On the second day of our Shanghai journey, we explored the rich layers of the city’s culture and modernity. We began with a morning stroll through the tranquil Yuyuan Garden, followed by an afternoon immersed in the trendy atmosphere of Xintiandi. As night fell, the panoramic night view from the Oriental Pearl Tower left a lasting impression of the city's grandeur.
① Morning Peace at Yuyuan Garden, a Window into Traditional Shanghai
We started our day at Yuyuan Garden, one of Shanghai’s most famous traditional gardens located in the heart of the old city. Despite being surrounded by the bustling metropolis, the moment we stepped inside the garden, we felt like we had traveled back in time. The garden was full of charming pavilions, stone bridges, fish ponds, and intricately designed buildings. Every corner exuded elegance and calm, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed walk. We especially enjoyed the ancient trees and the Zigzag Bridge, which added a mystical charm to the atmosphere. There were many souvenir shops and tea houses near the entrance, where we enjoyed warm jasmine tea while watching koi swim in the pond. The contrast between the peaceful interior and the busy street outside made us reflect on the layers of time within Shanghai.
② Stylish and Modern: A Walk Through Xintiandi
After lunch, we headed to Xintiandi, one of the most stylish districts in Shanghai. The area has been transformed from a traditional shikumen alley into a fashionable spot filled with restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and galleries. We were particularly impressed by how the historic buildings were preserved and reinterpreted with modern architecture. Walking along the cobbled streets with beautiful brick facades, we felt like we were in a European city, yet with a unique Chinese flair. We spent a quiet afternoon sipping coffee at a café terrace and browsing small designer shops. The atmosphere was sophisticated and relaxed, and we could understand why Xintiandi is popular with both tourists and locals alike.
③ Spectacular Night View from the Oriental Pearl Tower
As evening approached, we visited the Oriental Pearl Tower, an iconic symbol of Shanghai's skyline. Located in Lujiazui, the heart of the city’s financial district, the tower offers a 360-degree view of the entire city from its observation deck. We purchased tickets in advance to avoid the long queues and went up to the highest observatory, where we were met with a breathtaking nightscape. The glittering lights of the city, the winding Huangpu River, and the towering skyscrapers were absolutely mesmerizing. One of the highlights was walking on the transparent glass floor, which gave us an exhilarating feeling as we looked down at the city below. We ended our night with a quiet moment on the observation deck, gazing at the endless city lights and soaking in the energy of Shanghai.
A Day Filled with Serenity and Sparkle
Our second day in Shanghai provided a wonderful balance of tranquility, culture, and dazzling urban beauty. From the serenity of Yuyuan Garden to the modern elegance of Xintiandi and the awe-inspiring view from the Oriental Pearl Tower, we experienced the multifaceted charm of this dynamic city. With one more day to go, we are looking forward to a peaceful and meaningful ending to our journey.
