Whilst Shanghai doesn’t have the ancient history of Beijing, it does have a certain je ne sais quoi that puts it up there with the rest. Embracing the modern age with open arms, yet still retaining the allure of the old town that harks back to the turn of the century, Shanghai is a firm favourite amongst travellers to China. It is a fabulous introduction to the modern history of China. Famously known as the ‘Oriental Paris’, Shanghai’s profile grew in the 1920’s when it began its journey as an important international trade centre. Today, international commerce has grown beyond recognition in Shanghai. 

Perhaps the best way to get your bearings in the city is to take a stroll on the Bund, where Shanghai’s young and old alike can be seen promenading. Go early enough and you will see the supple limbed carving out their gentle martial arts moves in a flow of energy that will soon have you slowing your pace to a serene meander before the crowds hit a little later on. 

With a great mix of old and new you can combine your taste for each with a trip to the impressive Shanghai Museum and a ride through the commercial centre on the metro, stopping off for a lunch of steamed dumplings in between and then heading to the old town (Laocheng). A wander around the markets will satisfy your shopping needs and you may even find something unique to take home with you, especially if you stop off at the antiques market. Stop off for a breather at one of the traditional Chinese tea houses for a cup of cha and to gather some momentum to rejoin the crowds. 

The beauty of Shanghai is that the contrast of modern and past eras seeps into every area from state of art urban architecture to sky high glass tower blocks, boutique shopping and contemporary art galleries, contrasting with ancient temples and gardens and 1920’s buildings along the Bund. 

For a bit of fun why not go to Shanghai Zoo to catch a glimpse of the famous Giant Pandas eating, playing and generally lounging around! Or visit the Shanghai South Bund Material Market armed with photos of outfits you’d like to see yourself in and then have duplicates made by their army of master tailors who will reproduce pretty much anything you choose once you have decided on the fabric from their vast collection. A couple of days are all they’ll need. 

Shimmering Shanghai can’t compare with the history of some of the other Chinese imperial cities but it does hold its own and offer an entirely different perspective of a country that is moving forward firmly into the 21st century.