Shanghai travel guide and discussion

Our first high-speed train journey in China, from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Huangshan North Railway Station, turned out to be much more memorable than we expected! We arrived early and were standing near the front of the queue, ready to board. Everything seemed to be going smoothly until the final ticket check at the entrance to the train. Our passports caused a problem, and suddenly we couldn’t board as planned. The staff tried to help us using a translation app, and after some confusion, replacement tickets were issued. It was a stressful moment because we didn’t know how the situation would end. But then came an unexpected surprise! We had originally booked First Class, but our new tickets were upgraded to Business Class. What started as a worrying situation suddenly became one of the highlights of our journey. Sometimes, travel really does surprise you when you least expect it! The difference was exciting for us because this was our very first high-speed train experience in China. Business Class was comfortable, with spacious seats and a relaxing atmosphere. We also enjoyed the snacks and tea during the journey. It was a lovely opportunity to sit back, look around, and experience another side of travelling by train in China. I love discovering how different countries organise their transport systems. Chinese high-speed trains are an important part of travelling around the country, and experiencing one ourselves was something we had been looking forward to. Getting an unexpected upgrade made the memory even more special. Now I’m curious about other travellers. When choosing train tickets, do you prefer to save money or pay more for extra comfort? And have you ever received an unexpected upgrade during a trip? #polltime #ChinaTravel #ChinaHighSpeedRail #TrainTravel #TravelSurprises #Shanghai #Huangshan #hotdiscussions

The Huangpu Yanzhong Greenland is the main venue this year. I liked the Birdsong and Fragrant Flowers area and the night heron installation by the lake the most. The lighting is soft and blends in with the woods and the lake; it's not one of those flashy light shows. Tips: ▪️ Time: Sept 17–Oct 16, lights on at 6:30 PM, ends at 11:00 PM ▪️ Transportation: You can get off at Dashijie Metro Station, Exit 3. After you finish, you can go directly to Exit 4 of the Site of the First CPC National Congress · South Huangpi Road Metro Station. ▪️ Admission: The greenland is free. The concert hall projection show is free but requires a booking. It's very crowded at night, and the boardwalk by the lake is quite narrow, so watch your step when taking photos. The mist is intermittent, so you'll need a bit of luck to catch the Tyndall light.

The first Shanghai branch of the Taiwanese coffee brand ALL DAY is located in the century-old Feiyueli quarter on Wuyi Road, inside a former Feilo sound recording factory building. What draws people here most is the sense of relaxation that stays with you from morning to evening. ✨ Why It's Worth a Visit · A sun-drenched corner: three huge floor-to-ceiling windows. In the afternoon, sunlight floods the space, and outside you see the red-tiled roofs of old houses and the golden plane trees of Wuyi Road. Every shot looks like a light-filled postcard. · The atmosphere of a century-old quarter: spacious, never crowded. On the second floor, small exhibitions are sometimes held. Inside — industrial style mixed with warm wood; outside — seats where you can sit in the fresh air. · Coffee and light bites: the focus is on pour-over — rich bean aroma. Paired with a soft bagel or a small cake, you can glide from breakfast to afternoon tea. The music is soft, Wi-Fi is stable, and there are power sockets — you can work on a laptop, read, or simply gaze out the window without being disturbed. 💰 Prices · Average spend: around ¥50 per person. · Recommended: Dirty coffee, champion SOE pour-over. · Light bites: bagels, small cakes — perfect with coffee. 💡 Practical Info · Address: Wuyi Road, Feiyueli quarter (near Yan'an West Road). · Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM. 💛Tip: window seats in the soft sofa area go fast — better to arrive early. The quarter also has Korean and Western restaurants, so you can easily stay for a second round. #china #shanghai #localfood #cafe

Shanghai often makes you feel that you should keep moving: another landmark, another neighbourhood, another photograph. Yet one of my favourite walks in the city became memorable precisely because, for a while, we stopped trying to see as much as possible. We started from Nanjing Road and walked towards Suzhou Creek. Almost immediately, the atmosphere changed. There were very few people along the water, and the city felt unusually quiet and peaceful. Instead of following a checklist, we simply continued along the riverbank and let the route unfold naturally. Our first proper stop was the Shanghai Postal Museum. Its collection of old postage stamps was surprisingly extensive, although we are not serious stamp enthusiasts. We spent more time looking at the building itself. Sometimes a museum is worth entering not only for its exhibits, but also for the character of the place housing them, and this was one of those occasions for us. Afterwards, we returned to the waterfront and found a cafe overlooking the water, with the Oriental Pearl Tower visible in the distance. This became the moment I remember most clearly from the entire walk. We sat beside Suzhou Creek with cold coffee and dessert, watching everyday life pass around us. Nothing dramatic happened, and there was no famous attraction demanding our attention. We did not need to reach the next place quickly or search for the perfect photograph. We could simply sit, look at the water and observe Shanghai from a distance. Eventually, we continued towards North Bund. The walk gradually brought the familiar skyline back into view, but by then it felt less like the main destination and more like a natural ending to a quiet afternoon. The route connected several very different versions of Shanghai: busy Nanjing Road, the calm banks of Suzhou Creek, the historic Postal Museum and the open waterfront of North Bund. Yet the best part was not any individual stop. It was the space between them and the freedom to pause whenever we wanted. If you try this walk, leave some time unplanned. Enter the museum if it catches your attention, choose a cafe by the water and resist the urge to turn every stop into another task. Sometimes slow travel is not about visiting fewer places. It is about giving yourself enough time to notice where you already are. Do you plan quiet moments into your city trips, or do they usually happen by accident? #slowtraveling #Shanghai #SuzhouCreek #ShanghaiPostalMuseum #NorthBund #ChinaTravel #CityWalk #hotdiscussions

