Written by Maren Hamilton |
Shanghai is one of the largest cities in the world. With a name that literally means “on the sea”, the city is often included as either the first or last stop on Yangtze River cruises. Even if you’re only planning to see Shanghai itself, though, it’s absolutely worth it. To show you why, here’s a list of 15 important facts for anyone planning to go to shanghai.
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- 1. Shanghai is One of the Largest Cities in the World
- 2. Shanghai Boasts the Longest Metro System in the World
- 3. Shanghai Maglev is the World’s Fastest Train
- 4. Shanghai is Home to the Tallest Building in China, Shanghai Tower
- 5. Shanghai Disneyland is the Second-Largest Theme Park in the World
- 6. Shanghai is Near to Many Beautiful Water Towns
- 7. Shanghai Port is the Largest in China and the Busiest in the World
- 8. Shanghai is China’s Top Attractive Cities for Expats
- 9. Shanghai Has a Captivating Mix of History and Cutting-Edge Modernity
- 10. Shanghai Has More Cafes Than NYC, London, or Tokyo
- 11. Shanghainese Cuisine Features a Light and Sweet Taste
- 12. Shanghai is Known for Its Unique Shikumen (石库门) Architecture
- 13. Shanghai Was Originally a Fishing Village
- 14. Shanghai is a Global Finance and Cultural Center
- 15. Shanghai Offers 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Now
- Tour Shanghai with Us
1. Shanghai is One of the Largest Cities in the World
One fact you should know about Shanghai is that it’s not just one of the largest cities in China, it’s one of the largest in the whole world. Covering over 6,300 square kilometers and home to almost 25 million residents, it easily beats out cities like London and New York City. Shanghai’s size means it can take quite some time before you feel like you truly know the city, but that’s not a negative at all – it just gives you another excuse to go back.
2. Shanghai Boasts the Longest Metro System in the World
Given how vast the city is, it shouldn’t be too surprising that it has the longest metro system in the world, though it might come as a bit of a relief to hear it. First opened to the public in 1993, the city’s metro is now 808 kilometers long and transports over 10 million people per day. That makes exploring the city just that much easier, especially since tickets are so affordable, normally costing around 6 CNY or less if you’re staying downtown.
3. Shanghai Maglev is the World’s Fastest Train
The length of Shanghai’s metro isn’t the only interesting fact about the city’s transportation system, however, because the city also hosts the world’s fastest train, the Shanghai maglev. Connecting Pudong Airport to Longyang Road station, the train can reach speeds of up to 431 kilometers per hour and completes its 30 kilometer journey in just 8 minutes and 10 seconds. Whether you want to experience one of the best trains in the world or just need to go to the airport, you’re in luck, because a one-way ticket costs just 50 CNY.
4. Shanghai is Home to the Tallest Building in China, Shanghai Tower
If you aren’t afraid of heights, you have to check out Shanghai Tower. Looming over other skyscrapers at 632 meters tall, the tower hosts a variety of restaurants that are perfect for relaxing and taking in the view. The 180 CNY entrance fee might seem steep at first, but one interesting fact about Shanghai tower that you might not know is that it’s also home to the second fastest elevator in the world. Combine that with the amazing photo opportunities from the 546-meter-high observation deck (the world’s highest), and the price seems just about right.
- Good to know: It is highly recommended to visit the Shanghai Tower on a clear day to get the best views. Visiting around dusk will reward you not only breathtaking panorama but also captivating night views of Shanghai, as the city lights usually begin to twinkle at around 6 PM.
5. Shanghai Disneyland is the Second-Largest Theme Park in the World
You don’t have to love Disney to love Shanghai Disneyland – you just have to love theme parks. Featuring rides themed around iconic stories like Alice in Wonderland, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Marvel, it’s a great stop for families and thrill-seekers alike. One interesting fact about Shanghai Disneyland is that it’s home to the tallest, largest, and most complex Disney castle yet, which makes it a must-see stop for any hardcore Disney fans in the city.
6. Shanghai is Near to Many Beautiful Water Towns
One of the best facts about Shanghai, at least for tourists, is its amazing location near a variety of water towns in China. While the hustle and bustle of city life is an amazing experience in and of itself, it can be nice to get away sometimes. That’s why the slower, more traditional experience of water towns like Tongli, Zhujiajiao, Zhouzhuang, and Wuzhen can be such a rewarding experience.
Distance from Shanghai to Major Nearby Water Towns
- Shanghai – Zhujiajiao: 40-50 kilometers; about 30-50 minutes’ drive or 1.5 hours by subway and walking.
- Shanghai – Tongli: 98-105 kilometers, about 1.5-2 hours’ drive.
- Shanghai – Zhouzhuang: 60-70 kilometers, about 1-1.5 hours’ drive
- Shanghai – Wuzhen: 106-130 kilometers, about 1.5-2 hours’ drive
Best Shanghai Tours with Nearby Water Towns:
- 5 Days Shanghai Tour with Zhujiajiao Water Town
- 5 Days Classic Shanghai Tour with Zhouzhuang Water Town
- 6 Days Shanghai Suzhou Hangzhou Tour with Tongli Water Town
7. Shanghai Port is the Largest in China and the Busiest in the World
China is known for its manufacturing power, so it shouldn’t come as a shock that Shanghai’s Port is not just the largest in China but the busiest in the world as well. Located at the mouth of the Yangtze River, the city is more or less in the centre of China’s eastern coastline, giving it a huge trade advantage. Nowadays, the port covers an area of 2,500 square kilometers and boasts 125 docks and 19 terminals, making it an impressive symbol of modern commerce.
