Best of Shanghai on a Budget

Description:

Even though most Chinese residents consider these morning tai chi gatherings as nothing more than "life in general," most foreign visitors are drawn to them. It represents the rare chance to witness Chinese culture without the gleam of tourist hype. Hundreds gather each morning along the Bund, a rebuilt hump of land overlooking the Huangpu River, to practice the disciplines of tai chi and kung fu. Some even take it one step further by practicing ballroom dancing, an odd sight at dawn. All "practices" are open to the public.

Description:

People's square is a large open area composed of the Shanghai Museum, The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, The Shanghai Grand Theatre, and the municipal government buildings. It has many shops and attractions, one of them being Raffles city, a mall-like shopping center with a subway station underground. People's Square is a beautiful walk with trees and amazing photography spots of tall unique buildings and the many people always filling it. It is right next to People's Park.

Our Local Expert Says:

Renmin Park is a central green space in close proximity to Shanghai's museums and Nanjing lu.

Description:

What was once a racetrack is now the beautiful Renmin Park. Renovated in keeping with Chinese design traditions, visitors can jog or work-out in the mornings, and stroll through in the evenings. A small pond with lotuses, rental boats, and a children's play area are some of the other reasons to venture here.

Description:

This crazy street is full of eateries blazing with bright lights, emitting smells of the heavenly seafood sizzling on the burners. A trip down Huanghe Lu is essential to experience Shanghai's colorful cuisine and friendly hospitality. Looking at the chattering foodies, gobbling down the fresh catch of the day and downing bottles of local liquor, you are tempted to join in. So don't let anything stop you!

Description:

The Shanghai Museum, located in the Renmin Square, has a massive assortment of Chinese art, from the bronze gallery to calligraphy and paintings. The 4 floored airy building has room after room of ancient artifacts and a wonderful Tea Room to sit and have lunch. In each of the exhibits, there is a pamphlet of information that sums up the room. The museum is set up with easy to follow signs in a tour-like fashion and has little gift shops of souvenirs. From the top floor, looking down you can see the large circular design in the middle of the lobby. The top of the museum is a beautiful glass dome skylight.

Our Local Expert Says:

This museum, nestled in the very hip People’s Square area, is home to the government’s detailed history and future hopes for the Shanghai area.

Description:

If your stay in Shanghai will be long, then the museum is worth a short daytrip, however, if you only have a few days then this propaganda and modeling center can be skipped in favor of something more up to date or lively. The first floor holds a small model of the city, covered in dust and looking dejected and lonely. The second floor is a pictorial history of the area which is worth a look-see. Some images show a side by side view of the city 30 years ago and today, which is quite amusing only if you know the city well. The third floor is where the magic happens. A model of the city stretching across some 50 yards shows every street, building and alley in fine, dusty detail. The fourth floor holds some interesting models and literature on China's first green city, to be completed outside Shanghai sometime in the future.

Description:

The road to see and be seen on for shopping, eating, pub-crawling or simply absorbing Shanghai's famous modern feel.

Our Local Expert Says:

The iconic trademark tower of Shanghai has long been not only a tourist attraction, but a pillar of Chinese progress and modernization.

Description:

Though an iconic and beautiful structure in Pudong, the tower is much to look at from afar but little to see up close. Designed by Jia Huan Cheng, a Chinese national, the tower was opened to the public in 1995. It is the third tallest tower in the world, and reigned supreme from 1995-2007 as the tallest structure in China (surpassed by the Shanghai World Financial Center). One can be admitted to various spheres of the tower, including and observation sphere and a pricy revolving restaurant, an exhibition on the history of shanghai, or one can spend a small fortune to stay in the tiny hotel located in the middle sphere. Be prepares for long lines and a certain amount of shoving in order to gaze out the observation windows. If you have a longer stay in Shanghai, the Pearl Tower is worth the wait, but if your stay is minimal skip this attraction and head up to the top of Jin Mao Tower or the newer Shanghai World Financial Center.