After a whole day exploring Sanqingshan, we had one more journey ahead of us: the train from Shangrao to Shanghai. We had spent the day enjoying the mountain scenery, but by the time we were ready to leave, we really wanted to stretch out and rest. That was our reason for choosing Chinese high-speed rail business class. The first thing that mattered to us was the seat. It reclined into a flat position, turning the journey into an opportunity to lie down instead of spending more time sitting upright. After a day on our feet, that felt like the most useful upgrade we could have chosen. A blanket, pillow and slippers were provided too. These might sound like small extras, but together they made it much easier to settle in. Taking off our shoes, putting on slippers and getting comfortable felt particularly welcome after the mountain. The business-class section occupied a separate space at the front of the train, with a dedicated attendant. There was also a hot meal and a complimentary minibar with tea and other drinks, so the experience included more than just a larger seat. «Business class» can be difficult to imagine until you see what is actually offered: the reclining seat, the separate cabin, the bedding, the chargers, the slippers and the food and drinks. For this journey, the timing made the difference. We chose the upgrade because we were tired after Sanqingshan and wanted comfort on the way to Shanghai. Being able to lie down was the main benefit for us. Would you make the same choice after a full day of sightseeing? Vote below! 👇 #polltime #hotdiscussion #chinatravel #highspeedrail #businessclass #traintravel #sanqingshan #shangrao #shanghai #localdiscoveries

A Lujiazui spot they don't want to share (No. 1) Found the best runny egg and pork knuckle fried rice of my life so incredibly good!! Break the runny egg, coat the perfectly separated grains of fried rice, and take a bite I'm swooning. The pork knuckle is soft, sticky, and bouncy. The meat sauce thick-cut fries I ordered also blew me away! The thick-cut fries coated in tomato cream sauce are absolutely divine!

"Disney Town," located outside Shanghai Disneyland, boasts a wealth of charming shops that rival those within the park itself! This time, I've compiled a list of the shops that particularly impressed me during my visit, as a personal memo. 👇🇨🇳 🍜 ① IPPUDO Surprisingly, it's one of the few restaurants that has been in Disney Town since its opening! Unlike Ippudo in Japan, the side dishes are incredibly extensive, and the "Osaka-yaki," dumplings topped with takoyaki sauce and bonito flakes, is especially delicious. Don't just skip it because it's also in Japan; be sure to check out the menu at the storefront! 🏮 ② Kwei Mun Lung A restaurant where you can enjoy delicious dim sum, famous noodles, and xiaolongbao in a wonderful atmosphere reminiscent of the streets of Jiangnan. Recommended for those who want to enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine in a stylish setting. Since it opens at 10 am, having Shanghai's famous "scallion oil noodles" for brunch is the best! 🐢 ③ Chua Lam's Dim Sum A Hong Kong-style dim sum restaurant with locations throughout the city. They have a wide variety of menu items. I chose the adorable turtle-shaped pineapple bun. The warm bun with a subtle pineapple flavor was exquisite. The wontons I ordered with it were also delicious! 🥐 ④ PAPER STONE BAKERY (Probably) a bakery originating in Hong Kong. From their many croissants, I bought the "Anko Butter Croissant (28 NTD)"! The moist, thin bun with plenty of anko butter was fantastic, and I enjoyed it with Hong Kong-style milk tea. They also had an affordable breakfast set, which I'd like to try next time. 🍵 ⑤ AH MA HANDMADE I ordered my favorite "Matcha Jasmine Milk Tea." When ordering, I was able to add matcha ice cream, and to my surprise, it arrived separately! I tasted them separately, and both were incredibly delicious. 👜 ⑥ The COACH Coffee Shop I was drawn in by the unique sign for "Xiao Long Bao Soft Serve Ice Cream" and couldn't resist going in! I was a little nervous about the price of around 50 yuan, but when I tasted it, it had a flavor similar to soy sauce ice cream in Japan, and it was incredibly delicious. Even just strolling around Disney Town for a meal after playing in the park, or for a short break, is fun because you can discover new things. For those going to Shanghai, be sure to explore the food scene outside the parks! 🥰 I also post other overseas food information! →#MyOverseasFoodTrip

In the heart of Shanghai, there's a bookstore that makes you feel like a passenger on a luxury cruise ship. This is Hong Bookstore - a striking white building on the banks of Suzhou Creek, and one of the city's hottest photo spots right now. 💠Why It's Worth a Visit · Eye-catching facade: a streamlined white "cruise ship" shape, perfectly integrated into the riverside landscape. · Panoramic views: sweeping views over Suzhou Creek and the Shanghai skyline - every shot looks like a postcard. · Perfect sunset spot: the second-floor terrace is the best place to catch the sunset and simply relax. · Atmosphere: inside, you'll find an antique wooden piano, window seats overlooking the river, and bookshelves. Everything breathes creativity. ei Best Photo Spots · Second-floor terrace: shots with river views, as if you're on a cruise deck. · Next to the antique piano: vintage atmosphere. · Window seats: river view and bookshelves in one frame - perfect composition. 🍧Food & Drinks They offer coffee and afternoon tea with a luxurious vibe. The pastries are so pretty you'll want to photograph them before eating. 📌Practical Info · Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM · Address: No. 111 Beisuzhou Ra. (Hongkou District, near Henan Road) · Best time to visit: 3:00-6:00 PM (soft light for photos 💡Tip: the second-floor terrace is quite compact; bring a wide-angle lens. Weekends can get crowded.

