Do you believe that the majority of people's reactions to being invited to visit Shanghai, China, are similar? If so, what are those reactions?

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"I don't see anything interesting to visit here."

"No, I don't want to travel to China. I'm afraid of the bathrooms and people cutting in line."

"Perhaps another country would be better. Korea, Japan, or Hong Kong could be interesting options."

"No, I can't speak Chinese."

However, surprisingly, if I ask this question to someone who has been to Shanghai, they will likely respond with the opposite sentiment, saying, "Yes, I would love to go! I miss it and would love to visit again," or "Let's go! Let's check the dates and flight prices to see if there are any promotions."

Isn't it strange? But believe me, it's true and has been proven by my wife and me. At first, before we had the opportunity to travel there, we thought the same as the first group. However, after having the chance to visit the city for six full days and five nights, we immediately changed our minds and joined the second group. If you don't believe me, follow me to discover the "9 Interesting Tourist Attractions in Shanghai" in this article. You'll see that visiting Shanghai is much better than you think.

To enter China, a visa is required. Tourist visas cost 1,500 baht per person and allow a 30-day stay. The visa application process is meticulous, requiring specific documents and photos. Various application options are available, including regular, express, and super express. For detailed instructions on obtaining a Chinese visa, please refer to the following link: http://www.amazingcouple.net/how-to-get-china-visa-june-2017/

Before embarking on our comprehensive exploration of Shanghai, let's first provide a concise overview of our impressions of this vibrant metropolis. In our opinion, Shanghai embodies a unique blend of modern sophistication and rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for discerning travelers. We encourage you to embrace the opportunity to discover the hidden gems and captivating experiences that await in this remarkable city.

1. Shanghai boasts a diverse array of attractions, encompassing natural landscapes, shopping districts, historical sites, amusement parks, and tranquil retreats. This vibrant metropolis offers an abundance of experiences, making it an ideal destination for a 3-4 day itinerary.

2. The food is delicious! I must say that I really enjoy the food in this city. Many dishes and snacks are very satisfying. However, the price of food is a bit high. On average, a regular meal costs around 120-150 baht per person. If you want to have a good meal, it can cost around 300-400 baht per person.

Traveling to this city takes only 4 hours from Thailand. Moreover, the ticket price is not too expensive, making it more economical in terms of both time and travel costs compared to many other destinations.

4. Shanghai boasts an extensive and efficient public transportation system. The Shanghai Metro, with 16 lines, covers the entire city and extends to suburban areas. Notably, fares are incredibly affordable, with a one-hour ride costing only 30-35 baht per person and shorter trips costing around 10-15 baht per person.

5. Checking the metro route through the website http://service.shmetro.com/en/ is considered usable. It can be said that it is similar to Japan's hyperdia.

6. If you can speak Chinese or are willing to take the bus, you can save even more on travel costs, as bus fares are cheaper than metro fares.

The city is clean and orderly, with almost no littering in public spaces. I also did not encounter any spitting on the streets.

8. The restrooms at major tourist attractions were surprisingly better than expected. Throughout my six-day trip, I never encountered the "peak" restrooms that I had heard rumors about.

9. While queue-jumping does occur, it is not as prevalent as I had imagined. It is within acceptable limits.

10. English is rarely spoken, and locations accepting Visa/MasterCard are scarce. UnionPay is the most widely accepted credit card. Therefore, it is advisable to carry sufficient cash or use ATMs, which charge a 100 baht fee per transaction.

11. Smoking is quite prevalent, and smokers often walk around while smoking rather than sitting in designated areas. This can be bothersome for non-smokers, as I, a non-smoker myself, found it slightly irritating.

12. Popular social networks such as Facebook, YouTube, Google Maps, Line, and many others will be blocked in China. Therefore, if you want to use these social networks conveniently, you should bring a SIM card from Thailand, as it will allow you to access them. When I visited China, I used True Travel Sim Asia, which you can find at this link: http://www.amazingcouple.net/sr-true-travel-sim-asia/

How about it? After reading this far, many of you are probably starting to get interested in visiting this city, right? Well, if you're interested, go ahead and check out the flight prices to see if they're within your budget. I'll just whisper a little tip: don't forget to consider Air Asia X as one of your options. Not only are their ticket prices very tempting, but their flight times are also very good. For example, flight XJ 760, which I took, departs from Don Mueang Airport at 00:15 am and arrives at Pudong Airport in Shanghai at around 05:30 am, which means you can continue your sightseeing that day right away.

Note: For those traveling with Air Asia X, you can find instructions on how to fill out the Chinese entry form in the inflight magazine on board. Alternatively, you can take a picture of it to avoid forgetting. This is convenient and helps us a lot. ^^

After a lengthy introduction, let's delve into 9 captivating tourist destinations in Shanghai. Towards the end, I will provide a comprehensive itinerary and share valuable tips for exploring this vibrant city.

