8 must-visit spots in Shanghai, according to artist Juliana Ong

Artist Juliana Ong (above), who completed a residency at Swatch Art Peace Hotel, reveals her favourite places in the Chinese city, including the Power Station of Art and the eclectic French Concession neighbourhood, among others.

Here, she shares her eight favourite places to see in the city:

Shanghai Museum, located on People’s Square, is dedicated to ancient Chinese art. Among its extensive collection are items such as sculptures, paintings, ceramics, seals and calligraphy.

If you fancy a drink, the rooftop bar at Swatch Art Peace Hotel overlooks the Bund and offers perfect views of Oriental Pearl Tower, which houses an observation deck and a revolving restaurant, and Pudong, the city’s financial district.

Housed in a former power station, it is China’s first state-run contemporary art museum. In addition to Shanghai Biennale, it also hosts international touring exhibitions. Admission is free.

Walk around the streets of Shaanxi, Changle and Huaihai, and you’ll discover the crossroads of new and old Shanghai. It’s full of quaint cafes, shops and bars.

Traditional hotpot restaurants and stalls abound here. Look for one that uses charcoal for cooking food. It offers a great local atmosphere.

Located on Yongfu Road in a converted bomb shelter, it’s an underground techno club that invites both local, independent DJs as well as international artistes. The best thing about going out to party in Shanghai at night is that there are barbecue stalls on every street corner.

It displays the history of print and ink art and its significance in Chinese culture. It is also on the street – Fuzhou Road – where most artists go for their materials.

A lively street filled with bars and cool cafés. Tuck in to fish and chips at The Sailors restaurant or try the Irish Car Bomb cocktail at Blarney Stone pub.

– TEXT BY SHWETA PARIDA

This article was originally published by Singapore Press Holdings.