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11 Things To Do In Harbin – Russian Towns, Igloo Dining & Year-Round Skiing

SJ Lin — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 17:00:27 +0000

Things to do in Harbin

Japan, Korea and Europe – these are the usual culprits which pop up when we’re searching for winter destinations. But while these places have colder climates, they also involve long flights and expensive tour packages.

Enter Harbin, a city in China where the temperatures dip below -30°C in winter. It’s a popular destination with the Chinese but remains mostly untouched by international tourism. Here’s a list of cool things we did there.

The exchange rate is S$1 = RMB5.35 as of 14th January 2025.

When is the best time to visit Harbin?

Where To See Cherry Blossoms In China – Best Locations & Times To Visit For The Prettiest Blooms

Khoo Yong Hao — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 07:00:38 +0000

Cherry blossoms in China

Although we’re right in the thick of the holiday season as we speak, forward-looking vacationers will already have started planning out their 2025 trips way ahead of time. That’s because the cherry blossom season beckons during the earlier months of the year, making travelling to Sakura-dense countries such as Japan and Korea all the more worthwhile during those few weeks.

But, did you know that China also sees its fair share of cherry blossoms come spring? Many cities in China have become tourist hotspots this year, and soon it’s going to be all the more crowded with masses jetting over to watch the pink petals flutter in the breeze. If pretty flower-filled vistas are just your thing, here’s all you need to know about the cherry blossoms in China.

P.S, here’s a handy map showing the locations of the following spots to see cherry blossoms in China on Google Maps, if you’d like to add them to your itinerary right from the jump.

The current exchange rate is ¥5.38 = S$1 as of 22nd December 2024.

When is cherry blossom season in China?

The cherry blossom season in China spans from approximately mid-February to early May, which is a couple of weeks longer than the blooms over in Japan and Korea. But, the blooming period of the cherry blossom trees themselves is similar amongst the 3 countries, and lasts about 2 weeks.

Thankfully, the Chinese New Year festivities in 2025 will happen earlier than usual, as China will be celebrating their most significant annual festival from 28th January to 4th February 2025. This means that there’s ample time for the crowds celebrating the new year to die down right before the beginning of the cherry blossom season in China.

What to expect during cherry blossom season in China

Although you’ll be siam-ing the CNY crowd, that doesn’t mean that the locations where the cherry blossoms are in full bloom won’t be packed. You’ll still run into hoards of tourists and locals alike trying to get a glimpse of the cherry blossoms, so head to the parks early in the morning to get the flowers all to yourself.

Image adapted from: 冬苘winter & 你今天又没吃饱吗 via RED

Some spots will also allow you to rent traditional Chinese costumes, also known as Hanfu, for around ¥50 for 2 hours, which is perfect for photoshoots to update the ‘Gram with. Also, sakura-shaped popsicles are the dessert of choice for many during the cherry blossom season.

Starbucks in China even gave out free roses with drinks during the cherry blossom season in 2023.
Image credit: 可可爱爱小趴菜 via RED

Famous F&B joints such as Starbucks and Chagee will also be sprucing up their menus with limited time items that are inspired by the blooms, and you might even stumble upon pop-up stores selling ornate floral-themed trinkets to serve as mementos of your time in China.

WeChat has a built-in translation feature so booking your tickets isn’t too much of a hassle.
Image adapted from: Khoo Yong Hao

You might need to purchase tickets to some of these spots via WeChat, as they don’t have official websites that you can search up on Google to buy your tickets. If you’re not with a tour guide who might have already settled admission for you, you’ll have to search up the locations in Mandarin on the app, head to their WeChat page, and purchase tickets or book a slot from there.

To save you the hassle of looking up the Mandarin names for these locations to plonk into WeChat, we’ve included them for you to copy-paste into your app.

1. Yuyuantan Park, Beijing (玉渊潭公园)

Image credit: 董小贝 via RED

Beijing’s probably the most visited city in China, so it’s only befitting that it plays host to one of the most beautiful parks in the country to spend the cherry blossom season at. Located about a 25-minute drive from the city centre, the famous Yuyantan Park draws in the masses once spring has sprung, as it gets transformed into a dreamy, pink-hued getaway.

