Chinapedia | A day in old Shanghai

As an international financial center, Shanghai showcases the world a fusion of Eastern and Western cultures. It impresses every visitor with the glitzy skyscrapers of Lujiazui, while also telling the story of the city by treasuring its pasts. 

Yu Garden, the City God Temple of Shanghai, and the Yuyuan Bazaar are three must-see attractions in Shanghai. They are close to one another, and tourists can enjoy a tour of the old and traditional bustling Shanghai city life. 

Yu Garden

Built in the Ming dynasty, the Yu Garden was a gift from the Ming government officer Pan Yunduan to his father, Pan En, to celebrate Pan En's retirement. The name "Yu Garden", means the garden of happiness. It is regarded as one of the representatives of the classical Jiangnan garden architectural style.

One of the scenic spots in the Yu Garden is the "Nine-turn Bridge". It connects the lakeshore with the teahouse in the middle of the lake. It was originally a wood bridge rebuilt with concrete in the 1920s due to a fire. Today, the bridge is covered with granite slabs, a testament to the historical changes that have taken place in the Yu Garden over the years.

The City God Temple of Shanghai

Many cities in China have temples dedicated to the local City God. In Chinese folk religion, the City God is believed to protect the local people, upholding justice and fairness. 

Yuyuan Bazaar

The Yuyuan Bazaar or the Yuyuan Market originated from the old market of the City God Temple of Shanghai in the Qing Dynasty. The mall attracts tourists from all over the world with its ancient architectural style and wide range of products, such as local delicacies, traditional snacks, and handicrafts.

The Yuyuan Bazaar linked the traditional and modernity of Shanghai, interpreting China in the eyes of foreigners, Shanghai in the eyes of the Chinese, and the life in old Shanghai in the eyes of the Shanghainese.

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