If you're dreaming of an escape from city life, then a 25-million-strong Chinese metropolis might not be the first place that springs to mind. But if you're happy to explore beyond its admittedly crowded tourist sites, Shanghai offers pockets of tranquility backed up with charmingly dressed-down neighborhoods, awe-inspiring architecture, and some of the best food in Asia.
The best time to visit Shanghai is in spring, a bright and breezy sweet spot between the city's smog-shrouded winter and shirt-soaking summer months. Frequent direct flights make the three-hour hop from Narita and Haneda airports into Shanghai Pudong International Airport every day. You'll pay around ¥50,000 for the privilege.
Strict visa requirements for most travelers, however, make Shanghai a less whimsical travel destination than other East Asian cities. Allow at least three weeks to obtain a tourist visa or make Shanghai a stopover between Japan and a second destination outside of mainland China to qualify for the 144-hour transit visa, which can be applied for when you land in Shanghai.