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Is This really Shanghai? Didn’t Expect This in China…
Shanghai Travel Vlog: Exploring Columbia Circle & West Bund
Hey it's Alex Again! Join me on my second day exploring the incredible city of Shanghai - my very first time in China! Today was all about soaking in the unique blend of modern charm and historical depth this city has to offer.
We started the day wandering through the Columbia Circle, a hidden gem...
Hey it's Alex Again! Join me on my second day exploring the incredible city of Shanghai - my very first time in China! Today was all about soaking in the unique blend of modern charm and historical depth this city has to offer.
We started the day wandering through the Columbia Circle, a hidden gem filled with lush greenery and peaceful vibes - a surprising slice of nature in the heart of the city. From there, we headed to the iconic West Bund, where we dove into the fascinating history of Shanghai’s architectural development and saw how this city grew into the metropolis it is today.
To wrap up the day, we explored a vibrant shopping district, full of color, energy, and local culture and yes, I treated myself to a little gift...
Embark on a captivating journey through Shanghai with Alex Again, as they uncover the city's dual nature. From the serene Columbia Circle to the historical West Bund, witness Shanghai's transformation. Experience the vibrant pulse of its shopping districts and delve into its rich past.
Hey it's Alex Again! Join me on my second day exploring the incredible city of Shanghai - my very first time in China! Today was all about soaking in the unique blend of modern charm and historical depth this city has to offer.
We started the day wandering through the Columbia Circle, a hidden gem filled with lush greenery and peaceful vibes - a surprising slice of nature in the heart of the city. From there, we headed to the iconic West Bund, where we dove into the fascinating history of Shanghai’s architectural development and saw how this city grew into the metropolis it is today.
To wrap up the day, we explored a vibrant shopping district, full of color, energy, and local culture and yes, I treated myself to a little gift...
Alex Again dives into his second day in Shanghai, starting at Columbia Circle. This hidden gem, once an American country club, now houses a stunning bookstore (Suyaba) and a retro pool, surrounded by lush gardens and quirky cafes. He marvels at the mix of nature and development, finding the city older and more charming than expected.<br><br>Next, he visits the Building Shanghai museum, which uses maps, models, and videos to show the city's explosive growth—from Soviet-influenced architecture to futuristic skyscrapers. He's surprised by the historical depth and how different it feels from newer Chinese cities like Shenzhen.<br><br>Along the West Bund promenade, he enjoys dragonflies and neat urban design, then hops on the metro using Alipay (a top tip). The evening takes him to a polished shopping district near the Bund, where he picks up a mic and camera at the DJI store, saving hundreds compared to Europe. He also stumbles upon a fancy Dairy Queen, sparking nostalgia from his US exchange days. The day ends with a sunburned, tired Alex grateful for clean public toilets and the city's vibrant, spontaneous character.
Alex Again's second day in Shanghai reveals a city full of surprises. From the serene Columbia Circle with its lush greenery and transformed American country club to the futuristic West Bund, he discovers a blend of old and new. The Building Shanghai museum offers a fascinating look at the city's rapid growth, while a spontaneous shopping spree at DJI and a nostalgic Dairy Queen stop add personal touches. This isn't just a modern metropolis—it's a place where history, nature, and innovation coexist in unexpected ways.
Alex Again explores Shanghai's hidden gems from Columbia Circle to West Bund, discovering a city that blends modern skyscrapers with charming history and nature.
Discover Shanghai: Historic Columbia Circle to Futuristic West Bund
1:04 Visit Columbia Circle for a peaceful mix of nature, trendy cafes, and historic architecture—a hidden escape from the city bustle.
7:36 The Building Shanghai museum offers a comprehensive look at the city's rapid development, perfect for first-time visitors wanting context.
16:43 Use Alipay for metro tickets instead of ticket machines—it's faster, easier, and avoids language barriers.
20:42 Even on cloudy days, wear sunscreen in Shanghai—the UV can still burn, as Alex learned the hard way.
21:39 Take advantage of clean public toilets available at metro stations and many public areas—a welcome convenience for travelers.
1:04 Visit Columbia Circle for a peaceful mix of nature, trendy cafes, and historic architecture—a hidden escape from the city bustle.
7:36 The Building Shanghai museum offers a comprehensive look at the city's rapid development, perfect for first-time visitors wanting context.
16:43 Use Alipay for metro tickets instead of ticket machines—it's faster, easier, and avoids language barriers.
20:42 Even on cloudy days, wear sunscreen in Shanghai—the UV can still burn, as Alex learned the hard way.
21:39 Take advantage of clean public toilets available at metro stations and many public areas—a welcome convenience for travelers.
0:00 Morning skyline and first impressions
1:04 Exploring Columbia Circle and nature
3:42 Suyaba bookshop in old country club
5:47 Retro pool and courtyard charm
7:36 Building Shanghai museum tour
10:18 West Bund promenade walk
13:02 Lego store and shopping area
16:43 Using Alipay for metro tickets
18:00 DJI store and tax refund tips
21:00 Tiandi area and final reflections
0:00 Welcome!
0:46 Columbia Circle
3:39 Tsutaya Bookshop
5:29 Old Country Club
7:36 History of Shanghai
9:41 The West Bund
12:39 Modern Shopping Area
16:36 Shanghai Metro
17:28 Xintiandi District
18:57 Buying a gift :)
20:55 Shanghai at Night
上海china travel vlogbest things to do in shanghaiwhat to do in shanghaisoup dumplingsshanghai vacation guideshanghai travelcolumbia circlewest bundbuilding shanghai museumsuyaba bookshoplego storedji storetiandialipaypublic toiletsWhat surprised you most about Shanghai?
I didn't expect so much charm and older buildings alongside the futuristic skyline. It's more historical than I imagined.
How did you get around the city?
We used Alipay for metro tickets—super easy and saved us from traffic jams. Highly recommend it!
What was your favorite discovery?
Columbia Circle blew me away. The old country club turned into a bookstore and that retro pool—it's like a secret oasis.
Did you find any good shopping tips?
Yes! Buying DJI gear at the source in China saves hundreds compared to Europe. And don't forget to ask for a tax refund form.
What about food or snacks?
7-Eleven is my favorite place! They have so many zero-calorie drinks and snacks with pictures on the menu—so easy to order.
Any advice on weather?
Wear sunscreen even when it's cloudy. I got a sunburn without realizing it because the UV here is strong.
