Through the eyes of my dear friend, Andrea, I was granted the gift of viewing this amazing city and it’s culture as if for the first time, again.

 

 

Together, we drifted through the quiet maze of shikumen neighborhoods. With today’s colorful laundry hung out to dry and this afternoon’s lunch wafting through the air, alive neighborhoods led to desolate skeletons of those torn down. Works in progress enclosed by brick walls that hide the bones to the past.

 

 

We embraced the beauty and serenity of Chinese gardens. As we entered the gates to Yu Yuan, we shut the door to the city behind us. We traded car horns for songbirds and trickling water. Tall skyscrapers were replaced by ancient pavilions with Ginko trees acting as umbrellas. We wove our way through the interlacing roadway of ponds and bridges, being followed by goldfish and watchful cats.

 

 

 

We soaked in the tranquility of several buddhist temples. Longhua became my new favorite, as we found ourselves within the oldest and largest temple in Shanghai. The temple activity swirled around us while the smell of incense and murmurs of prayer recitals filled our senses. We followed the musical monk procession to watch and listen to the entrancing chants of a prayer ceremony. One of my all-time most memorable Shanghai experiences.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At Jing’an Temple, we marveled at the dichotomy that is Shanghai. With a history of more than 780 years, this temple resides in the middle of modern-day Shanghai with skyscrapers peering into every corner. Once again, the city faded away to the smell of incense, ritualistic chants, and peaceful serenity within the walls.

 

 

 

 

 

We visited Xin Chang, stepping back in time via this ancient water town. Somewhat of a hidden gem, tourists are the minority and old traditions and lifestyles prevail in this tranquil town. Wandering down old lanes, criss-crossing through narrow alleys and over stone-arched bridges. Listening to the local elderly teahouse book readings, tasting the best (Begonia Cake) and worst (Stinky Tofu) local delicacies. Squeezing into a rickshaw and watching the art of paper cutting. And finally, becoming the main attraction for local tourists and residents.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thank you, Andrea. I will always remember your visit and your ability to help me slow down time and pause to untangle the sensory overload thrown at us all by Shanghai. My senses once again are awake to the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and touch of Shanghai. For that, and your friendship, I am forever grateful.