1. Jing'an Temple

Jing'an Temple: A Haven of Tranquility in the Heart of Shanghai

Jing'an Temple, a revered landmark with over 800 years of history, stands as a beacon of serenity amidst the towering skyscrapers of central Shanghai. Despite its urban location, the temple offers a sanctuary of peace and tranquility, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its spiritual ambiance.

Beyond its architectural splendor, which includes a majestic central pagoda housing a colossal Buddha statue, exquisite wood-carved Guanyin figures, and Ming Dynasty paintings by Zhu Pa, Jing'an Temple boasts a wealth of sacred artifacts and deities. Visitors can engage in the unique practice of tossing coins into the incense burner pagoda at the center of the courtyard, or touch the auspicious Lucky Jade Stone for blessings. This unassuming stone, resembling a simple rock at first glance, can be found on the left side of the courtyard facing the central pagoda.

Jing'an Temple offers a unique blend of cultural and spiritual experiences, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a respite from the bustling city life. Its rich history, architectural marvels, and sacred offerings provide a glimpse into the heart of Chinese Buddhism and the enduring traditions of Shanghai.

Transportation:

Take Metro Line 2 or 7 and get off at Jing'an Temple Station. The temple is located directly above the station exit.

Entrance fee: 50 yuan/person

Opening Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Recommended visit duration: 1 hour

2. Yuyuan Garden and Yuyuan Garden Market

For first-time visitors to Shanghai, I highly recommend visiting the Yuyuan Garden and the Yuyuan Garden Market, which are located in the same area. Before entering the garden, visitors must pass through the bustling market, offering a wide variety of goods. This is a great opportunity to grab a bite to eat or find unique souvenirs.

The Yuyuan Garden is a beautiful Chinese-style garden with a history of over 400 years. The garden is spacious, tranquil, and offers numerous picturesque photo opportunities. Visitors who enjoy photography or appreciate the aesthetics of Chinese homes and gardens will likely find this location appealing.

Travel: Take Metro Line 10 and get off at Yuyuan Garden Station. Then follow the signs for about 600 meters.

Entrance Fee: 40 yuan for the Yu Yuan Garden, while the market area is free of charge.

Opening Hours: Yu Yuan Garden 8:30 AM – 5:15 PM (Ticket sales close at 4:45 PM)

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

3. The Bund (Waitan)

The Bund, also known as Waitan, is located near Yuyuan Garden. It is within walking distance of the garden. However, it is important to note that Shanghai is divided into two parts by the Huangpu River: Puxi (the old city) and Pudong (the new city). The atmosphere of the two sides of the river is quite different. The new city is bustling with skyscrapers, while the old city is characterized by beautiful European-style buildings. These buildings have been well-maintained and converted into offices and restaurants, forming the Waitan or The Bund.

The Waitan, also known as the Bund, is a waterfront area in Shanghai. The name "Waitan Beach" is a misnomer, as it is actually a 1.5-kilometer-long road that runs along the west bank of the Huangpu River. Despite the lack of an actual beach, the Waitan is a beautiful and romantic place to take a stroll, especially in the evening or at night. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the historic buildings of the Bund, the Oriental Pearl Tower, and the modern skyscrapers of Pudong. The Waitan was also featured in the film "The Shanghai Bund."

Getting There:

Take Metro Line 2 or Line 10 and get off at East Nanjing Road Station. Then walk for another 600 meters.

Entrance Fee: Free of charge

Opening Hours: N/A. However, building lights, including the Oriental Pearl Tower, are fully illuminated after 7:00 PM.

Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours.

4. Xintiandi

Xintiandi (Xintiandi) is a great place for taking photos and having dinner with your partner. It boasts luxury shopping malls, beautiful buildings, and a wide variety of trendy restaurants. The area is divided into two blocks: North Block and South Block. Don't worry about getting lost or not being able to find the restaurant you want, as there are maps available at each entrance.

For photography enthusiasts seeking stunning profile pictures, Xintiandi is an ideal destination. Beyond the restaurant zone, venture into the side streets to discover hidden alleys brimming with aesthetic charm. While Xintiandi's present beauty is undeniable, it was once a notorious den of vice in Shanghai. The Chinese government's transformative efforts have resulted in its current splendor, making it a top tourist attraction. Dining options abound, but be prepared for premium pricing.

Directions: Take Metro line 10 or 13 and get off at Xintiandi Station, Exit 6. Then follow Google Maps for about 200-300 meters.

Entrance fee: Free of charge

Opening Hours: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours

5. Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road, also known as Nanjing Road, is a bustling thoroughfare lined with magnificent European-style buildings. These buildings house a plethora of shops and restaurants, offering an unparalleled shopping and dining experience. Whether you're a shopaholic or a foodie, Nanjing Road has something to offer everyone.

