Shanghai

Shanghai is the fifth largest city in the world, gateway to the Yangtze River basin and 6, 341 square kilometers home to 16.74 million people. Shanghai is often listed as the Western visitors' favourite Chinese city. Although not known for its scenic beauty, Shanghai does have many interesting parks and gardens. Six thousand years ago, humans had settled here, but it was not until 751 that it received its present name, with its sophistication and grandeur earning it the appellation "Paris of the Orient" in the 20th century. Today, Shanghai is China's leading center of commerce, finance, information, culture and science and technology; to overseas and domestic visitor, it is most likely a shoppers' paradise. Of interest to the visitor in Shanghai is Yu Garden (as one of the well-known gardens of classical style south of the Yangtze River. Built in 1559, it occupies only two hectares and yet offers 40 scenic attractions, thanks to its intricate design, complete with beautiful pavilion, miniature lakes, bridges and rocks; Jade: Buddha Temple was constructed in 1882 and covers 8,000 square meters. The temple got its name from die two jade statues of Sakyamuni, one seated and the other reclining, both brought from Myanmar. The seated one is 1.9 meters tall and was carved out of a single piece of white jade weighing one ton, an inlaid with dazzling jewels. The temple also houses a number of ancient sculptures, rare paintings arid Buddhist scriptures. Other attractions include Nanjing Road, the Bund and Yangpu Bridge. Shopping at Shanghai Friendship Store (Shanghai's Friendship Store offers a comprehensive selection of high quality Chinese traditional arts mid handicrafts collected from the diverse regions of China) Afternoon visit to the Yu Landscape Garden, the Bund and the Friendship Store. Commentary on the historic international diplomatic neighborhoods of Shanghai as we pass through them in our motor coach. Evening free to explore Shanghai on your own with suggestions f~m the tour escort or national or local guide. On Thursday evening a farewell dinner party will offer the chance for delegates to review their experiences h, China, relax with some of Shanghai's Garden society members, and cement new friendships.