When you go to Shanghai, a must-do is exploring the delicious Chinese tea and cafe chains that are everywhere! 🥤 This time, I'll introduce my "Top 3 Personal Picks" and other famous chains you should know about, from among the many brands I found there! ✨ 👑 [My Top 3 Personal Picks! Must-Visit Chains] ☃️MIXUE [What makes it amazing!] The king of overwhelming numbers of stores and incredible value! Their 5-yuan lemon water is famous, but my personal recommendation is the 7-yuan jasmine milk tea. You can enjoy a standard milk tea with classic toppings like tapioca, pudding, and nata de coco at this low price. [Fun Factors] Larger stores sell merchandise and sweets featuring the character "Snow King," and the regional limited-edition cup designs are adorable and exciting! ✨ (My dream is to visit the Hangzhou flagship store someday!) 🧉CHAGEE [What makes it amazing!] 】 This tea brand is now arguably the most popular not only in China but throughout Asia! Their carefully crafted Chinese teas are truly delicious and come in a wide variety. 【Recommendations & Souvenirs】 The most popular item, Bo Ya Jue Xian (Jasmine Milk Tea), is a must-try. Their original design tumblers and tea bags are incredibly cute and Chinese-style, making them perfect souvenirs! 🎁 🍨 Grandma's Handmade 【This is amazing!】 As the name "Grandma's Handmade" suggests, it has a gentle and comforting taste. 【Must-Try Menu Items】 The Matcha Jasmine Milk Tea is exquisite, but the Guangxi Liubao Milk Tea is also hard to resist! Actually, not only their tea but also their ice cream is superb, and the matcha ice cream in particular is a must-try! 🍦 🍊 【Other Famous Chains by Type】 🍹 Fruit Drinks HEYTEA: A familiar name in Japan, the originator of cheese foam drinks! More like a luxurious dessert than just tea 🍰 Cha Panda: A wide selection of fruit-based teas. Many seasonal menus are elaborate, perfect for when you want to enjoy something a little different! 🍵 Tea-focused MOLLY TEA: Puts a lot of effort into design, featuring collaborations with Mika Ninagawa and Kuromi – so cute! 🧋 Classic Bubble Milk Tea 50嵐: A famous Taiwanese shop now in Shanghai! The small golden tapioca pearls are incredibly delicious. Happy Lemon: A well-known shop that used to be in Disney Town. Recommended is the "Da San Yuan Milk Tea," a luxurious combination of tapioca, nata de coco, and pudding! Larger stores also offer snacks. 1 Dian Dian: A long-established and popular chain in China. A classic bubble tea shop that offers delicious and reliable bubble tea. CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice: A familiar and comforting taste in Japan. While the "2-cup set" is incredibly good value in China, it's perfect for sharing with others! ☕️ Coffee & Novelty Drinks Luckin Coffee: A popular coffee chain that's embraced digitalization. You can smartly pick up your order by scanning a QR code. They also offer tea, though the selection is limited, and their "Buttermilk Tea" was a delightfully novel experience! Cotti Coffee: A noteworthy chain founded by the founder of Luckin Coffee. While it's becoming more common in Japan, a great point is that they offer not only delicious drinks but also tasty snacks! 🥪 Chinese tea chains are evolving incredibly fast, and it's truly fascinating just to watch them! While sightseeing or exploring the city, be sure to find your favorite and try a drink! I also post other overseas food information! →#MyOverseasGourmetTrip

🚌 พักที่ไหนดี? ถ้ามี Shuttle Bus ฟรีไป–กลับ Disneyland 🎢✨ ใครกำลังวางแผนเที่ยว Shanghai Disneyland 🇨🇳 แล้วกำลังมองหาที่พักที่ช่วยประหยัดค่าเดินทาง แนะนำให้ลองมองหาโรงแรมที่มี Shuttle Bus รับ–ส่ง Disneyland ฟรี ค่ะ 🚌💨 เพราะนอกจากจะช่วยลดค่าเดินทางแล้ว ยังสะดวกมาก โดยเฉพาะวันที่เที่ยวสวนสนุกจนค่ำ ไม่ต้องเสียเวลาต่อรถหลายต่อให้เหนื่อยอีกด้วย 🏨 รวมโรงแรมที่น่าสนใจ ✨ 1. Heyitang Hotel Shanghai International Tourism Resort 👉 ส่วนตัวเราเคยพักที่ Heyitang ด้วยค่ะ ❤️ ใครกำลังสนใจโรงแรมนี้ หรืออยากสอบถามเรื่อง ห้องพัก / การเดินทาง / Shuttle Bus / ไป Disneyland ยังไง / ประสบการณ์เข้าพัก สามารถสอบถามมาได้เลยนะคะ ยินดีแชร์ข้อมูลจากประสบการณ์จริงค่ะ 😊 ✨ 2. Novotel Shanghai Clover Hotel ✨ 3. Shanghai JOYFUL YARD Hotel ✨ 4. Holiday Inn Shanghai Pudong ✨ 5. SHANGHAI-DECO Hotel ✨ 6. Shanghai Linyin Holiday Hotel ✨ 7. Holiday Inn Shanghai Pudong Kangqiao 🚌 ก่อนจองโรงแรม อย่าดูแค่คำว่า “Free Shuttle”! แนะนำให้เช็ก 6 เรื่องนี้ก่อนทุกครั้ง 👇 📍 จุดขึ้นรถอยู่ตรงไหน? ⏰ รถเที่ยวแรกกี่โมง? 🌙 เที่ยวสุดท้ายจาก Disney กี่โมง? 📅 มีรถทุกวันหรือเฉพาะบางวัน? 🎟️ ต้องจองที่นั่งล่วงหน้าหรือไม่? 🏰 รถไปส่งที่ Disneyland หรือ Disneytown? เพราะแต่ละโรงแรมอาจมี รอบรถและเงื่อนไขแตกต่างกัน และบางแห่งอาจปรับตารางตามฤดูกาลหรือช่วงเทศกาล 💰 เรื่องราคาก็เช่นกัน! ราคาที่ระบุในโพสต์นี้เป็นเพียง ราคาเริ่มต้น/ราคาโดยประมาณ เพื่อใช้เปรียบเทียบเท่านั้นค่ะ ราคาจริงอาจเปลี่ยนแปลงตาม 📅 วันที่เข้าพัก 🎉 วันหยุดและเทศกาลจีน 👨👩👧 จำนวนผู้เข้าพัก 🛏️ ประเภทห้อง 🔥 โปรโมชั่นในช่วงนั้น ดังนั้น ควรเช็กราคาและเงื่อนไขล่าสุดอีกครั้งก่อนจอง โดยเฉพาะ Shuttle Bus ค่ะ ❤️ แล้วถ้าให้เลือก? 💰 เน้นประหยัด: Shanghai Linyin / Shanghai JOYFUL YARD ⚖️ คุ้มค่า + เดินทางสะดวก: Heyitang 🚇 เน้น Metro + มาตรฐานโรงแรม: Novotel Shanghai Clover ✈️ ต่อเครื่อง/ใกล้สนามบิน: SHANGHAI-DECO ⭐ เน้นความสบายและมาตรฐาน: Holiday Inn Shanghai Pudong Kangqiao ส่วนใครกำลังเล็ง Heyitang อยู่เป็นพิเศษ เราเคยพักจริงค่ะ 🥰 มีอะไรอยากรู้เกี่ยวกับโรงแรมนี้ ถามมาได้เลยนะคะ เดี๋ยวแชร์จากประสบการณ์ที่เคยเข้าพักให้ค่ะ ❤️🇨🇳 #Shanghai #ShanghaiDisneyland #ShanghaiDisney #DisneylandShanghai #เที่ยวเซี่ยงไฮ้ #เที่ยวจีน #โรงแรมเซี่ยงไฮ้ #ที่พักเซี่ยงไฮ้ #ShanghaiHotel #FreeShuttle #เที่ยวดิสนีย์แลนด์ #Tripcom #TripTravel

