A thoroughly modern city risen from a fishing village less than 100 years ago, Shanghai has been heavily influenced by Western business, culture, and architecture. If you're searching for a rapidly changing, dynamic city to in which to study, Shanghai is your destination. Learn the impact of such rapid modernization on local customs and the environment. Practice your Chinese with some of the over 26 million citizens calling this—the largest and most developed city in China—home.
Shanghai is a vibrant, multi-faceted city on the banks of the Huangpu River. Once a small village, Shanghai is now one of the major Chinese metropolises of Asia solidifying its place as the main economic center of China. Shanghai represents the modern Chinese drive toward industrialization and economic development. IES Abroad Shanghai offers students the opportunity to experience China’s modernization firsthand.
Shanghai’s rise can be greatly attributed to Western influence following the first Opium War, when Shanghai served as one of the original “treaty ports." Forced open along with several other treaty ports, Shanghai began to grow exponentially due to the influx of foreign trade.
Foreign influences can be witnessed in Shanghai through many lenses, including architecture. The Bund, a famous Shanghai landmark on the riverfront, is a showcase of Western architecture. Old colonial hotels have been converted to government buildings, while the clearing houses of the English and other foreign powers have become national banks. Shanghai was one of the initial Chinese cities targeted for investment and growth, thanks to the economic policies of Deng Xiao Ping and his instrumental role in the opening of the Pudong as an economic free zone. Live in the heart of Shanghai's myriad changes, learn about the city's complex history, and play a role in its future.
The serene Jade Buddha Temple was constructed in 1918. The Temple houses two statues of Buddha - Sitting Buddha and Recumbent Buddha. As the name implies, both statues are constructed out of jade and are painted with beautiful colors. The Temple is unique because although Shanghai is a modern city, the temple has an ancient style.
This famous garden in Shanghai has been one of the most beautiful spots in city for more than 400 years. The Garden was constructed by Pan Yuduan to impress his parents, and it has impressed millions of visitors since then. It is named Yuyuan after the Chinese word "yu," meaning "peace and health." Make sure to visit the Sansui Hall, constructed during the Qing Dynasty for important guests.
The Shanghai Bund, or "waterfront" is the international business area in Shaghai. Many buildings have stood here for decades and are built with gothic, baroque, romanesque, neo-gothic, and other styles of architecture. Visit the Bund at night for a spectacular view of Shanghai's skyline.
Links:[1] http://www.iesabroad.org/node/1316 [2] http://www.iesabroad.org/node/1320 [3] http://www.iesabroad.org/node/1325
Shanghai
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