ShangHai 上海 ferry ride : view of the Bund

The view of the classical Bund skyline from a ferry boat cruise along the HuangPu River ...

Shanghai is one of China's most dynamic and cosmopolitan cities, blending a rich history with modern skyscrapers and vibrant culture. Here's what you need to know as a tourist visiting Shanghai:

Historical and Cultural Landmarks:
The Bund: This iconic waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River features colonial-era buildings on one side and futuristic skyscrapers on the other, offering stunning views of Shanghai's skyline.

Yu Garden: Dating back to the Ming dynasty, Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden with pavilions, ponds, and rockeries. The nearby Yu Garden Bazaar is a great place to shop for souvenirs and traditional crafts.

Shanghai Museum: Home to an extensive collection of Chinese art and artifacts, including bronzes, ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy, the Shanghai Museum is a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts.

Jing'an Temple: One of Shanghai's most famous Buddhist temples, Jing'an Temple is known for its beautiful architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and towering golden Buddha statue.

Modern Attractions:
Shanghai Tower: Ascend to the observation deck of this iconic skyscraper, the tallest in China and the second-tallest in the world, for panoramic views of the city.

The Oriental Pearl TV Tower: Another iconic landmark, this futuristic tower offers observation decks, a glass-bottomed skywalk, and a revolving restaurant.

Shanghai Disneyland: Located in the Pudong district, Shanghai Disneyland offers a magical experience for visitors of all ages with its themed lands, attractions, and entertainment.

Shopping and Entertainment:
Nanjing Road: One of the world's busiest shopping streets, Nanjing Road is lined with department stores, boutiques, and restaurants. Don't miss the nearby pedestrian-friendly Nanjing Road East, known for its lively atmosphere and street performers.

Xintiandi: This upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment district features a mix of traditional Shikumen-style buildings and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

French Concession: Explore this historic neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, charming cafes, boutiques, and art galleries.

Culinary Delights:
Shanghai Cuisine: Sample local specialties such as xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried dumplings), and Shanghai-style noodles.

Street Food: Wander through the city's bustling food markets and snack streets to taste a variety of street foods, from savory pancakes to grilled skewers.

Practical Tips:
Transportation: Shanghai has an efficient public transportation system, including the subway, buses, and taxis. Consider purchasing a rechargeable transportation card for convenience.

Language: While Mandarin is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

Weather: Shanghai experiences four distinct seasons, with hot, humid summers and chilly winters. The best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, such as using polite language and avoiding loud behavior in public places.

Shanghai offers a captivating blend of old and new, with its historic landmarks, modern skyscrapers, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, shopping, or dining, Shanghai has something to offer every type of visitor.

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A guide to the magnificent Forbidden City (Palace Museum) in BeiJing

With Lulu's Daily In China ... Welcome to the Forbidden City Explore the imperial palace and ancient architecture of the Forbidden City in Beijing. Introduction The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is a vast imperial palace complex in Beijing, China. It served as the home of emperors and their households, as well as the ceremonial and political center of the Chinese government for almost 500 years. Location The Forbidden City is located in the Dongcheng District in the heart of Beijing, directly north of Tiananmen Square. History The construction of the Forbidden City began in 1406 and was completed in 1420. It was the Chinese imperial palace from the Ming dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty, housing 24 emperors. The complex covers 72 hectares (178 acres) and consists of 980 surviving buildings with 8,886 rooms. In 1925, the Forbidden City was transformed into the Palace Museum, showcasing extensive collections of artwork and artifacts from the imperial collections of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Attractions Meridian Gate (Wu Men): The main entrance to the Forbidden City, known for its grand architecture and historical significance. Hall of Supreme Harmony (Taihe Dian): The largest hall in the Forbidden City, used for major ceremonial occasions. Hall of Central Harmony (Zhonghe Dian): A smaller, intimate hall where the emperor prepared and rested before ceremonies. Hall of Preserving Harmony (Baohe Dian): Used for banquets and later for imperial examinations. Palace of Heavenly Purity (Qianqing Gong): The emperor's residence, representing his supreme authority. Hall of Union (Jiaotai Dian): A hall connecting the emperor's and empress's palaces, symbolizing their union. Palace of Earthly Tranquility (Kunning Gong): The residence of the empress and the site for imperial weddings. Imperial Garden: A serene garden area with ancient trees, rockeries, and pavilions, used by the imperial family for leisure. Clock and Watch Gallery: Displays a vast collection of timepieces from the imperial collection. Treasure Gallery: Houses valuable artifacts, including jade, gold, and other treasures from the imperial era. Activities Exploring historical buildings and courtyards Visiting museum exhibitions Photography Participating in guided tours Attending cultural performances and events Facilities Visitor Center Restrooms Gift Shops Cafes and Restaurants Parking Lots Audio Guide Rentals Guided Tour Services Visitor Tips Wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to stay for several hours. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately. Respect the cultural and historical significance of the site; behave appropriately and follow all rules and guidelines. Plan your visit to include the main attractions and leave time for exploring lesser-known areas.

ShangRao city, JiangXi province

With Walk East ... Shangrao is known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical sites. Here are some places to visit in and around Shangrao: Wuyuan County (婺源县): Wuyuan is famous for its picturesque countryside, ancient villages, and well-preserved traditional architecture. Visitors can explore charming villages like Likeng, Xiaoqi, and Wangkou, known for their Ming and Qing dynasty houses, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant rapeseed fields. Sanqing Mountain (三清山): A UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning peaks, deep valleys, and lush forests. It's considered one of China's most sacred Taoist mountains, with temples, pavilions, and scenic hiking trails offering breathtaking views. Linchuan Ancient City (临川古城): Explore the remnants of this ancient city, which dates back over 2,000 years. Walk along the well-preserved city walls, visit historical sites like the Linchuan Confucian Temple, and admire the traditional architecture and cultural relics. Shangrao Wuyuan Yanqing Temple (上饶婺源雁卿禅寺): This Buddhist temple, located in Wuyuan County, boasts a history of over 1,400 years. Visitors can admire the temple's architecture, explore its tranquil gardens, and experience Buddhist culture and rituals. Wolong Valley (卧龙谷): A scenic area known for its karst landscape, dense forests, and pristine rivers. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, bamboo rafting, and exploring the area's natural beauty. Jinggangshan (井冈山): Although located a bit farther from Shangrao, Jinggangshan is worth a visit for its historical significance as the birthplace of the Chinese Red Army. Explore revolutionary sites like Ciping and visit landmarks such as the Jinggangshan Museum and the Former Residence of Mao Zedong. Poyang Lake (鄱阳湖): One of China's largest freshwater lakes, offering opportunities for birdwatching, boat tours, and enjoying the natural scenery. Visit the Poyang Lake Wetland Reserve to observe migratory birds and other wildlife. Yushan Mountain (玉山): Known as the "First Mountain in Southern China," Yushan offers hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. It's particularly popular during the spring for its cherry blossoms and azalea flowers. Wangkou Village (望口村): A beautiful ancient village in Wuyuan County, known for its well-preserved architecture, ancient bridges, and tranquil rural scenery. Explore the narrow lanes, visit historic buildings, and immerse yourself in the village's traditional charm. Shangrao Bamboo Sea (上饶市竹海): Discover vast bamboo forests, winding paths, and serene ponds in this scenic area. Visitors can take bamboo raft rides, hike through the bamboo groves, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of nature. These are just a few highlights of the many attractions Shangrao has to offer, blending natural beauty with cultural heritage to create a memorable travel experience.