Joanna James
Be it on your first trip or a return visit, there are certain attractions in Shanghai you may miss seeing since they are not as well known or featured in your guidebook. Here are such alternative sites and things to do that will provide some fascinating insights.
During the 1920s and 1930s, Shanghai had a burgeoning Art Deco scene; what you may not know is that in 1929, the Greater Shanghai Plan was designed to feature a separate area with Chinese Art Deco structures. While it was never finished due to the Japanese attacks in World War Two, you can explore this part of Shanghai in Jiangwan which features some completed Art Deco buildings. Combining traditional and contemporary designs of the time, noteworthy structures include the City Hall, China Civil Aviation Association, Greater Shanghai Municipal Museum and Greater Shanghai Municipal Library.
If you are looking to enjoy some recreation and relaxation, then head to the West Bund Public Open Space in Shanghai. Apartments within easy reach of this area along the banks of the Huangpu River make ideal accommodation options from which to visit with the whole family. You can go cycling along scenic Binjiang Avenue, work up a sweat at the Adidas Runbase, walk or jog along the boardwalk, play some basketball or show your moves at the skate park. There's even a free to use outdoor climbing wall and spots for picnics too.
While there are many parks in the city to choose from, one that tends to get overlooked (not by locals though!) is Guilin Park which is well worth a visit. Located within easy reach of properties such as Citadines West Yan'an Road Shanghai, this site showcases the design and layout of a classic southern Chinese garden. A perfect place to get away from the bustling city streets, this idyllic park offers a tranquil space to wander around; amongst the highlights here are the arched bridges, distinctive pavilions, serene ponds, ornamental windows and diverse flora.
During World War Two, Shanghai saw thousands of Jews arrive at the city in search of sanctuary, as they fled from the Nazis. Most of them occupied an area of the Hongkou District that is known as the Old Jewish Ghetto. It is worth exploring this locale where you can still see some buildings with the Star of David on the front door. When here, you can find out more about this time by visiting the Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum and the Jewish memorial at nearby Huoshan Park.
Known for its impressive design, the 1933 Old Millfun features brutalist architecture that will truly impress and makes for great backdrops for pictures too. Once the city's largest slaughterhouse, this historical building has become a spot not only known for its architecture but galleries, studios and cafés too. Amongst the best things to do in Shanghai is to just spend time walking around taking in the building's striking sky bridges, zigzagging ramps, concrete latticed windows, curved stairwells and central atrium.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
