In a city overloaded with visual stimulation, I’d like to share a few of my favorite daily sights and sounds that set this world apart from others and make it so beautiful.
In nature:
Bamboo : from ladders to scaffolding to the dinner plate, this plant is used to its fullest potential.
Koi Ponds : Symbolizing good fortune, longevity, and success, they quietly exist in abundance throughout parks, gardens, homes and businesses.
Lotus Ponds : Rising out of mud to bloom, the lotus is a symbol of purity and considered the holy seat of Buddha.
Crickets : Symbolizing the growing season, success, and courage, crickets are sold as pets in little bamboo boxes for their singing and fighting skills.
Song birds : Often kept in bamboo cages, it is common to see bird cages hanging outside apartment windows and amongst the trees in parks where the owners have bird singing contests.
Walking the streets:
Grafitti : is everywhere. This one no longer exists and was our favorite, simply because Luke would read it aloud EVERYDAY on our way to school.
Doors : I need not say more.
Open Doors : Allowing those passing by a look inside, doors to homes and businesses are frequently left open regardless of weather.
Wet Market from above.
In the streets:
Traffic : With it’s unique chaotic rhythm, these drivers swerve, honk, and avoid collision even with “suggested” stop lights and lack of stop signs.
Bikes : and more bikes line sidewalks and fill streets.
LOADED trucks…
…OVER-Loaded bikes : We are visually reminded everyday of the ongoing recycling process of everything wooden, plastic, styrofoam, or cardboard.
…and delicately balanced carts which are an art form in itself.
In Architecture:
Elevated highways weave their way throughout the city.
The Nanpu Bridge connects east with west high above the Huangpu River.
The ever-changing skyline is mesmerizing.
The Bund’s historic art deco buildings are just as impressive.
In the temples:
Perhaps my favorite, the beauty found within the walls of a temple connect nature with the sights, sounds, and smells of it’s daily rituals.
Symbolizing strength, pride, and protection, lion head door knockers can be found at the entrance to every temple.
Shezhuang Temple
I can still smell the incense burning.
and hear the music.
Originally providing a source of light, the red lantern has become a national symbol and traditionally represents good luck.
Temple windows
Temple drum tower
Bell tower. Notice the coin…such offerings are left discreetly throughout temples.
That’s just a taste of our Shanghai.
ourshanghaidays 