With a name which translates as ‘city on the sea’, Shanghai is certainly a natural choice when it comes to luxury cruise destinations in the Far East. As China’s largest city, it’s very much the country’s future face, but is equally in touch its past, too. Indeed, the Huangpu River is partially responsible for creating the two districts; Pudong, with its futuristic skyline and The Bund, the best place to go to explore the city’s past.
Though Shanghai can trace its history to at least as far back as the first century, it took a long time for it to officially become a city. It was upgraded from a village to a market town in 1074 and was a country seat between 1292 under the Yuan Dynasty up until 1927, when it finally became a city. During the Ming Dynasty it developed extensively thanks to the building of a city wall in 1554, which helped to protect it from Japanese pirates, and the building of the City of God Temple in 1602 (to host a temple was a great honour for a place not recognised as a city). Shanghai continued to grow in importance as a sea port and indeed, the British occupied it during the first Opium War between 1839 and 1842, dictating its opening for international trade. After then, it became a thriving multinational city, despite having one of its key ports occupied by the Japanese during much of the Second World War. A return to Chinese control saw many changes in the city and following economic reforms in 1991, it is now a massive player on the economic and industrial world stage and a city which offers a wealth of sights to any visitor.
Shanghai World Financial Centre
Why?
Because it’s the tallest observation deck in the world.
What will I see?
For a taste of modern Shanghai and some amazing views too, this is the place to go. The centre is one of the tallest components of the ultra-modern Pudong skyline that you’ve seen in TV and film, and indeed, on our own website if you’ve been looking into Far East cruises. With a choice of three different observation decks, you can go as high as you dare, with the 100th floor one being the tallest.
The Oriental Pearl Tower
Why?
This is Shanghai’s single must recognisable landmark.
What will I see?
This equal parts futurist and oriental architectural wonder is another of Pudong’s must-visits. If you’ve already visited the Shanghai World Financial Centre you many not feel the need to scale it but it’s certainly worth a look, as each of its ‘pearls’ contains different attractions, including a dance hall, karaoke bar, restaurant and observation deck.
The Bund
Why?
Because it’s the city’s historical and cultural heart.
What will I see?
Though it’s one of Shanghai’s two halves rather than a single building or landmark, the Bund is indeed an attraction all in itself. It draws huge crowds daily but even more so nightly, when a stroll along the Huangpu River reveals the area’s beautiful architecture illuminated to stunning effect. A walking night time tour of the bund is a must if beautiful buildings are your bag.
Chinese Temple of the Town God
Why?
Because it’s the perfect architectural example of Shanghai’s past.
What will I see?
A beautiful temple built to honour Qin Yubo, the town’s patron God, who was designated so by the founder of the Ming Dynasty, the Hongwu Emperor. It’s located in Shanghai’s old town and is still an active temple, so you’ll likely see city dwellers lighting incense and saying prayers during your visit. The temple is a great place to photograph and a good example of the classic oriental architecture that you’ll no doubt want to capture during your visit.
Shanghai Museum
Why?
This is the perfect place to explore China’s past.
What will I see?
Eleven stylish galleries showcasing all manner of paintings, sculptures, bronze statues, ceramics and of course a liberal selection of jade and Ming pieces. Having opened in 1996, the museum is modern in its design, which is eye-catching enough in itself and built to resemble a Bronze Age vessel. Perfect if you have a little more time to spend in the city and these days, it’s free to get in, too.
Something a little different…
The French Concession
It’s likely that upon visiting Shanghai you’ll want to see all the main attractions and landmarks which make it what it is and immerse yourself in the culture of the orient. However, if you’re in search of an all-together different atmosphere, then head over to this residential area of the city, which was especially designated for the city’s past French occupants. Not surprisingly, there’s a Paris feel about the place, thanks to its tree-lined boulevards, occasional accordion music and street-side cafes.
By Simon Brotherton
Google