Beijing vs Shanghai: A Guide to Chinese Traditions and Modernity

Beijing and Shanghai are two of the most well-known cities in China, serving as the country's cultural, economic, and tourism centers. These two cities have attracted global attention, and each visitor leaves with unique experiences and memories.

So, as a first-time traveler to China, which city should you choose? Let's explore the differences between Beijing and Shanghai.

Differences between Beijing and Shanghai

Beijing, as the capital of China, Beijing has been through multiple dynasties and boasts a wealth of historical and cultural resources. It is the most important base for historical and cultural education in China, with many world-renowned ancient relics and sites, such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall. Moreover, Beijing is rich in cultural atmosphere, such as the world-famous Peking Opera, and distinctive cuisine, like Peking Duck. 

Shanghai is a global metropolis where skyscrapers and ancient Shikumen houses blend perfectly, creating a unique modern urban style. The skyline of Pudong, the Oriental Pearl Tower, and the World Financial Center are representative of modern buildings. 

Due to its history of foreign concessions, Shanghai has a variety of exotic charms, such as small bars, restaurants, and exquisite shops under the plane trees in the French Concession. Shanghai's Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), Shengjianbao (pan-fried buns), sweet and sour pork ribs, and other Shanghainese dishes are all waiting for you to taste. 

In general, Beijing is a city where one can deeply experience Chinese traditional culture and history, while Shanghai showcases the rapid development of China's modernization process. Both cities have their own merits, and the choice between them depends solely on your personal preference for history or modernity. 

The first time traveling to China, Beijing vs Shanghai

both Beijing and Shanghai are highly attractive destinations. As previously mentioned, Beijing's historical culture and rich ancient relics, such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Summer Palace, will give you a deeper understanding of China's history. As the economic and financial center of China, Shanghai allows you to admire the grand skyline next to the skyscrapers in the Pudong area, or enjoy the beautiful night view of Shanghai on the Bund. 

Who Should Choose Beijing?

1. People who love Chinese history very much. Beijing has been the capital of China since ancient times, so numerous historical sites show extravagant imperial life- like the Forbidden City, or the magnificent human achievements- like the Great Wall of China.

2. Adventurous hikers! Beijing is a destination worth going to if you are an adventurous hiker and dare to take the challenge of hiking on the rugged, uneven steps and slopes of the “Wild Great Wall”.

3. Winter visitors. Beijing is on a similar latitude to Washington DC and New York. It has a long, dry, and chilly winter, with abundant sunshine and occasional snowfalls. Therefore, when visiting Beijing in winter, you can go skating or skiing and enjoy the snow-coated views and the cheaper prices for hotels and tickets.

4. People visiting China for the first and only time. Beijing has the most iconic Chinese landmarks that resemble China in history books. It is a must-visit destination if you know you will never go to China again.

Who Should Choose Shanghai?

1. Business travelers. People who are on a business trip usually don’t have very much time. If you are on your China trip, it is a great idea to make a stop in Shanghai and have a 1-2 day trip there.

2. Those who are interested in Shanghai’s colonial history. Starting in the 19th century after the first opium war, concessions were established in Shanghai. You can feel the history of the 1850s and the 1930s when visiting French concession in Shanghai, the Bund, and the Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum.

3. Fans of cityscapes and night views. When night falls, the whole of Shanghai will turn the lights up. Have a fancy dinner on the Oriental Pearl Tower, you will get the panoramic night views of skyscrapers and the Bund.

4. People who want more side trip options. Shanghai beats Beijing by having easy access to Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nanjing, and various water towns each providing distinct beauties for you to explore.

Who Should Visit Both?

1. Avid travel enthusiasts. From sightseeing to hard hiking, from cultural exploration to modern life, these two stops should both be on your list to maximize your China travel experience.

2. Photographers who want to see China’s most iconic human and cultural landscapes.

3. First-timers. Beijing is a must-visit for first-time travelers to China, and so is Shanghai, which shows the new and modern China. They portray two different charms of China, so if your time permits, one week for visiting both is perfect!

Visit Beijing and Shanghai with Us

We offer out-of-ordinary tours in both Beijing and Shanghai. They are private: with no fixed itineraries, no big bus, and no group. They are all-inclusive: including English-speaking tour guides, private drivers, flexible tours, local dining, hotels, and tickets.

Please feel free to share your travel ideas with us. Or have a look at our newly designed tour packages in Beijing and Shanghai to get inspired:

• 4-Day Essence of Beijing Tour
• 3-Day Essence of Shanghai Tour
• 8-Days Classic China Tour (including Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai)

Study in Beijing vs Shanghai

Both Beijing and Shanghai have many well-known higher education institutions. Tsinghua University and Peking University in Beijing, and Fudan University and Jiaotong University in Shanghai, are all favored by students from home and abroad. The cost of living in Beijing and Shanghai is relatively high, but they also offer a wealth of cultural and entertainment activities. In addition, they both have many international student communities, which can help you integrate better. 

Work in Beijing vs Shanghai

If you plan to work in China, you may consider the job opportunities and cost of living in Beijing and Shanghai. As the business center of China, Shanghai has many multinational companies and job opportunities in various industries. Beijing, as the political and cultural center, has many government agencies and non-governmental organizations. At the same time, industries such as technology, media, and education are all very developed in Beijing. The cost of living in both cities is high, but the wage level is also relatively high.

Beijing vs Shanghai vs Famous Cities from Other Countries

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