2026 Shanghai Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

Shanghai is a great place to visit in any season. Shanghai offers a different charm throughout the year 🌸☀️🍁❄️. Whether you prefer flowers, cool weather, city views, or a winter atmosphere, you can choose a time that suits your travel style. 🌸 SPRING | March–May Comfortable weather, around 10–25°C 🌷 Ideal for strolling through flower gardens, taking photos, and exploring outdoor attractions such as The Bund, Yu Garden, and the French Concession. ☀️ SUMMER | June–August Hot and humid, around 25–35°C ☀️ Ideal for indoor activities, shopping, visiting Shanghai Disneyland, or enjoying the Huangpu River view in the evening. 🍁 AUTUMN | September–November Cool and comfortable weather, around 15–28°C 🍂 One of the best times to visit Shanghai, especially for strolling around the French Concession and The Bund. ❄️ WINTER | December–February The weather is cool and humid, around 2–10°C 🧣 Ideal for enjoying the night lights, strolling along Nanjing Road, visiting museums, and experiencing the city's festive atmosphere. ⭐ If I had to recommend the best time to visit: 👉 October–November. The weather is relatively cool and comfortable, perfect for walking around and taking photos. 📌 In short: 🌸 Love flowers → Spring ☀️ Love activities/Disney → Summer 🍁 Love good weather + walking around → Autumn ⭐ ❄️ Love cold weather + festive atmosphere → Winter Shanghai is a city you can revisit many times because each season offers a truly different experience. 🇨🇳❤️ The weather and best time to visit information is based on the latest data from Trip.com, which indicates that Spring and Autumn are comfortable times for sightseeing, and Autumn, especially October–November, is particularly good for walking around. #Shanghai #ShanghaiTravel #ShanghaiTrip #Shanghai #ChinaTravel #ChinaTrip #Shanghai4Seasons #Tripcom #ChinaSelfGuidedTour

Shanghai’s skyline may be instantly recognisable, but it never looks quite the same twice. During my walks around the city, I photographed it from three different places: the classic Bund, North Bund and Lujiazui. Each viewpoint revealed a different side of Shanghai. The Bund offers the famous postcard view. From the historic waterfront, the Huangpu River creates a natural foreground while the towers of Pudong rise on the opposite bank. This is where the contrast between old and new Shanghai feels strongest. I especially enjoyed being there in the evening. Before the lights came on, the buildings were impressive but still felt distant. As the sky darkened and the illumination appeared, the entire scene changed. The reflections on the river, moving boats and glowing towers made the skyline feel alive. North Bund showed me the same city from a less familiar angle. The position of the towers changed, the river became a stronger part of the composition and the skyline seemed to open up in a new way. It was still unmistakably Shanghai, but not the standard view I had seen so many times before travelling there. Then I crossed to Lujiazui and stepped inside the skyline itself. From the Bund, Shanghai’s skyscrapers look like a single futuristic wall. In Lujiazui, that wall separates into individual buildings. Looking upwards from street level made me notice their shapes, scale and architectural details. Turning back towards the river also reversed the familiar scene: now the historic buildings of the Bund formed the skyline on the opposite bank. These three perspectives completed one another. The Bund gave me Shanghai’s iconic image. North Bund changed the composition. Lujiazui showed me what the skyline feels like from within. For photographers, I would not choose only one viewpoint. Even if the same towers appear in several photographs, the river, distance, light and direction can tell completely different stories. If possible, visit the waterfront before sunset and stay until the city lights come on — the transition is as memorable as the final night view. Which perspective would you choose: the classic Bund, North Bund or inside Lujiazui? #skylinescapes #Shanghai #ChinaTravel #TheBund #NorthBund #Lujiazui #ShanghaiSkyline #CityPhotography

Friends, as a seasoned Shanghai resident who has encountered countless pitfalls (although now I mostly go to Shanghai for business, I always manage to squeeze out a day or two to have a blast), I have to say, Shanghai is truly a captivating city! The Bund’s historic international architecture tells stories of a century gone by, the alleys are filled with authentic local flavors, and the skyscrapers of Lujiazui showcase the modern prosperity of a global metropolis. Many first-time visitors to Shanghai feel lost: the attractions are so spread out, how do you plan a route without backtracking? Don’t worry. Based on my many trips, I’ve divided Shanghai into five clear play zones. This detailed guide is perfect to save and use, ensuring you enjoy every moment!👇 🌟 How to explore the five zones? (with detailed routes) Part 1: Pudong amusement park check-in (family fun/dream trip) · Route: Shanghai Disneyland ➡️ Haichang Ocean Park ➡️ Wildlife Park · In-depth tips: If you’re traveling with kids or just young at heart, Pudong is your playground. ◦ Disneyland: Trust me, the fireworks show is a must-see! I recommend buying the premium pass to save tons of waiting time and experience all the rides. ◦ Haichang Ocean Park: The orca educational show is stunning, and the penguin house and underwater tunnel are perfect for photos. ◦ Wildlife Park: You can ride a bus to feed the wild animals and interact with red pandas. A must for family trips. Part 2: Old city cultural alleys (time-traveling through the lanes) · Route: Wukang Road ➡️ Tianzifang ➡️ Jing’an Temple ➡️ Yuyuan Old Street ➡️ Xintiandi ➡️ The Bund · In-depth tips: This is my favorite route, perfectly blending Shanghai’s cosmopolitan vibe with local life. ◦ Stroll along Wukang Road, where century-old Western-style houses line the plane trees. Every corner is a photo spot with a French flair. ◦ Explore Tianzifang, a maze of alleys filled with unique shops and trinkets. ◦ Head to the Bund at dusk, feel the river breeze, watch the historic buildings light up, and take in the iconic Lujiazui skyline across the river. The visual impact is incredible! Part 3: Yushan forest day trip (forest air and lung cleanse) · Route: West Sheshan ➡️ Chenshan Botanical Garden ➡️ Guangfulin Cultural Site ➡️ Yuehu Sculpture Park · In-depth tips: If you’re tired of concrete and steel, head west. ◦ West Sheshan: The highest point on Shanghai’s land, with a beautiful church at the summit. Great for hiking and panoramic views. ◦ Chenshan Botanical Garden: The huge greenhouse with rare plants and vast flower meadows is perfect for forest-style photos. ◦ Guangfulin Cultural Site: The iconic “underwater museum” is full of mystery, and the blue bricks and black tiles at sunset look like a traditional ink painting. Part 4: City center citywalk (the heart of Shanghai’s hustle) · Route: People’s Square ➡️ Shanghai Museum ➡️ Riverside Promenade ➡️ Lujiazui · In-depth tips: This route condenses the best urban sights in Shanghai. ◦ Spend the morning at Shanghai Museum soaking up culture. The vast collection of artifacts will amaze you. ◦ Take an afternoon walk along the riverside promenade. On a clear day, you’ll see the rolling Huangpu River on one side and Lujiazui’s skyscrapers on the other. ◦ Have dinner in Lujiazui while overlooking the Bund’s night view and experience the peak of Shanghai’s glamour. Part 5: Lingang coastal day trip (where technology meets nature) · Route: Shanghai Astronomy Museum ➡️ Haichang Ocean Park ➡️ Lingang slope car ➡️ Nanhui Mouth Seaview Park · In-depth tips: Perfect for those wanting a change of pace on the weekend. ◦ Shanghai Astronomy Museum: A top social media spot with immersive exhibits that take you on a journey through the universe. ◦ Lingang slope car: Feels like go-karting, thrilling for both adults and kids. ◦ Finish at Nanhui Mouth Seaview Park to enjoy the sea breeze and watch the rocks. Very relaxing. 🏨 Accommodation recommendations (best value) · First choice: Near People’s Square/Nanjing East Road This area is Shanghai’s geographic center and transport hub. It’s super convenient for the Bund, Yuyuan, and subway stations. Surrounded by malls and plenty of dining and entertainment options, it offers great value and is ideal for first-time visitors. · Alternative: Lujiazui area If you prefer a modern vibe or want to enjoy night views anytime, stay in Lujiazui. The riverside promenade is right downstairs, with many upscale hotels, though prices are higher. · Unique option: Near South Shaanxi Road/Middle Huaihai Road This is Shanghai’s most authentic fashion district, with many stylish boutique guesthouses and design hotels. The dining scene is trendy and charming, and shopping is very convenient. 🍜 Shanghai must-try food list When in Shanghai, get ready for the rich, savory flavors of local cuisine! · Local cuisine highlights: braised pork belly (rich but not greasy, melts in your mouth), crispy fried eel strips (sizzling and fragrant), and sweet and crispy fried shrimp. I recommend visiting old-established restaurants or small alley eateries for authentic taste. · Street snacks: pan-fried buns (crispy bottom, juicy inside), fresh meat mooncakes (best when fresh out of the oven), and scallion oil noodles (simple but incredibly flavorful). · Drinks: After shopping, treat yourself to a milk tea from “Shanghai Auntie” or “Yi Dian Dian” for a refreshing break. ⚠️ Experienced traveler pitfall guide (key points!) 1. Always book in advance! This is crucial! For popular spots like Shanghai Museum and Shanghai Astronomy Museum, you must book with real-name verification on the official WeChat accounts, or you won’t get in. Buy Disneyland tickets ahead too. 2. Plan your time and route wisely: Although Shanghai’s subway is extensive, attractions are still far apart. It’s best to group attractions in the same area on the same day. For example, Part 2’s route can be walked through easily, saving time and effort. 3. Bring your ID: In Shanghai, whether taking the subway, entering attractions, or checking into hotels, you’ll need to scan your ID. Don’t forget it. 4. Avoid rush hours: If you travel by subway, try to avoid the extreme rush hours from 8:00–9:30 AM and 5:30–7:00 PM, or you’ll be packed like a “photo.” 5. Dress tips: Shanghai has big temperature swings in spring and fall, so use the “onion layering” method. Summer is hot and humid, so be sure to protect yourself from sun and mosquitoes. Friends, do you find this Shanghai travel guide useful? Which zone do you most want to visit? Are you dreaming of Disneyland or the Bund’s night view? Feel free to leave any Shanghai travel questions in the comments! Wishing you a happy and satisfying trip in Shanghai! ✨

