Shanghai is China’s center of commerce and largest city with metropolitan population of over 17 million. Most visitors include Shanghai in a Beijing – Xian – Guilin itinerary, an itinerary that is only an introduction to China at best.
Due to Shanghai’s geographical position at the mouth of the legendary Yangtze, you should consider adding a Yangtze River cruise to your China itinerary. While a great itinerary of China can be done in as little as 12-days only, allowing for a visit of its key sites, Shanghai – Yangtze River – Chongqing – Kuming – Dali – Lijiang – Shanghai, 20-day China Grand Journey is definitely a tour that packs in China’s most impressive temples, pagodas and pilgrimage mountains.
To see Shanghai key sites and monuments you will need minimum couple days. The typical sites to visit are the emporium-lined Nanjing or Huai Hai Road, the colonial-era Bund along Huangpu River, a showcase of Shanghai city center, a hangout of Shanghai elite in the 1930s.
You should see the glories of ancient China at the Shanghai Museum. A must is also the Temple of Jade Buddha and the old China town. Visit to a carpet factory provides for a taste of China’s manufacturing might. And adding a charming performance at the Children’s Palace always promises to impress.
After that you can visit Shanghai’s neighbors. Travel by train to Suzhou, noted for its legendary ancient gardens, now a UNESCO heritage site. The gardens were actually the villas of retired court officials and wealthy merchants. Tour the Embroidery Research Institute, North Temple Pagoda, Pan Men City Gate and the Garden of the Master of Fishing Net. Worthwhile is also a visit to a silk factory. Do not miss a boat ride on the Emperor’s Canal, aka “Chinese Venice”.
Not far from heart of Suzhou is a small picturesque town of Zhouzhuang, a place to go for a morning meditation in the Master the Fishnet Garden and to marvel at its many canals and architecture of Qing and Ming dynasties.
While in Shanghai it’s also fascinating experience to sightsee Shanghai’s aspect as the “City of the Next Millennium.” Great experience is to visit the 421-meter-high Jinmao building, a landmark skyscraper in the Pudong district of Shanghai. Another grand experience is to take a ride on the fastest magnetic train in the world.