Description:

Rated among the best Thai restaurants in Shanghai, the deservedly popular Simply Thai boasts stylish ambience and terrific food. The menu features various curries and other traditional favorites, with a full bar. Though a bit overpriced, the experience is pleasant and the food not undeserving of renown. Recommended are the more affordable lunch specials and the terrific vegetable and rice dishes. Wonderfully decorated in charming Thai style, this intimate and cozy restaurant exudes a faint smell of incense. Beloved among its loyal clientele are the outdoor courtyard (for alfresco dining on warm nights) and the late-night drink specials. Service is English-friendly and professional and this is a classy place to take a date.

Description:

Zapata's was the first place in Shanghai to offer a free flow of alcohol (margaritas) to its female customers. Its Monday and Wednesday evening ladies' nights are now legendary and very popular with students. Nights can get pretty sweaty and wild and the place is often packed to the rafters with dancing on the bars. On other evenings, there are food specials and salsa classes. As the name suggests, the food is Mexican style with a wide range of classics including chicken mole and flan. It's not the best Mexican food, the service is lacking, and it's a bit tacky, a bit manic, but if you want to dance and drink with friends, it's a fun place to go.

Description:

For moderate prices, this restaurant offers a wide array of facilities which are sure to maker every backpacker happy. Located close to a city center, it is easily accessible to the various places in and around Shanghai. Reservations are recommended in advance.

Our Local Expert Says:

Located in Old Town, the Yu Gardens are a must see tourist shopping destination.

Description:

You can find almost anything you want in the Yu Gardens bazaar. With renovated old Chinese buildings, and winding streets full of shops and salespeople, you are sure to spend all day seeing everything. There is an antique mall that sells little trinkets, statues, jewelry, and paintings. Many restaurants can be found; among them are places for foreigners. There are also the many street food vendors for the curious. One of the most interesting shops is the 2RMB stores; the equivalent to an American dollar store.

Our Local Expert Says:

Best xiaolongbao in Shanghai!

Description:

Locally known as Ding Tai Feng, this eatery is actually a branch of a Taiwanese dumpling house, and sets to rest any doubts about the ability of Taiwanese to prepare Xiaolongbao. The sweet aroma of the Xiaolongbaos has spread internationally, and crossed the Atlantic in 1993, when an outlet opened in New York. Drop by to feast on juicy dumplings, wontons and the like. If you're by yourself and bored, you can pass the time watching chefs at work in the open kitchen.

Description:

This temple, which was constructed in 1918, ranks as one of Shanghai's top tourist draws. The interior is heavy in the wow-factor with its classic Chinese architecture and is highlighted by a massive jade statue of Buddha. But what makes this so wildly popular is the ability to witness the temple's resident monks perform their daily ceremonies throughout its four halls. These daily "events" provide amazing first-hand insight to China's ancient religous culture. Visitors are asked to behave accordingly.

Description:

Arguably the best and most internationally renowned gallery for contemporary Chinese art, ShanghART took some time to build its reputation. The Swiss owner, Lorenz Helbling, claims he is probably the first contact for local and overseas admirers of modern Chinese art in China. The contracted artists at this gallery have shown at international exhibitions and are emancipating themselves from the stigma of being recognized as Chinese artists to being known as artists in their own right. Single and group exhibitions are featured frequently. ShanghART's website also offers regularly changing exhibitions online. Admission is free.

Description:

Treat yourself to a taste of ethnic Nepali cuisine. Located on the culturally diverse Julu Road, this restaurant serves up some of the best authentic food of its kind. Spread across three floors, the comfortable and colorful interior decorated with ornaments, pictures, paper lanterns and cushions, is as much of a draw as the food. The staff, decked up in the traditional Nepali attire, serves you hot curries, flavorful noodles, soups and more. There is even a set menu for the herbivores, as well as a sprinkling of Tibetan and Indian fare. If you have a tough time choosing go for the restaurant's special set menu which offers all their specialties.

Our Local Expert Says:

One of Shanghai's cleaner alleys and an easy stop to break up a walk through the French Concession.

Description:

In a prime location on Heng Shan Road, this bowling hall is a much trendier version than some of its competitors in Shanghai. Open 24 hours a day, it has 32 lanes on-site. Peak time runs from 7p to midnight. Certain discounts are available throughout the day.

