I have a somewhat ambivalent relationship with Shanghai, the financial metropolis of China. Having spent 8 years in the capital Beijing, I would consider myself more a fan of Beijing – tauntingly saying that all the history and culture is there and not in Shanghai. But in all honesty, Shanghai is an exciting city with a vibe totally different to that of Beijing or Seoul. With 23 million people living in the urban region, it is considered to be China’s most populous city.
While Shanghai does not feature palaces and ancient relics of the Chinese dynasties, the city does feature a stark contrast between old and new – on the one hand, the glittering Bund and Nanjing Road, on the other temples and old colonial houses. It is hard to wrap your head around that all these places are in one city, so here are 3 places that feature the lesser known Shanghai.
Old Jewish Quarter and Museum
During WW II, Jewish refugees from Germany and Austria fled to Shanghai, one of the last save havens on the planet at that time. Quickly, the designated area became overcrowded and soon it became a ghetto. But this did not let down the spirit of the people, whose will to survive was bigger than anything – they coped with the situation and made a living in a country so far from home, learning a language that could not have differed more.
Today, only some old buildings of that era remain – most notably the Jewish Refugee museum. Small in size, but definetely worth a visit. The area around boasts some very interesting architechture, blending nowaday Chinese life with the past. Just strolling around this area is highly recommended, with a lot of locals living here – a stark contrast to the modern Bund area!
How to get there:
Take subway no. 12 to Tianlanqiao, take exit 1 and cross the street, walk straight ahead for the Jewish Refugee Museum. Stroll around and walk down the street to the next subway station Dalian Road and find yourself in a very local neighbourhood with seemingly unfitting architecture.
Jiading Old Town
Jade Buddha Temple
3 places 