Shanghai, with its intricate cultural, historical and political tapestry, rushing streets and dizzying skyline is not only the most populous city in the world, it's also the largest. This can make the prospect of exploring the city slightly overwhelming. Luckily, it's one of those cities where a simple stroll from the hotel lobby will eventually lead to some quirky discovery or reward. If you're pressed for time, and in need of a well-rounded snapshot of the city, this day-long itinerary should narrow down the options a little for first time visitors to the city. Cheap flights to Shanghai will open up a world of exploration and adventure, and there's no better time to visit this citymidst its flourishing economic renaissance.
There's no easy way to approach the colossal history of China, but a step in the right direction would be to visit the Shanghai Museum. Located in the People's Square, this enormous collection of calligraphy, paintings, sculpture, bronzes, jades, seals and furniture is presented in modern, spacious galleries sprawling 38000 square metres. After sampling such historical ornaments view some of the exteriors which held them by strolling the length of the Bund waterfront. With 52 buildings spanning architectural eras from Gothic to Art Deco, pacing this wonderful street is like walking a timeline.
Next on the itinerary: souvenir shopping. Extending from the Bund to the Jing'an Temple, East Nanjing Road spreads modern malls, department stores and traditional Chinese shops out in a commercial feast for the senses. Head to Cai Tong De Pharmacy for some traditional medicine, pick up calligraphy materials in Duo Yun Xuan or browse the tomes in Shanghai City of Books, 'the largest bookstore in the Far East.'
For an atmospheric Shanghainese dinner, make reservations at YongFoo Elite. Set in a 1930s French Concession villa, the restaurant is surrounded by delicate magnolia trees, draped in sumptuous fabrics and classical calligraphies, and littered with art-deco curios. Dishes meld classical Shanghai preparation to a western focus on presentation. Attention to detail is prioritised; soy sauce is made from scratch, crabs must be in optimum season. There are also three bar areas to indulge in a post dinner drink; the Crystal Bar glistens with Roman columns, Starshine Nook Bar is a more intimate area softened by jazz music, and the Mission Bar is a colourful lounge serving a selection of wines and Martinis. A post-dinner show is the perfect way to progress the evening. The Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe put on a world-class extravaganza every night at the Shanghai Centre Theatre. Their performance may include a hypnotic hula hoop dance, contortion acts, a few knife-throwing clowns or any number of incredible balancing feats, and starts every night of the week at 7.30pm.
You travelled all the way here, now take a look around. Located on level 40 of the JW Marriott Hotel in Tomorrow Square, the JW Lounge Bar has a mind-bending view over the futuristic red, blue and green neon buildings below. For something a little more exclusive, grab an icy glass of champagne and have a quick word with one of the staff members about going to the library. If you charm them, they might let you out onto the hidden balcony behind one of the bookshelves for a magical look at the Shanghai skyline, an impeccable end to a perfect Shanghai day.