Our Local Expert Says:

This classic rock joint plays all the favorites, from the Beatles to the Doors to Jimi Hendrix, and has live performances on the weekend. With prices appealing to students and English teachers, this is the place for kicking back and relaxing on Friday night.

Description:

The Time Passage is a great hangout place, suitable for partying too. Come by with friends and groove to various kinds of numbers, from Jazz to Rock. Expect Troubadurs on Fridays. There, now you have music and drinks-the essentials to get your party started.

Description:

For moderate prices, this restaurant offers a wide array of facilities which are sure to maker every backpacker happy. Located close to a city center, it is easily accessible to the various places in and around Shanghai. Reservations are recommended in advance.

Description:

The two-story building was once home to Chiang Kai Shek and his wife, Soong Mei Ling and later became a music school. Today, the compound is home to a restaurant and bar and stylish outdoor patio. Prime, the upscale restaurant on the second floor, is one of the classier places to enjoy a western style steak or romantic dinner for two. Sasha's famous patio attracts diners on sunny afternoons and is ideal for Sunday brunches, large events and after work gatherings. With affordable pub grub downstairs and high brow cuisine above, this spot has something for everyone- at every budget.

Description:

Hai Hai Road is not only covered in flashing lights and blinking signs, but has bars, clubs, boutiques, bookstores and some of the finest food in Shanghai. It is worth checking out if your stay in Shanghai will be longer than a few days or if you are craving food and sights from your homeland. Additionally, Huai Hai Road remains one of the best places in Shanghai to take a date, stroll arm in arm under the bright lights as you window shop, stop for coffee or drinks at a nearby bar and even entice your romantic other to dinner with the aroma of international cuisine drifting across the boulevard.

Description:

Massages by blind masseurs in China are a popular trend. These massages are said to be therapeutic for good health and extremely relaxing. This center is located in the historical old French Concession area so it is worth a walk. Kang Ning offers professional service at good standards and at a reasonable price. A massage will cost on average, CNY60, for one hour.

Our Local Expert Says:

A rare green space in Shanghai, Fuxing Park is a great escape from the city heat. A nice stop as part of a French Concession walking tour.

Description:

Formerly the French Park, Fuxing Park is laid out in European style and is one of the few green patches in the city. Visitors come to take in the fresh air, practise tai-chi, or read books under the shady trees. There's a statue of Marx-Engels in the centre of the park, which was unveiled on Engels' death anniversary. Also check out Park 97, which is located inside the park.

Description:

This cafe/bar is a convenient place for a break or a quick bite to eat after a long day of shopping. The establishment serves a wide variety of international food but it is known foremost for its burgers. The long and narrow room with its huge windows is comfortably furnished. Service is warm and very friendly.

Description:

This neighborhood hangout is a favorite among locals. Come by to feast on some local traditional Shanghai fare. The chef here uses time honored recipes to dish out authentic cuisine for his customers. The place is usually crowded and sometimes you'll find up to 300 people trying to squeeze in. All's forgiven considering the fact that the prices are relatively cheap. So sit back relax and feast on your Shanghainese dish with a chilled pint of beer to wash it down.

Description:

Furnished in a bright contemporary style, this cafe is resplendent in turquoise and red quilted silk bar stools and banquettes. Drop in Friday to kick-start your weekend with free jazz. Perfect for a laid-back night.

Our Local Expert Says:

An expat secret and a great place to take a date.

Description:

Live jazz nightly is the hallmark of this local institution, Shanghai's longest running and still the best venue for live jazz and blues. The bands are skilled, the tunes are tight, and the informal, darkly atmospheric club often attracts standing-room-only crowds on weekends. 7pm to 2am. Live music plays from 9:30pm to midnight during the week and from 10:15pm to 1:30am on Friday and Saturday.

Our Local Expert Says:

Popular with the young expatriot crowd looking for a good time at a cheap price.

Description:

Complete with faux stalactites and stalagmites, this funky cavelike underground bar has, yes, wall murals with Buddhist iconography to go with its opium beds, but it all adds to the cool quotient, as does the bar's various all-you-can-drink deals. Live bands and DJs trade off. 7pm to 2am.