Nanjing Road is a long street that stretches all the way to Waikiki Beach. Due to its length, there is a tram service available for 5 yuan per ride for those who are unable to walk. The tram runs almost constantly. For those who want to shop or try different foods, you can walk along the street. The recommended time to visit is from 5 pm to 8 pm, as the weather is not too hot and many restaurants are only open in the evening. If you come early in the morning or stay on the street, you will see Chinese people practicing tai chi and playing sports in a peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere. It's a scene that makes me wonder if this is the same street that was bustling the night before.

Directions: Take Metro Line 2 or 10 and get off at East Nanjing Road Station. The destination is right outside the station exit.

Entrance Fee: Free of charge

Opening Hours: N/A. However, the busiest period is between 12:00 PM and 9:00 PM.

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

6. Tianzifang

Tianzifang, a haven for local, non-branded shopping, is a shopper's paradise. With its labyrinthine alleys and diverse offerings, it caters to every whim. The traditional low-rise brick buildings, known as Shikumen, seamlessly blend with European-style architecture, creating a unique Shanghai aesthetic.

Travel: Take Metro Line 9 to Dapuqiao Station and exit at Exit 1.

Entrance Fee: Free of charge

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

7. Shanghai World Financial Center

After experiencing the local atmosphere, I decided to take everyone to visit some high-rise buildings. The two most popular buildings are the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center. My wife and I chose to visit the latter because we could see the Oriental Pearl Tower, which is a symbol of Shanghai.

Getting to the building is easy. Take Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station. Look for the tall building that resembles a bottle opener and follow the path to the ticket office on the ground floor. After purchasing your ticket, take the elevator to the top floors for stunning views. There are various ticket options available, but for most tourists, the 3-floor ticket (floors 94, 97, and 100) for 180 yuan per person is sufficient. On your way to the building, consider stopping by the Pearl Tower near Lujiazui Station for a photo opportunity. Since you're already in Shanghai, it's a must-see attraction and conveniently located.

The optimal time to visit the Shanghai World Financial Center is around 4:00 PM. This allows ample time to queue for tickets, which can be lengthy on certain days. Visiting during daylight hours offers panoramic views of Shanghai and the Huangpu River, providing a thrilling perspective through the glass floor. Additionally, witnessing the sunset and the city's vibrant nighttime illumination adds to the experience.

Directions: Take Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station and exit through Exit 1.

Entrance Fee: 180 yuan/person for access to the 94th, 97th, and 100th floors. Tripods are allowed for photography.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM. Ticket sales close at 10:00 PM. The Pearl Tower lights turn on after 7:00 PM.

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

8. Zhujiajiao

Exploring Zhujiajiao: A Journey to Ancient China

This passage introduces Zhujiajiao, an ancient water town often compared to Thailand's Amphawa. While sharing similarities in their market-like atmosphere, Zhujiajiao boasts a distinctly Chinese character, evident in its architecture and cuisine. Its vastness surpasses Amphawa, offering a captivating glimpse into China's historical charm. Photography enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic Chinese experience will find Zhujiajiao particularly appealing.

The passage highlights the option of exploring the town via boat rides along its canals, providing a unique perspective and deeper immersion in the local ambiance. However, it's important to note the associated cost of 60 yuan per person.

The Fang Sheng Bridge, pictured here, is a prominent landmark. This massive stone bridge stretches 72 meters in length and 5 meters in width.

Traveling to this location may be challenging for non-Chinese speakers due to the reliance on buses. However, with determination, it is achievable. My wife and I successfully navigated using Google Translate and Google Maps. Our recommended travel method is as follows:

Outbound

• Take Metro Line 9 to Dong Jing Station.

• Upon arrival at the station, exit through Gate 4. Turn left and walk for 30-40 meters to find the bus stop.

• Wait for the bus route 松朱线 (Sōng zhū xiàn) or 松朱专线 (Sōng zhū zhuānxiàn). Before boarding the bus, confirm with the staff on the bus to be sure. (The fare is 5 yuan per person, and the bus ride takes about 1 hour.)

• Upon reaching the Zhujiajiao Water Market sign, cross the road and turn left. Continue walking straight until you see the red character sign in the second picture on your right.

- Turn right at the red sign and walk straight for about 500 meters to reach the floating market. At the junction shown in images 3 and 4, you can choose either path as both lead to the market.

Return trip

- Walk back to the bus stop where you got off on the way here. Then walk along the road for about 50 meters. You will find a bus stop on your right-hand side. Ask the staff which bus goes to People's Square. (You can ask by saying "People's Square" or typing it into Google Translate.)

