Shanghai: Living Guide
Shanghai is a popular city amongst foreigners. As an international city and the financial capital – you can even forget you’re in China while living here. If you love the vibrancy and hustle and bustle of a city – this is the place to go. There is always something happening and you’ll never be bored.
The Basics
Shanghai’s population is approximately 27 million and is the third most populated city in the world. This means Shanghai is busy and BIG! It is a land of opportunity and after a short while you’ll realise through the people you meet that anything is possible.
The city is split into two; Puxi and Pudong. Puxi is to the west of the Huangpu river and Pudong is the East side of the river. Pudong has the skyscrapers, cheaper rental prices, a more relaxed feel and more space. Puxi is where everything happens and generally expats choose to live.
Shanghai has an incredible metro system which will get you to almost all corners of the city. If not, buses and didis will get you where you need to go, as with all cities. The whole city is incredibly easy to navigate and you can never really get lost!
Shanghai has long summers and winters, and a short spring and autumn. The hottest month is July, and the typhoons and rainstorms hit from late August to early September.
Due to the expat community being so large, there are endless WeChat groups and communities to join, so you can indulge in whatever you’re interested in and find like-minded people. This can include everything from fitness, crafts, food, etc.
City Highlights
The Bund
The first thing to mention about Shanghai is The Bund. It’s the legendary mile-long stretch of waterfront along the Huangpu river. This is where you can look over the river to Pudong and see the iconic skyline that Shanghai is known for. The Bund is a short walk from East Nanjing Road (line 2) – which is also a fantastic place to shop!
Yuyuan Garden
The Yu or Yuyuan Garden sits next to the City God Temple and is definitely worth visiting at least once – although it does get super busy! This whole surrounding area is beautiful and will transport you back in time to Ancient China. Koi in the large pond, bridges, teahouses and street vendors mean that you there’s constantly something new to see.
Take the line 10 metro to the Yuyuan Garden Station.
Disneyland Shanghai
Located in Pudong, Disneyland Shanghai officially opened in 2016! Although completely Disney, the designers wanted to include some Chinese cultural elements. It’s definitely worth a visit if you love Disneyland, and this one has a twist!
The Fake Market
On the Metro Line 2, Science and Technology Museum Station, head to the Northern part of the AP Plaza. Here you will find an endless supply of fake sunglasses, handbags, shoes, clothes, etc. Make sure you haggle as the salespeople will see a foreigner coming! If you’re not happy with a price, there will be another stall selling the same or similar.
Found 158
You want a night out? Head to Found 158! Head to Middle Huaihai Road Station and a collection of bars, clubs and restaurants are just a 10 minute walk away! There’s a great pizza place called Homeslice, or if you’d rather tacos and tequila, why not head to El Santo? Head to the great selcection of bars and clubs after!
Qibao
Want a taste of Ancient China? Head to Qibao (also the name of the metro station on line 9). It’s a water town where you can wander freely. There are plenty of teahouses and places for snacks. They even have scorpions – if you dare to try them.
French Concession
The French Concession area is where the French government managed from 1849-1946. The area feels incredibly European and has higher rent prices due to popularity, location and the fact it is stunning. Wander around the streets and find hidden cafes, alleyways and great places to eat. And while you’re in the area, don’t forget to head to Tianzifang – a maze of Shanghai alleyways to quench your thirst of souvenirs and snacks!
Surrounding Areas
Zhujiajiao
Still technically in Shanghai as Qingpu district – it’s still far away to feel like you’re having a day away from the city. Zhujiajiao is a beautiful water town that’s 1700 years old! If you want those Insta-worthy ancient water town shots, this is probably the best place to do it.
Zhujiajiao is reachable by metro; the second last stop on line 17.
Suzhou
You can get to Suzhou just 20 minutes by speed train! A super popular day or weekend trip to get away from the big smoke. Suzhou is particularly famous for having over 60 gardens. Shantang Ancient Street and Pinjiang Street are great places to walk along to soak up all the canals that Suzhou is well-known for.
Chongming Island
Why not visit Chongming Island? It’s the perfect place to cycle around, visit cultural villages, temples, Xisha Wetland Park and Pearl Lake. Why not try some of the local hairy crab or the Chongming alcohol which is made with sticky rice!
What do you think of Shanghai? Would you like to live there?