Things to Do in Shanghai

A cosmopolitan metropolis, Shanghai is an incredible city that seamlessly blends Western and Chinese cultures. Starting as a small fishing village, Shanghai grew to become the largest city in China. It is a great entry point for any China Tour because of its blending of east and west. The city has something for everyone. It has incredible shopping, world class museums, ancient temples, and much more. The city has unique cultural aspects that are not found anywhere else in the world.

Acrobatics:
Shanghai is home to some of the greatest acrobatic troupes in China. No trip to Shanghai is complete without experiencing at least one. Acrobatics is an ancient performance art which has evolved over millennia. The most famous acrobatic troupe in China is the Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe. They have performed around the world. Their performances are truly spectacular. They use state of art lighting and staging techniques and are constantly updating their acts.

Shanghai Opera:
Originating from a popular folk singing style called Shange from the Jiangnan area south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River. The music has a sweet sound to it which blends beautifully with the gentle Shanghai dialect. The best place to hear Shanghai Opera is in the Yifu Theatre. Built in 1925, it is the only traditional opera theatre in Shanghai.

Pingtan:
A form of storytelling combined with ballad singing, Pingtan features one to three performers. The only props used in Pingtan are a fan, handkerchief, a table, and a piece of wood. The props are used to emphasize certain parts of the performance. Popular with all walks of life, Pingtan can be watched at the Tianchan Peking Opera Art Center and the Lyceum Theatre in Shanghai. Pingtan can also be seen at many tea houses around the city.

Xintiandi:
A wonderful area, Xintiandi is filled with beautiful boutiques, and upscale restaurants and nightclubs. It is a fantastic place to see and be seen. It is very popular with locals and visitors. The buildings are restored local dwellings and add a wonderful atmosphere to the area.

Huangpu River Cruise:
Shanghai’s mother river, the Huangpu River is lined by incredible architecture, both modern and classic. A cruise down the river in the evening is a wonderfully different way to experience Shanghai. In the evening, Shanghai’s buildings are beautifully lit and slowly cruising past them gives visitors a different perspective. The classic Bund, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Jinmao Tower, and the new Shanghai World Finance Center are all built next to the river. The cruise is a wonderfully romantic experience.