If you’re visiting Shanghai, skip the usual tourist traps like Chenghuang Temple and Yu Garden. They’re overrated.

The most expensive noodles I've had in Shanghai cost 42 RMB.

I worked in Shanghai for twelve years. Before I left, I made sure to take videos of the streets and neighborhoods I frequented. Back in Beijing, I often watch them and miss those days in Shanghai.

Where is this?!

The ratio of actual Suzhou locals to non-locals here is probably 8:2, maybe even 9:1. I still strongly suspect that driver was an outsider.

Hey, I was wondering about that tour – do they stop at each place for long? And how do you manage to get photos taken?

My flight from Guangzhou to Xi'an yesterday was delayed for 3 hours.

Luohu, Futian, and Nanshan – that's the real Shenzhen. The other districts are just making up the numbers.

I got to the hotel, finished my makeup, and just as I stepped out, bam! A massive downpour.

You just missed it! The weather in Guangzhou was perfect just a few days ago.

True, but I feel like it's mostly overcast.

That's a perfect plan, those are indeed the most beautiful spots! And then you can head over to Party Pier for a drink and to enjoy the view (and maybe spot some beauties)!

You should try Shanghai. I just got back from there myself, and honestly, my days there weren't that great.

It's true, every tourist visiting Beijing can't believe that exploring just one major attraction a day can be utterly exhausting. But when we Beijingers travel elsewhere, it's the opposite – everything seems so small and close. We can visit several places in a day and still have time left over, wondering where to go next!

Can you recommend one?

Take a taxi to Yu Qian Shrine, then stroll along the river by Wugui Pond towards Yuhu Bay. It's the perfect condensed, refreshing nature tour, very pleasant and even suitable for seniors.

Aha! The evilest person in this entire comment section has emerged!

Alright, fellow explorers! Heading to Hangzhou? Great choice—it’s absolutely stunning! However, as with any highly frequented location, certain pitfalls might hinder your journey. To ensure you have a seamless visit, here are five helpful reminders:

• West Lake Boat Tours – Beware of Exorbitant Charges!

  • West Lake is the heart of Hangzhou, an enchanting body of water enveloped by scenic gardens and age-old temples. A boat tour of West Lake is quintessential.
  • However, beware: everyone seems to offer boat tours, and all are not genuine.
  • ️ RED FLAGS:
    • Adhere to Official Booths Only: They provide transparent pricing and clearly defined routes. Jumping on an arbitrary boat without verification could result in overspending or unexpected destinations.
    • Evade Peak Times: Consider visiting early mornings or late afternoons to avoid overcrowding during holidays or weekend sunshine.

• Lingyin Temple – Watch Out for Hidden Fees and Expensive Blessings

  • This ancient Buddhist sanctuary nestled within lush hills is indeed remarkable enough to warrant your attention.
  • Yet, be wary of the ticket process and what unfolds post-entry.
  • ️ HEED THESE:
    • Double Payment Required: Firstly, purchase a “Feilai Peak Scenic Area” entrance ticket then an additional one specifically for Lingyin Temple to prevent any confusion over combined services.
    • Moderate Incense Purchases: Within temple premises, resist the allure of exorbitantly priced incense or purportedly 'blessed' goods; less expensive incense is available officially or even respectfully observing is sufficient.

• Hefang Street – Enjoy the Wander, Shop Sensibly!

  • This historic pedestrian thoroughfare brims with artisanal delicacies, tea, silks, and souvenirs–perfect for casual exploration.
  • Due to significant tourist flow, cautionary measures are advisable.
  • ️ SHOPPER'S CAUTIONARY:
    • Selective Sourcing: Much merchandise appears mass-produced, possibly found elsewhere in similar stores. To acquire authentic handcrafts, scout the narrower lanes.
    • Discerning Delights: While tasty gastronomic delights abound, there may also be marked up, generic souvenirs. Purchase prudently and consider top-tier teas directly from dedicated merchants.

• Longjing Tea Plantations – Avoid Persuasive Salesmanship!

  • Known far and wide for the high-quality Longjing green tea farmed in the West Lake vicinity, its tea village tours offer picturesque experiences.
  • However, these tours can be accompanied by aggressive sales tactics.
  • ️ CAUTION OF THE CUP:
    • Free Samples Can Lead to Compulsory Buys: Tea estates typically extend complimentary tastings with subsequent insistent recommendations for purchases.
    • Refusal is Acceptable: Should you relish the sampled tea, feel free to make your selection, yet resist unwelcome pressure. Excellent quality Longjing is equally obtainable from reputable shops throughout the city.

• Navigating the City – Navigate Wisely, Opt for Bicycles

  • While Hangzhou features various modes of public transportation, getting around may pose challenges.
  • Taxi services can prove unpredictable.
  • ️ TRAVEL WITHTELL:
    • Insist on Meter Readings: Always request your cab driver utilize the meter (referred to locally as "dǎbiǎo") or opt for a ride-hailing service like DiDi with pre-set arrangements.
    • Maximize Your Lake Walk (Cycle): Given West Lake’s vastness, biking may present a superior means to efficiently explore and dodge congestions.
    • Choose the Subway: Utilize the clean and reliable Hangzhou метро for extensive journeys, notably surpassing the clogged areas near major attractions.

It's not bad at all!

People from Nanjing are more tolerant and easygoing, not as petty or calculating as some from Hangzhou can seem. Nanjing locals are generally more magnanimous.