I decided to celebrate my birthday in Shanghai and chose the immersion restaurant TASTE OF CHINA. It's not just a dinner, but a true immersion into Chinese culture, which makes it unique. The dinner begins with the story of Cheng Baobao, a panda who seeks inspiration for his dishes while traveling across China. Guests are given a passport for the "journey," which includes instructions for tasting the dishes. At the end of the dinner, they can take it home as a souvenir. An audio guide in multiple languages ​​helps you understand every detail of the story. During dinner, vibrant dance and kung fu shows take place, and each dish is served with a corresponding tea from its region of origin. The menu consisted of appetizer sets, Peking duck, sweet and sour fish, mapo tofu, hot pot, dim sum, and dessert. Despite the small portions, you'll be very full. The dessert wasn't particularly impressive, but my husband enjoyed it. Keep in mind that desserts in China are much less sweet than in the CIS. At the end, the chef, the panda himself, comes out to greet the guests for photos and passport stamps. If you're looking for a more immersive experience, you can book a Chinese-style meal on Trip.com for 500 yuan, but you'll need to arrive early. The dinner cost about 800 yuan per person, which includes all dishes and tea. Trip.com often has great deals; for example, we got a great deal on 1+1 tickets. 😉 I especially enjoyed the fish—tender grouper—and the Peking duck was simply delicious. It was an unforgettable day! The panda was so cute, and the setting and special effects were beautiful. ❤️ #shanghai #tasteofchina ##pekingduck #china ##shanghaidining #chineseculture #dinner #panda

During my trip to Xining, China, I came across something that at first looked completely ordinary — small dried objects displayed on trays and carefully packed into beautiful gift boxes. Then I found out what they were. This is Chinese cordyceps — Ophiocordyceps sinensis. You may see its name written in several ways: 🇬🇧 Chinese cordyceps 🔬 Ophiocordyceps sinensis 🇨🇳 冬虫夏草 — dōng chóng xià cǎo (dongchong xiacao) 🇷🇺 кордицепс китайский The Chinese name 冬虫夏草 literally translates as something close to “winter insect, summer grass” — and its story is even more unusual than its appearance. 🌿 WHAT IS IT? Ophiocordyceps sinensis is a parasitic fungus associated with caterpillars living in high-altitude areas of the Tibetan Plateau and surrounding regions. The fungus infects the underground larva, develops inside it, and later produces a fruiting body above the ground. That unusual life cycle explains why the natural product looks so strange: part resembles a caterpillar, while a thin dark structure extends from it. And yes — the specimens in my photos are real examples of what I saw during my trip. 💰 WHY IS IT SO VALUABLE? Natural cordyceps is difficult to find and collect. It grows in high-altitude environments and is traditionally valued in China and Tibetan regions. Quality, origin, size and condition can make a huge difference to the price. Some specimens are presented almost like luxury products: carefully sorted, placed individually in small tubes or arranged in expensive-looking gift boxes. That was probably the part that surprised me most. I had never imagined that something with such an unusual appearance could be displayed and sold almost like jewelry. 📍 WHY I SAW IT IN XINING Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, is an interesting place to encounter products connected with the Tibetan Plateau. While walking around the city, I noticed cordyceps in different forms: loose specimens, trays where they appeared to be drying or being sorted, individual pieces in transparent tubes, and elaborate gift sets. At first I simply stopped because I had no idea what I was looking at. A few minutes later, this became one of those unexpected travel moments I remember much better than another ordinary tourist attraction. Instead of just taking a photo and leaving, I started looking more closely at the different specimens and packaging. That is when I realized how important this product is locally. 📌 IF YOU SEE CORDYCEPS IN CHINA A few things I would recommend: · Don’t assume that every product has the same quality or value. · Ask about its origin and grade before buying. · Compare several sellers rather than buying from the first shop. · If the price is high, ask for clear information about authenticity. · Don’t rely on health claims from a seller as medical advice. · If you plan to take it to another country, check the current customs and import rules first. And even if you have absolutely no intention of buying it, seeing Chinese cordyceps in Qinghai is an interesting glimpse into a side of China that many travelers never encounter. ✈️ MY TAKEAWAY This is exactly why I like traveling beyond the most famous destinations. Beijing gave me the Great Wall and imperial history. Shanghai showed me a futuristic China. But Xining gave me something completely different — a look at the culture, products and traditions connected with the highlands of western China. Sometimes the most memorable travel story begins with one simple question: “What on earth is that?” Now I know the answer: 冬虫夏草 — Chinese cordyceps. Would you have guessed what it was just by looking at the photos? #travelersvoice #chinatravelcircle

