Next to Beijing, Shanghai is China's most iconic city, although its culture is rather different from that of the nation's capital, with this enormous metropolis having a reputation for being one of the most glamorous and stylish destinations in Asia.
Indeed, having been a playground for the rich and powerful during the early part of the 20th century, it soon developed into the entertainment capital of China, and is home to most of the country's movie studios, not to mention plenty of great theatres and other performance venues.
The city's architecture also reflects its recent past, with a wonderful collection of Art Deco-style buildings in areas like the Bund that wouldn't look out of place in 1920s Paris.
However, that's not to say you can't experience some authentic Chinese culture in Shanghai, as the city is also home to a number of stunning ancient temples, such as the incredible Jinshan Donglin temple, which is home to the world's tallest indoor statue.
Other highlights that are well worth discovering include the Oriental Pearl Tower - which is the most iconic feature on the city's skyline - and the Shanghai Museum, where visitors can learn more about the history and culture of this fascinating place.
Next to Beijing, Shanghai is China's most iconic city, although its culture is rather different from that of the nation's capital, with this enormous metropolis having a reputation for being one of the most glamorous and stylish destinations in Asia.
Indeed, having been a playground for the rich and powerful during the early part of the 20th century, it soon developed into the entertainment capital of China, and is home to most of the country's movie studios, not to mention plenty of great theatres and other performance venues.
The city's architecture also reflects its recent past, with a wonderful collection of Art Deco-style buildings in areas like the Bund that wouldn't look out of place in 1920s Paris.
However, that's not to say you can't experience some authentic Chinese culture in Shanghai, as the city is also home to a number of stunning ancient temples, such as the incredible Jinshan Donglin temple, which is home to the world's tallest indoor statue.
Other highlights that are well worth discovering include the Oriental Pearl Tower - which is the most iconic feature on the city's skyline - and the Shanghai Museum, where visitors can learn more about the history and culture of this fascinating place.