#slowtraveling 🌿 Slow Travel in Shanghai: Zhangyuan & Fengshengli Not every Shanghai trip needs to be about rushing from one attraction to another. Sometimes, the best way to experience the city is simply to slow down and wander. 🇨🇳✨ I spent some time exploring Zhangyuan and Fengshengli, two places where Shanghai’s old charm meets a more modern lifestyle. Instead of chasing a checklist, I walked through the lanes, admired the traditional shikumen-style architecture, stopped for a coffee, explored little shops and simply enjoyed the atmosphere. ☕🏮 What I loved most was the contrast — historic buildings and quiet corners sitting alongside trendy cafés, restaurants and boutiques. It feels very different from the busy Bund and crowded shopping streets. Sometimes, getting a little lost is actually part of the experience. If you had one slow-travel day in Shanghai, would you rather explore old neighbourhoods like these or spend the day around the Bund and Lujiazui? Are you a slow traveller or a “see everything in one day” traveller? 👀

Cover the old town, chic cafes, shopping districts, iconic landmarks, and a theme park all in a single trip! Day 1 🌆 Start at Yu Garden → Yuyuan Old Street → The Bund → Enjoy the night view of Lujiazui Day 2 🎢 A full day at the theme park! Hop on the rides, snap some photos, and cap it off with the evening light show Day 3 📸 Photography lovers will adore this! Wukang Road → French Concession → Tianzifang → Nanjing Road Day 4 🛍️ Wrap up any missed spots before heading home, including museums, the old town, shopping, and taking in the Shanghai skyline What I love about this trip is that every day brings a totally different vibe—from classic Chinese heritage and ultra-modern cityscapes to chic cafes and vibrant night lights 💕 If you're planning your first trip to Shanghai, definitely save this itinerary for inspiration! 4 Days 3 Nights

#bucketlistdestinations Hi, guys! To begin with: let me ask you something that I think most travelers can relate to immediately: Have you ever had a place on your bucket list for so long that by the time you actually get there, the gap between the imagined version and the real one feels almost disorienting to close? For me, that place was the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Shanghai, and finally, after such a long time, I got the chance to visit this Unique place in person! Actually, I first encountered the Starbucks Reserve Roastery Shanghai through photographs online years before I had any realistic plan to visit China. The images were striking enough to make me stop scrolling and look properly: the enormous copper roasting cask dominating a space that looked nothing like any coffee shop I had been in, the architectural ambition of the interior, the coffee bars and the design details and the overall atmosphere of a place that had been built with a level of seriousness and intentionality that felt genuinely unusual. Someday arrived in December 2024, and I am genuinely glad I did not let it arrive without making it a deliberate priority. Walking through the entrance produced a feeling that I found surprisingly difficult to describe in the moment. It was not the ordinary feeling of arriving somewhere new and interesting. It was something more specific and more personal than that, closer to the feeling of closing a loop that has been open for a long time. Not just I am visiting an impressive coffee destination, but I actually made it here. The space itself absolutely justifies whatever expectations the years of photographs had built. The scale of it is the first thing that registers: this is an enormous room, and the enormity is used well rather than simply existing as empty volume. Moreover, the design details are worth paying specific attention to, and this is the most important practical advice I can offer anyone planning to visit: do not rush. The temptation upon entering a space this visually rich and this obviously photogenic is to move quickly through it, capturing images before moving on, treating the visit as a box to check rather than an experience to inhabit. Resist that temptation. Personally, I took considerably more photographs than I had planned to, which is my standard indicator that a place has exceeded its pre-arrival version in my imagination. But more than the photographs, more than the coffee, and more even than the architecture, what this visit gave me was a reminder that bucket lists serve a function beyond simply organizing aspirations. What about you, guys? Is there a place on your travel bucket list that you have been imagining for years and have not yet managed to visit? Or if you have already checked something significant off your list, what did the moment of finally being there actually feel like? I would genuinely love to hear your bucket list stories in the comments! Thanks! #bucketlisttravel #bucketlistdestination #bucketlistdestinations #hotdiscussions #Hotdiscussion #travel #chinatravel #travelchina #shanghaitrip #starbucksreserveshanghai #starbucksreserveroastery #chinatravelcircle #chinatrip

4 days and 3 nights in Shanghai like this‼️ No backtracking—just copy this itinerary Don’t wander around aimlessly, especially if it’s your first time here. If you try to squeeze the Bund, Wukang Road, Xintiandi, Jing’an Temple, and Tian’ai Road all into one day, chances are you’ll spend the day either walking or on your way to the next spot. So this time, we’ve divided Shanghai into 4 sections for you to explore👇 🧡 Day 1|Classic Shanghai landmarks 💜 Day 2|Wutong old villas city walk 💙 Day 3|History, culture, and Shikumen 🩷 Day 4|Hongkou artsy stroll · ⏰ Getting around the city: 🚶 About 1 km: walk directly 🚲 1–3 km: biking is more comfortable 🚇 Cross-region: prioritize the subway 🚕 Too tired/raining: take a taxi · 🏨 Where to stay? 📍 Jing’an area 📍 People’s Square/Nanjing Road area 📍 Around Xintiandi · 🍜 Must-try Shanghai food 🥰 Li Bai Crab・Crab roe noodles・Linjiang restaurant (Bund・Yuyuan Garden locations) 🥰 Bund family feast・Shanghai cuisine (Bund Nanjing Road / Bund Yuyuan Garden locations) 🥰 Hu Mansion・Shanghai cuisine · ⚠ Attraction tips 1⃣ The Bund lights up from 7 PM to 10 PM. It’s best to visit after 9:30 PM to avoid crowds. Or consider the North Bund for great views with fewer tourists. 2⃣ Jing’an Temple’s night lights are beautiful but only turn on at 6 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. You can visit busier spots like Xintiandi or Nanjing Road, but watch your belongings carefully to avoid loss. 3⃣ Wutong old street has many private residences. Don’t get too close to doors or windows when taking photos, and keep quiet to avoid disturbing residents. 4⃣ Shanghai Museum and Yuyuan Garden get crowded during summer. Remember to book tickets online in advance.

