Shanghai unlocked: travel tips and tools for first-timers
"I've travelled to several Asian countries and fallen in love with East Asia, particularly Korea and Japan. I had wanted to visit China for a long time, but applying for a visa felt like a lot of work. I was happy to see that China has granted temporary visa-free entry to citizens of certain countries," Krista says about the planning phase of the trip. For example, Finnish citizens can travel to China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, and the arrangement runs until 31 December 2026. Always check the destination country's entry regulations before you book.
Krista also highlights that many everyday practices in China are different from what you may be used to. "For a first-timer, China may seem like a difficult destination. Google Maps doesn't work properly, ordinary credit cards aren't accepted everywhere, and mobile payments are almost essential. You have to do some research before you travel. It's worth the effort."
Download these mobile apps before your trip
Krista recommends downloading a few apps in advance that make the traveller's everyday life and logistics in China easier:
- Card payments and cash are rarely used in China. For mobile payments, you should download Alipay and link your payment card to it in advance. It also includes a translation function that reads Chinese characters and translates them into English.
- Amap (Gaode Map) is China's most popular map application, providing directions for walkers, motorists and public transport users alike. The app draws on China's own map and traffic data, which makes it more reliable than many international alternatives for finding your way around the city.
- Klook is a convenient site where you can book various activities in advance.
Since you need mobile internet almost constantly in China, Krista also recommends getting an eSIM if your phone supports it: "It's a virtual SIM card that gives you prepaid mobile data. I used Nomad. Again, it is good to note that in China, it may no longer be possible to buy and install an eSIM at the Shanghai airport, for example. It's worth sorting out before you leave home."
Shanghai's top 3 experiences
Finally, Krista lists a few activities in Shanghai that you should definitely include in your itinerary:
1) The Shanghai ERA circus/acrobatic show was a memorable combination of traditional Chinese acrobatics and modern technology. "It's not an ordinary circus show, but one full of aerial acrobatics and other feats of skill. The show ends with a motorcycle act."
2) Shanghai Disneyland offers a Disney experience with a Chinese twist. "For those travelling with children, Disneyland is an easy choice. The Pirates of the Caribbean ride was just as impressive as I had heard, and many consider it one of the best Disney rides in the world. In addition, I booked a princess makeover for my 4-year-old daughter at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, which was the highlight of the visit for her."
3) Finally, Krista highlights the Shanghai Greenhouse Garden, a green oasis in the middle of a big city. "The glass building offers a moment of calm in the middle of the city and leads you through different climate zones, from desert to rainforest.
The themed spaces combine botanical diversity, interactive elements and inventive spatial design. Tropical plants, light installations and fog effects create a space where nature meets technology. The Greenhouse Garden suits families, plant lovers and travellers who appreciate aesthetics."
Head towards the pulse of Shanghai
A direct flight from Helsinki takes you to Shanghai, a city with plenty to see, whether it's your first visit or your fifth. Finnair flies from Helsinki to Shanghai year-round. Book your flight and get ready to experience the best of this Chinese megacity.