Just Got Back from Shanghai - Not Recommended for April Visits

After visiting Shanghai, I found it incredibly crowded, especially at popular attractions and shopping districts, where queuing became the norm! The line to get up the Oriental Pearl Tower for a city view seemed endless. At Disneyland, waiting times for attractions were typically one to two hours, meaning most of the day was spent queuing. Fortunately, I did thorough research beforehand. For those who haven't been to Shanghai before, this guide covers all the essential attractions and practical information. 🗼Getting to Shanghai ①Fly directly to Shanghai Pudong International Airport✈️ or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport✈️. Both have spacious, well-equipped waiting areas. At Pudong Airport, browse specialty stores and try Shanghai butterfly cookies for an early taste of local flavors. Hongqiao Airport is surrounded by commercial areas with convenient transportation. Both airports offer easy transfers via airport buses, subway, taxis, and more. Download the "Metro Metropolis" APP in advance for smooth subway travel using QR code entry. ②Train stations: Shanghai Railway Station, Shanghai South Railway Station, and Shanghai Hongqiao Station offer frequent services nationwide. Shanghai Railway Station is centrally located with abundant dining and shopping options nearby. Shanghai South mainly serves regular trains. Shanghai Hongqiao Station is a high-speed rail hub with modern facilities and convenient transfers. Public transport options are readily available, making it easy to reach popular spots like the Bund and Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street. Remember to book tickets early during peak season. 🗼Accommodation Guide 🧸【Downtown Shanghai (Huangpu District, Jing'an District, etc.)】 Diverse accommodation options from luxury five-star hotels to budget-friendly hotels and cozy guesthouses. Huangpu District is close to the Bund and Yu Garden. Take evening walks along the Bund to admire historic architecture and sparkling river lights. Jing'an District offers numerous high-end shopping malls, bars, and restaurants with convenient transportation. Perfect for first-time visitors adjusting to the city. The area near West Nanjing Road offers everything you need in one place. 🧸【Near Disneyland】 Perfect for immersing yourself in the Disney experience. Nearby accommodations often feature Disney themes, with castle views from some windows. Fall asleep to fireworks and wake up in a fairytale atmosphere. Book early during peak season as prices fluctuate. Note the distance from downtown requires advance planning. 🧸【Near Lujiazui in Pudong New Area】 Ideal for modern city views. Surrounded by skyscrapers including the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower. Mainly upscale hotels, some rooms offering Huangpu River and skyline views. Convenient location for enjoying Lujiazui's spectacular night views. Perfect for travelers seeking high-quality accommodation. 🗼Popular Attractions 🗳The Bund: April brings pleasant spring breezes. During the day, admire European-style architecture and Lujiazui's modern skyline across the river. At night, buildings illuminate beautifully, with boats cruising the river - perfect for photos of Shanghai's iconic landmark. 🗳Disneyland: Spring brings special seasonal activities. Parade performers and characters wear colorful spring outfits. The park offers various attractions from thrilling roller coasters to children's rides, plus shows and character interactions. Plan your route to avoid peak crowds. 🗳Oriental Pearl Tower: Shanghai's landmark offers panoramic city views. In April, observe the cityscape and winding Huangpu River from observation decks. The Shanghai History Museum inside displays the city's development through models and artifacts. 🗳Yu Garden: A masterpiece of classical gardens, especially beautiful in April. Features pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. Admire intricate brick, wood, and stone carvings while experiencing traditional culture. Rest at teahouses inside. 🗳Popular Food 🔖 Shanghai Pan-fried Buns: A signature dish with crispy bottoms and thin tops, filled with pork or shrimp. Bursting with juice when bitten😍. Popular chains like Yang's Dumplings often have queues during peak hours. 🔖 Nanxiang Xiaolongbao: Famous for thin skin and juicy filling, made with quality flour and pork. Best enjoyed with vinegar at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant near Yu Garden. 🔖 Pork Chop with Rice Cakes: Combines crispy-tender pork with chewy rice cakes, topped with sweet sauce. Found at street food stalls. 🔖 Dried Bean Curd with Dried Shrimp: Yangzhou-style dish adapted to Shanghai tastes, featuring shredded tofu, dried shrimp, ginger, and scallions in chicken or bone broth. Available at traditional teahouses and restaurants. In conclusion, careful planning is essential for a Shanghai trip, considering queuing times, transportation, and accommodation. This helps avoid pitfalls and ensures an enjoyable experience of Shanghai's unique charm.