I've been dying to visit this place! The Shanghai Astronomy Museum (Planetarium) isn't just a museum—it's a literal portal to the universe 🌌 Here’s my ultimate guide to make your visit absolutely perfect 🙌🏼 📍 Address: Shanghai Astronomy Museum, No. 380 Lingang Avenue, Nanhui New City, Pudong, Shanghai. 🚇 How to get there: · Subway: Line 16 to Dishui Lake Station, Exit 3 or 4. · From the subway, it’s a 10-15 minute walk or a 5-minute taxi ride (around 10 RMB). 🕐 Opening hours: · Tuesday–Friday & Sunday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). · Saturday: 9:30 AM - 8:00 PM (last entry at 7:00 PM). · Monday - Closed. 🎫 Ticket prices: · Adults: 30 RMB; · Children (6+ years) & Students: 15 RMB; · Children under 1.3m: Free! · Add-on: Dome theater ticket - 40 RMB. 🔥 How to buy tickets (this is crucial!): · Where to book: The official WeChat account "上海天文馆" (Shanghai Astronomy Museum) or via Trip.com. · You can also buy tickets on-site at the ticket window, but you must bring your passport. 🛸 Inside: The three main zones and what to do there The building is designed in a spiral shape, symbolizing the orbits of celestial bodies. The round skylight (Oculus), the inverted dome, and the dome theater form a classic "three-body" structure. 1. "Home" (1st floor) - All about the solar system and our planet. Features massive models of the Earth, Moon, and Sun, real meteorites, and a breathtaking atmosphere. 2. "Cosmos" (2nd floor) - Explores time, gravity, light, elements, and life. You can chill in the "black hole simulator" and snap photos in the time tunnel. 3. "Odyssey" (2nd floor) - The history of space exploration. Showcases huge rocket models, the Chang'e lunar rover, the Zhurong Mars rover, and a stunning 1:1 scale replica of the Tianhe core module of the Chinese space station. 🎞️ Extra activities (book these the second you walk in!) Right after scanning in, jump on their WeChat account to reserve add-on activities or ask the staff for help immediately—they’re super accommodating 😌 🪐 What extra activities are available: · "Fly over the Milky Way" - an incredible VR ride; · "Journey to Mars" - an immersive dive onto the Red Planet; · Dome Theater - 40 RMB; · Optical Planetarium on the 1st floor - kick back on comfy bean bags and stargaze (each session is 9 minutes). 💡 Pro tips for visitors: · Get there right when doors open (9:30 AM), immediately book your extra activities, and then explore "Home" (1st floor) while the crowds are still thin. · Fully charge your phone or bring a power bank—you're going to take a ton of photos. · Bring water and light snacks. There are cafes inside, but the lines get crazy during peak hours. · Selfie sticks are strictly banned! · On Saturdays, the museum is open until 8:00 PM—don't miss the stunning evening illumination of the building, it's absolutely gorgeous 😍 💬 My thoughts: I spent 5.5 hours at the planetarium and completely lost track of time. Every single detail is perfectly executed: from the spaceship-like design to the interactive exhibits you just want to play with on repeat. The dark room with the galaxy projection blew my mind—it honestly feels like you're floating through space ✨ 🌟 This is a must-visit spot for anyone who: · Is obsessed with space and wants to see real meteorites, rocket models, and the Chinese space station up close; · Is seeking cultural discoveries—the museum doesn't just show science, it highlights the deep connection between the cosmos, philosophy, and human civilization; · Appreciates modern architecture—the building itself is a masterpiece, designed with astronomical precision and symbolism; · Wants to mix education with aesthetics—you can genuinely spend hours here feeding your brain and inspiring your soul. 🖇️ A bonus insight that amazed me: There’s a secret "space of silence" in the museum where you can just sit back in a chair, look up, and listen to the sounds of the universe—the hum of pulsars, the whispers of stars, and gravitational waves. It adds a layer of philosophical depth to the science that I never expected to find in a regular museum 🌠

While walking around Shanghai, I came across a place that felt like a veritable concrete labyrinth, where you can get lost and discover unexpected angles, while also experiencing the city's history. 📌 This place is the 1933 Old Millfun, a former slaughterhouse built in 1933. Today, it's a cultural center, but the atmosphere remains very unique! 🖇️ My walking experience: Honestly, I didn't expect the building to be so confusing. Inside, there are passages, spiral staircases, narrow passages, and bridges connecting different parts of the complex. The spiral staircases were especially memorable. They were made narrow on purpose so that workers could climb up without the cattle being able to follow them. It's both impressive and a little scary. I also discovered a "sky theater" on the top floor—a space with a glass dome where light falls from above, creating incredible shadows. From there, you can see the inner atrium, and it feels like you're looking at the city from another dimension 😊 This contrast—past and present, darkness and light, concrete and art—creates a special atmosphere that's hard to describe in words 🔥 🧭 How not to get lost and what to see: I got lost a couple of times, and that was part of the adventure! But if you want to see the most interesting things: 1. The central atrium—the main hall, a huge space with circular corridors. 2. Spiral staircases—there are several of them, each with its own character. Look for the ones leading to the second and third floors. 3. The "Sky Theater"—on the fourth floor, a glass dome and falling light ✨ 4. Covered bridges—there are 26 of them, connecting the buildings and providing unusual angles for photos. 5. The roof—it offers views of the city and the entire complex below. 📍 Important information for all tourists: Address: 611 Liyang Road, Hongkou District (611 Liyang Road). Metro: Lines 4 and 10, Hailun Road Station, Exit 2 or 3, then a 10-15-minute walk. Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM (most shops inside open after 10:00 AM). Admission: Absolutely free! Best time: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds, or after 4:00 PM. Photo: Sunny day from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, when the light falls beautifully. ☕️ What else is inside: Starbucks overlooking the atrium, perfect for a break after exploring. · Designer shops, galleries, and cafes. · Occasionally, exhibitions and fashion shows are held. 💡 Tip: Don't be afraid to wander down unconventional corridors; that's where I found the most beautiful photo angles. And don't forget to check Amap to make sure you're heading to the right entrance. 🖇️ What else to visit nearby: 1933 Old Millfun is located near the North Bund waterfront. You can combine the two: stroll here first, then head out to the river and watch the sunset against the backdrop of Pudong's skyscrapers. A perfect evening itinerary 🌆 💬 Conclusion: 1933 Old Millfun is a place where history isn't erased, but reimagined. It doesn't try to be beautiful. It's honest. And this honesty is its greatest strength. If you want to see Shanghai from the inside, not just from the postcards, this is the place for you. This is one of the few places where I truly felt like a traveler and explorer, not just a tourist 😌 #shanghai #1933oldmillfun #architecture #shanghaitravel #china #shanghai #slaughterhouse #architecture #labyrinth #china #chinatravel #chinatrip #travelchina

That autumn, when I was 44, HR called me into the office. When I came out, I was carrying a box. I had lived in Shanghai for 16 years. The mortgage on our old apartment in Pudong still had eight years left. Our daughter had just started middle school, and my wife worked in education training with an unstable income. That night, the three of us sat in the living room without saying a word. Later, I made a decision that all my relatives thought was crazy—selling the house and moving to Dali. My mother-in-law said on the phone, “Why stir things up at your age? What about the kids’ education?” I didn’t know how to answer. But I wanted to ask: life has come to this, is it wrong to try living differently? The first night we stayed at a guesthouse by the old town. Opening the window, we saw Cangshan Mountain. Our daughter chased cats in the yard, and my wife sat on the porch, lost in thought, saying, “It’s so quiet here it makes you want to cry.” In Shanghai, all we ever heard was the sound of drills from the neighbors’ renovations and car horns from downstairs. · -- 🔥 Why here No need for air conditioning in summer. The average temperature in July is just over 20℃. The breeze from Erhai Lake flows through the alleys, cool and refreshing. My wife has rhinitis and was congested all year round in Shanghai. After six months here, she’s more than half better. The air really is different. At the foot of Cangshan, the negative ion concentration is high. Before coming, I had insomnia for three years. Now, I’m nodding off before 10 PM. My liver enzymes also improved during a checkup. The doctor looked at the report and asked, “Did you move to a new city?” The flower fields and rice paddies look even better than in photos. The rapeseed flowers in Caicun, the rice waves in Xizhou, the succulents at Jizhao Temple—any snapshot could be a wallpaper. My wife now gets up early every day to go to the North Gate market and brings back fresh flowers to put in the living room. There are many places to explore, and it’s affordable. Cycling around Erhai Lake is free. You can hike any of the 19 peaks of Cangshan. Shaxi and Weishan are both accessible by high-speed rail, perfect for spontaneous weekend trips. The hot springs here are natural sulfur springs heated by geothermal energy, and it costs just a few dollars to soak all afternoon. My wife says it’s much better value than the spa membership she had in Shanghai. · -- 🗺️ Weekly rhythm Monday: shop at the North Gate market for the week’s groceries. Tuesday: bike along Erhai Lake, leisurely riding to Longkan Pier. Wednesday: spend half a day at a café in the old town, reading and people-watching. Thursday: have a vegetarian meal at Jizhao Temple and enjoy the flowers. Friday: pick up our daughter early from school and stroll around San Yue Street. Weekend: meet friends to visit Shaxi or Weishan, stay overnight, then return. Simple, but never boring. · -- 📌 Food and lodging You can rent a small house with a yard for just over 2,000 yuan a month. The old town offers options at all price points, from budget to luxury. The cost of a meal at the market is half of what it is in Shanghai. Local specialties include Erhai fish, wild mushrooms, and Rushan cheese. · -- 📌 A few reminders · Bring a jacket during the rainy season. It’s cool in the morning and evening but warm at midday, so layering is best. · Medical care is acceptable. The city has a top-tier hospital, and it’s a half-hour drive from the old town to the city center. · Think carefully about your children’s education. Yunnan’s resources don’t match those of first-tier cities. We moved when our daughter started middle school, but it’s better to move during elementary or after high school. · Don’t quit your job or sell your house on impulse. Selling our Shanghai home was a personal choice. We recommend renting for a month or two first to make sure you can adapt before deciding. A year later, our daughter wrote in her essay: “My dad seems like a different person. He used to frown at his phone all the time. Now he’s planting flowers in the yard.” Some paths can only be judged by those who have walked them. Whether Dali is a good place—you’ll know when you come.

