Shanghai enjoys the distinction of being the world’s second biggest city proper next to Mumbai, India. It is where everything modern in China comes from. This highly commercialized city is comparable to Paris of France and New York of the United States.
The biggest and wealthiest economic district in China, Shanghai has gained international fame as a prime tourist destination in the country. It is known worldwide for its historical attractions and skyscrapers. In China, Shanghai is usually the first city where tourists arrive, mainly because it offers affordable and quick flights to other Chinese cities and towns.
Having second thoughts on traveling to Shanghai? Don’t be. Here are some good reasons why this city is worth visiting.
- Shopping Haven – Shopaholics can splurge in the many shops that line across the bustling streets of Shanghai. The shopping areas along Huaihai Road and Nanjing Road offer a unique and unforgettable shopping experience and sell a variety of luxurious goods.
- Hassle-Free Transport System – Since Shanghai is a very urbanized area, it is accessible from almost every place in China. You can ride a train, plane, ship, or bus to get to Shanghai.
- Vibrant Nightlife – Shanghai is a city that never sleeps, and people there are accustomed to the city’s active nightlife. Don’t miss the chance to hop from one nightclub or bar to another for a night of drinking booze and partying. Entertainment is another specialty of this city, as it teems with theaters where dances, dramas, acrobatics, and puppets are shown. For film enthusiasts, there are cinemas that feature local and foreign films.
- Countless Tourist Destinations – With the wide array of choices for sights and landmarks to visit, Shanghai will never be a boring place for tourists.
- Interesting Mix of Oriental and Western Influences – Shanghai, which used to be a communist area, is a city of mixed cultural influences from both the East and West. Its distinct Oriental charm has in fact lured a lot of popular visitors like Albert Einstein, Rabindranath Tagore, and Bernard Shaw. For the Chinese folks, Shanghai holds a strong Western lifestyle.
- Chinese Holidays and Festivals – Joining these festivities and events is a great way to experience authentic Chinese culture. Some of the famous festivals regularly held in Shanghai include the Longhua Temple Fair, the International Tea Culture Festival, the Longhua Temple Bell Striking, the Orange Festival, the Nanhui County Peach Blossom Festival, and the Shanghai Tourism Festival.