Shanghai Travel Tips

Shanghai Travel Tips for Tourists

Before You Go

  • Visa: Check if you need a visa to enter China and apply in advance if necessary.
  • Vaccinations: Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations before traveling to China.
  • Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical, trip cancellations, and delays.

Getting Around Shanghai

  • Metro: The most convenient way to get around Shanghai. Buy a prepaid Shanghai Metro Card or use mobile payment apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay.
  • Taxi: Download the Didi Chuxing app (Chinese version of Uber) for easy hailing and payment.
  • Walking: Be prepared for crowds and pedestrian-only zones. Wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated.

Essential Items to Pack

  • Power Adapter: China uses Type A, C, and D power sockets (230V, 50Hz).
  • VPN: Download a VPN app to access blocked websites like Google, Facebook, and YouTube.
  • Portable Charger: With frequent use of your phone’s GPS and camera, a portable charger is a lifesaver.
  • Comfortable Shoes: Shanghai is a walking city; pack comfortable shoes for long days of exploring.

Cultural Differences & Etiquette

  • Respect Local Customs: Remove your shoes when entering temples or homes, and avoid finishing a meal completely (it implies the host didn’t provide enough food).
  • Bargaining: Expect to haggle at markets, but be respectful and fair in your negotiations.
  • Queueing: Be prepared for crowds and lines, especially during peak travel seasons.

Must-Try Foods

  • Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings): A Shanghai staple. Try them at Jia Jia Tang Bao or Din Tai Fung.
  • Jiaozi (Dumplings): Pan-fried or boiled, these are a delicious snack or meal.
  • Cong You Bing (Scallion Pancakes): Crispy and flavorful street food.

Scams to Avoid

  • Tea House Scam: Be cautious of overly friendly locals inviting you to tea houses with exorbitant prices.
  • Taxi Scam: Ensure your taxi is licensed and uses the meter; avoid unlicensed taxis.
  • Fake Currency: Inspect your change carefully, as some scams involve exchanging fake currency.

Health & Safety

  • Air Quality: Check the air quality index before heading out and consider wearing a mask.
  • Water: Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
  • Emergency Services: Dial 120 for medical emergencies and 110 for police assistance.

Additional Tips

  • Learn Basic Chinese Phrases: Show respect for the culture by learning basic phrases like “hello” (nǐ hǎo), “thank you” (xiè xiè), and “excuse me” (duì bù qǐ).
  • Download Useful Apps: WeChat, Didi Chuxing, and Google Translate can make your trip much easier.
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Shanghai is a bustling city; be patient and prepared for large crowds.

By following these travel tips, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the vibrant city of Shanghai like a pro!