Shanghai boasts a long and rich history. During the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, it served as the fiefdom of Lord Chunshen, hence the alias “Shen.” In the Jin Dynasty, due to fishermen inventing a fishing tool called “Hu,” the area was also named “Hu.” In 751 AD (the 10th year of Tianbao during the Tang Dynasty), Huating County was established, and in 1292 AD (the 29th year of Zhiyuan during the Yuan Dynasty), Shanghai County was set up, marking the beginning of the city’s development. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, with its advantageous geographical location, Shanghai thrived in the cotton textile industry and became a significant economic hub renowned for supplying textiles across the country.

Since modern times, after opening its ports for trade, Shanghai rapidly emerged as one of the most prosperous metropolises in the Far East. Diverse cultures collided and blended here, giving rise to the unique Shanghai-style culture. Shikumen buildings combine the features of Jiangnan residential houses with Western row houses. The alley stories depicted by Eileen Chang are full of the charm of everyday life. The jazz music at the Paramount Hall contrasts with the pingtan (storytelling with music) at the Chenghuang Temple, while the Bund’s complex of historic buildings has witnessed the city’s momentous changes.

Today, Shanghai not only preserves the classical beauty of the Yu Garden and the thousand-year-old chimes of the Longhua Temple but has also given birth to modern landmarks such as the Bund Financial Center and the skyscrapers in Lujiazui. With tradition and modernity intertwined, the city’s historical and cultural heritage shines ever more brightly. 

Oriental Pearl Shanghai, with its rich and diverse urban landscape, welcomes your arrival!