This trip included a stopover in Shanghai during a 29-hour transit from Chengdu to Thailand. Initially, we planned to wait at the airport, but since we were already there, we decided to go sightseeing! 😂 💰 Our main expenses in Shanghai were around 2,500 THB per person, excluding airfare. ✨ If you have a long transit wait, you don't have to wait at the airport anymore! Save this plan and follow our adventure! 🇨🇳❤️ #ChinaTravel #Shanghai #TheBund #TripMoments #Trip

While walking down Nanjing Road, you absolutely have to stop by Princess Su, a famous puff pastry cookie shop. You can't miss it—there's always a crowd and the heavenly scent of fresh baking fills the air. 📍Nanjing East Road (Lines 2 and 10). People’s Square (Lines 1, 2, 8) is also a good nearby stop. These are a hit in Shanghai, loved by both tourists and locals alike. There's almost always a line. The cookies come in a variety of flavors like matcha, chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, and cinnamon. They even have large heart-shaped cookies that are perfect for gifts. You can buy them by weight to mix and match your favorites, or just grab a pre-packaged gift set. While they aren't drastically different from similar pastries elsewhere, it was fun to try all the unique flavor combinations!

During my trip to Shanghai, I came across 番茄口袋, a shop worth checking out if you enjoy browsing cute and interesting products. The store has a fun, eye-catching concept that makes you curious to explore what is inside. It is the kind of place where you can take your time looking around and might discover something unexpected along the way. What I enjoy most about visiting shops like this when travelling is finding items that are different from what I usually see at home. It also makes a nice little break between sightseeing, shopping, and trying local food. If you are exploring Shanghai, consider adding 番茄口袋 to your shopping list, especially if you enjoy discovering unique stores. Sometimes, the most memorable travel finds are the little surprises you come across along the way! #travelersvoice #chinatravelcircle

Tianzifang is more than just an art district. It’s a maze of narrow alleyways in the heart of the former French Concession, where traditional Shikumen houses stand side-by-side with galleries, workshops, and boutique shops. It’s incredibly easy to get lost here—and that’s actually the best part of the experience! Here’s a guide to save you time and help you make the most of your visit 👇🏻 🚇 Getting There Address: 上海市黄浦区泰康路210弄 (Lane 210, Taikang Road). By Metro: · Take Line 9 to Dapuqiao Station · Exit 1 – This leads you right to the entrance of Tianzifang, literally just across the street. · The walk from the metro to the entrance takes only 1–3 minutes. Important: Don’t confuse it with Exit 2—that one is about a 15-minute walk away. 🎨 What to Do in Tianzifang Tianzifang covers 7.2 hectares of winding alleys where people once lived and worked, now buzzing with creative energy. Essential experiences: 1. Get Lost in the Alleys This is the main attraction. There is no "right" path—just follow your curiosity. Every turn reveals new galleries, artisan workshops, cozy cafes, and unique shops. 2. Find Your Perfect Souvenirs Tianzifang is a treasure hunter’s paradise. You’ll find everything from designer T-shirts with Chinese motifs to handmade ceramics and exquisite tea sets. 3. Visit a Cat Cafe In Alley 248, you’ll find Mocha Cat Cafe—a cozy spot filled with fluffy residents where you can take a break from walking. 4. Taste the Local Treats Don’t miss the Butterfly Cookies (蝴蝶酥)—a classic Shanghai pastry that’s light and crispy. 💬 My Story: I was just about to leave when I heard a meow from behind a door. I peeked inside and discovered a cat cafe. I ended up staying for an hour, just watching the cats, and left feeling so happy. Sometimes the best moments happen when you take a "wrong" turn 😊 🌆 Tianzifang at Night: A Different Side If you have time, come back in the evening. As the sun sets and the lanterns flicker on, the quarter transforms—it becomes quieter, more romantic, and slightly mysterious. While it’s loud and bustling during the day, the evening is perfect for a peaceful stroll, window shopping, or grabbing a drink at a bar. The atmosphere changes completely—it feels more like a small European town than the center of Shanghai. What to do in the evening: · Walk the quiet alleys—after 7:00 PM, the crowds thin out, making it the perfect time for photos. · Visit a bar or cafe—many spots stay open until 10:00 or 11:00 PM. There are cozy places with wine, cocktails, and live music. · Catch the "Golden Hour"—arriving an hour before sunset provides soft, warm lighting that makes for magical photos. · Admire the contrast—the old Shikumen walls look particularly atmospheric under the glow of the lanterns. We once returned after dinner and didn't regret it: the evening lights, the reflections in puddles after a rain, and the few passersby made for a truly special experience! 🛍️ What to Buy and How Much it Costs Qingzhi Hand Creams This brand is a Tianzifang legend. They sell creams featuring specific birth dates (each day of the year has a unique floral design). Price: around 55 RMB. Tip: The shop offers free engraving on the tins. LUSHANGHAI (路上海) Designer T-shirts Original T-shirts with Chinese motifs (dragons, Shanghai scenes, Wukong). Prices: 99–200 RMB. 100% cotton with over 500 designs. Traditional Tea Sets In the tea shops, you can buy teapots, cups, and full sets ranging from traditional to modern styles. They pack them very securely for travel. Pins, Magnets, and Postcards Small souvenirs featuring Shanghai landmarks. Prices: around 19–49 RMB. Shanghai Sweets White Rabbit (大白兔)—the famous creamy milk candies. Local tourists often buy 500g bags for 50–60 RMB as gifts. 🍜 Where to Eat (with Prices) Wei Xiang Zhai (味香斋) – A legendary noodle shop featured in the Michelin guide for its sesame noodles. Price: around 14 RMB per serving. Wang Jiao Lu Hao (王娇露号) – Try the Cantonese dessert "Double Skin Milk" (双皮奶). Price: around 15 RMB. Butter% – A popular spot known for sugar-free desserts and matcha cake. It’s usually busy! Local Snacks: Try Shanghai Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) or Shengjianbao (pan-fried pork buns)—prices range from 20–40 RMB. 💡 Pro-Tips and Life Hacks 1. Visit in the Morning or at Sunset From 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, it’s relatively quiet—perfect for photos and browsing. Crowds peak in the afternoon, but the atmosphere becomes wonderful again in the evening as the people leave. 2. Don’t Fear the Detours Tianzifang is a maze, and the most interesting spots are often tucked away from the main thoroughfares. If you see a narrow passage, go down it! 3. Make a Day of It Nearby is Sinan Road, famous for its French plane trees, as well as the Shanghai Museum of Glass. You can easily spend a wonderful whole day in the area. 💬 Final Thoughts Tianzifang isn’t trying to be "perfect." It feels alive: the weathered walls, plants spilling out of windows, the scent of tea and coffee, and the sound of footsteps on the pavement. I spent hours here and left with hands full of souvenirs and a light heart. The atmosphere is what stayed with me most—it’s warm and cozy, like stepping into a different world where time moves slower. We sipped tea in a tiny shop, watched the world go by, and I thought: this is happiness—just being here, in this labyrinth where every turn is a new discovery ✨ If you’re in Shanghai, you must visit. And remember: there are no wrong turns, only new discoveries.

