Old Town
The Old town was once a walled city: authentic, traditional and self sufficient. Now it's one of the largest existing traditional Chinese areas in Shanghai attracting a mass of tourists who want a glimpse of traditional china. Although some of the architecture is worthy of a photo, the main square of The Old Town feels as authentic as China World in Epcot Center. Chinese residents sell all the usual souvenirs from their homes, and The Old Town Bazaar sells mass produced fans, silk scarves, Buddha's and communist memorabilia. The Old Town also has numerous traditional tea houses and Chinese snack stalls. Hunt down the infamous Nanxiang steamed bun restaurant (it's the one with the massive queue) for a delicious treat or two. The best and most interesting way to see the area - and its inhabitants - is to divert from the main walkways and head down the back streets. This will give you a real insight to Shanghai's past. Also, visit the traditional Yuan Garden (built in 1577, complete with beautiful pavilions, miniature lakes, bridges and rock formations) located at the edge of the Old Town, but try to avoid weekends as the garden gets extremely busy. The address listed will get you to the most popular attraction in the Old Town, Yuyuan gardens.
The Old town is a great opportunity to practice your bartering though. Aim to pay a quarter of the original asking price.