There's a shop in Shanghai that has become legendary among tourists—the QINGZHI hand cream store ✨ Everyone knows about their signature birthdate creams; it's the brand's claim to fame, and I bought one myself during my first visit. But on my second trip to Shanghai, I stumbled upon something else—and I was absolutely blown away. The ICE CREAM series, specifically the "Strawberry Sweetness" scent. I just happened to notice the display that I used to walk right past without a second glance 😄 And you know what? I realized it's actually better than a lot of the date creams. Why? ✔️ It smells like delicate strawberries and ice cream—not overly sweet, just incredibly comforting; ✔️ The texture is creamy, nourishing, and absorbs quickly. ✔️ It looks just as gorgeous—you can get it engraved, gift it to friends, or treat yourself Priced at 65 yuan, it's totally worth it. I ended up buying three jars: one for myself, one for my bestie, and one for my mom. Everyone’s happy 😍 📍 What else you should know about QINGZHI in Shanghai: For all cream categories, they offer free custom engraving (a name, date, wish, or phrase) and wrap it up beautifully upon request. It makes the ultimate Shanghai souvenir 🎁 💡 Verified locations in Shanghai: · Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street branch. Look for the bright green storefront on 南京东路步行街 (Nanjing East Pedestrian Street) . · 55-57 Anfu Road (Anfu Road 55-57) - pink storefront. · Tianzifang (Lane 210, Taikang Road, No. 2-5) - near Dapuqiao metro station. 💡 Pro tip: Always double-check the store's address on Amap. There are plenty of knock-off shops popping up that copy QINGZHI's vibe but sell completely different products. Heads up: fake stores don't offer the nice packaging or engraving services. 🧴 Products & Prices: · Mini creams - 10 yuan. Perfect as a tester or a small gift. · Large birthdate creams - 55 yuan. · ICE CREAM series (Strawberry Sweetness) - 65 yuan. 💬 On my next trip to Shanghai, I’m definitely not skipping this display again and will grab a new one to try. I highly recommend you check out the ICE CREAM series too. It's truly one of a kind 🥰

Let me share our experience at the No. 3 Warehouse Creativity China Cai branch in Sky Vanke Plaza. We walked right in with zero wait time, which honestly ended up being the biggest perk of our visit 😅 Why was there no line? Because it’s located pretty far from downtown, meaning way fewer tourists. We swung by on our way back from Zhujiajiao (the "Venice of Shanghai"), making it a super logical pit stop. I highly recommend pairing these two spots in a single day 😊 📍 Address: 4th Floor, Sky Vanke Plaza, No. 66, Lane 2229, Songze Avenue, Xujing Town, Qingpu District, Shanghai (easiest way in is taking the escalator from the 3rd floor). 🚇 How to get there: Take Metro Line 17 to Xuying Road Station (徐盈路站), take Exit 4, and you're right at the mall entrance. It’s just a quick 2-minute walk from the metro to the restaurant. 🍽️ The Vibe: The place is absolutely gorgeous. The interior is stunning, featuring mirrored walls, LED panels, and unique installations. The whole space has a striking, futuristic feel ✨ 😍 The food presentation is next-level art. A lot of dishes come out with dry ice smoke or in funky shapes, and the desserts look like literal planets. You’ll want to snap a pic of every single thing. It’s definitely a spot made for the gram, and the aesthetics are totally on point. 😋 The Food: Let’s be real for a second. Only one dish really hit the spot: the Peking duck and the duck soup. Everything else looked amazing but had a very acquired taste. And let's face it, you can easily find plenty of other places for duck that are just as good, if not better. The planet dessert was the biggest letdown of all. 💡 The Verdict: Come here for the immaculate vibes and killer photos, not a gourmet experience. If you’re looking to get some awesome shots in a unique setting, this is your spot. But if good food is your top priority, I’d suggest going elsewhere. This location is perfect if you: ✔️ Want to skip the crazy restaurant lines; ✔️ Don’t mind venturing a bit outside the city center; ✔️ Are bundling it with a trip to Zhujiajiao. ✨ The Ultimate Day Itinerary: Explore Zhujiajiao (wander the canals, buy some postcards) → Grab dinner at No. 3 Warehouse Creativity China Cai (Sky Vanke Plaza Branch) with zero wait. Hope this review helps you figure out if it’s worth a visit 😊

I used to think a travel budget could be split fairly evenly between flights, hotels and everything else. After reviewing five trips to China, I realised the structure is actually more uneven - yet the broad pattern is surprisingly consistent. The journeys included Beijing, Shanghai and Huangshan, Chengdu and Xi’an, Hong Kong with Yangshuo and Guangzhou, and finally Shanghai with Wangxian Valley and Sanqingshan. Across all five trips, transport, mainly flights plus local travel, took about one third of the total budget. Hotels accounted for roughly one fifth. The rest (almost half) went towards food, shopping, attractions and daily spending. What stood out most was the size of this flexible part of the budget. It was larger than either transport or accommodation, but its contents changed considerably from one trip to another. Some journeys included more paid attractions and special experiences. On others, shopping took a larger share. Food, local transport and spontaneous decisions also influenced the final result. Trips could have a similar overall cost while feeling completely different. Transport and accommodation created a relatively stable framework. The flexible half expanded or shrank depending on the destination and the choices we made after arriving. This also changed how I think about saving money. Cutting a few attractions may feel like a major budget decision, but it often has less impact than expected. The biggest differences usually come from flight prices, accommodation choices and personal spending habits such as shopping. At the same time, attractions are often the reason for travelling in the first place. Removing a memorable activity to save a small part of the total budget does not always make sense. I would rather look for a better flight, choose a simpler hotel when the room is only needed for sleeping, or think more carefully about unplanned purchases. So my simplified China travel budget formula now looks like this: ~30% transport ~20% accommodation ~50% everything else It is not a strict rule, but it is a useful way to see the bigger picture. About half of the budget gets you to the destination and gives you somewhere to stay. The other half determines what the journey will actually feel like. Where does most of your travel budget go? #TravelBudget #SplurgeOrSave #ChinaTravel #TravelPlanning #TravelExpenses #BudgetTips