China's first CAFÉ DIOR is tucked away on the third floor of the Dior boutique in Qiantan Taikoo Li (Pudong). French elegance and Asian accents come together in a deep-blue space: houndstooth chairs, cannage-pattern tableware, and golden brass details classic Dior codes throughout. ✨ Why It's Worth a Visit · A Michelin three-star female chef at the helm: the menu is curated by Anne-Sophie Pic. Dishes are inspired by Christian Dior's favourite recipes and the brand's iconic symbols. · Desserts as art: the signature "Gris Dior" oval cake with rose, raspberry, and a light tartness. Sweet, but not cloying. · Outdoor terrace: no reservation needed. Coffee in the garden on a nice day is a pleasure of its own. 💰 Prices · Coffee: americano — 68 yuan, latte/cappuccino — 78 yuan. · Desserts: cake — around 100 yuan, signature rose cake — 198 yuan. · Main courses: lobster pasta — 398 yuan, wagyu beef tenderloin — 428 yuan. · Average spend: around 350–400 yuan. If you go just for afternoon tea, it works out better value. 💡 Good to Know · Address: Pudong, Dongyu Road, 500, Qiantan Taikoo Li, S-L3-14. · Opening hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM. 🪞Tip: indoor tables are best booked in advance; the terrace requires no reservation. If you're after photos and atmosphere, afternoon tea is the best value.

🛒 How we accidentally found a store with SUPER CHEAP treats in Shanghai! A story about stopping in for a simple bottle of water and leaving with bags stuffed with gifts for the whole family and friends 😂 We were just walking around Shanghai, it was hot outside, and we decided to pop into the nearest market to buy something to drink. We weren't expecting anything special, but what we saw inside literally shocked us! 😱 We accidentally stumbled upon the store: Hǎo Xiǎng Lái Lingshi (Hǎo Xiǎng Lái Lingshi) 💥 Why is this place a tourist paradise? The prices are shocking! Even everyone's favorite and familiar 7-Eleven is nervously smoking in the background. The prices on snacks and drinks here are 2, even 3 times lower! Assortment: Huge shelves filled with the most unusual Chinese sweets, crazy-flavored chips, dried seafood, marmalade, and teas. Our haul: We ended up with a whole heap of unique Chinese treats to give to friends and family, and at the checkout, we couldn't believe our eyes—we only paid about 1,000 rubles for this huge pile of purchases! 🔥 📍 Address: Remember or save the characters: 好想来零食 (China, Shanghai). The easiest way is to enter the name into Chinese maps (Baidu or Amap)—it's a chain store, and you'll easily find the nearest branch to your location! 💡 Lifehack: Don't buy souvenir sweets at the tourist shops downtown—go straight here. You'll find a way to buy gifts for everyone you know for next to nothing! #shanghai #china #china2026 #shanghai2026

I've calculated the total cost of a 10-night solo trip from Shanghai to Beijing in September 2026: Flights: 46,527 rubles Hotels for 10 nights (5 in Beijing and 5 in Shanghai): 34,612 rubles Flight from Shanghai to Beijing: 8,473 rubles Food: ¥2,140.32, ₽27,083.95 Fare ¥308.96, ₽3908.34 Shopping ¥3862.80, ₽48864.42 Souvenirs ¥747.10, ₽9450.81 Other (charging cable, raincoat at Disney, small items) ¥95.60, ₽1209.34 Attractions (payable on site) ¥170, ₽2150.50 Attractions (payable BEFORE the trip, Disneyland, Universal Studios, Great Wall of China) ₽13764.18 Additional expenses before the trip (airport transfer due to early departure, SIM card) ₽2146.66 Total for a budget solo trip: ₽198190.

Looking for places in China that combine history, stunning architecture and breathtaking scenery? These three ancient villages are a must: 1️⃣ Zhouzhuang – The Venice of the East Near Shanghai, famous for its canals and ancient stone bridges. Gliding by boat past traditional houses reflected in the water is unforgettable. 👉 Tip: go early in the morning to avoid crowds. 2️⃣ Hongcun – A village straight out of a painting 🎨 In Anhui province and featured in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. White walls, dark-tiled roofs and a lake that mirrors it all. 👉 Tip: stay until sunset, the reflections are magical. 3️⃣ Tulou Area – Fujian’s circular earthen buildings 🏯 The Tulou are communal earth buildings and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visiting them feels like stepping into another era, where community life remains vibrant and untouched. 👉 Tip: Explore both the famous structures and lesser-known ones for a truly authentic experience. 💬 Which of these villages would you visit first? ✨ Save this post for your next trip to China!

