On the first day of our 3-day trip to Shanghai, we explored the city’s dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. We began the day at the iconic Bund, took in panoramic views from the Oriental Pearl Tower, and wandered through the historic alleyways of Yuyuan Old Street. It was a day filled with impressive architecture, cultural depth, and unforgettable moments.
① A Stunning Start at the Bund
Our journey began at the Bund, Shanghai’s most iconic riverside promenade. As we stepped onto the boardwalk, we were immediately greeted by the magnificent skyline on one side and colonial-era architecture on the other. The contrast between the modern skyscrapers in Pudong and the classical European-style buildings in Puxi was absolutely breathtaking. The early morning atmosphere was calm and serene. Locals were out jogging or practicing tai chi, adding a touch of everyday life to the scene. We took a leisurely stroll along the Huangpu River, stopping occasionally to take photos and appreciate the view. One of the highlights was seeing the Oriental Pearl Tower across the river, shining under the sunlight. Standing at the Bund, we truly felt we were in the heart of Asia’s economic powerhouse.
② Sky-High Views from the Oriental Pearl Tower
From the Bund, we crossed over to Pudong to visit the Oriental Pearl Tower, one of Shanghai’s most recognized landmarks. After buying tickets, we took the elevator up to the 259-meter observation deck. The panoramic views were simply astonishing. We could see the entire cityscape stretching in all directions—the glistening Huangpu River, the bustling roads below, and the sea of modern skyscrapers standing proudly in the skyline. The glass-bottomed floor offered a thrilling perspective, letting us see the city right beneath our feet. There were also exhibitions inside the tower that introduced the history of Shanghai’s development, which added depth to our visit. If you want to feel the scale and energy of Shanghai in one glance, this is undoubtedly the place to go.
③ A Cultural Walk Through Yuyuan Old Street
In the afternoon, we headed to Yuyuan Old Street, a place full of traditional charm. The area was packed with visitors, but that didn’t take away from the quaint beauty of the traditional buildings and red lanterns hanging above the narrow streets. We tasted some local snacks, including xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), and browsed a variety of souvenir shops offering jade accessories, Chinese tea, and hand-painted fans. One of the most memorable moments was sipping jasmine tea in a quiet tea house overlooking a small pond with koi fish. Yuyuan Old Street felt like a journey back in time, a peaceful contrast to the modern hustle of the city. It gave us a glimpse into old Shanghai, full of culture and charm.
Summary of Day 1: The Best of Modern and Traditional Shanghai
Our first day in Shanghai delivered the perfect balance of new and old. From the futuristic skyline of the Oriental Pearl Tower to the historic streets of Yuyuan, we experienced the city’s dynamic identity. Shanghai is more than just a big city—it’s a vibrant space where history and innovation meet. We look forward to what day two will bring, as we continue our journey through this unforgettable city.
