It’s been two full days since I returned home from China, and I’m still reeling from the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes I experienced there. While this can easily be said about many countries, it’s certainly true in regard to China: there’s truly no other place like it on this planet.
I had little idea of what to expect before my trip…which, in my own opinion, is one of the best ways to experience a destination.
No expectations, no preconceived ideas or stereotypes, no high hopes or bucket list items waiting to be ticked off. Just eyes wide open, ready to take it all in.
Shanghai in particular completely took me by surprise. I’m still not sure what shocked me the most – the unimaginable urban sprawl, the staggering skyscrapers, the zooming traffic, the tranquil parks and gardens, the ornate Buddhist temples, the drastic and visible contrast between ancient history and modern life, or…the FOOD.
Oh man, the food! It deserves a post all of its own (and will probably get one – stay tuned!).
A city of more than 24 MILLION people, Shanghai is vibrant, colorful, urban, and diverse. The scenery and culture can shift dramatically from one neighborhood of Shanghai to the next.
The flashy lights of Nanjing Road – not at all dissimilar from those of Times Square – feel like a world away from the leafy boulevards and cozy cafes of the French Concession.
The Bund’s classical European mansions face off with Pudong’s towering skyscrapers just across the Huangpu River.
Meanwhile, the Old City’s ancient temples and historic Chinese architecture feel like a bubble of history and color tucked away in one small corner of the city.
I have a LOT I want to say about Shanghai (and the rest of my China trip) but for now I’ll leave you all with this: 35 photos of gorgeous and fascinating Shanghai that are sure to inspire a visit:
Do you want to know more about any of these photos from Shanghai? I’d be happy to share the stories and details behind them!
Absolutely beautiful! This is the only trip I never got to go on with my parents. Damn first week of Uni was apparently more important! I’ll never forgive them for leaving me behind haha Definitely want to go!! #WanderfulWednesday
Lolo recently posted…Head Over Heels in Love With Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Hahah to be fair, school is important too 😉 Definitely plan a trip to Shanghai sometime though!
I’ve never been to Shanghai.
Looks awesome Kelly. Such colourful and vibrant photos. Lorelle 🙂
#WanderfulWednesday
Thank you Lorelle!!
I loved following along with your IG stories! Shanghai looks so amazing! All the history and culture! My cousin’s wife is from China so they go back often and I always get so jealous and want to go with them lol. And I can only imagine how amazing the food is over there!
Christine | The Journey of Christine recently posted…Exploring Johnston Canyon’s Hidden Cave | Banff National Park
Thank you!! I honestly already want to go back, it’s such a fun place!
Wow, looks incredible, such great photos! I went to Shanghai about 15 years ago and Pudong was just a building site, it was the city in China which I most wanted to return to, and you’ve reminded me of that! #wanderfulwednesday
I wish I could have seen Shanghai 15-20 years ago, I keep hearing about how different it looked!
I’m totally sold! Your photos are beautiful; brimming with colourful and character 🙂
Thanks Marcella! Shanghai is definitely a colorful place.
I was sold by photo 1! Looks so beautiful in the warm weather.
More like HOT weather, I was so sweaty the whole time I was there hahah worth it though!!
Love, love your photos! This is the only city I have visited in China, so, I have fond memories of it. Some things have changed and some have stayed the same. Would love to go back! #WeekendWanderlust
I’ve only been home a few weeks and I already want to go back too 😉
I would love to visit Shanghai! I think it could be a great introduction to Asia since I’ve never been there before…
Vanessa Brune recently posted…Hiking in Sjunkhatten National Park near Bodø – When, Where, How
So far I’ve only been to Thailand and China, but I definitely think Shanghai would make a great introduction to Asia!
That’s fun! I still recognize a lot of sights from when I visited Shanghai ten years ago! I wasn’t smitten by the country/city back then, so I figure I really need to go back one day to give it another chance!
Dominique recently posted…Kuala Lumpur – A One Day Itinerary
It would be interesting to see if your feelings have changed about it at all!