Touring ShanghaiLong an international capital of finance and trade, Shanghai is one of China’s top tourist destinations and a city with a rich and varied heritage. Once ruled by European colonial powers, Shanghai has survived countless political upheavals over the centuries and is currently reemerging as a full-fledged commerce center within Communist China. Bursting with cultural attractions, shops and restaurants, the city has much to offer the adventurous traveler.
Travel enthusiast and homemaker Maureen Finnegan was born and raised in New Rochelle, New York. After meeting her husband at Nebraska’s Creighton University, Finnegan discovered that they shared a love of travel, and they soon took time off from their busy schedules to tour Europe. Since then the Finnegans have raised two children and have continued to travel extensively, passing their love of adventure to a new generation. Here Finnegan describes some of Shanghai’s best tourist locations: - Yu Yuan Gardens. One of the first places that Finnegan recommends to visitors is the Yu Yuan Gardens. It has beautiful trees, varied rock formations and great examples of Chinese architecture
- Wuxingting Teahouse. The Wuxingting Teahouse is a great place to take a break from touring and shopping. Located in the middle of a lake in the Yu Yuan Gardens, it serves green tea and Chinese snacks and is a prime spot for people watching.
- Jade Buddha Temple. The Jade Buddha temple is a must-see location, and if you arrive at the right time, you can witness the monks praying and conducting their ceremonies.
- The Bund. The Bund is a riverside walk with many European-style buildings dating back to the days of old colonial Shanghai. Finnegan recommends visiting at night, when the illuminated buildings provide an amazing backdrop for a stroll.
For more information about tourism in Shanghai and China, check out the following organizations or websites:
Chinats.com: Shanghai
www.chinats.com/shanghai/
China National Tourist Office
www.cnto.org | 
)