Image credit: Felix via RED

A loop around the park is only 1.8km long, making leisurely strolls here perfect even if you’re travelling with the little ones or the elderly. Keep an eye out for the colourful mandarin ducks waddling around the lake, and get your cameras out for the huge China Central Radio and Television Tower that can be seen jutting out amidst the cherry blossom trees.

Image adapted from: 迟迟钟鼓 & 山里 via RED

Speaking of which, 180 of these trees were given as gifts from the Japanese government back in the 1970s, and today, there are over 3,000 of them. When the sun gets too overbearing, cool down with sakura-shaped popsicles (from ¥35) that you can buy at a nearby ice cream stand, or swing by this roving Starbucks stand for your morning coffee.

When to visit: 29th March – 13th April
Admission: ¥10/pax, book tickets via Yuyuantan Park’s official WeChat page
Address: No.107 Xisanhuan North Road, Haidian District, Beijing
Opening hours: 6am-9.30pm, Daily (Last entry at 9pm)
How to get there: Take a 6-hour direct flight from Singapore to Beijing Capital International Airport via Singapore Airlines or Air China. The park is about a 45-minute drive from the airport.

2. Gucun Park, Shanghai (顾村公园)

Image credit: 王小猫 via RED

On the contrary, if you’re looking for an expansive park to roam while taking in the sights during the cherry blossom season, then Gucun Park in Shanghai is the place to be. Calling it huge is an understatement, as it’s about 4.3sqkm big. For comparison, Singapore’s largest park, Chestnut Nature Park, measures a little over 0.8sqkm.

Image credit: 多多麻麻 via RED

As such, it holds the distinction of having the greatest concentration of cherry blossom trees in all of Shanghai – the park contains over 16,000 of them, spread over 120 different species. For the best views of Gucun Park, hitch a ride on the towering 50m tall ferris wheel (¥50/pax), where you’ll be able to gaze at the cotton-candy like canopies as you hang in the sky.

Image adapted from: 朱先森爱摄影 via RED, @meetinshanghai via Instagram

Other picturesque photo spots include this pastel windmill to pose beside that stands tall in the middle of a field of pink reeds, as well as a rose garden near the park’s Exit 3 that’s said to have roses that grow to the size of a human head.

Book tickets to Gucun Park.

When to visit: 11th March – 15th April
Admission: ¥30/pax
Address: No. 4788 Hutai Road, Gucun Town, Baoshan District, Shanghai
Opening hours: 6am-6pm, Daily (Last entry at 4.30pm)
How to get there: Take a 5-hour direct flight from Singapore to Shanghai Pudong International Airport via Singapore Airlines or China-Eastern Airlines. The park is about a 50-minute drive from the airport.

3. Wuhan University, Wuhan (武汉大学)

Image credit: suki酱 via RED

A school might be the last place you’d think to visit during the cherry blossom season, but many flock to Wuhan University in March to soak in the sights as the campus becomes wreathed with shades of pink. The cherry blossom trees that flank the roads leading to lecture halls and classrooms spring to life, turning the school into a mini tourist attraction for a few weeks.

There’s even a road within Wuhan University called Cherry Blossom Road.
Image credit: 步步GlOria via RED

Every year, students of the university will volunteer to serve as guides for the many visitors who want to tour its grounds. They even double as makeshift photographers so you don’t have to keep relying on 0.5 selfies to document your visit.

Image credit: 收藏佳 via RED

But, if you’d rather do some sightseeing on your own, do make a stop at the palatial Administration Building and its surrounding premises. The combination of the flowering cherry blossoms swaying in the foreground of the historical structures of yesteryear definitely make for postcard-worthy snaps.

When to visit: 15th March – 27th March
Admission: Free, reserve slots at least 3 days in advance via Wuhan University’s official website
Address: 299 Bayi Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm | Sat-Sun 8am-6pm
How to get there: Take a 5-hour direct flight from Singapore to Wuhan Tianhe International Airport via Scoot or China-Eastern Airlines. The university is about a 48-minute drive from the airport.

4. East Lake Cherry Blossom Park, Wuhan (东湖樱花园)

Image credit: 撒拉哈的马里奥 via RED

If you’re planning to head to Wuhan University for the upcoming cherry blossom season, you might as well also put East Lake Cherry Blossom Park on your itinerary. It’s just an 18-minute drive from the university, and promises equally as stunning scenes for a whole day’s worth of flower viewing.

