Huamao Hotel

The Original Shanghai Divas

by ancient_traveler

I would really like to get to know more about the music of Shanghai in the 30s and 40s since it was very influential to Hong Kong pop music. After listening to the CD, all I can tell you is that I can't stop listening to it. Some of the songs on this album go back to the 30s, yet the stellar quality of the songwriting and vocal performances really shine through the pulsating beats and electronic soundscapes. Listeners should keep an open mind about the new reinterpretation of this music. This is not a butchering of the original songs, but is merely an updating of the musical ideas behind the music.

Shanghai to Beijing

by shintarojon

(date written : Oct. 16, 2006)

Shanghai to Beijing

Train fare: 499 Yuan
Tax: 5 Yuan
Total - 504 Yuan

Departure date: October 17, 2007
Departure time: 8:10 p.m.
Arrival time: 9:43 a.m. (next day)

Xin Tian Di

by Jiang_Cucha

Xin Tian Di I believe that most of foreigners living in Shanghai know and love Xin Tian Di because it includes various styles of restaurants and is full of exoticism. Don't miss it if you love cate and night life.

Hua Gang park

by diggingdeep

Huang Gang garden or Flower harbour garden in hangzhou is a great place to take a stroll. There are big ponds of Koi fishes and birds. There are also beautiful peacocks too, i had a hard time chasing after this one

Little Trouble in Big Shanghai

by clareinshanghai

"Welcome to China"

Hey, I live here so I'm not as up on all the touristy stuff. I mean, I've been to the museums and markets, but I'm sure there's more I am just oblivious to. The problem you'll face most in China is the feeling that nothing is quite authentic. They've destroyed most of their national treasures, sold them, or just let them rot. Some things I highly recommend: Yu Yuan Gardens and Market, Longhua Temple, and the Acrobatic Show at the Portman-Ritz Hotel's theatre.
Yu Yuan is a tourist trap if you don't know how to negotiate. Just know that their indignation at the prices they offer is all an act. Never offer more than a third of their starting price to begin with. I can baragin quite well but still blow 100s of RMB everytime I go, but it's great fun and they've got everything from Mao buttons to "antiques" to Starbucks.
Longhua Temple (not sure I'm spelling that right) is off the beaten path and a working Buddhist Temple right next to the Martyr's Cemetery (hehe). It is small, but I think worth a visit as it is well kept and you can see locals worship and monks wandering around. a little old lady will let you ring the temple bell, good luck, for a fee.
Th Acrobatic show is just amazing. If you are squeemish just close your eyes when throw a small child so high into the air that you lose sight of him from the cheap seats.
The Shanghai Museum is also good, good gift shop, but don't miss the top floor "Minorities" exhibit. The costumes on display are incredible though you may giggle at those that are from "the 20th Century".