📍 3-Night, 4-Day Shanghai & Shanghai Disneyland Trip Plan (Departing from Tokyo) 🇨🇳✨ 📅 Itinerary: 3 nights, 4 days 🚩 Departure Point: Tokyo (Haneda) ⸻ 🗓️ Sample Itinerary Day 1 — Tokyo → Arrival in Shanghai & City Sightseeing ✈️ Haneda/Narita → Shanghai (Direct Flight, Approx. 3.5 Hours) 🏨 After check-in, stroll along the Bund and Nanjing East Road Enjoy the night view of the Huangpu River in the evening 📸 Day 2 — Full Day at Shanghai Disneyland 🏰 Enjoy a full day at Shanghai Disneyland! Parades, shows, and thrilling rides 🎢 Fireworks at night 🎆 Day 3 — Shanghai City Sightseeing ✔ Shanghai Museum (History) ✔ Stroll through Tianzifang Art District and Yu Garden ✔ Night view of the Bund and gourmet exploration 🍜 Day 4 — Final Day & Departure 🛍 Shopping on Nanjing East Road ✈️ Return to Tokyo from Shanghai ⸻ 💰 Estimated Costs (per person) 📍 Basic Budget Estimate (Independent Arrangement) ・Round-trip Airfare 👨✈️: Approx. 30,000 to 80,000 yen (varies depending on the season) ・Hotel (3 nights) 🏨: Approx. 15,000 to 45,000 yen ・Shanghai Disneyland Ticket 🎟: Approx. 10,000 to 17,000 yen (1 day) ・Food Expenses 🍽: Approximately 2,000-5,000 yen per day · Transportation and sightseeing expenses 💡: 5,000-10,000 yen ➡ Total: Approximately 100,000-200,000 yen is a guideline 📍 Tour type (airfare + hotel + tickets included) · Example package: Approximately 100,000-150,000 yen (airfare + hotel + Disney 1-day ticket) *Based on information from general travel agencies as a reference 📍 Trip.com Recommended Plans 📍 Trip.com allows you to book travel plans that include hotels, sightseeing information, and model itineraries! Park information and ticket booking can all be done in one place! 📍Trip.com Recommended 👍 ⸻ 🏨 Recommended Hotels (Popular on Trip.com) 🔹 Shanghai City Center Area (Nanjing East Road/People's Square) 🔹 Hotels near Shanghai Disneyland (with shuttle bus) · Trip.com features hotel reviews ★Choose highly-rated accommodations 📍Trip.com Recommended ⸻ 📷 Photo Spots 📍 Bund Night View 📍 Shanghai Disneyland Mickey Avenue 📍 Yu Garden Traditional Architecture 📍 Nanjing East Road Streetscape ⸻ 💡 Travel Tips ✔ Easy travel with direct flights (approx. 3.5 hours) ✔ Alipay/WeChat is convenient even in Shanghai (mainly QR code payments) ✔ Early entry to Disneyland and show reservations are essential. ✔ Local subway is cheap and convenient (a few hundred yen per ride) ⸻ #ShanghaiTrip #ShanghaiDisneyland #DisneylandTrip #3Nights4Days #OverseasTravel #Travelgram #TripcomRecommended #ChinaTravel #China #OverseasTravel #shanghaidisneyland #tokyodeparture #travelguide

We visited Shanghai for the first time this year in April, because I wanted to celebrate my birthday in China again 🥳 We decided to completely ditch the travel agency and organize the trip ourselves, and it turned out to be much more affordable, easier, and more enjoyable. Sharing my experience 👇🏻 Tickets ✈️🪪 We monitored ticket aggregators. As soon as the price dropped sharply, we bought tickets immediately. After that, they only went up in price. I recommend: if you see rock bottom for the dates you need, buy them without hesitation. 🫰🏻 We flew from Vladivostok to Shanghai and back with a layover in Beijing. Tickets cost about 28,000 rubles per person. Hotel 🏨 We chose the hotel based on the following criteria: 🔹Located in the city center, a couple of stops from the main pedestrian street. 🔸The metro is within walking distance. 🔹Good breakfasts are essential for a good start to the day. 🔸A window in the room facing the street. There are many hotels in Shanghai with windows facing the hotel corridor, or none at all. 😄 😍 We chose the Homeinn Plus Hotel (Shanghai Xintiandi Lujiabang Road Subway Station). There are two metro stations nearby, a 5-minute walk away, and the breakfasts were fantastic. We got a superior room with a king-size bed and a large window. The staff was wonderful. Everything was new and very clean. We booked it on trip.com ☺️ 🫰🏻The price is around 6,000 rubles per night. Important organizational details ✍🏼 ✔️Insurance: we got it in a couple of minutes at T-Bank. ✅ Visa: no longer required from September 2025. But it's important to fill out your arrival card in advance on a special online platform. ✔️Communications: We got an e-SIM from trip.com. We activated it upon arrival. All our usual apps worked without any hassles. We didn't use Wi-Fi even once. Price: about 1,400 rubles for one e-SIM. Money 🫰🏻 Cash: Exchange for yuan immediately in Russia. Alipay is our favorite: it's very convenient for payments and ordering. By the way, if you have an ATB Bank UnionPay card, it links perfectly to Alipay and WeChat. Apps 📲 🔸Maps: Amap only. They are extremely accurate, tested repeatedly in various cities in China. 🔹Taxi: The DiDi app is integrated directly into Alipay - a car is assigned instantly, everything is always perfect. 🔸Metro: The MetroMan app is for checking routes and transfers. 🔹Translator. There's almost always an error when translating from Russian to Chinese. If you don't speak English, translate your phrases first into English, then into Chinese—the difference is noticeable. 💬 Experience and Conclusions: Organizing a trip yourself is possible, not scary, and even fun. Compared to a travel agency, you save about 30-40%, and the freedom and experience are many times greater. 💯 If you have any questions, I'll be happy to answer them. 🥰 #china #chinatravel #chinatrip #travelchina #shanghai #shanghaitravel #shanghaitrip #china #shanghai #traveltips #travelplanning

In my last post, I told you which drink you shouldn't get at the Shanghai Starbucks Reserve Roastery. And now, my favorite! That's the case when the coffee sounds like a cocktail and looks like a work of art 😍 📍 Location: Address: 789 Nanjing West Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai. It's a freestanding glass building, visible from afar. The entrance is at the corner where Nanjing West Road and Shimen No. 1 Road intersect. 🚇 How to get there: Metro: West Nanjing Road Station, Exit 6 or 11. 🕐 Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM. 😋 My drink recommendation: COLD BREW LEMON SOUR Price: 58 RMB (for 210 ml). Alcohol: ≤ 0.95% ABV. What's inside: A signature version of the Whiskey Sour cocktail. Ingredients: cold brew coffee, whiskey, maple syrup, and fresh lemon juice. Garnished with Italian Luxardo cherries, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of golden sugar. 🍯🍋 💬 My impressions: love at first sip ❤️ Unlike Melrose Street, this one has a bright, multifaceted, and memorable flavor. The tartness of the lemon perfectly balances the whiskey, and the maple syrup adds a soft, caramelized note. The cold brew coffee is refreshing, and the golden sugar topping adds a pleasant crunch. This is a drink you want to sip slowly, savoring every sip. It's not like coffee in the traditional sense—more like a dessert cocktail with a coffee character 😍 📸 Why get it (besides the taste): · Looks impressive—great for photos; · Perfect in the heat—refreshing; · Moderate alcohol—good even during the day; · This is an exclusive offering available ONLY at Reserve Roastery; you won't find it at regular Starbucks! 💡 Tip: ask the barista to add a little less ice; the flavor will be more intense, and you'll appreciate all the notes. 🤩 And come here for the atmosphere. Sit by the window with a view, grab a drink, and just enjoy the space around you. ✍🏼 Other important information about this place: · There's Wi-Fi and plenty of outlets – you can work; · There can be lines, especially on weekends; it's best to arrive on weekdays before 11:00 AM or in the evening. · The merch (mugs, thermoses, beans) is a great souvenir, prices range from 80-150 yuan! If you're in Shanghai, be sure to stop by this temple of coffee. And get a Cold Brew Lemon Sour – you won't regret it 😍 #starbucks #starbucksreserve #shanghai #coffeelovers #coldbrew #shanghaicoffee #coffee #shanghai #china #chinatravel #chinatrip #travelchina #china #shanghai

