete guide to Shanghai for 2019, in which you will find a description of more than 20 attractions in Shanghai. You will also learn how to get from Shanghai airport to the city, whether you need a visa on arrival to Shanghai, what hotel to stay in, what the weather is like throughout the year, what transport to use when sightseeing Shanghai and whether there is a beach holiday here. It should be clarified that not all of the places described were visited personally, however, I tried to tell in as much detail as possible about all the interesting places in the city and how to get to them. The main guide covering all of China, .

The interactive map shows all the sights of Shanghai from the overview. Please note that in the description of each marker there is information about prices, schedules and tips on how to get to the place.

Shanghai attractions on the map

Sights of Shanghai

Starting a review of the sights of Shanghai, first let's talk about those located in the Pudong area. These sights, if desired, can be bypassed very quickly. If you're only in Shanghai for a few hours or a day, this is probably the best place to start exploring the city.

List of attractions in Shanghai:

Oriental Pearl TV Tower

Speaking about the sights of Shanghai, it is worth starting with one of its symbols - the Oriental Pearl television tower. With a height of almost 500 meters, it ranks fifth in the world among other TV towers. A feature of the "Oriental Pearl" is a restaurant rotating in a circle, located in a spherical room of the tower. Even if you do not plan to visit the TV tower, do not miss the moment when the backlight turns on in the evening and the building begins to play with colorful lights. This spectacle leaves few indifferent.

Opening hours and cost: daily from 8.00 to 21.30. Tickets cost from 130 yuan to 220, depending on the choice of the observation deck.

Shanghai Tower

This is the only skyscraper in Shanghai that I have personally visited. I highly recommend going up and taking a look at the beautiful city from a height of 546 meters with your own eyes. By the way, a super high-speed elevator will take you to the observation deck in just 10 seconds. Most importantly, take your passport with you, without it the ticket will not be sold.

How to get there: Lujiazui station (Line 2).

Opening hours and cost: daily from 8.00 to 22.30 (the box office is open until 22.00). Tickets cost 180 yuan for an adult, 120 for students (not older than 23 years), 90 for children and for pensioners (pensioners - over 60). Must have a passport.

Shanghai World Financial Center

One of the most famous skyscrapers in the world, the Shanghai World Financial Center, is located in the Pudong area. This majestic building can be admired both from the ground and from one of the viewing platforms located directly in the building of the center. In the evening, the building is illuminated with lights and photography lovers will have a place to turn around.

How to get there: Lujiazui metro station (Line 2).

Opening hours and prices: open from 8.30 to 22:00. The ticket price is from 100 to 150 yuan, depending on the chosen observation deck.

Shanghai Oceanarium (Shanghai Ocean Aquarium)

The largest oceanarium in Asia, Shanghai attracts thousands of visitors every year. Here you will find more than 10,000 representatives of marine nature from various climatic zones of our planet.

Opening hours and cost: the aquarium is open from 9.00 to 18.00 (the box office closes at 17.30). Ticket for an adult is 160 yuan, for children 110, for pensioners 90.

Shanghai Municipal History Museum

Perhaps the most interesting and informative museum in Shanghai. The museum staff tried to recreate the historical scenes of bygone times, and they succeeded admirably.

How to get there: Lujiazui station (line 2).

Schedule and prices: daily from 9.00 to 17.30, 35 yuan.

Skyscraper Jinmao (Jin Mao Tower)

Another place for connoisseurs of panoramic views. Along with the Shanghai World Financial Center, the Jinmao skyscraper is one of the symbols of Shanghai and one of the main attractions. Climb up to the observation deck located on the 88th floor and enjoy the stunning views of Shanghai at night.

How to get there: Lujiazui station (Line 2).

Opening hours and cost: every day from 8.30 to 22.00. Ticket for adults 120 yuan, for children 60 yuan.

Lu Jia Zui Pedestrian Bridge

A masterpiece of architectural thought, the Lujiazui Bridge has adorned Shanghai for only six years. Walking around Pudong, do not apply to visit and take pictures of it.

