Travel Guide to Shanghai, China

Regarded as the 'Oriental Pearl', Shanghai is known for its intriguing blend of Chinese and Western cultures. This charming old-aged city is not only China's center of economy, finance, trade and navigation, but also a cosmopolitan metropolis on the western bank of the Pacific Ocean. Just like magnolia in bloom (the symbol of the city), Shanghai is full of life and vitality.

Shanghai is one of the most populous and developed cities in the People's Republic of China. It is located on the estuary of the Yangtze River. North of city, the river pours into the East China Sea. Owing to its advantageous geographic location, Shanghai has become a prosperous busy port.

Shanghai dates back to the Neolithic Period. This area was marshland until the Song Dynasty (AD 960-1126), when Mongols and other northern nomad invaders officially established the town. The increasing trade turned Shanghai into a prosperous place. By 1291, it became a county capital. After that the economy saw even greater development, especially in cotton and textile industries.

After 1840, the British Army opened Shanghai as a treaty port and set up their concession. The city flourished as a center of commerce between east and west. Following the example, many other countries also opened enterprises engaged in shipping, printing, architecture, pharmacy, and public utilities. Shanghai and Western power coexisted for almost a century.

After a prosperous period of time, Shanghai started to suffer from World War II. The lack of raw material resulted in economic downturn and severe recession. In 1943 British and Americans gave up their colonial rights to their new allies - the Nationalist Chinese. They took over Shanghai after the Japanese surrender in 1945. However, four years later, the city again fell to the Red Army.

Under the Communists, Shanghai's businesses were nationalized and most foreign firms moved their offices from Shanghai to Hong Kong. The city also fell out of favour with the political elite until the Cultural Revolution, when Mao Zedong decided to make it the new power base. Shanghai was a centre of Cultural Revolution until Mao's death in 1976.

The fortunes of Shanghai have been revived in the result of the great reforms started in 1978. Supported by the government as the 'dragon's head' of China's economic development, Shanghai has attracted massive investments. Its economy has increased by over 10% for 15 consecutive years. This huge development and urban regeneration is still seen today.

China's richest city, Shanghai competes successfully with rival Asian cities such as Hong Kong, Singapore and Bangkok. It welcomes people from all over the world to enjoy its special cosmopolitan atmosphere. You will like futuristic skyscrapers and fantastic hotels. There are a lot of restaurants noted for their authentic cuisines. Dining will be one of the most remarkable and enjoyable aspects of your trip to Shanghai!

Shanghai has much to see, including Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the modern symbol of Shanghai; Shanghai World Financial Center, the highest multi-purpose skyscraper in China; Shanghai Museum; Yuyuan Gardens; Jade Buddha Temple and Jin Mao Tower. The best time to visit the city is autumn or spring.