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Shanghai: Know Before You Go Part of the Places of a Lifetime series from Traveler magazine

Local experts recommend books, music, and films that give you a feel for the city. Also: travel basics, the best websites and local media, cultural tips, recipes, advice on shopping for local handicrafts, and walking tours of the city.

Photo: Shanghai street crowded with people and lanterns
Decked out with paper banners and lanterns for the Chinese Lunar New Year, or Spring Festival, the Yu Yuan district in Shanghai’s Old Town surges with celebrants of China’s biggest holiday.
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The Basics
Nuts-and-bolts information to plan your trip, plus a checklist of essentials to include when you pack.
Get the Basics

Cultural Tips
Cultural dos and don’ts, plus a handy phrase book that introduces you to the language and local argot.
Learn Shanghai Cultural Tips

Books
Great reading that provides a sense of the city, from the Traveler online Ultimate Travel Library.
Get a Reading List

Music
Playlist of compilations and classic songs that put you in mind of the city.
Experience the Sounds of Shanghai

Movies
Movies that capture the atmosphere of the city.
Get Movie List

Recipes
A sampling of signature regional dishes, with complete instructions for preparation.

Links and Media
Our favorite Web links and the best local media.
Get Links and Media

Authentic Shopping Guide
The best local handicrafts and artisanal items, from our online worldwide Authentic Shopping Guide.
View Shopping List

Walking Tours
Three select walks that reveal the best of the city.

Shanghai Multimedia

Know Before You Go: Shanghai

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China is the world's most populous country with about 1.3 billion people—20 percent of the Earth's population. Occupying most of East Asia, it is the fourth largest country in area (after Russia, Canada, and the U.S.).

All About Shanghai

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