Shanghai is a city that has been shaped by history. The town was founded as the French Concession later renamed the International Settlement. China then annexed it in 1949 and became part of the People’s Republic of China in 1955. Today, it is one of the world’s most important financial centers. Today, Shanghai is an international metropolis with more than 20 million residents. Shanghai has five districts: Hongkou District, Pudong New Area, Lujiazui, Jing’an, and Xuhui. Each district has its unique characteristics. For example, Hongkou District is known for its traditional Chinese culture, while Pudong New Area is home to some of the tallest skyscrapers globally. The following are some of the most famous landmarks to visit in Shanghai, Which includes
*The Bund
This is the main artery of Shanghai and runs along the Huangpu River from east to west. This area also houses many of the best hotels in Shanghai. “bund” refers to the dam or levee separating the river from the land. This is the major landmark of Shanghai. The Bund is located at the eastern end of the Huangpu River. Suzhou Creek borders it to the north and the Yangzi River to the south. The Bund’s western end lies at the mouth of Suzhou Creek, where it meets the Huangpu River. The Bund consists of three parts: the East Bund, the Middle Bund, and the West Bund. The East Bund is the oldest part of the Bund and is mostly occupied by luxury high-rise condominiums. The Middle Bund contains office towers and commercial buildings. The West Bund is the newest part of the Bund and is mainly occupied by luxury hotels.
*The Oriental Pearl Tower
It is the second-highest building in Shanghai after the Jinmao Tower. At 1,398 feet, the Oriental Pearl Tower stands taller than the spire of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. Standing at the heart of the city’s financial district, the tower offers unrivaled views of the historic Bund and the surrounding waters. While at the Oriental Pearl Tower, you can enjoy fine dining at restaurants like Le Bistro Francais and dine at one of the highest rooftop bars in the world.
*People’s Square
People’s SquareSquare is situated near the Bund and marks the southern boundary of the old town. It covers an area of about 100,000 square meters. Beautiful gardens and trees surround people’s SquareSquare. In the center of the SquareSquare stands the Monument to the People’s Heroes. It is a memorial to the Communist Party of China. Nearby attractions include the former British Consulate and the Old Court House.
*Former French Concession
The Former French Concession occupies the northern portion of today’s Pudong New Area. It used to be a separate settlement before being absorbed by Shanghai proper. There are still remnants of the French Concession architecture, including cobblestone streets and stone villas. Many buildings have been converted into shops, art galleries, and cafes. The most interesting thing about this place is that it is close to the Bund but feels like a completely different world. After visiting here, I recommend walking along the banks of the Huangpu River. This will give you a chance to see another side of Shanghai.
*The Jade Buddha Temple
Jade Buddha Temple is located in the Fengxian area of Shanghai. It is dedicated to Guanyin, Goddess of Mercy. Inside the temple are thousands of statues depicting Guanyin in various poses. Outside the temple grounds are two large halls built with pure white marble. These halls contain hundreds of smaller statues of Guanyin. This temple features a lot of history because it was founded in 652 AD. For instance, the goddess statue inside the temple dates back to 652 AD. The temple has had its share of damage throughout its history. In 1795, the temple was destroyed by fire during the Qing dynasty. However, it was rebuilt within a few years. During WWII, when Shanghai fell to the Japanese, they vandalized the temple and defaced many statues. Fortunately, all of the original artwork was preserved.
*Hangzhou Street
Hangzhou Street is a street located in Xintiandi in Shanghai. It is known for shopping at chic boutiques and upscale malls. Many fancy watch and jewelry stores, clothing boutiques, tea salons, art galleries, and barbershops. There are many places to eat, from Italian cuisine to Chinese food. Several museums are worth checking out, such as the Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Natural History Museum, and Shanghai Art Museum. You will notice many people walking around with their dogs in this area. They do not seem to mind if you take pictures or not. So go ahead! If you want to pet them, make sure you pay first.
*Yuyuan garden
This is another landmark in Shanghai and one of the largest gardens in the city. In the south of the old town, Yuyuan Garden spreads across 30,000 square meters of land. At any time of year, it is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Shanghai. The garden contains rolling lawns, lakes, temples, pagodas, bridges, and flowers. Visitors can stroll among the ponds, gaze up at the towering trees, climb the pagoda steps, wander through ancient cypress groves, or sit down for a rest.
*Shanghai World Financial Center
This is the tallest building in the world, exceeding the spire of the Sydney Opera House. SWFC sits atop 1,614,400 square meters of real estate. It houses numerous unique restaurants and luxury retail shops. A ride on the viewing deck on the uppermost floor provides an amazing view of Shanghai and the surrounding countryside. It is a landmark that cannot be missed.
*St. Ignatius Cathedral
This church is famous for its Western design. Above the main entrance of the cathedral’s front is a golden figure of Christ. Below the entrance is a mosaic tile work entitled “Christus Patients,” which translates to English as “Christ Bearing Burden.” The artist who designed this piece is a pioneer in modern-day Chinese sculpture.
Bottom line
If you travel with us at Cathay Pacific, we promise to provide you with comfort, convenience, and service that is truly second to none. Whether you choose economy, business, premium economy, or first class, your journey will be memorable.