• Travel cost: 7 yuan/person.

- Upon arrival at People's Square, we can conveniently transfer to the Metro system for onward travel to various destinations.

Entrance Fee: Free. Boat rides are available for 60 yuan per person.

Opening Hours: There are no specific opening hours, but it is recommended to visit between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM for the best experience.

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Roundtrip travel time: 4-5 hours

Note: While it is possible to take a single bus from People's Square to Zhujiajiao, the exact boarding point is unclear. If you wish to travel this way, further research is recommended.

9. Shanghai Disney Resort

A World-Class Theme Park Experience: Shanghai Disneyland

This sentence describes Shanghai Disneyland as a "top-tier theme park" with the second-largest area among all six Disneyland parks worldwide. The author emphasizes the park's immense popularity, stating that some visitors even plan their entire trip to Shanghai around visiting the park. The author then reveals that they and their spouse spent two full days exploring the park, highlighting its vastness and immersive experience.

For those who enjoy amusement parks and Disney, this is a must-visit destination. The rides, while not thrilling, are spectacular and visually stunning. If you'd like a comprehensive review, click this link: https://th.readme.me/p/12810 I've written about **everything you need to know about Shanghai Disneyland, including tips on maximizing your ride experience**.

Getting there: Take Metro Line 11 to Disney Station. The park is located right outside the station exit.

Admission Fee:

• Weekdays: 370 yuan/person
• Weekends: 499 yuan/person
• Tripods are not allowed.

Opening Hours: Weekdays 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Weekends 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM.

Duration of visit: 1 day

Shanghai: A Traveler's Guide to 9 Must-See Attractions

Shanghai, a bustling metropolis, offers a plethora of captivating destinations for travelers. While the city boasts numerous attractions, this guide focuses on nine noteworthy locations ideal for first-time visitors. To enhance your travel experience, we have curated a flexible itinerary encompassing these must-see sights.

Day 1: Jing'an Temple, Yuyuan Garden, Yuyuan Garden Market, and The Bund

Day 2: Xintiandi, Tianzifang, and Shanghai World Financial Center

Day 3: Shanghai Disneyland

Day 4: Zhujiajiao and Nanjing Road

This program is a rough draft of what I think we should do together to save time and travel expenses. If you don't like amusement parks, floating markets, or other activities, you can change them according to your preferences and flight schedule. However, if you plan to visit Shanghai Disneyland, you should spend the entire day there until the park closes. Also, avoid going on Saturdays, Sundays, or Chinese holidays, as the crowds will be enormous.

And now, we come to the final point of this article, which is a trick that will make your trip to Shanghai more convenient.

Tip 1: Taking the Metro

1. The Metro route map and fare information can be accessed in advance on the website http://service.shmetro.com/en/

2. Purchasing Metro tickets through the ticket vending machines is incredibly convenient. Simply select the English menu, choose the Metro line that passes your destination station, press the station name, enter the number of passengers, and insert your money. The process is then complete.

3. Passengers are required to scan their bags every time they enter a Shanghai Metro station. It is highly recommended to avoid carrying large or bulky bags to expedite the security check process.

Tip 2: Cash withdrawal or currency exchange

In China, most stores and hotels do not accept Visa and Master Card, but mainly UnionPay. Therefore, many people have to carry cash instead. However, the largest banknote in China is 100 yuan, and there are also smaller banknotes of 10 yuan, 5 yuan, and 1 yuan. As a result, our wallets tend to be quite thick and bulky.

Using Large Bills and Currency Exchange Machines in China

This passage provides a tip for managing your finances while traveling in China. It suggests carrying large bills in other currencies, such as dollars or yen, and exchanging them at automated currency exchange machines when needed. These machines are typically located within Chinese banks, offering a secure and reliable way to obtain local currency. The author recommends using SPD Bank's machine at the Sofitel Hotel on Nanjing Road, which accepts over 10 currencies, including Thai baht. The exchange rates offered by these machines are generally competitive, with only minor differences compared to exchanging currency in Thailand.

For those who encounter problems with insufficient funds or are unable to use their credit cards, I recommend "cash withdrawal using a Thai ATM card." You can use your Thai bank ATM card at any ATM displaying the Visa symbol. There is a withdrawal fee of 100 baht per transaction. The exchange rate is also considered reasonable.

This concludes our guide to Shanghai and the tips my wife and I tried out. We hope this article helps everyone get to know Shanghai better and encourages you to experience this city for yourselves. Trust me, you won't know until you go to Shanghai. It's better than you think.

For those who want to experience the atmosphere of traveling in Shanghai through moving images, you can watch the video below. And for those who enjoy my reviews, you can follow more information about various trips at https://www.facebook.com/amazingcouples/.

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See you in the next article. Goodbye.

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