By Livia John
As someone who just returned from a rather long three week voyage in China, I can tell you with confidence there are so many amazing attractions to see–and almost just as many to skip. I hope this short rating compilation will help you differentiate tourist traps from the must-dos on your next China trip!
- The Bund- 6/10. I’m sure anyone who has visited Shanghai or who is thinking about visiting knows of the iconic waterfront facing the Oriental Pearl Tower. I found this landmark rather boring, but it might make your list if you love to take photos!
- Matcha Wang- 3/10. Not a landmark, but a very popular tourist spot. This was genuinely the worst matcha I’ve ever tasted in my life–it tasted strongly of some type of nut and tasted like badly flavored water. I definitely fell victim to this one, so avoid.
- Shanghai Wild Animal Park- 7/10. Overall a super fun experience, and definitely worth it to see the giant panda. There was also an opportunity to feed red pandas up close and personal, which was SO ADORABLEE!! However, I’m giving it a 7 because a few enclosures lacked enough open space, making it cramped for the animals. 🙁
- Shanghai Zhujiajiao Ancient Town- 9/10. So incredibly charming, this town is 100% THE PLACE for the cutest photos. It was rich with history as well as full of local markets selling goods for low, low prices. I even bought a real pearl bracelet from a fisherman for $11 USD! This town is also home to multiple stunning gardens including the Yezhi Garden, which rivals the Yu Garden in terms of beauty.
- Yuyuan Old Street- 8.5/10. So beautiful and lively at night, full of delicious street food stands and small shops. Crowded, but so worth it!
- The Great Wall of China- 10/10. As arduous it is to climb along this steep wall in sweltering heat, it earned its place among the 7 New Wonders of the World and the favorite part of my trip. The wall is so magnificent and full of history, and it really gives you a sense of accomplishment when you make it past the 20th tower. As Chairman Mao Zedong famously wrote, “He who has not climbed the Great Wall is not a true man.”
