top of page
About Shanghai
Shanghai is a modern, international, and friendly city with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, around 28–35°C, but all indoor spaces—malls, offices, subways, buses, and Didi rides—are fully air-conditioned, so you will always stay comfortable. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring the city. Winters are cool but not extreme.
Getting around Shanghai is incredibly convenient. The subway system is extensive and reaches almost every corner of the city. You can also use buses, Didi (ride-hailing service), or shared bicycles—all affordable, safe, and reliable. A typical subway ride costs ¥3–7, a Didi ride starts at around ¥10, and shared bicycles are only ¥1–3 per use.
Traveling outside Shanghai is easy and popular. Many host families will take you on short trips during public holidays like Labor Day or National Day. If you prefer to explore on your own, high-speed trains connect Shanghai to nearby cultural cities quickly:
📍Nanjing: about 1.5 hours, ¥140–170
📍Suzhou: 25–40 minutes, ¥40–60
📍Hangzhou: about 1 hour, ¥70–100
For longer travels to Beijing, Xi’an, or Chengdu, you can take overnight hard-sleeper trains. They depart in the evening and arrive the next morning, with tickets usually ¥300–500, making it a comfortable and economical way to see more of China.
Shanghai is a true paradise for food lovers. Local Shanghainese food is gently sweet, fresh, and delicate. You can find all kinds of Chinese cuisine and international food everywhere—in shopping malls, near subway stations, and on every street. Simple and delicious meals often cost only ¥20–40.
The city is safe, well-organized, and very welcoming to foreigners. You can walk alone even late at night. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, malls, and public areas. Most people are kind and willing to help, and many young locals speak basic English.
At night, you have many relaxing choices. You can enjoy traditional Chinese experiences such as foot massage, body massage, beauty salons, and tea houses. If you prefer a Western-style atmosphere, Hengshan Road is famous for its bars and cafes, and you can find lively venues across the city.
Shanghai also offers countless amazing places to visit:
- The Bund: The most iconic skyline view, with historic buildings and modern skyscrapers.
- Xuhui Riverside: A modern, relaxing area perfect for walking, cycling, and taking photos.
- City God Temple (Chenghuangmiao): Traditional architecture, local snacks, and classic Chinese culture.
- Tianzifang: Charming old lanes filled with small shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes.
Living in Shanghai will give you an unforgettable experience of a dynamic, international, and truly unique Chinese city.
APPS you need!
Meituan
Main food delivery app (more tracking detail than the Alipay mini-program); also needed for yellow rental bikes.
Railway 12306
Book train tickets; use the Chinese version to choose seat preferences and see route stops.
Xiaohongshu
(Little Red Book)
Top social media app for city reviews and recommendations.
China’s Yelp for restaurant deals and finding photo-worthy spots.
Dianping
Handy for booking attractions and hotels, with cashback and rewards.
Trip.com
Chinese App where you can
literally buy anything!
Tao Bao
PingDuoDuo
Chinese App where
you can literally buy anything!
Essential for payments and booking attractions via mini-programs. Many sites require its exclusive mini-programs.
Book train tickets; use the Chinese version to choose seat preferences and see route stops.
AliPay
bottom of page