How to get there: Lujiazui station (Line 2).

Undoubtedly one of the most famous attractions of Shanghai. The embankment is located on the other side of the river from the Pudong area. Here you will find not only numerous tourists, but also fully enjoy the beautiful old architecture of Shanghai. The city authorities are trying not to distort the area with modern buildings, which allows even today to find pieces of old Shanghai in this historical place. It is worth visiting this place both in the daytime and at night, when the Bund of Vaitan is illuminated by many lights.

How to get there: East Nanjing Rd (Line 2 / Line 10 junction)

Museum of Jewish Refugees (Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum)

During the difficult times of the Second World War, many Jews were forced to immigrate in all directions. Shanghai has become a haven for many thousands of refugees. Expositions of the Museum of Jewish Refugees in Shanghai will tell us about those difficult times.

How to get there: Tilanqiao (line 12).

Schedule and prices: daily from 9.00 to 17.00, 50 yuan.

Shanghai Postal Museum

Another interesting museum that tells how the people of China communicated with each other before the advent of trains, planes and the Internet.

How to get there: Tiantong Road (intersection of lines 10 and 12).

Schedule and prices: open on weekends, as well as on Wednesday and Thursday. The entrance is free.

Shanghai attractions. Yu Yuan Garden

Almost 500 years ago, the beautiful Yu Yuan Garden was created, which still delights the eyes of guests and residents of Shanghai. Divided into seven themed areas, the garden is a great place to take a stroll. Don't miss the opportunity to see and enjoy this beautiful sight with your own eyes when you are in Shanghai.

How to get there: Yuyuan Garden (Line 10).

Opening hours and cost: from 8.30 to 17.00, 40 yuan.

Shanghai old town

Gardens, markets, elements of the architecture of old Shanghai, all this can be found here. Spending some time exploring the streets of the old town will be an enjoyable experience. Shanghai Old City is located near the Yu Yuan Garden, in the area of ​​Zhonghua Road and Renmin Road.

Find: Yuyuan Garden (Line 10)

Temple of Confucius (Shang Hai Wen Miao)

If you love and revere Confucius or are just interested in beautiful temples, don't miss the Confucius Temple in Shanghai. To everyone who wishes, the servants of the temple are ready to demonstrate the traditional tea ceremony.

How to get there: Laoximen (intersection of lines 10 and 8).

Schedule and prices: from 9.00 to 16.30, 10 yuan.

Nanjing Road

Paradise for shopaholics. Hundreds of boutiques, big and small. Here you will find the most fashionable and expensive things, you can dine in one of the hundreds of cafes and restaurants, just feel like a resident of a huge metropolis. Evening is no less interesting. Street musicians and neon lights of houses change this place beyond recognition.

Find: People's Square (intersection of metro lines 1, 2, 8)

People's Square (People's Square)

On the site of the former hippodrome, the city authorities decided to create a people's square, which is also not deprived of the attention of tourists. The area is especially beautiful in spring and autumn, when you can walk in the parks located here and enjoy the calming nature.

Find: People's Square (intersection of lines 1, 2, 8)

French Quarter (French Concession)

If you love French culture, the French Quarter is for you. Even today, buildings can be found here that received numerous immigrants in the first half of the 20th century.

Find: South Shaanxi Road (Metro Line 10).

Jade Buddha Temple

Founded in the 19th century, the Jade Buddha Temple may seem interesting to many. Buddha sculptures brought from Burma, as well as several internal halls, will help you learn a little more about the history of Asia.

Find: Changshou Road (intersection of lines 7, 13)

Schedule and prices: every day from 8.00 to 20.00, ticket price is 20 yuan.

Shanghai attractions. Long Hua Pagoda

Unfortunately, you won’t be able to get into the pagoda itself, because of the fear of collapse, entering it is strictly prohibited. Nevertheless, it is not forbidden to admire the beautiful building from the outside by visiting the temple complex.