The huge pagoda in the park lights up beautifully at night.
Image credit: Trip.com

Fun fact: the cherry blossom trees that populate the park were initially planted by the Japanese during their occupation of Wuhan during World War 2 in order to combat their homesickness. Today, the locals have conflicted feelings about the gorgeous sea of pink that washes over the park annually, as the delicate petals serve as a stark reminder of the trying times.

Image adapted from: 收藏佳 via RED

Nonetheless, East Lake Cherry Blossom Park is still a prime location for many to enjoy the festivities of the sakura season. For those on the prowl for IG-worthy backdrops, there’s a small pagoda along a boardwalk to admire the view, along with Japanese-style buildings and wooden rowboats bobbing in the lake to immerse yourself in your surroundings.

When to visit: 15th March – 31st March
Admission: ¥60/pax, book tickets via East Lake Cherry Blossom Park’s official WeChat page
Address: 1 East Lake Road, Hongshan District, Wuhan
Opening hours: 7am-10pm, Daily
How to get there: Take a 5-hour direct flight from Singapore to Wuhan Tianhe International Airport via Scoot or China-Eastern Airlines. The park is about an hour’s drive from the airport.

5. Longwangtang Cherry Blossom Park, Dalian (龙王塘樱花园)

Further up North-East, travellers to Dalian can make a beeline for Longwangtang Cherry Blossom Park to watch white and pink flowers carpet the ground from mid-April to early-May.

Image credit: 行游大连 (大连文旅) via RED

Although it’s not as big as the other parks on this list, those living in the area have crowned it as their go-to spot every cherry blossom season. As a result, you’ll spot tonnes of families laying out their picnic mats for some fun in the sun in the wide, open areas of the park, while others have set up tents to tide them through the night.

Image credit: OFNA via RED

Within the park, there are 10 cherry blossom trees that are documented to be at least 100 years old, which stands alongside a famous century-old magnolia tree that originated from Osaka. The park is also bordered by a giant dam that was built by the Japanese in the 1920s, and stairs that go around the body of water are constantly blanketed by layers of pink petals.

Image adapted from: 小时爱拍照 via RED

Benches in the park are aplenty, and once you’ve caught your breath, you can have a gander at the nearby historic World War 2 site, where a fierce battle between the Japanese and Russian armies once ravaged.

Book tickets to Longwangtang Cherry Blossom Park.

When to visit: 16th March – 6th April
Admission: ¥20/pax
Address: No.1 Guoshuixi Road, Lushunkou District, Dalian
Opening hours: 8am-5pm, Daily
How to get there: Take a 4-hour connecting flight from Singapore to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, and then a 3-hour 20 minute flight to Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport via Xiamen Airlines. The park is about a 55-minute drive from the airport.

6. Yongfu Cherry Blossom Garden, Zhangping (永福樱花茶旅景区)

Image credit: 何陈文 via RED

If a place has been featured on the cover of a Nat Geo magazine, it’s a pretty good indication that its views are nothing short of otherworldly. Laying claim to that feat is Yongfu Cherry Blossom, a tea plantation that’s also peppered with cherry blossom trees. Rows of them can be spotted running along the roads that cut through the plantation’s verdant greenery, giving them a contrasting pop of colour.

Image credit: 松子到此一游 via RED

Feel free to stand amongst the shrubbery to take in the invigorating smell of tea leaves. By the way, there are over 40 varieties of cherry blossoms to see, and since there are so many different species here, you can drop by from late-January all the way to mid-March and still be in time for the blooms.

Image adapted from: 羊羊(许嵩官方认证娘子版) via RED, Trip.com

Don’t forget to hop aboard a pretty pink train (¥50/pax) that goes round the hills, and make a pit stop at the tea house where you can sip on the freshest of brews and dainty pastures while taking in the magnificent scenery.

When to visit: 25th January – 15th March
Admission: ¥50/pax, book tickets via Yongfu Cherry Blossom Garden’s official WeChat page
Address: Taipin Cherry Blossom Garden, Yongfu Town, Zhangping
Opening hours: 8am-9pm, Daily
How to get there: Take a 4-hour direct flight from Singapore to Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport. The garden is about a 2-hour drive from the airport.

