Shanghai Urban Planning Museum

When Nicole suggested we go to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, I was skeptical. But it turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip.

Located on People’s Square, the center offers a glimpse into Shanghai’s past, present, and future as the city evolves with its people.

As the world’s most populous city, it’s hard to fathom Shanghai as a whole. You can walk the streets for days and still not have a grasp of where you really are in the overall scheme of this megalopolis. Seeing the scale model really puts things into perspective. Even the model is enormous! Check out Nicole and Sally across the room, and you’ll see what I mean.

This shot gives you a different perspective of The Bund from the photo I shared from my first day exploring Shanghai:

If you never thought a subway system could be beautiful, think again. This light installation maps the routes of the Shanghai metro and manages to look both retro and futuristic at the same time.

In addition to exhibits on transportation, shipping, agriculture, and historical development, the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center features conceptual illustrations of what the city might look like in the future.

As if my mind wasn’t already blown, we visited Shanghai’s first Taco Bell. With shrimp and avocado burritos served with frozen margaritas, and all at prices comparable to American fast food, I’m fully convinced Shanghai is the city of the future.

Thanks so much to Nicole, Sally, Andy, and Byron for sharing their current hometown with me!

Have you spent time in Shanghai? Could you — or do you — live there? Comment and share your feedback on the city as a potential expat home!