How to get there: Longhua (intersection of lines 11 and 12).

Schedule and prices: from 7.00 to 16.30, 10 yuan.

Shanghai Zoo

This zoo is not a zoo in the usual way. Instead of just putting animals in cages and displaying them to the public, special pavilions were created with favorable living conditions for animals. In the Shanghai Zoo you can see the symbol and pride of China - the panda.

Find: Shanghai Zoo (line 10).

Schedule and prices: in the winter months the zoo is open from 8.30 to 16.30, from March to November from 8.00 to 17.00. Adult ticket 130 yuan, children 65. Children under six years old are free.

Visa to Shanghai for Russians

As such, there is no visa to Shanghai, of course, but there are different options to see Shanghai. If you are planning a trip to China, it makes sense to take care of obtaining a tourist visa to China. A detailed article with up-to-date information on how to get a visa to China is published separately.

In case you are flying through Shanghai in transit, you can use the 144 hour air transit rule in Shanghai. In this case, you can stay in Shanghai for no more than 144 hours, after which you must leave the country. In the case of air transit, you can leave the country only by plane, land or sea modes of transport are excluded.

To Shanghai from the airport

The blog already has about Shanghai airport, in which he described in detail all the nuances of arriving at the airport and how to get from the airport to the city. Routes from both Shanghai International Airports are shown.

Transport in Shanghai (metro, buses, ferries, taxis)

In a huge metropolis like Shanghai, ways to get around the city must be plentiful. Let's analyze the main modes of transport in Shanghai.

The cheapest and most often the most convenient way to see all the sights of Shanghai. The approximate cost of a journey in the Shanghai subway is from three to ten yuan, depending on the route. The operating time of the subway of each individual line varies, but on average, the operating hours of the Shanghai subway are from 05.30 to 23.00. At the moment, there are 14 different branches in Shanghai, below you can see the Shanghai metro map, and by clicking on the link you will be taken to the official website of the Shanghai metro.

"Shanghai Metro Map"

Buses

The city has a huge bus network. The vast majority of Shanghai attractions can be reached by subway and then walk. But there are places to which you have to go by bus. As a rule, bus fare is two yuan. If the bus is long-distance, the fare can reach up to five yuan.

Ferries

In the touristy and busy areas of the city, you can find ferry crossings. Swimming from shore to shore will usually cost 1-2 yuan. Ferries run frequently, the interval is 10-15 minutes.

Taxi

Taxi fares in Shanghai start at RMB 12 per landing. Further, 2 yuan for each kilometer traveled. At night, rates increase by 30%.

Shanghai Hotels

I decided to make a review of Shanghai hotels in a separate article. The choice of hotels in Shanghai is huge. There are budget hostels for 40-50 yuan per bed in a dormitory room, there are luxury 5-star hotels, and there is something in between. In a review article about Shanghai hotels, you will find specific examples for different price categories of hotels.

Weather in Shanghai

Seaside vacation Shanghai

I tried in vain to find at least some positive information about what a seaside vacation in Shanghai is like. People who live in Shanghai for a long time unanimously claim that there is no quality beach holiday in Shanghai. There are a huge number of Chinese on the beaches, it is dirty, and the quality of water in the coastal zone leaves much to be desired. If you are interested in a beach holiday in China, you may find useful a guide to Hainan Island, which is based on my personal experience of staying on a resort island.

How many people are in Shanghai

If you are wondering how many residents there are in Shanghai, it is not possible to get an exact answer. In Shanghai, in addition to officially registered residents, there are a lot of visitors and illegal immigrants. According to official figures, about 25 million people live in Shanghai and the surrounding area.

Now is the time in Shanghai

Shanghai time widget

To find out what time it is in Shanghai, use the special widget.

It will show the exact time in Shanghai.

How do you remember Shanghai? Tell in the comments!!!

4.6666666666667 (9 voters. Vote and you!!!)