I love the metro in China 🥰 💡Lifehack: Be sure to download the MetroMan app—it's your go-to app for routes, transfers, and station hours. It's a very user-friendly app, everything is easy and intuitive. 💰Payment: Tickets are sold at vending machines (they accept both cash and online payments). I'm in love with the contactless method: I got a virtual transport card from Alipay and now I just scan the QR code at the turnstile. 😌 🤩By the way, if you have a UnionPay card, you can simply tap it on the turnstile and go through! 🫰🏻Cost: The price of a ride always depends on the distance—from 3 to 10 yuan, making this a budget-friendly option. 🚇 What's important to know about Shanghai? The metro here is one of the largest in the world (with over 500 stations). Despite the huge passenger flow (millions of people daily), even rush hour feels comfortable. 💡If you notice heavy congestion during rush hour, which is between 8:00 and 9:30 AM and 6:00 and 7:30 PM, skip the next train and take the next one; trains run every 2-3 minutes. And the metro is still the fastest way to travel, as you avoid traffic jams. 🥰 Comfort: All stations and carriages are air-conditioned, the area is impeccably clean, and English signs are everywhere. The stations have elevators and escalators, making the metro accessible to everyone! 📍 Tip for tourists: Get off at East Nanjing Road station - from there it's a 5-minute walk to The Bund. The perfect route for your first day ✨ Overall, traveling on this type of transport is a pleasure. I recommend it 😍 #china #chinatravel #chinatrip #travelchina #shanghai #metro #china #shanghai #subway

If you're planning a trip to Shanghai, don't miss the photo opportunities around The Bund! Walking around this one area gives you two completely different styles of photos. 😍 🏛️ The first spot is unexpectedly stunning. The long rows of European-style buildings as a backdrop, combined with the cloudy sky we saw on the day we went, made it feel more like Europe than China 😂 Taking photos on the stairs gives you both the subject and the view of the buildings in the background – a spot I highly recommend everyone try! 📷✨ 🗼 Another must-see spot is the Oriental Pearl Tower. The Oriental Pearl Tower, a popular landmark in Shanghai, is a must-have! 😂 The view of Pudong in the background immediately identifies it as "Shanghai!" 🇨🇳 I personally love that this area offers so many different photo angles. One side has a classic European feel, while the other showcases modern Shanghai with the Oriental Pearl Tower as the star. ❤️ 📌 If you're coming to Shanghai, save this post to follow my photo itinerary! ❤️ Like and save this post! 📤 Share it with your travel companions and get your outfits ready for some serious photography! #Shanghai #ShanghaiTravel #ShanghaiTrip #TheBund #OrientalPearlTower #ShanghaiTrip #ChinaTravel #IndependentChinaTravel #ShanghaiPhotoSpots #ShanghaiReview #TripMoments

🇨🇳 3 DAYS IN SHANGHAI? DON'T TRY TO SEE IT ALL — HERE'S AN ITINERARY THAT SHOWS THE CITY IN ITS BEST LIGHT 🔥 Shanghai in 3 days is totally doable. And I wouldn't waste time on endless tours. Here's a route where you'll see old China, skyscrapers of the future, and that picture-perfect Shanghai. 🗓️ DAY 1 — OLD SHANGHAI + NEON 📍 Yu Garden (豫园) 🕘 09:00–17:00 in peak season, 09:00–16:30 in low season 💰 Ticket price depends on the season 📌 168 Fuyou Road, Huangpu District Start your morning with one of the most beautiful classic Chinese gardens: pavilions, ponds, stone bridges, and traditional architecture. ➡️ Then head to Nanjing Road on foot or by subway. 📍 Nanjing Road 🕐 The street is open 24/7 💰 Free 📌 Nanjing East Road, Huangpu District Here you can go shopping, try local snacks, and just feel the crazy vibe of the metropolis. Malls usually operate roughly from 10:00 to 22:00. 🌆 And in the evening — the grand finale of the day: 📍 The Bund / Waitan 🕐 24/7 💰 Free 📌 Zhongshan East Road, Huangpu District This view is exactly why many people travel to Shanghai. On one side — historical architecture, on the other — the gleaming Pudong with its skyscrapers. It's especially gorgeous after sunset. 🗓️ DAY 2 — CENTURIES-OLD CHINA AND THE SHANGHAI OF THE FUTURE ☀️ We start the morning with the Shanghai Museum East. 📍 1952 Century Avenue, Pudong 🕙 10:00–18:00, last entry at 17:00 💰 Permanent exhibitions — free entry for individual visitors without prior reservation; some special exhibitions may charge a fee. 📅 Closed on Tuesdays. Here you can check out Chinese art and archaeological collections. Currently, there are exhibitions about ancient civilizations of America, Chinese ceramics, and Qin dynasty archaeology, among others. 🍜 After the museum — grab lunch and take a stroll around Xintiandi. 📍 6–7, Lane 123, Xingye Road 💰 Free entry 🕐 Access to the area is open This is where old Shikumen-style Shanghai meets trendy cafes, restaurants, and bars. By day — great for photos and walking around, by night — amazing vibes and nightlife. 🗓️ DAY 3 — UP IN THE CLOUDS AND SEEING SHANGHAI FROM ABOVE 🚀 📍 Shanghai Tower — Observation Deck 💰 Ticket for the 118th-floor observation deck — approx. from US$25 🕐 Operating hours vary by day and season; roughly 08:30–21:00 on weekdays, longer on weekends. Go up to a height of about 546 meters — from here, Shanghai doesn't even look like a city anymore, but rather a massive futuristic grid. The tower itself reaches 632 meters. 📸 Afterwards, you can head down to the Lujiazui area, walk among the skyscrapers, and snap some pics with the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center. 🌙 To wrap up the trip, I'd suggest heading back to the Bund — but this time at night. A second time? Yep. Because Shanghai at night looks completely different. 💰 3-DAY BUDGET Excluding accommodation, flights, and restaurants, this itinerary can be done on a pretty tight budget: a lot of the main spots are free, and your main expenses will go towards transport, food, and paid observation decks/exhibitions. 🔥 Save this itinerary if you're planning a trip to Shanghai. And the main thing — don't try to cram 20 attractions into this. It's way better to truly enjoy 5–7 places than to rush through the whole city.

Just recently, I opened my mailbox, and inside was the very same postcard we sent to ourselves in Zhujiajiao. 🥹 I'm sharing instructions on how to send a postcard ✍🏼 📍 Where to find it: In the ancient town of Zhujiajiao, known as the "Venice of Shanghai." 📌 The post office address is Qing Dynasty Post Office Wenchuang: No. 35, Xihu Street, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, Qingpu District, Shanghai. If you search on Amap, type in "大清邮局" and it will take you directly to the entrance. 🗺️ Landmarks: · The building faces the street, with a canal and boat dock in the back; · An antique bronze mailbox in the Qing Dynasty style stands at the entrance – it's hard to miss; · There's a cafe inside the building nearby, where you can have coffee and a snack after sending a postcard. 🕐 Post office hours: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM. However, to ensure you have time to send your postcard, it's best to arrive at least 30-40 minutes before closing. 💌 How to send a postcard: 1. Choose and purchase a postcard right there at the post office (prices range from 10-20 yuan). 2. Write a warm message – a pen and writing area are available right inside the office. 3. Buy a stamp right there at the post office (costs around 5-10 yuan for international mailings). 4. Drop it in an antique mailbox. 📮 The postmark is an important detail! You can place a commemorative postmark on the first floor of the building – this makes the postcard a true souvenir, not just an envelope with a stamp 😍 The staff will help you add anything you want, and feel free to ask them for assistance throughout the process 😊 📬 Waiting time: The postcard takes about 2-4 weeks to reach Russia. We sent our postcard on April 21st and received it in mid-May. 💡Tip: Send the postcard to your friends too – they'll be pleasantly surprised. And if you're writing to yourself, be sure to include the return address clearly and in Latin letters. 🥰 My impressions: When I held this postcard in my hands a month later, I was transported back to Zhujiajiao – I heard the splashing water in the canals, remembered the bridges, the atmosphere… this little cardboard bridge between “then” and “now” reminded me how wonderful it was there 😍 #china #chinatravel #chinatrip #travelchina #shanghai #shanghaitravel #shanghaitrip #zhujiajiao #zhujiajiaowatertown #china #shanghai #zhujiajiao