7. Yuantouzhu, Wuxi (鼋头渚)

For a spot to appreciate the cherry blossoms that’s arguably more spectacular at night than during the day, look no further than Yuantouzhu. Also known as Turtle Head Isle because of how its peaks resemble a turtle poking its head of the water, this peninsula is already a tourist magnet due to its picture-perfect hills and lakeside views.

Image credit: 一只不安分的阿May via RED

However, cherry blossom season is where Yuantouzhu sees an influx of visitors, as the entire landscape is enveloped by over 30,000 sakura trees blooming in unison.

Image adapted from: 一只不安分的阿May & 永远在旅行的TQ via RED

To get a glimpse of the cherry blossoms in all their glory, scale the majestic pagoda and bust out your camera to capture the view from above. There’s also a bridge that’s also a popular photo spot, where delicate flower petals fall and swirl in the water beneath your feet.

Image credit: 希源柯克 via RED

But, the real magic happens once dusk falls, when the lights switch on from 5pm to 9pm daily and illuminate the trees, pagoda, and bridges around the peninsula. Even the boats in the lake are lined with bright LED lights, bathing the whole area in a warm glow reminiscent of scenes from a Ghibli film.

When to visit: 18th March – 7th April
Admission: ¥90/pax, book tickets via Yuantouzhu’s official WeChat page or the Wuxi Yuantouzhu website
Address: 1 Yuanzhu Road, Bin Hu District, Wuxi
Opening hours: 8am-9pm, Daily
How to get there: Take a 5-hour 20 minute direct flight from Singapore to Sunan Shuofang International Airport via Jetstar. The garden is about a 36-minute drive from the airport.

8. Zhongshan Park, Qingdao (中山公园)

Image credit: @Sitara.星迴 via RED

Not to be confused with a park in Singapore with the exact same name, Qingdao’s Zhongshan Park has been dubbed by locals as the city’s “Flower Sea”. That’s because the park is decorated with numerous beds of flowers that make for great photo ops. Particularly, the park is known for their colourful clusters of tulips, which greet visitors in vibrant hues of pink, yellow, and red.

Image credit: 小乔Cherry via RED

Once the annual cherry blossom season hits, that’s when the park really gets lively. Since the park is free to enter without any booking whatsoever, you’ll spot a sea of selfie sticks emerging from the crowds, along with tourists donning Hanfu to snap pics amongst the pink sakura blooms.

Image adapted from: 蛋蛋妮儿儿, 是你的桃子呀 via RED

Do keep an eye out for any pop-ups set up around the park on your visit; last year saw an unapologetically pink Chagee booth that gave out complimentary balloon flowers with drinks. For more things to do, the Qingdao Zoo (from ¥8.50/pax) is also located within the park, where you can wave hello to animals such as giant pandas, lemurs, and an elusive white tiger.

When to visit: 10th April – 25th April
Admission: Free
Address: No.28 Wendeng Road, Shinan District, Qingdao
Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily
How to get there: Take a 6-hour direct flight from Singapore to Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport via Scoot. The garden is about an hour’s drive from the airport.

Plan a trip to China for cherry blossom season in 2025

If you’ve already been to Japan or Korea one too many times for the annual cherry blossom season, then consider heading over to China for the blooms in 2025. You’ve got plenty of jaw-dropping spots to choose from, and flights to China are also generally cheaper as well, so if you want to view the sakura on a budget, now you know where to jet off to.

For more things to do in China:

Cover image adapted from: 王小猫, 松子到此一游 & 希源柯克 via RED

The post Where To See Cherry Blossoms In China – Best Locations & Times To Visit For The Prettiest Blooms appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

7 Things To Do In Chongqing, China – Grand Palaces, Ancient Towns & Natural Limestone Bridges

Khoo Yong Hao — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 03:18:43 +0000

Things to do in Chongqing, China

As we hurtle into the last month of 2024, it seems like many are scurrying to get their work done in time to board a China-bound plane for the holidays. Just look to IG, which is plastered with pics of your friends and relatives’ trips to the largest country in East Asia, whether it’s hanging with the pandas in Chengdu or tackling the rides at Universal Studios Beijing.

If your FOMO’s already kicking in, then we’ve got just the destination for you. Chongqing’s probably one of the hottest spots in China right now, and is proving to be a potent tourist magnet with its Cyberpunk-ish architecture that plays around the city’s unique mountainous terrain. As some itinerary inspo for your upcoming visit to the 8D city, here are some things to do in Chongqing.