What do we know about China? From school, we know that the Yellow River and the Yangtze flow there, that they write there in hieroglyphs, and that there is a mysterious Great Wall of China. One of the oldest civilizations is full of its indestructible traditions and has more than 5000 years. But, having read books and seen enough films, it is better, as you know, to see it all with your own eyes once and then.

It will be quite difficult to determine any one direction for travel. Travel guides highlight at least 8 reasons to travel to China. We list the points: Beijing, the Great Wall of China, the terracotta army, Shanghai, the Yangtze River, Chengdu Nature Reserve (where you can see pandas), Hong Kong and, of course, Chinese cuisine. And if you want to enjoy the sea and the sun, there is a separate option for this - Hainan Island, which is also called the Chinese Hawaii. One material to cover in detail all the interesting places of the country, of course, is not enough. Therefore, let's dwell on Shanghai in more detail, especially since there is a reason to go there right now: on June 20, a new Bvlgari Hotel Shanghai opened in Shanghai. Its hotel rooms occupy the top eight floors of the 48-story tower, overlooking the famous Bund, the skyscrapers of the Pudong Financial District and the spectacular bend of the Huangpu and Suzhou Creek.

Skyscrapers of Pudong
Once upon a time, Shanghai was an ordinary fishing village. Today it is called the most Europeanized city in China, and also the Paris of the East, due to the fact that there are almost more Western boutiques than in the French capital. Modern Shanghai is skyscrapers, financial centers, European restaurants and people in business suits. In the city of glass and metal, futuristic buildings can be found literally on every corner. But it is worth looking into the neighboring quarters to understand: the people of Shanghai are not going to forget about their roots and traditions. They prefer Chinese food, are proud of traditional Chinese architecture and are always ready to surprise tourists with something authentic. Whether it's an ancient Chinese pagoda, a two-block silk market, or a grasshopper skewers.

Ancient pagodas in Shanghai contrast with modern skyscrapers
In order to get a first impression of the city, it is worth taking a water bus ride along the Huangpu River to its confluence with the Yangtze, which will take about three hours. During the trip, you will be able to see Shanghai Manhattan - the business district of Pudong with sparkling skyscrapers, numerous ports, bridges and mansions in a variety of architectural styles.

There are also two viewing platforms in Shanghai: one of them is located in the "Pearl of the East" - a 450-meter-high TV tower, and the other in the Jin-Mao tower. It is interesting to walk along the Bund, which is called the Museum of Architecture, thanks to the abundance of European houses built in styles from Gothic to Art Deco. There are Gothic castles, Renaissance palaces, and Baroque buildings. The tourist area of ​​Pudong is located just opposite the embankment: an underwater tunnel leads to it, through which you can walk.

TV tower "Pearl of the East"

The city has many parks, including Yu Yuan's "Garden of Joy", created in the 16th century, and Gui Park with a bamboo grove. In the second, several historical monuments with names worthy of poets have been preserved: the Gazebo of cheerful fishermen, the Pavilion of affectionate warmth, the Nine Bends Bridge. You should definitely visit the Temple of the Jade Buddha and the oldest Longhuasa Temple in Shanghai, the five-tiered Longhua Pagoda also deserves attention.

Jade Buddha Temple

You can end your walk around the city at one of the many markets, and for more serious shopping, go to one of the giant malls. The main shopping street - Nanjing - leads to the largest Renmin Square in Shanghai. It houses the Shanghai Grand Theatre, the city's main museum, and the government building. And in the evenings, a large color-musical fountain comes to life.

Nanjing shopping street
When all the main sights of the city are explored, it is worth taking the train and heading to the canal-and-garden district of Suzhou, located just an hour from Shanghai. This place is famous for its weaving traditions and techniques, which led to the opening of the famous Silk Museum. Around Suzhou, there are picturesque waterside villages such as Tongli, Zhouzhuang and Zhu Jia Jiao, where ancient stone bridges cross winding canals and old merchant houses line narrow cobbled streets. A rare chance to get acquainted with the era of the departed China. Departure to Suzhou is best planned in the early morning to avoid crowds, as it can be quite crowded during the peak season.

