Shanghai’s Magic: A Local’s View of City Life and Sights

Shanghai, a city where old China meets shiny new skyscrapers, pulses with energy day and night. This city’s rhythm is fast but with moments of calm that surprise you. Whether you enjoy watching riverside lights or tasting spicy dumplings, Shanghai offers plenty for your senses. Walking through its streets, listening to locals chatter, and smelling street food cooking fills your heart with stories and colors. Let me take you on a stroll through Shanghai’s most interesting places, local flavors, and everyday customs that help this city feel alive.

After discovering Shanghai’s blend of old and new, you might enjoy exploring another vibrant city in China with its own unique charm and skyline. Hong Kong’s best sights and local gems offer a different but equally exciting urban adventure just waiting to be uncovered.

City Landmarks and Riverside Wonders

Start with the Bund, the famous waterfront where colonial buildings stand tall like old guardians of Shanghai’s past. From here, you see Pudong’s towering skyscrapers, including the Shanghai Tower-the second tallest building in the world. It’s like having history and the future face each other across the river. Many visitors miss the tiny park nearby where old men play chess and kids fly kites. That’s a perfect spot to sip some tea and watch everyday life.

If you find Shanghai’s mix of historic beauty and towering modernity fascinating, the Empire State Building in New York offers a similar blend of classic art deco style and city views that capture a different but equally vibrant urban spirit.

Not far away is Yu Garden, a peaceful green space full of rockeries, ponds, and classic Chinese pavilions. It’s not just a garden but a window into Ming Dynasty architecture and design. The nearby old town market sells beautiful silk scarves, jade trinkets, and snacks like “xiaolongbao” – small steamed soup dumplings bursting with flavor. Be careful, these dumplings can burn your mouth if you don’t wait a moment before biting!

Hidden Corners and Local Delights

While tourists flock to famous spots, the French Concession neighborhood charms with its tree-lined streets and quiet cafes. It’s like stepping into a European painting with Shanghai’s own twist. Here, you can explore small art galleries and try “shengjianbao,” pan-fried buns crispy on the bottom and soft on top. Locals say these buns are best eaten fresh and hot, with a dash of black vinegar for a little kick.

Another less-known but fascinating place is Tianzifang. This maze of narrow alleys houses tiny shops, art studios, and street food stalls. The small shops sell handmade jewelry and quirky souvenirs that you won’t find in big malls. On weekends, the area buzzes with musicians and artists showing their work. It’s a great place to meet friendly locals or just enjoy the creative atmosphere.

Eating Like a Shanghainese

Shanghai food is both sweet and savory. Local dishes often surprise visitors with their delicate flavors. Try “hong shao rou,” a slow-cooked pork belly dish that melts in your mouth and tastes a bit sweet. Find it in many small restaurants along the Huangpu River or in the old town.

For street food, head to the Jing’an district, where night markets come alive after dark. Vendors sell “stinky tofu,” a strong-smelling but delicious fermented treat that many foreigners hesitate to try. If you enjoy seafood, don’t miss the fresh crab dishes available in autumn-locals believe it brings good luck and health.

Getting Around Shanghai Easily

Shanghai’s subway system is a traveler’s best friend. It’s clean, fast, and covers almost all important areas. Announcements are in English and Chinese, so you won’t feel lost. From Pudong Airport, a special train called the Maglev zooms you into the city center in just eight minutes. It’s the world’s fastest commercial train and gives you a funny feeling like you are racing a spaceship.

After enjoying Shanghai’s lively neighborhoods and traditional treats, you might appreciate a change of pace at Xi’an’s ancient city walls and vibrant Muslim Quarter, where history and local flavors create a unique experience.

For shorter trips, the city’s electric bikes and public buses are popular too. Many locals use bikes to weave through traffic and reach narrow alleys where cars cannot go. Always remember to watch traffic lights carefully; pedestrians don’t always have the right of way like in some countries.

Culture Notes and Local Customs

Shanghai’s culture is a mix of old traditions and modern life. Greetings are polite but not too formal. When meeting people, a slight nod or a small bow is enough-handshakes are common but gentle. Avoid pointing your chopsticks straight up in your bowl, as it resembles a ritual for the dead. Also, don’t start eating before the oldest person at the table begins; it’s a sign of respect.

During Chinese New Year, the city becomes a kaleidoscope of red lanterns, fireworks, and dragon dances. Locals give “red envelopes” filled with money to children for good luck. It’s a time full of family, food, and hope for the year ahead. If invited to someone’s home, bringing fruit or sweets is a thoughtful gesture.

Stories and Surprises in Shanghai’s Streets

Once, I chatted with an elderly man near the Bund who told me about the city’s old tram system. Now gone, it once connected neighborhoods and shaped daily life. He laughed, saying that during busy times, people squeezed into the trams like sardines, but everyone shared jokes and stories. Shanghai hides many such tales beneath its shiny surface.

Did you know that Shanghai was once called the “Paris of the East”? In the 1920s and 30s, it was a playground for artists, writers, and spies. From jazz clubs to secret tunnels, the city’s history is a thrilling mix of glamour and mystery. Walking around, you might spot Art Deco buildings that whisper stories of a glamorous past.

Where to Find a Good Place to Rest

Shanghai has many places to stay, from budget hostels to stylish apartments in the city center. Choose an area near the metro for easy travel. The French Concession offers a quiet, leafy environment and many cafes where you can relax with a cup of tea. If you want to be close to the action, stay near People’s Square or Nanjing Road, where shopping and nightlife are lively.

Some apartments feel like stepping into local life, with small balconies overlooking busy streets. Imagine waking up to the sound of bicycle bells and nearby bakeries baking fresh bread. It’s these little details that make your stay feel personal and warm.

Shanghai is a city that shows a new face every hour. From bright lights to quiet corners, from ancient gardens to modern towers, it invites you to slow down and listen to its stories. Whether you come for a few days or longer, Shanghai leaves a mark on your heart through its food, people, and unforgettable moments.

Author: Elena Chen

A Chinese tour guide with deep knowledge of the Far East, its traditions, and culinary secrets.