Facts for Kids

Shanghai is one of the biggest and most exciting cities in the world! 🌍

It is located on the eastern coast of China and has a population of over 24 million people! This makes it the most populated city in the world! Shanghai is famous for its tall skyscrapers, such as the Oriental Pearl Tower, which is 468 meters tall! 🏢

The city is known for blending modern technology with a rich history. Shanghai is a major financial center and a cultural hub where East meets West!

Shanghai has a humid subtropical climate. 🌤

️ Summers are hot, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F) and sometimes even higher! ☀

️ Winters are cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is common in June and July, so it’s a good idea to carry an umbrella. The best time to visit is in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild and enjoyable! 🌈

Shanghai’s food is delicious! 🍜

The city is known for its special dumplings, called xiaolongbao, which are filled with seasoned meat and broth. Another tasty treat is shengjianbao, a pan-fried dumpling! 🥟

Shanghai's cuisine tends to be sweeter than other Chinese dishes, using more sugar and soy sauce. Don't forget to try the famous mooncakes during the Mid-Autumn Festival, filled with ingredients like lotus seed paste!

Shanghai's history dates back over 1,000 years! 📜

It started as a small fishing village during the Song Dynasty (960-1279). In the 19th century, the city became a bustling port when foreigners came to trade. By the 1920s, Shanghai was known as the "Paris of the East" because of its lively nightlife and culture! The city faced challenges during the Chinese Civil War but transformed into a global city in the late 20th century. Today, Shanghai is a symbol of modern China! 🇨🇳

Shanghai sits along the Huangpu River, which flows into the East China Sea. 🌊

The city occupies an area of about 6,340 square kilometers (2,448 square miles). The Yangtze River Delta, where Shanghai is located, is very fertile and helps in agriculture. The city has many parks 🌳 and gardens, including the beautiful Yuyuan Garden, which is over 400 years old! Additionally, Shanghai experiences four distinct seasons, each bringing its own charm.

Getting around Shanghai is easy! 🚄

The city has a vast network of public transportation, including the subway, buses, and ferries. The Shanghai Metro is one of the longest in the world, with over 700 kilometers of tracks! 🚇

You can also ride bicycles or use ride-sharing services. For a fun ride, try taking a Huangpu River Cruise to see the city from the water! 🚤

Shanghai is a rich tapestry of cultures. 🌈

Over 1,000 years of history has created a unique blend of traditions. People in Shanghai speak Shanghainese, a different version of Mandarin, often called Wu. The city celebrates many festivals, such as the Chinese New Year 🎉 and the Mid-Autumn Festival with colorful parades and delicious mooncakes! Shanghai is also famous for its art scene, including traditional Chinese opera and modern art galleries.

Shanghai is a financial powerhouse! 💰

It is home to the Shanghai Stock Exchange, the largest in Asia. The city has many industries, including technology, manufacturing, and shipping. Major companies, like Alibaba and Tesla, have offices in Shanghai. The port of Shanghai is one of the busiest in the world, allowing goods to be traded globally! The economic growth of Shanghai has turned it into a key player on the world stage.

Shanghai attracts millions of tourists every year! 🧳

One must-visit spot is The Bund, where you can see historic buildings and the glimmering skyline. The Shanghai Tower is another popular destination; it’s the tallest building in China! 🏙

️ Visitors love to explore the famous Yuyuan Garden, which is filled with beautiful ponds and traditional architecture. The Shanghai Disneyland Resort is also a favorite for kids, offering fun rides and magical experiences! 🎢

Shanghai values education greatly! 📚

It has many schools and universities, including Fudan University, which is one of China's top universities.Shanghai has a literacy rate of over 97%, showing that most people can read and write. 📖

The city also hosts various research institutions focusing on science and technology, contributing to advancements in areas like medicine and engineering!