Like many international metropoli composed of immigrants, Shanghai is a bustling boom town. But whereas Manhattan grew explosively in the 19th century, Shanghai is experiencing that phenomenon now.
Rapidly becoming a world economic powerhouse, there is more construction occurring in Shanghai than anywhere else on Earth. Hundreds of cranes daily swing girders over the streets as the inhabitants (approaching 20 million) speed by below.
For the traveler there is also a nearly Manhattan-full variety of things to do. As Shanghai is situated on the banks of the Yangtze River delta, there are trips down that mammoth waterway daily. But one needn't board one to see activity on the river. Shanghai is one of the largest cargo ports in the world.
Once the center of China's opium trade, and largely a den of thieves and prostitutes, business in the 'City on the Sea' has evolved. It now hosts the country's stock market alongside thousands of other businesses. Home to one of the world's largest hotels, some of the finest restaurants and lots of high rise buildings, Shanghai has moved well beyond its grimy past.
High-priced boutiques offer shopping that even a Manhattanite or a Parisian will envy. Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Ralph Lauren and dozens of others now have stores here.
The Bund (Wai Tan) is one of the more popular tourist destinations in Shanghai. Despite the German sounding name, the area retains its international flavor.
Neo-classical buildings and a waterfront promenade attract thousands daily. Tourists jostle with the local street vendors while admiring the 1925 Nissin Kisen Kaisha Shipping building. The restaurant on the seventh floor is a local favorite.
Others prefer the roof terrace restaurant at the 1916 Union Assurance building. From here, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of Pudong, the center of Shanghai's resurgence as a major world city.
Xintiandi is another of Shanghai's many refurbished areas. It's now home to elegant restaurants and upscale clubs, yet retains many features of its 19th century architecture.
After 400 years in existence, the Yu Yuan Gardens retain their reputation as one of the city's most sought out tourist destinations. The botanical treasure trove offers five acres of Chinese creativity in horticulture.
The Grand Rockery, Ten Thousand-Flower Pavilion, Hall of Jade Magnificence and other sections will each offer sights and aromas to anyone looking for an oasis in the busy metropolis.
One of the newer additions to Shanghai's burgeoning list of attractions is the Shanghai Museum. Opened in 1996, it features 11 modern galleries that display both ancient and contemporary artifacts. Jade, furniture from the Ming and Qing dynasties, sculpture, bronzes, ceramics and much more are arrayed within.
After a few hours spent viewing some of China's historical treasures, visitors may want to see one of its newest: The Oriental Pearl Tower (Dong Fang Ming Zhu). From the top of one of the world's tallest radio and TV towers, visitors can get a breathtaking view of Shanghai. Open day and night, you may want to go twice.
Be sure to allow at least a week to see Shanghai properly. Even at that, you'll find that - like visiting Manhattan - there will still be more to see on a second trip.
Shanghai, Manhattan of China