We visited the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Shanghai - and it's not just a coffee shop, it's a true temple of coffee 😊 But one drink disappointed me. Let me tell you everything in order 👇🏻 📍 Where it's located: Address: 789 Nanjing West Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai (上海市静安区南京西路789号). How to find it: It's a freestanding glass building, visible from afar. The entrance is at the corner where Nanjing West Road and Shimen No. 1 Road intersect. 🚇 How to get there: Metro: Line 2, 12, or 13 - West Nanjing Road Station. Exits: 6 or 11 - you'll be right at the entrance. It's central to Shanghai, easily accessible from anywhere in the city. 🕐 Hours: Daily: 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM; You can come for breakfast or an evening coffee. ☕️ What is this place: The largest Starbucks in the world! A huge roasting machine sits in the center of the room, roasting the beans right in front of you. They offer unique coffee cocktails with alcohol that you won't find at regular Starbucks! 🚫 Alcoholic coffee drink I DON'T recommend: The Melrose St. (The Melrose St.) Price: 58 yuan for 230 ml Alcohol: < 0.5% ABV What is it: "The Melrose St. is a Manhattan cocktail. Ingredients: cold brew coffee, cherry bitters, and Italian Luxardo cherries in liqueur. 🙌🏼 My impression: The taste is like a regular Americano with a slight sourness. No wow factor. You expect something special for 58 yuan, but you just get coffee with a hint of cherry. It's uninteresting; it feels like you're drinking a regular Americano, that's all. In the next post, I'll tell you which drink you absolutely must try here 😉 #starbucks #starbucksreserve #shanghai #chinatravel #coffeelovers #coffee #shanghai #starbucksshanghai #china #chinatrip #travelchina #china #shanghai

Another corner of The Bund that you definitely should explore is the vibe of its streets and historical buildings. The area is filled with European-style architecture, ranging from light-colored stone facades to dark brown buildings, complete with classic archways, pillars, and intricate decorations. Walking down these streets feels like stepping back in time to experience the charm of old Shanghai. Across the river, you'll see the Oriental Pearl Tower, making it another fantastic spot for photography. It's such a fun neighborhood for a photo walk, as every corner serves as a stunning background. When the weather is nice, I highly recommend taking a stroll from the Waibaidu Bridge all the way down to the other end near Bangkok Bank. On your own

I'll tell you how we got from Shanghai to LEGOLAND Park (and back) - and why it was easier than I thought 😊 I'm sharing step-by-step instructions ✍🏼 🚄 Step 1: Buy train tickets. · Buy the full itinerary on Trip.com: Shanghai-Hongqiao → Jinshanbei (outbound) and Jinshanbei → Shanghai-Hongqiao (return, same day). · It's best to buy tickets in advance, especially if you're traveling on a weekend. · Cost: about 20-50 yuan one way (depending on class). · Travel time: approximately 18 minutes on the high-speed train. 🚉 Step 2: Get off at Jinshanbei Station. This is your next stop. Don't miss it! The information is also available in English on the boards and in the announcements. 🚌 Step 3: How to get to the park from the station. There are two options: Option 1 - Double-decker bus: Exit the station and look for a yellow double-decker bus in the station square (fare is 1 yuan). It will drop you off almost at the entrance, leaving you with a 4-minute walk – check the map. The bus runs every 10 minutes. Option 2 - Taxi: A ride from the station to the park entrance costs about 15-20 yuan. The ride takes 5 minutes. 🔄 Step 4: How to return to Shanghai. From the park to Jinshanbei Station - taxi or bus. From Jinshanbei Station, take the train to Shanghai Hongqiao (your return tickets have already been purchased) – the journey time is 18 minutes. From the train station, take the metro or taxi to your hotel. 📌 Important tips: ✅ To enter the train station, please have your passport ready. ✅ If you're confused, show the station staff your ticket reservation on your phone – they'll always be happy to help you get there (many speak English or use a translator). ✅ The train has air conditioning and luggage space – it's a very comfortable ride. 💬 Our experience: My son was thrilled with the train ride – it was already a small adventure for him. 🥰 And the double-decker bus was also a great experience. 😌 I hope these instructions save you time and stress! Have a great trip ❤️ #china #chinatravel #chinatrip #travelchina #shanghai #shanghaitravel #shanghaitrip #shanghailegoland #china #shanghai

You know, China has been practically my guiding star for three years now! I love it so much ❤️ It captivates you from the very first moment: with the contrast of ancient temples and cosmic skyscrapers. It impresses with a scale that can't be captured in a photo. And most importantly, it gives you multifaceted emotions. A single day here can encompass delight, surprise, and warm gratitude for seeing it all 😍 I want to return to China again and again 💯 There's a practical side to this love, too. China is very close to my hometown of Vladivostok. And what can I do if I'm only two hours away from the capital of a foreign country? 😄 That's a huge bonus! 🗺️ I approach travel very thoroughly. And the main secret to my easy trips is preparation! ✍🏼 Sharing a checklist: 1. Alipay: It has built-in apps – you can order food delivery, call a taxi, get a public transportation card, scan menus in restaurants and cafes and pay immediately, etc. Everything in one app, without downloading dozens of separate apps. 2. WeChat: It's not just a messenger, but an entire ecosystem. Here you can chat, pay for purchases, and find important information in mini-apps for each attraction. 🤩 Lifehack: You can link your ATB Bank UnionPay card to Alipay and WeChat and pay for everything using a QR code directly from your phone screen. It's very convenient and simple 🔥 3. Amap: The main navigation app in China. It shows traffic jams, plots routes, shows subway entrances, and shows stores inside shopping malls. The "favorites" feature is wonderful; it makes planning routes so much easier, and you'll never forget the places you want to visit. 4. MetroMan: An app for navigating the subway. Maps, transfers, and station opening hours are all in English. A lifesaver in Shanghai with its 500+ stations! 5. Translator: You can search for a convenient app for yourself. I recommend Yandex and DeepSeek. In my experience, DeepSeek is a huge winner; translations from it are always easy to understand. 6. eSIM: I always buy it from Trip.com and get a shared GB package right away. I buy it before my flight, install it on my phone, and I have internet access upon arrival. No waiting in line at the airport, no searching for a SIM card. 💡 What else I learned during my trips: China isn't scary. Few people speak English, but there are translators, signs, and kind people who are always willing to help. China isn't expensive. You can have a delicious lunch for 50 yuan, and a subway ride for 3 yuan. China is endless: you can visit 10 times and still find something new each time. You can spend a week in one city and not see even half of it. 💬 My main advice: Don't plan every step. Leave room for chance discoveries. In China, the most memorable experiences happen when you take a wrong turn and find a beautiful neighborhood, a temple, or a granny with delicious pies 😊 China knows how to surprise, honestly! Give it a chance sometime, and preferably more than once ❤️ #china #china #lovetravelling #vladivostok #primorye #chinatourism #chinatravel #chinatrip #travelchina

If you are in Shanghai with kids or just love beautiful cars, this museum is an absolute must-visit! Let me break it down for you 😊 📍 How to get to the Shanghai Auto Museum. The museum isn't in the city center, but it's easy to reach: · Subway: Line 11, Shanghai Automobile City station. · From there - a taxi is about 13 RMB (or a 5-7 minute walk). · It takes about 1 hour from downtown, so factor in some extra travel time. 🕐 Hours and tickets: · The main exhibition is open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). · The kids' zone on the 4th floor - last entry at 3:30 PM. · It's best to arrive around 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM so you can explore at your own pace without rushing. · You can buy tickets on Trip.com or on-site - the price is the same. 👦🏼 For families with kids (this is important!): If your child is between 2 and 10 years old, get the all-inclusive ticket for all pavilions, including the "Modu" kids' auto park on the 4th floor. There are interactive play areas where they can get behind the wheel of toy cars and feel like real drivers. Your kid will be absolutely thrilled 😍 Admission to the play area includes one accompanying adult, but you can take turns if you want. 🙌🏼 Comfort and vibe: The museum is fully indoors and air-conditioned - perfect for a hot summer day or rainy weather. Inside, there are dozens of vintage cars, race cars, classic models, and even Chinese cars from the last century. There are information boards in both English and Chinese. 📸 What stood out to me the most: We took a lot of photos with vintage cars and race cars in the background. The hall with rare models from the 1930s was especially impressive - you look at them and can't believe people actually drove these. 💡 Summary: We absolutely loved it - it was interesting for both the adults and the kid. Highly recommend it as a great option for family time in Shanghai ❤️ travel trip travel