Suzhou District

If you decide to stay at the Bvlgari Shanghai, you will get a holiday with a European luster. Like all Bvlgari hotels and resorts, the project was designed by renowned Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel. She has created a brilliant contemporary masterpiece that reflects the layers of Shanghai history with typical Bvlgari sophistication.

Bvlgari Shanghai Hotel Tower
In harmony with nature, modern design and traditional architecture, Bvlgari's new property includes a 48-story tower, the restored Shanghai Chamber of Commerce building built in 1916, and lush gardens surrounding the area. Spread across the top eight floors of the tower, the hotel's 82 elegantly designed rooms, including 19 suites, average over 60 square meters, making them one of the most spacious in the city. Guests will experience the exceptional comfort of modern Italian furnishings, custom-made by reputable Italian brands such as B&B, Maxalto, Flos and Flexform, as well as a warm residential atmosphere created by craftsmen using the latest technology.

Mosaic floor created by Italian craftsmen
Accessible via a private elevator, the 400m Bvlgari Suite, located on the top floor, offers breathtaking views of Shanghai's skyline and can be expanded into a 570sqm three-bedroom residence. meters at the expense of the adjacent suite.

Views of Shanghai from the hotel rooms

Bvlgari Shanghai is home to six signature restaurants located both in the hotel tower and in the historic Shanghai Chamber of Commerce building next door. The Italian restaurant Il Ristorante-Niko Romito is curated by Niko Romito, one of the most famous chefs in the world, who has three Michelin stars for his restaurant Reale in Abruzzo. Nico Romito presents finely crafted contemporary Italian cuisine at the 47th-floor restaurant overlooking the city of lights. Adjacent on the same floor is Il Bar, with its iconic oval bar counter, a place to dine and socialize. And La Terrazza offers an excellent menu of Italian dishes. Breathtaking views of the skyscrapers of Shanghai are included.

Hotel Restaurants

Bvlgari Il Cioccolato, China's first boutique on the ground floor, offers non-trivial sweets, while the Lobby Lounge awaits for afternoon tea and aperitif near the open-air Il Giardino space, where guests can enjoy wines, summer cocktails and Italian ice cream. Also on the ground floor is a Bvlgari jewelry store.

BVLGARI Spa is a place to find inner harmony. 8 spa rooms, a sauna and relaxation rooms, a manicure and pedicure salon, a barber shop and a hairdresser, as well as a 25-meter heated indoor pool, hydromassage pools and a WORKSHOP GYMNASIUM studio for personal training. It is also recommended to visit the fitness center with an area of ​​2000 sq.m.

Bvlgari Spa

Bvlgari's 500 sq. m with three-level ceilings, a restaurant with fine Chinese cuisine Bao Li Xuan and a whiskey bar. Bao Li Xuan serves classic Cantonese and local Shanghainese dishes, while the whiskey bar on the same floor offers an extensive collection of premium whiskeys and spirits in a respectable atmosphere befitting an intimate club. The majestic neoclassical renaissance building perfectly echoes Bvlgari's Roman roots, reminiscent of the beautiful arched gate of the 1920s that served as the entrance for VIPs.

Chamber of Commerce building
Surrounded by private gardens, historic buildings and art galleries, the hotel is only a 3-minute drive from the iconic Bund. The boutiques of Nanjing Road, known as "Shanghai's Fifth Avenue", and the famous museums and theaters of People's Square are just a short walk away. Guests can go sightseeing in a Maserati Limousine. By the way, the hotel itself is very easy to get to: 45 minutes from Shanghai Pudong International Airport or 35 minutes from Shanghai Hongqiao. However, I don’t feel like rushing to the plane and leaving Shanghai for home.

Shanghai is a real pearl of the East!

Shanghai- a port city divided into two parts by the Huangpu River, a tributary of the Yangtze River.

