Old meets new

hanghai remains the most populous city in the world. Known as the financial and industrial center of China, it is also the most modern and busiest, with business districts, international
airports, bullet trains, as well as plenty of museums, temples and gardens.

But beyond its contemporary persona, Shanghai nurtures its share of touristy and vibrant cultural spots.

Yuyuan Garden

During the reign of Ming Emperor Jiajing (1559), a private garden was constructed for Fan Yunduan, an administration commissioner from the province of Sichuan.

The garden has an area of two hectares, big enough to house architectural marvels such as the Big Rockery, the “Naturally-Hollowed-Jade” boulder, Hall of an Emerald Touch of Spring, Ancient Opera Stager and the Inner Garden.

The only surviving garden from the Ming Dynasty remains a favorite destination to this day, as locals and tourists visit the place because of its decorative bridges, colorful pagodas and enclaves separated by what is called the “dragon walls.”

Tianzi Fang Located in the old French Concession area of Shanghai, Tianzi Fang is the go-to place of tourists and locals for a round of shopping and gastronomic adventures.

From its iconic landscape, the compound was turned into an area for cafes, galleries and less
expensive boutiques. Fortunately, the original structure was maintained, all thanks to efforts
of the artists, business owners and residents to fend off redevelopment.

Shopping streets

Xintiandi is a stylish street made of Shikumen houses. Over the years, the Chinese government developed it to cater to urban travelers. What makes it distinctive is its ancient building construction that is now home to bars, boutiques, themed cafes, galleries and museums. Walking around, one can feel the atmosphere of both the 1920s and the
21st century.

Another must-visit for shopaholics in Shanghai is Nanjing Road. Stretching 5 km from the Bund and westward towards People’s Square Metro Station, Nanjing Road has a lineup of flagship stores, malls, restaurants, cafes and international brands.

More than 600 shops are decorated with giant electronic billboards, as well as the traditional boutiques founded a hundred years ago.

There’s a lot to see and experience in Shanghai, from the old to the new.