The current exchange rate is S$1 = ~¥5.42 as of 9th December 2024.

How much are flights to Chongqing?

Chongqing is located in Southwestern China, and much like its other major cities like Shanghai and Beijing, getting there from the Little Red Dot isn’t too much of a hassle.

A couple of airlines have direct, 5-hour flights from Singapore’s Changi Airport to the Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, such as Air China, Chongqing Airlines, and Singapore Airlines. Roundtrip flights from Singapore to Chongqing start from S$444, so the prices aren’t too exorbitant even if you’re planning a last-minute holiday.

1. Kuixinglou Square

Expansive plaza that’s actually 22 floors above ground level

Probably the spot which shot Chongqing to the top of everyone’s TikTok FYP earlier this year, Kuixinglou Square is undoubtedly one of the best locations that portrays the city’s peculiar topography.

Image credit: 杰哥的旅行日记 via RED

Known as “the plaza which doesn’t know which floor it is on” by bewildered tourists, you’ll find that it actually sits atop a building which is 22 floors tall, despite looking like it’s on ground level. In fact, quite a number of Chongqing’s buildings are constructed in this fashion, as the city is built on steep gorges and lofty peaks, hence its moniker of the Mountain City.

Image adapted from: 自由行旅行攻略 & Li Chunyu via RED

Once you’re here, there are a couple of buildings styled after those of yesteryear to snap pics of, including 2 glassy pavilions to marvel at. The 2 bridges connecting the plaza to Kuixinglou Building is another picturesque backdrop, and the little zen garden right next to one of them is a hidden alcove with views of the snaking Yangtze River down below.

Image adapted from: 郭小yan & 七月六散心故事 via RED

Back down on the ground floor of the Kuixinglou Building, the massive walls that flank the roads are also peppered with photo ops. Share a moment with an artistic rendition of Studio Ghibli’s Totoro, or share your OOTDs with a pair of eerily cute panda caricatures.

Address: 7 Datang Square, Linjiangmen, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily

2. Raffles City Chongqing

MBS-like mall with a horizontal skyscraper

Image credit: @capitaland via Instagram

Raffles City Chongqing might ring a bell once you hear its name, but take a look at its design and you’ll see that it bears an uncanny resemblance to our beloved Marina Bay Sands. That’s no coincidence, as this palatial mall was conceived by the same architect who worked on MBS, Moshe Safdie.

Image credit: CapitaLand

It’s smack dab in the middle of the Yuzhong district of Chongqing’s CBD, and within the 5-storey mall you’ll find that it’s filled with big international name brands. Surprisingly, you can also spot familiar homegrown inclusions in its directory, such as Charles & Keith and Bee Cheng Hiang; perhaps because the mall is owned by the Singaporean headquartered real estate group, CapitaLand.

The Crystal skybridge, measuring 300m long, is also dubbed the world’s first “horizontal skyscraper”.
Image credit: @capitaland via Instagram

Don’t forget to head upstairs to the mall’s rooftop observation deck, which is located at one end of the mall’s The Crystal skybridge, for stunning views of Chongqing’s bustling city. If you’re daring enough, try your hand at the SkyWalk (¥180), where you’ll be tethered to a railing as you set foot onto the roof of the building 250m above street level.

Image credit: @capitaland via Instagram

Raffles City Chongqing also plays host to The Private Club, a discreet circle that gives its members exclusive access to certain areas of Raffles City Chongqing. For a hefty annual membership fee of ¥60,000, you can take a dip in a 50m-long infinity pool, or network with other folks living the same high life as you in a member’s-only lounge.

Address: 18 Xinyi Street, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
Opening hours: 10am-10pm, Daily
Contact: Raffles City Chongqing website

3. Liziba station

Public train that goes through a residential building

Image credit: @rh_jalanjalan via Instagram

Another “attraction” that has made its rounds on social media is Liziba Station, AKA that one building-tunnelling train in Chongqing. No clickbait here; the station which is part of Chongqing Rail Transit Line 2 sees trains passing through a block of flats daily. In fact, it takes up Levels 6 to 8 of a 19-storey tall residential building, and boy is it a bizarre sight indeed.

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The view from inside the train as it stops at Liziba station.