If you're in Shanghai and have some time, I highly recommend adding the Shanghai Astronomy Museum (上海天文馆) to your itinerary. This isn't just a museum where you browse information and then leave; it's a place that makes you feel like you're slowly stepping out of the real world. From the moment you enter, you'll be greeted with exhibits depicting our planet, the solar system, and the vastness of galaxies and the universe. The further you walk through, the smaller you feel compared to what's above your head. My favorite highlights were the simulated lunar surface and space probes. Seeing them up close was vastly different from looking at pictures online. Another highlight was the zone that takes you from the solar system to the Milky Way, providing a scale of the universe that textbooks can't convey. Importantly, the interior is dimly lit, and the use of lighting and displays is excellent, resulting in photos that give the feeling of being in a space station. The exterior of the building is equally stunning, designed using concepts related to the movement of celestial objects, incorporating circular shapes, domes, and lines that resemble orbits. Outside, there are green spaces, a lake, and futuristic buildings to explore. For me, what makes this a "must-see" isn't just the sheer volume of exhibits, but how it transforms seemingly distant concepts like space into something accessible. It became something we could truly understand and feel, and the entrance fee wasn't expensive at all. It's only about 150 baht (30 yuan) for adults. However, it's recommended to book in advance through the official channels because it's a reservation system with limited seating (CMP). If you like science, space, or just want to find a place to visit in Shanghai that's different from the usual landmarks, I think the Shanghai Astronomy Museum is a very worthwhile place to visit. And if you have time, I recommend allocating several hours because it's actually more enjoyable than you might think. #ShanghaiTravel #ChinaTravel #ShanghaiAstronomyMuseum #ShanghaiReview

In this fast-paced era, we all long for a spontaneous trip but often get discouraged by the “long distance.” Actually, from Shanghai, just one high-speed train ticket and a weekend or even a single day can take you into another Jiangnan landscape. There’s no exhausting long journey here, only the ease of “drinking a latte in Shanghai in the morning and enjoying duck blood vermicelli soup in Nanjing at noon.” 🏮 Nanjing: the old dream of Qinhuai in the ancient capital of six dynasties Duration: 1.5–2h | Keywords: rich history, Qinhuai night view, Republic of China style “Smoke veils cold water, moon veils sand, moored at Qinhuai near a tavern at night.” Nanjing’s charm lies in its perfect blend of deep history and everyday life. Visit Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum by day for solemnity, explore the museum for stories of the Six Dynasties; at night, save time for Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River. When the painted boats glide over the shimmering water and the banks light up brilliantly, it feels like stepping back into the dazzling Jinling city. 🌿 Hangzhou: ultimate romance in the misty West Lake Duration: 45min–1h | Keywords: lake and mountain scenery, broken bridge snow, Longjing tea aroma Hangzhou is a city you’ll never tire of no matter how many times you visit. In as little as 45 minutes by high-speed train, you can escape the hustle of the magic city and enter the tranquility of West Lake. Early morning at Broken Bridge to see melting snow (or morning mist), afternoon at Lingyin Temple to hear bells and pray, or simply find a teahouse, order a cup of pre-Qingming Longjing tea, and stare at the lake. In Hangzhou, wasting time is a virtue. 🎋 Suzhou: Su-style life deep in the gardens Duration: 25–30min | Keywords: small bridges and flowing water, exquisite gardens, Pingjiang Road This is the closest “faraway place” to Shanghai, reachable in as little as 25 minutes! Suzhou’s beauty is delicate, hidden in the changing scenes of the Humble Administrator’s Garden, tucked in the cracks of Pingjiang Road’s bluestone slabs. White walls and black tiles, flowing water—this is the spiritual home of scholars and poets. Put on a qipao or hanfu, take photos under Tiger Hill Pagoda, or listen to soft Wu dialect storytelling in an old house—this is the authentic Jiangnan flavor. 📚 Ningbo: harbor charm with ancient and modern books Duration: 2–2.5h | Keywords: Tianyi Pavilion, Moon Lake, seafood delicacies If you want to avoid crowds and find peace and fresh flavors, Ningbo is an excellent choice. As Asia’s oldest library, Tianyi Pavilion holds centuries of literary fragrance and wisdom; Moon Lake Park is like a jade gem set in the city center. Of course, you can’t visit Ningbo without enjoying seafood. Fresh small seafood paired with soft Ningbo glutinous rice balls will satisfy both your stomach and heart.   🎒 Weekend travel tips: Ticket tips: The Yangtze River Delta has frequent high-speed trains, but tickets are tight during popular weekend times (like Friday night and Saturday morning). It’s best to book 3–5 days in advance. Outfit advice: Jiangnan gardens and water towns are perfect for new Chinese style, hanfu, or plain cotton and linen clothes—great for photos. Food map: Besides attractions, don’t forget to explore local time-honored snacks—that’s where the city’s soul lives. Don’t stay home this weekend! Take this map and discover a different Jiangnan.

After my first trip, I realized one thing: "I definitely need to go back to China. And more than once." Now I want to go there at least 2 or 3 more times, because it wasn't until I visited China that I realized how massive, beautiful, and incredibly developed this country truly is. And you know what surprised me the most? Traveling in China turned out to be way easier than I expected. Before my trip, I kept hearing from travel bloggers that China is a tough destination: the language barrier, the apps, the payment methods, the navigation—just that everything is so different. But if you prep in advance, it’s actually pretty straightforward in practice. Especially if you already have at least a little experience traveling on your own. 🇨🇳 First off, China is super safe. 🇨🇳 Second, the public transit system is amazing. High-speed trains make getting between cities quick and comfortable. 🇨🇳 Third, you can find really great hotels with excellent service for a totally reasonable price. What about the language barrier? Sure, a lot of Chinese people really don't speak English. But personally, it barely bothered me. If you have Alipay or WeChat, you can pretty much eliminate the need to talk. At a restaurant, you can order and pay for everything online right at your table. Same goes for stores. Tickets, transit, all sorts of services—so many things are just handled through apps. And if you ever actually need to explain something, you've got a translator app. Basically, I went to China thinking, "How am I going to survive there without speaking the language?" And I ended up realizing that **I hardly even needed the language. But the main reason I want to go back is, hands down, the value for money. And I have a perfect example to show you. For about 140,000 rubles per person, you can pull off an awesome 10-day trip around China, covering your flights, accommodation, food, transit, and visiting a ton of cool sights. And I’m not talking about a "just surviving and finding a place to crash" kind of trip. I mean a full-blown vacation with nice hotels, comfy transport, gorgeous spots, tours, restaurants, and a ton of incredible memories. In those 10 days, you can explore several totally different cities, try the local food, hit up historical landmarks, modern districts, and nature parks, and walk away with a truly epic experience. Now here’s the kicker. For the exact same 10-day trip to Europe, I spent around 280,000 rubles. Literally double the price. And my hotels were as basic as it gets—I even got bitten by bedbugs at one of them*🫠 The food was way more modest, I went to far fewer paid attractions, and honestly, the whole trip was just much more bare-bones. And after comparing the two, I really had to ask myself: why am I paying double? Obviously, I’m not saying China will always be cheaper than Europe for everyone. It totally depends on your itinerary, the season, flight prices, and your travel style. But personally, based on my own experience, China turned out to be a destination that offers insanely good value for your money. And the craziest part? China is so huge that one trip just isn’t enough. In two weeks, I only managed to see Beijing, Shanghai, and Yangzhou. But I’m still dying to visit: 🏔️ Xi'an 🏔️ Zhangjiajie — the very mountains that inspired "Avatar" 🌆 Guangzhou 🌴 Hainan 🐼 Chengdu 🏙️ Hong Kong ⛰️ Guilin and its mind-blowing landscapes And that’s not even scratching the surface. China has massive metropolises, ancient towns, mountains, national parks, unique nature, futuristic tech, and places that look straight out of a sci-fi movie. At the same time, the tourist infrastructure is so well-developed that even the most popular spots have good roads, transport, clear signage, great service, and everything a tourist could possibly need. So yeah, I absolutely want to go back. I really think China is one of those places where your first trip just cracks the door open, rather than letting you see the whole country. And honestly, the most important thing for me is that the price of the trip truly matches what you get out of it. For the same amount of money in many other destinations, I’d be hard-pressed to find so many unforgettable experiences, comfort, and top-notch quality. So yes, I’m definitely going back to China. Probably at least two or three more times.❤️🇨🇳 And after that, I’ll probably realize that even that wasn’t enough.