The hallmark of Shanghai is a view of the Bund of the Bund.

Today Shanghai ultra-modern, the most dynamic city of the most dynamically developing nation.

What to see in Shanghai

The Huangpu River divides Shanghai into two parts: to the old city and the new, ultra-modern pudong/ Pudong.

In the old part of the city there is a famous embankment Bund / Bund, along which it is pleasant to walk both during the day and in the evening, admiring the opposite side of the river. Her second name quay vaitan.

waterfront waitan It is especially beautiful in the evening, when colorful lights are lit in the city. We recommend an evening cruise on the Huangpu River.

Nankinlu street- is the central pedestrian street of the city. It has famous shops, shopping centers, cafes and restaurants.

french quarter- this is the territory occupied by the French concession in the 20-30s. This quarter was almost entirely populated by white emigrants. Many buildings of that era still remain in the quarter.

Russians made up a third of the foreign population of Shanghai during these years. They worked as tailors, driving instructors, bodyguards, and set up numerous cafes around Huaihail. Cafes and ateliers are still clustered in the city around this street, many buildings have been preserved from the 30s.

Yuyuan garden. One of the most famous places in Shanghai is the Yuyuan Garden of Joy, founded in the 16th century during the Ming Dynasty.

The garden occupies a vast territory, on which artificial lakes and islands, shady pavilions and pavilions, beautiful bridges and hills are built.

Currently The Garden of Joy is one of the ten most beautiful gardens in the world.. A huge number of flowers grow in the Garden, magnolias, gingos and other age-old trees grow.

YuYuan Garden was built in the 16th century during the Ming Dynasty by order of the court minister's son Pan Yunduan, who presented it as a gift to his father Pan En. The son wanted to give his father a garden in the likeness of the imperial garden in Beijing.

But constant monetary problems with finances did not allow Pan Yunduan to quickly complete the construction. As a result, the garden was completed only 20 years later, but Yunduan's father did not live to this moment.

The owner himself went bankrupt at this point, and he had to sell the garden for a nominal fee.

During the Opium War, the garden was destroyed by the French. Yuyuan Garden acquired its modern look after restoration and restoration in 1956.

Jade Buddha Temple was built in 1911 - 1918. In the Temple there is a two-meter statue of Buddha made of white jade. The walls of the temple are decorated with 7 thousand Buddhist sutras.

hongkou park / Luxin located in northern Shanghai. As a tourist attraction, it is known for the tomb of the founder of modern Chinese literature, the writer and scholar Lu Xun.

He was not a communist, but most of his books were banned by the Kuomintang regime and he hid in the French Quarter.

Lu Xun's message to the Chinese youth of the 1930s is now known to the whole world.

The message says: "Think and study the economic problems of the society, go through hundreds of dead villages, come to the generals, and then come to the victims, know the realities of your time with wide eyes and a clear mind, and work for an enlightened society, but always think, think and study".

TV tower "Pearl of the East" was built in 1994, the height of the TV tower is 468 m. It is the highest TV tower in Asia and the third highest in the world. Today, the TV tower "Pearl of the East" has already become a real symbol of Shanghai.

Temples of Shanghai

In the southern part of Shanghai is the ancient Buddhist temple Longhua. The time of its construction dates back to the period of the Three Kingdoms. Longhua Pagoda is one of the most popular places in Shanghai. Its height is 40 meters, the pagoda has seven floors.

The Temple of Confucius is a famous shrine in Shanghai built during the Yuan Dynasty.

St. Ignatius Cathedral is a temple designed by the English architect William Doyle between 1905 and 1910.

Zoo with pandas

China's symbol, the panda, can be seen at the Shanghai Zoo. The animal habitats here are as close as possible to natural conditions.

You can see the animals while driving in a closed bus or car.

How to get to Shanghai

Airplane. Getting to Shanghai is very easy: the city has an international airport that receives flights from Russia, from other countries of the world, and of course other cities in China.