8. Shanghai is China’s Top Attractive Cities for Expats
One fact about Shanghai that every foreign tourist should know is that sometimes, it’ll feel just like home – after all, it’s the city with the most foreign residents in all of China. Since the city offers a diverse cultural landscape, foreign residents of the city get to enjoy Chinese culture without sacrificing the luxuries of home. So if you’re feeling homesick in Shanghai, don’t worry — you’re sure to find your favourite comfort food somewhere in the city.
9. Shanghai Has a Captivating Mix of History and Cutting-Edge Modernity
Shanghai is often thought of as a modern city, and that’s not inaccurate, but it does gloss over the city’s more historical and traditional side. An interesting fact about Shanghai’s history for anyone looking to get a taste of the past is that the Old City of Shanghai was the county seat for the old county of Shanghai. You can also find Yuyuan Garden, which dates back to the Ming dynasty, nearby.
If you are interested in Shanghai’s ancient charm, visit:
- Yuyuan Garden: Shanghai’s most renowned historical landmark. A traditional Jiangnan garden with classic Ming Dynasty architecture, winding bridges, picturesque waterscape, etc.
- City God Temple: A 600-year-old temple near Yuyuan Garden and Yuyuan Bazaar.
- Shanghai Old Street: It is the essence of Shanghai’s past, featuring ancient Shikumen houses, traditional handicrafts and lifestyle.
- The Bund: The most iconic landmark of Shanghai, the Bund is a waterfront pedestrian area with many historical European buildings of old Shanghai.
10. Shanghai Has More Cafes Than NYC, London, or Tokyo
If you’re a fan of coffee, it’s time to head to Shanghai. Full of both local and international brands, Shanghai boasts the city with the most coffee shops in the world. Those looking for a more Chinese experience should try Luckin Coffee, Starbucks’ greatest rival in the country, while those who want a more intimate, laid-back vibe should wander around the Former French Concession to try out the area’s many independent cafes.
11. Shanghainese Cuisine Features a Light and Sweet Taste
One of the things you can’t miss in China is the food, which is why an important fact to know about Shanghai before you visit is what their cuisine is like. Shanghai’s food typically highlights the raw flavour of the ingredients, giving the dishes a very fresh and light feeling. Many also say that Shanghai food tends to be sweet, but keep in mind that the greatest compliment for a Chinese dessert is that it’s “not too sweet” – that is to say, don’t expect Western levels of sweet!
12. Shanghai is Known for Its Unique Shikumen (石库门) Architecture
One of the most unique aspects of Shanghai is its Shikumen architecture. This is a style that blends Western and Chinese elements to create a mixed style that captures the essence of both. Like traditional Chinese houses, Shikumen style buildings have a courtyard, but the overall building is multiple stories tall and made of brick like many Western buildings. It’s an interesting fact about Shanghai’s architecture that most foreigners don’t know, but once they do, it gives them a whole new appreciation for their surroundings.
Where to see Shanghai’s Ancient Shikumen Architecture
The well-preserved Shikumen areas in Shanghai are predominantly found in Huangpu and Jing’an districts. Below are some recommended zones for this unique architectural style:
- Xintiandi (The New World) in Huangpu District: With high-end restaurants, cafes, commercial venues hidden in traditional architecture.
- Tianzifang in Huangpu District: Still preserves narrow, winding alleys, and local residents’ daily lives.
- Zhangyuan in Jing’an Districe: Shanghai’s largest and most stylistically diverse Shikumen cluster, with Chinese and Western decorative elements coexisting.
√Good to know: Xintiandi and Zhangyuan is great to visit at night due to their illuminated architecture and vibrant nightlife atmosphere. Morning time from 7:00-9:00 Am is great to experience the tranquil morning charm of the lanes in Tianzifang area.
Recommended Shanghai Tours with Ancient Shikumen Buildings Experience:
- 6 Days Shanghai Suzhou Hangzhou Tour with Tongli Water Town
- 2 Days Shanghai Highlight Tour Excluding Hotel
13. Shanghai Was Originally a Fishing Village
One interesting fact about Shanghai’s history is that the city actually started out as a fishing village. While part of what would become the city already had residents 6,000 years ago, Shanghai’s rise really began during the 19th century, at which point it became a major hub of domestic and international trade as a result of its designation as a treaty port after the First Opium War.
14. Shanghai is a Global Finance and Cultural Center
Just because everyone knows what an economic and cultural powerhouse Shanghai does doesn’t mean it’s any less of an essential fact about the city. From the Shanghai World Financial Centre to artsy neighbourhoods like Xintiandi, the city truly has a perfect mix of business and culture. In fact, perhaps the best representation of this are the old banks and trading houses on along the Bund, a fascinating combination of both business and history.
15. Shanghai Offers 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Now
Finally, the last interesting fact about Shanghai that all first-timers should know is that citizens of certain countries can visit the city for 240 hours without a visa! That means you can spend 10 days exploring the city and getting to know all its secrets without going to the trouble of applying for a visa, provided that you follow the visa-free transit rules. So what are you waiting for? There’s a megacity waiting to be explored!
Tour Shanghai with Us
If you’re looking to visit Shanghai, the best way to do it is with a local guide who can help make sure you don’t miss anything – that’s where China Xian Tour comes in. We offer both preset and customised tours throughout China for all kinds of travellers. Whether you want to get a taste of Shanghai cuisine, have a traditional Chinese experience outside of the city, or explore everything Shanghai has to offer, we have a perfect tour for you. We can’t wait to help you on your next great adventure.