Amap / Gaode Maps — A Step-by-Step Guide This app is the most convenient tool for finding real Chinese addresses, planning routes, and checking metro/bus schedules, travel times, and—most importantly—the specific station exit you need. In China's massive megacities, taking the wrong exit can easily cost you an extra 15–20 minutes of walking around a single block. 😵💫 📱 What to Install Search for: 高德地图 or Amap It is best to install it early and practice a bit before your trip. The interface is primarily in Chinese, but the basic logic is easy to pick up: 📍 map point 🚇 metro 🚌 bus 🚕 taxi 🚶 walking 🔎 The Golden Rule: Search in Chinese This is the most important tip. Instead of: Temple of Heaven Use: 天坛 Instead of: Forbidden City Use: 故宫博物院 Instead of: Universal Beijing Resort Use: 北京环球度假区 Using the Chinese name almost always yields a more accurate result. 💡 That’s why I save every location in my itinerary with both the English and Chinese names. For example: Temple of Heaven — 天坛 Then, just copy and paste the characters into Amap. 🗺 How to Plan a Route Find your destination. Tap the route button. And check your options: 🚶 walking 🚇 metro 🚌 bus 🚕 taxi Amap will show you: · how long the trip will take; · the number of transfers; · where to change lines; · how much walking is involved; · which transport method is fastest. This is where you truly start saving time. Because a route that "looks close on the map" in Beijing or Shanghai can suddenly turn out to be quite far away. 🚇 Amap is Especially Useful for the Metro It shows you more than just the station. It helps you understand: which line to take; where to transfer; how many stops; which exit to choose. Choosing the right exit is critical. In the Chinese metro, exits are labeled with letters and numbers: A, B, C, D or A1, A2, B1… Sometimes the correct exit is right in front of your destination, while another leaves you on the opposite side of a massive intersection. 📌 That’s why I always check Amap before leaving the station to see exactly which Exit / 出口 I need. 🏙 Another Useful Feature If a location has multiple entrances, parking lots, or buildings, Amap often shows them separately. This is particularly helpful for: 🎢 theme parks 🏯 large tourist complexes 🏨 hotels 🛍 shopping malls 🚉 train stations ✈️ airports Because "arriving at the destination" and "arriving at the correct entrance" are not always the same thing in China. ⚠️ What I Wouldn't Do I wouldn't try to navigate China using only English names. And I wouldn't count on a taxi driver understanding: “Take me to the Bird’s Nest” It is much more reliable to show them: 鸟巢 / 国家体育场 My principle is simple: English name — so I understand. Chinese name — so China understands me. 📌 The Essentials to Remember Before your trip: ✅ install 高德地图 / Amap ✅ save your key locations ✅ record their Chinese names ✅ check your routes in advance ✅ look up the necessary metro exits ✅ copy the characters instead of translating names manually Amap is one of those apps that might not seem essential at home, but in China, it quickly becomes an app you open ten times a day. Save this for your trip! 🇨🇳

Shanghai is one of the world's largest metropolises. In a city with 24 million people, it's crucial to plan your logistics in advance—especially when it comes to shopping. Through trial and error, I found a shopping mall that brings together leading European and Chinese mass-market brands. You'll find Zara, H&M, their main local competitor Urban Revivo, and the Japanese brand Muji. It also features Gap, Lee, Nike, Reebok, Decathlon, Anta, and Li-Ning. For cosmetics, there's the beloved European Sephora and its Chinese local equivalent, WOW Colour. The real gem of the mall is hidden on the basement level. It houses an entire underground city that recreates the atmosphere of 1930s Shanghai. You can take photos amidst large-scale decorations—there’s even a port with a ship and a railway! Plus, you can grab a bite at one of the many eateries. The mall is called Century Link Mall, located in the Science and Technology Museum area. 📍 Address: 2000 Century Avenue, Pudong, Shanghai. 🚇 Nearest Metro: Shanghai Science & Technology Museum (上海科技馆) station, lines 2, 4, 6. Nearest exit: 5. 🕒 Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Dalian 🍁, a seaside port city in northeastern Thailand, still holds some "unseen" charm for Thais. It boasts a romantic atmosphere, European-style architecture, and cool, comfortable weather during autumn (September-October). Importantly, it's less crowded than popular tourist cities! Here are some must-see spots for viewing autumn foliage, scenic streets, and amazing photo opportunities in Dalian. Let's take a look! 🍁 1. Autumn Foliage Spots Xishan Reservoir: A famous spot with stunning views of century-old maple trees. During autumn, the leaves turn a vibrant red, contrasting beautifully with the water and mountains, creating a picturesque natural backdrop for photos. Dalian Botanical Garden: A very popular spot during autumn foliage season, especially the ginkgo and sekyo pine forest area. The sunlight illuminates the golden yellow ginkgo leaves, contrasting with the green benches. Every angle is photogenic and charming. Xinhua Street, Lushun (Sun Valley, Lushun): One of the most romantic ginkgo tree tunnels. When the ginkgo leaves fall, they create a golden carpet across the street. 🏛️ 2. Beautiful Streets & Strolling Areas for Photos Nanshan Tourism Street: An area with old Japanese and European-style villas surrounded by ginkgo trees. The atmosphere is peaceful, perfect for a relaxing stroll and taking photos with the vintage buildings. Dalian Russia Folk Street: A historical street that still retains over 38 19th-century Russian-style buildings. The colors of the buildings contrast with the cool air and changing leaves, giving you the feeling of walking in Europe. 🌊 3. Must-See Landmarks to Complete Your Trip's Feeling Zhongshan Square: A circular square in the heart of the city, surrounded by century-old European-style buildings. The city plan is designed like bicycle wheels. It's great for taking photos from a high vantage point or simply enjoying the architecture. Dalian Venice Water Town: A canal village over 4 kilometers long that recreates the atmosphere of Venice, complete with gondolas and Italian-style arched bridges. The weather is wonderful during autumn, making it a beautiful place to take photos everywhere. 💡 Little Tip: In October, the weather in Dalian starts to cool down (around 10–20 degrees Celsius and may have strong sea breezes). Don't forget to bring a jacket or coat! You're guaranteed to get tons of unique and stunning photos! #TravelPlan #ChinaTravel #TravelReview #Dalian

