Shanghai, called "Hu" for short, is a bustling metropolis
located at the mouth of the Yangtze River. Connected with Jiangsu and
Zhejiang provinces in the west, the city is exposed to the East China
Sea in the east. With a total area of 6,341 square kilometers and a population
of more than 13 million, Shanghai takes its place among the world's biggest,
most booming urban areas.
While the city epitomizes modern, urban China, its history is one of its
most intriguing features. In particular, in the 1930s and 40s, Shanghai
was a paradise for adventurers. Tycoons, millionaires, knights-errant
and great beauties came to this attractive city to realize their dreams,
and countless moving stories, both sad and joyful, were played out here.
Because of its openness to foreigners and its coastal location, Shanghai
is endowed with rich tourist attractions related to its long and complicated
history. Many buildings, constructed in various foreign styles, are well
preserved in the Bund area, and western tourists will feel a sense of
familiarity when strolling around the long street, which resembles those
in European cities. This blending of eastern and western styles has given
the Bund a reputation as a "World's Fair of Architecture.”
Many buildings from the 1920s and 1930s have also survived in the Old
City section of Shanghai. In addition, Jade Buddha Temple, located in
northwest Shanghai, is the most popular Buddhist temple in this city,
drawing both worshippers and tourists. It is famous for two jade Buddha
statues, one of which is reclining and the other seated.
Shanghai is also a great destination for shoppers, and the best-known
shopping street in China - Nanjing Road - is located here. This exciting
avenue is lined with well-known shops and department stores selling clothing,
food and specialty goods. Shanghai is a paradise for gourmets, too. Here,
visitors can enjoy a taste of all the different kinds of food in the world.
There are several famous old restaurants in Shanghai that are not to be
missed. |
