Shanghai is China's largest city, with an urban population of around 12 million. The city is an emerging tourist destination renowned for its historical landmarks such as the Bund and Xintiandi, its modern and ever-expanding Pudong skyline including the Oriental Pearl Tower, and its new reputation as a center of culture and design. Shanghai also boasts several museums of regional and national importance. The Shanghai Museum of art and history has one of the best collections of Chinese historical artifacts in the world, including some important archaeological finds since 1949. Shanghai has many parks offering some reprieve from the urban jungle.
A sight not to be missed is the Bund. Situated on the east bank of the Huangpu River, one can enjoy the bracing air and fine sunshine as well as seeing something of the many activities along the river. The new finance and commercial houses cluster together along the south of the Bund, while along the west there is a wealth of grand buildings in the European architectural styles af the nineteen-twenties.
Nanjing Road is considered to be the best commercial street in China. Along its 5.5 kilometers (3.4 miles), you will find over 600 shops that on average are visited by some 1.7 million people each day. If you like shopping, do not miss it. If you want to experience the historical and cultural atmosphere of the city, Shanghai Xin Tian Di is a good choise. Composed of Shikumen and modern architectural style it has become a hot and fashionable pedestrian street in the center of the city. Yuyuan Garden is the largest of Shanghai's ancient gardens with architectural styles of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The garden has six areas, each with its own style. The Grand Rockery, in the center of the Garden, is the most renowned sight here.
