About Shanghai

Shanghai: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Shanghai, China’s largest city, is a vibrant metropolis where East meets West. Known for its futuristic skyline, historic neighbourhoods, and rich cultural fusion, it offers a unique mix of tradition and innovation.

Local Culture & Lifestyle

• Fengjing (Local Customs): Shanghai’s "Hai Pai" culture reflects openness to global influences. Locals enjoy a fast-paced urban lifestyle while preserving traditions like tea houses, morning tai chi, and lively street markets.
• Cuisine: Iconic dishes include xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjian mantou (pan-fried buns), and sweet nian gao (rice cakes).
• Art & Fashion: The city hosts international art fairs, and traditional crafts like qipao (cheongsam) dresses remain popular.

Traditional houses and tranquil waterways in Fengjing Historical and Cultural Block. [Photo/WeChat account: fengjinglvyou1500]

Iconic Landmarks

• The Bund (Waitan): A waterfront promenade lined with colonial-era buildings, contrasting with Pudong’s skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower (2nd tallest building globally).
• Yu Garden: A 16th-century classical Chinese garden with pavilions, koi ponds, and the adjacent Yuyuan Bazaar.
• Tianzifang & French Concession: Art galleries, cafes, and Shikumen (stone-gate) architecture in trendy districts blending history and creativity.
• Zhujiajiao Water Town: A 1,700-year-old “Venice of Shanghai” with canals and Ming-era bridges.

 Life seems simple and elegant on both sides of Fangsheng Bridge. [Photo/WeChat account: qptour]

Cultural Heritage

• Shanghai Opera & Theater: Traditional Kunqu opera and modern performances thrive at venues like the Shanghai Grand Theatre.
• Museums: The Shanghai Museum showcases ancient Chinese art, while the Power Station of Art highlights contemporary works.
• Religious Sites: Jing’an Temple (a golden Buddhist temple) and the Jade Buddha Temple house priceless relics.

Shanghai Museum offers diverse art exhibitions in 2025

Why Shanghai?

From the neon-lit Nanjing Road to tranquil temple gardens, Shanghai embodies China’s past and future. Its energy, creativity, and cultural diversity make it a must-visit destination.

Shanghai's Renewable Energy Development & Its Daily Life Integration

As China’s largest city, Shanghai has prioritized renewable energy to combat climate change and achieve its "dual carbon" goals. Key developments include:

• Wind & Solar Power: Shanghai has invested heavily in offshore wind farms (e.g., Donghai Bridge Wind Farm) and rooftop solar installations. By 2023, its solar capacity exceeded 2.5 GW, powering homes and businesses.
• Electric Vehicles (EVs): Over 30% of new cars sold in Shanghai are now EVs or hybrids. The city’s extensive EV charging network (80,000+ public chargers) and green license plate incentives make eco-friendly transport a common sight.
• Green Buildings: Over 70% of new urban buildings meet green standards, featuring solar panels, energy-efficient designs, and smart energy management systems.
• Waste-to-Energy: Advanced plants process 40% of municipal waste, converting it into electricity for thousands of households.

In daily life, Shanghainese engage with renewables through EV commutes, solar-powered streetlights, segregated waste recycling, and public awareness campaigns. The city’s metro system, one of the world’s longest, also uses regenerative braking to save energy.

By blending policy innovation with urban infrastructure, Shanghai showcases how megacities can integrate sustainability into everyday living. 🌱🔋