Shanghai is a fascinating city located on the mouth of the Yangtze River. The river is China’s largest and sparkles with the reflections of giant skyscrapers and commercial cargo ships. The bustling metropolis is the center for the world’s fastest growing economy. It has a population of more than 13 million and a total area of 2,448 square miles. Four distinct seasons occupy each year causing the average temperature to be a comfortable 16° C.

Brief History:

Shanghai began as a fishing village in the 11th century. It wasn’t until the 1800s that it became China’s largest port city. Foreigners swiftly began to inhabit Shanghai after the Opium Wars and were allowed to live in certain territorial zones exempt from Chinese laws. As a result, Shanghai began to become greatly influenced by Western culture, but came to a standstill when the Communist Party took control in 1949.

The Party quickly closed China off from all foreign countries, causing many foreign enterprises to be taken over by the new Chinese government. The end of the Cultural Revolution in 1976 rekindled many foreign investments. China’s new leader Ding Xiaopen allowed for the country’s advancement toward becoming an international force in both business and finance. Since then Shanghai, along with the entire country of China has been steadily placing themselves amongst many global leading countries.

Today, every aspect of Shanghai’s history is evident throughout the city. Historical sights gleam in the shadows of modern skyscrapers and residents bear both the old China as well as the new. The city pulsates with the anxiety to become modern and the desire to hold on to its immense culture. It is truly a remarkable city righteously nicknamed, “The Pearl of The Orient.