Shanghai in December

The things we enjoyed the most in Shanghai were eating authentic and delicious Chinese food, visiting the surrounding tourist attractions, and seeing the revival of the new Shanghai. In the last 5 years since my last visit, Shanghai has changed immensely from a stagnant old communist city to a modern metropolis that is the rival of any major western city. You must visit the Yu Gardens which are a beautifully preserved traditional Chinese garden, and also visit the old city temple next to the Yu garden.

Quick Tips:

The weather can be quite cold in December, so bring warm clothes. There are many modern and good hotels in the city including American hotel chains like Holiday Inn, Hilton, and Westin hotels, but they can be expensive at more then per night.

Best Way To Get Around:

Taxis are a convenient way to get around because Shanghai has limited subway access and public transportation is usually very crowded.

This well preserved ancient water village is located about 90 minutes outside of Shanghai, and it is a small village that has maintained a very traditional setting. Canals crisscross the entire village, and the villagers live in well preserved antique Chinese houses. Bring a camera to capture the great scenery along the canals.

It only costs about $8.00 to get into the village. Many artisans here sell arts and crafts like embroidery, Chinese water color paintings, handbags, and local foods and snacks in small shops along the canals. You will not find any big tourist stores here. We found great bargains here, and though the price is cheap, you can still bargain. Before you reach the village, you'll pass an excellent restaurant called Yun Hai that is clean, roomy, and cheap.

There are many Chinese and Western tourists here, be I really recommend you visiting here to appreciate what old fashioned Chinese villages look like.

The is a notable Shanghai landmark in the newly developed Pudong area. It is a working TV tower, and according to what the locals say, it is the tallest structure in Asia. It doesn't have any historical significance, but it is a popular sight anyway because many people take the elevator ride to the top for the wide views of Shanghai. There are many shops and restaurants on the lower levels.