There are high-energy metropolitan landmarks you visit once for a quick checklist, and then there are visionary architectural marvels that pull you back over and over to realign your perspective. For me, that recurring destination is the Shanghai Astronomy Museum, located out in the sprawling Lingang area. While most visitors associate Shanghai with downtown neon and bustling commercial districts, I keep returning to this world-class planetarium because its radical, orbit-inspired design offers an unmatched canvas for structural wonder. Leaving the dense urban core behind and heading toward the shores of Dishui Lake always feels like stepping away from earthbound clutter and entering a realm of pure mathematical and visual poetry. My repeat journeys follow a familiar, deeply cherished choreography designed to savor the building’s fluid lines. Mornings always begin right as the gates open, catching the early sunlight as it strikes the massive concrete, bowl-like inverted dome and the sweeping, curved steel facade that intentionally avoids straight lines or right angles to mimic celestial mechanics. I love spending hours tracing the dramatic interplay of light and shadow across the circular sky bridge and the giant glass sphere, continuously finding fresh compositional angles that feed my obsession with striking architectural photography. Walking through the soaring, column-free exhibition halls feels less like touring a standard museum and more like moving gracefully through an active, breathing spacecraft floating through the cosmos. Between architectural explorations, my return visits are grounded by simple, comforting routines that anchor the day. I always make time to sit quietly near the massive floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the tranquil landscape outside, sipping an iced latte from a museum cafe while reviewing my captured frames and jotting down fresh layout concepts. Before heading back toward the city center as evening approaches, I love taking a peaceful final stroll along the nearby lakeside paths, letting the quiet coastal breeze clear my thoughts. The Shanghai Astronomy Museum may sit on the far southeastern edge of a hyper-modern global megacity, but its breathtaking curves and cosmic scale always welcome me back like an old friend, offering a timeless space to pause, reset, and look up at the universe with wonder. #repeatdestination #travelersvoice #chinatravelcircle

Shanghai, China's most enchanting metropolis, is a place you might not want to visit just once! 💙✨ It's filled with spectacular skyscrapers, classic European architecture, and old town areas steeped in Chinese culture. 🏮 🌆 Stroll along The Bund and admire the panoramic views of the Huangpu River, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Pudong skyline – especially beautiful and romantic at night with its illuminated buildings. 🏮 Experience the charm of ancient China at Yuyuan Garden and the old town before exploring Nanjing Road, a bustling shopping street. Stop by trendy cafes in Wukang Road and Xintiandi, each offering plenty of photo opportunities. 📸☕ ✨ Shanghai offers diverse travel styles, catering to shoppers, cafe lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those who appreciate ancient history. Every corner is uniquely charming. 💙 Shanghai — a city that's not just modern, but also hides captivating charm in every street corner. 🇨🇳✨ #Shanghai #ShanghaiTravel #ShanghaiChina #ChinaReview #ShanghaiChina #ShanghaiTravel #TheBund #YuyuanGarden #NanjingRoad #OverseasTravel #ChinaTravelPlan #trip #tripcom

Shanghai is awesome, but sometimes you gotta escape the city buzz and check out the gems nearby! Seriously, these cities are SO worth it for a weekend getaway or even a quick day trip. And don’t stress about booking hotels or trains — I did everything with trip.com and it was sooo easy. Let’s dive in! Hangzhou If you haven’t been, Hangzhou is an absolute must. The vibe by West Lake is next-level peaceful. Love taking Insta pics? This place is gorgeous, especially during sunset! Address: West Lake, Hangzhou — ask your cab driver for “西湖” and they’ll know 😉 Opening hours: Park is open 24/7, but nearby shops close around 9:00pm. Jiaxing Jiaxing wins for hidden gems and chill vibes. The Nanhu Lake area is perfect for lakeside strolls and cute cafés. The old town street food is—no joke—SO GOOD. Address: Nanhu Lake, Jiaxing (南湖) Major spots are open from 8:00am-6:00pm. Wuxi If you’re into water towns and legit scenery, hit up Wuxi. The Liyuan Garden is a must — think gorgeous bridges, lush gardens, and epic photo ops. Address: Liyuan Garden, No. 21 Liyuan Road, Wuxi Opening hours: 7:00am-5:00pm Suzhou Suzhou = the OG silk city and those ancient gardens that are low-key dreamy! Chill at Humble Administrator’s Garden for the ultimate Zen moment. Address: Humble Administrator's Garden, 178 Dongbei Street, Suzhou Opening hours: 7:30am-5:30pm Seriously, these cities are close to Shanghai and the train rides are super quick (trip.com makes it a breeze to book). Pro tip 🚄: Book early if you’re going on a holiday for major savings and the best rooms! So next time you’re planning a trip, think beyond Shanghai — these spots are waiting for you! #citydaytours #china #shanghai #wuxi #hangzhou #jiaxing #suzhou #travel2026 #tripcom #localfood #naturalwonders #thingstodo

🇨🇳 Hello, Trip.com! My name is Ksenia, I'm a student from Russia, and I've been living and studying in Shanghai for two years. Before coming to China, I always wondered what it was really like to live here, not just visit as a tourist. Now, after living here for two years, I've visited many different cities, ridden countless high-speed trains, tried way too many Chinese dishes, and discovered many places I would never have found using a regular guidebook. Here I want to share my perspective on China from a foreigner's perspective: 🇨🇳 cities and places worth visiting 🍜 must-try dishes 🏨 hotels and my honest reviews 🚄 traveling in China ✨ little things I'm discovering while living here I don't want to just show you the famous tourist attractions. I want to share the China that opens up when you actually live here. So… nice to meet you, Trip.com! 🤍 Where should I go next in China? Let me know in the comments 👇

✨ Shanghai: Where the Future Meets the Past 🇨🇳 Shanghai is a city of incredible contrasts. 🌆 🏙️ Futuristic skyscrapers in Lujiazui 🌃 The famous skyline along the Bund 🌳 The charming streets of the former French Concession 🥟 Delicious local food on every corner Whether you love modern architecture, history, shopping, or cuisine, Shanghai has something for everyone! 📍 Save this information for your next trip to China!