Shanghai isn’t just a financial powerhouse—it’s a city of contrasts that stole my heart. From sunrise walks along the Bund’s historic waterfront to dusk views from Shanghai Tower’s observation deck, from quiet mornings in Yu Garden to lively afternoons in Tianzifang’s alleys, every corner tells a story. This guide blends my personal memories with practical advice, so you can feel Shanghai’s warmth beyond the skyscrapers.
a local travel expert breaks down the revolutionary changes that have made visiting China easier than ever—from the expanded Visa-Free entry list to the seamless Alipay integration for foreign cards. Discover how to navigate the High-Speed Rail like a pro, survive the 'Great Firewall,' and explore a curated itinerary that takes you from the cyberpunk streets of Shanghai to the misty karst mountains of Yangshuo. Whether you're a foodie craving authentic Sichuan hot pot or an adventurer seeking history, this 1,500-word guide provides the essential, on-the-ground tips you need to travel not just as a tourist, but as a guest."
This article follows my personal journey through the Ming Tombs valley near Beijing, where thirteen emperors chose their final resting place among mountains, cypress trees, and solemn stone avenues. I describe how architecture, feng shui, and the natural landscape blend into a single grand design, turning the site into both a historical monument and a living classroom for understanding Chinese views of life, death, and the universe.
As someone who has wandered Beijing’s hutongs, marveled at its imperial grandeur, and savored its street food for months, I’m thrilled to share this guide to a city that blends 3,000 years of history with cutting-edge modernity
When I clutched the visa emblazoned with the Great Wall pattern, the raised texture under my fingertips left me with an impression of China rooted solely in the flying eaves and Dougong brackets from movies, and the "Four Great Inventions" from textbooks