Shanghai is an oriental metropolis located on the east coast of China, at the mouth of the Yangtze River. It has a population of over twenty-seven million people making it the most populated city in the country. Shanghai is a major commercial and industrial centre and has one of the world's largest seaports which handles over five hundred million tonnes of cargo each year. Shanghai is an exciting and cosmopolitan city making it a popular business destination, with key industries being in shipping, trade and finance. If you are planning a business trip to this dynamic destination read on for the ultimate guide to visiting Shanghai for business travellers.
Getting to Shanghai
Many business travellers visit Shanghai each year from all over the world. Shanghai is served by two international airports: Shanghai Pudong and Shanghai Hongqiao. Direct flights are available from London which take around twelve hours. To get from the airport to Shanghai city centre you can go by metro, train, shuttle bus or private transfer. All take less than an hour and like most transport methods in Shanghai they are generally very quick and efficient. Shanghai is also home to one of the fastest trains in the world; The Shanghai Maglev. This links Shanghai Pudong international airport and Longyang Road Station. The 30 km journey takes just seven minutes and 20 seconds. High speed bullet train also connect shanghai to other key Chinese cities such as Hangzhou, Beijing, and Hong Kong.
Accommodation in Shanghai
When looking for business accommodation in Shanghai, serviced apartments are an ideal solution. Apartments offer much more space than a hotel room and often have more benefits such as cooking facilities and recreational areas. SilverDoor have a wide range of serviced apartments in central shanghai and can find the perfect one to meet your requirements. If you are travelling with colleagues or family why not book a two-, or three-bedroom apartment so everyone can have their own space. Some of our favourite apartments in Shanghai can be found here.
Eating in Shanghai
Shanghai offers a plethora of food and drink establishments, with everything from traditional Chinese street food to impressive fine dining restaurants ideal for business meetings and corporate dining. One of the most famous food streets in Shanghai is Wujiang Road. Here you’ll find a variety of delicious fresh delicacies from street vendors, including the original Yang’s friend dumpling.
Baozi (steamed buns), Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), Peking duck, rice balls and fried noodles are all popular dishes in Shanghai and worth trying during your visit. The proximity to the ocean means fresh seafood is also readily available across the city.
If you prefer a sit-down meal, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Shanghai. Whether you are after an authentic Italian pizza or fine French cuisine, this affluent city has something for every taste. Shanghai has some of the best restaurants in China including 34 Michelin-starred restaurants and a wide range of fabulous bars perfect for sipping a cocktail or two. Take a look at our guide listing some of the best places to eat in Shanghai here.
Getting around Shanghai
Shanghai has a modern and efficient rail network and metro system which makes getting across the city very straightforward. Business travellers may find it worthwhile investing in a Shanghai Public Transportation Card (jiaotong yikatong), these are rechargeable cards which can be used on the Metro, buses and toll roads.
Metered taxis are also plentiful in the city but keep in mind roads can be quite congested and busy. Walking is a good way to explore Shanghai, particularly in the busy tourist areas. Shanghai is a relatively safe city with low crime rates.
Conference venues in Shanghai
Shanghai has a wide range of business venues and conference centres. One of the biggest is the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC). This world-class venue has 11 exhibition halls and hosts many large key East-Asian exhibitions which attracts business travellers from all over Asia. There is also the Shanghai Exhibition Center, Shanghai International Conference Center Natatorium and the Everbright Convention and Exhibition Center which all host regular events, exhibitions and conferences.
The Top Sights in Shanghai
When on a business trip to Shanghai it is worth taking some time to explore and take in the sights and sounds of this eastern gem. Our top five things to see in Shanghai during a business trip are:
- The Bund – this historical district is in central Shanghai and set on the scenic waterfront next to the Huangpu River. Stroll along the pretty promenade taking in the impressive colonial buildings.
- Oriental Pearl TV Tower – this iconic building is a key sight on the Shanghai skyline. Home to a revolving hotel, a ‘space module’ observatory and the Shanghai Municipal History Museum there is plenty to see.
- Visit Yu Garden – the oldest green space in Shanghai, this tranquil Chinese garden is also known as the ‘Garden of Happiness’. Decorated with picturesque pagodas, ornate bridges and water features, it is the only surviving Ming Dynasty Garden in Shanghai.
- Take in the views from Chinas tallest building, the Shanghai Tower. It also has the fastest elevator in the world which can take you up 119 floors.
- Peoples Square and Nanjing Road - once a horse racing course, Peoples Square is now a public space used for gatherings and parades. It is also home to the Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Grand theatre, and The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. Peoples Square also leads onto one of China’s biggest shopping districts, Nanjing Road.
Top tips
Business hours in Shanghai are very similar to those of western countries. The work week is usually 40 hours, Monday to Friday, between 8am and 6pm.
If you have a business meeting or appointment arranged, punctuality is extremely important in Chinese business culture. Being late can be considered inconsiderate and rude.
Small talk and being polite and friendly (yet formal) is well regarded in Chinese business culture and it is important not to rush clients for decisions.
In China there is a strong respect for authority and hierarchy is important, particularly in business. During meetings you will often see the person with the highest level of seniority entering the meeting first followed by the next highest rank. It is best to replicate this.
Shanghai is an energetic and exciting city often seen as the economic powerhouse of China. As one of the leading business cities in the APAC region business travel has grown significantly over the years. Click here to browse serviced apartments in Shanghai or contact us for more information.
