As one of the oldest, and largest metropolises in the world, swathes of Shanghai are devoted to leisure and recreation. When the sun goes down, and the neon lights turn on, crowds flock to the city's bars, clubs and KTV joints. From wine to chocolate bars, from toy stores to boutiques, and from urban legend to suburban scenery, Shanghai has it all.

What sets Shanghai apart from other Chinese cities is its range of Eastern and Western activities, all in the one city. Visitors can experience some of the world's best known ballets and symphonies in one part of town, and see traditional Chinese opera in another. Chinese plays, Peking, Kunqu and Shaoxing operas, acrobatics and magic shows feature at its many different theaters. Families should head for Xianle Theater and its puppet performances, or Shanghai Circus World. Those interested in the local arts can visit the Shanghai Grand Theater or the Yifu Theater (supposedly the oldest commercial theater in China) to take in a performance of Huju Opera and the comedic Huajixi. 

Meanwhile, the Heluting Concert Hall, the Shanghai Concert Hall, the Grand Theater and the Shanghai Oriental Art Center offer a range of classical music performances to satisfy the most dedicated aficionado. Those interested in more modern entertainment should head for the Shanghai Grand Stage. Gigs are advertised well in advance of the performance date, and tickets are snapped up quickly.

As the birthplace of the Chinese film industry, it's no surprise that the city holds an annual International Film Festival that is sure to rival that of Cannes in the not too distant future. Artists from all over the world have their talents displayed at the many galleries in the city. Night-time cruises down the Huangpu River are not to be missed, and visitors can chose to make the voyage in a modern boat, a junk or a pirates' ship.

Shop-a-holics should head for the delights of Nanjing Road. Its No. 1 Shopping Street and Yunnan Road Market offer the latest in designer wares and the best bargains for shoppers of every caliber.

Shanghai also has a wealth of festivals that celebrate culture, industry and local specialty products. The Yu Garden Lantern Festival and the Longhua Temple Fair are traditional festivals, while the Shanghai International Film Festival and the Shanghai Tourism Festival celebrate more modern aspects of life. While the Nanhui Peach Blossom Festival and the Shanghai International Tea Culture Festival celebrate local specialty products.

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