Description:

For moderate prices, this restaurant offers a wide array of facilities which are sure to maker every backpacker happy. Located close to a city center, it is easily accessible to the various places in and around Shanghai. Reservations are recommended in advance.

Description:

One of the quintessential aspects of eastern life and culture is Chinese massage. In Shanghai, Jing Xuan is the place to experience this firsthand. At the massage center are blind masseurs who have been traditionally trained and who have done massage all of their lives. Able to stimulate circulation, and relax muscles and joints, the healing massage can help fend against a host of ailments such as sciatica and back problems.

Our Local Expert Says:

Great for the backpacker set who are looking for cheap beer and fun.

Description:

One of Shanghai's many late night bowling alleys, with 24 lanes available. Prices vary according to the time you wish to play. Peak time is 7p to 11p everyday of the week, when the games are at lower rates.

Our Local Expert Says:

Situated in an area increasingly famous for its small galleries.

Description:

Located above Ton Hall Cafe Bar, this gallery is limited to two rooms, in which mainly oil paintings line the walls. The gallery deals with pieces by young artists as well as famous painters, including the ingenious horse painter, Xu Bei Hong. The manager, Xu Long Sen, is an artist himself. He frequently invites Shanghai artists to join discussions at a huge table in the gallery, which once was an opium bed.

Our Local Expert Says:

A regular stop in expat circles with a wide variety of brews.

Description:

This very comfortable pub in a colonial villa is extremely popular with Shanghai's foreign residents (especially with its outdoor garden). Kilkenny and Guinness are on tap, and it's easy to quaff one too many here. The bartenders are tops, but sadly there's no longer any live Irish music. Monday through Saturday 11:30am to 2am, Sunday 10am to 1am.

Description:

Brought to you by Kathleen of the KABB American bistro fame, this popular, unpretentious "just-the-drinks-ma'am" kind of bar has expanded in the last few years to seven locations, though the most popular are those at Tongren Lu and on Maoming Lu. Draft beers are reasonably priced and the grub is pretty good as well. The crowd starts off mostly foreign, which has a funny way of drawing in the locals. 11am to 2am.

Our Local Expert Says:

Best place for group parties

Description:

From the bright red and green floral fabric everywhere to the customers and the wait staff, Dongbei Ren is loud. The décor is Chinese Revolutionary retro with pictures of liberators hugging every wall, while staff in pigtails or even military costumes shout out orders. Customers may sit at kangs or in themed rooms such as a North Korean room. Comfort food prevails with plenty of dumplings, breads, noodles and big caveman-like lamb shanks with an endless supply of tea and beer. One fish dish even comes with an accompanying song sung by staff members. Popular, so get there early to avoid missing out on a local favorite and a tourist must!

Description:

Easy to walk by without noticing it, Whisk is tucked off Huaihai Lu down an unmarked alley. A casual dining space in cool greens and whites, the décor is also chocolate focused, with quotes about chocolate on the walls and huge jars of chocolate buttons. For those without a sweet tooth, there is a selection of risottos and paninis with ingredients such as prosciutto and artichoke, but the food is found lacking and drab, and the real reason to go is for desert. For the chocolate lover - chocolate shots, cupcakes and cookies are just the tip of the iceberg. Service is efficient and prices are reasonable. This is the most romantic desert place in town, or the perfect ladies out treat.

Description:

The owners have successfully created a Western-style gathering place featuring good food and good service. With magazines and books available to peruse at your leisure, it is easy to spend more time than you meant to here. So be it. The owners and staff do not mind. They have even provided checker-boards and puzzles to help you enjoy your visit. The reasonably-priced menu ranges from pizza and pasta to more gourmet fare. There is also an extensive selection of coffees and other refreshments. Clean and colorful, this cafe and 24-hour pizzeria provides a pleasant atmosphere in which to savor the food.

Description:

A common complaint of non-locals about typical Shanghainese cuisine is the heavy use of oil in preparation. The dishes at Shanghai Ren Jia use less oil while retaining the essential flavors of Shanghainese cuisine. Be patient if you need to wait in line, a friendly and efficient staff will do all they can to help. The floor is huge, but always packed with people sitting at the crowded tables.