Fun fact: the building and Liziba Station were built simultaneously, and the flats were built with special materials to minimise sounds and vibrations emanating from the chugging trains. Today, hoards of people flock to the station’s vicinity, phones in hand, to catch trains arriving and departing the station, turning it into somewhat of a tourist attraction.

If you’d like to experience this bizarre commute yourself, taking a ride on the Chongqing Rail Transit (CRT) is surprisingly cheap. It’s the most efficient way of getting around the city; you can get one-way, single use tickets that start from just ¥2 at ticket booths in train stations.

Image credit: Wikiwand

In case you’ve got tons of places to hit up, do consider getting an IC Transportation card (¥20), which is essentially like an EZ-Link card which you can top up with money for fuss-free travels on the CRT or public buses.

Address: No. 119, Liziba Street, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
Opening hours: 6.30am-11.30pm, Daily

4. Hongya Cave

Bustling shopping complex built into the hillside

Many have noticed that Hongya Cave bears a resemblance to the iconic bathhouse from Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away, especially when it lights up beautifully at night.
Image credit: 冉冉玩不嗨 via RED

Hongya Cave is another one of Chongqing’s architectural marvels which definitely warrants a visit for both foodies and shopaholics alike. This 11-storey tall shopping complex is built on stilts into a hillside, resulting in its unique, multi-tiered layout that’s not the easiest to navigate. Heck, most visitors enter the complex from the 11th floor which is miraculously on street level, and work their way downwards.

But, getting lost within Hongya Cave is all part of the experience, as you won’t know what’s around every corner in this eclectic mash of shops that you can’t really find anywhere else.

It’s not uncommon for a tableside performance to take place as you’re dunking your ingredients into your hotpot.
Image adapted from: 春风 & 爱吃肉的小柠檬 via RED

Food fanatics will want to make a stop on Level 4, as it houses restaurants serving Chongqing hotpot which is known to be pretty dang spicy. 1 level up, you’ll find all sorts of cuisine ranging from Japanese to Italian, along with great views of the Jialing and Yangtze rivers converging beneath your feet.

Image credit: 威震天 via RED

Level 2’s the place if you’d like a taste of the city’s nightlife, as it’s crowded with various bars and nightclubs. Up on Level 8, visitors can bring home Chongqing specialties and souvenirs such as coveted bottles of Chongqing chilli sauce. Before you leave, don’t forget to swing by Hongyadicui on Level 10, which is a small waterfall which flows straight from the mountaintops above.

Address: No. 88 Binjiang Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily

5. Ciqikou Ancient Town

Historic shopping district to buy souvenirs & snack on street food

Image credit: @xylicuidi via Instagram

Equally as fascinating as Chongqing’s interestingly-built buildings is the renowned Ciqikou Ancient Town. This archaic shopping district is ingrained in Chongqing’s culture with more than a millennium of history, as the city used to be an important economic and transport hub of China.

Image credit: 小叶 via RED

If you need further proof of Chongqing’s historical importance to its nation, pay a visit to the Ying Long Gate in Ciqikou Ancient Town, as it was dubbed the throat into Southwest China way back in the day. In modern times, it proves to be quite a scenic spot overlooking Jialing River, which beckons many to patronise the district’s 12 bustling shopping streets.

Image adapted from: 爆炒为朝 & 罗嘎嘎GAGA via RED

Of course, you can’t miss out on the street snacks here; some to taste-test include fried dough twists, spicy chicken giblets, and glutinous rice cakes. The famous Baolun Temple is also located within the ancient town, which used to be the abode of a Ming Dynasty emperor who lived here in seclusion, or so the legend goes.

Image adapted from: 番茄炒鸡蛋 & 冬日驴火烧 via RED

For a breather, take a break at one of the many teahouses that line the streets of Ciqikou Ancient Town. As you gobble down pastries and desserts along with your delightful brews, you’ll be able to pair your meals with live entertainment too. Many of these teahouses will also enthrall guests with traditional performances such as Chinese opera and storytelling sessions, so you might be inclined to stay for quite a bit.

Address: No.1, Cinan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing
Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily

6. Chiyou Jiuli City

Marvel at a grand palace & experience the culture of the Miao people

When you’ve got time to spare, taking a day trip or 2 out of Chongqing is another great way to really soak in everything the city has to offer. To start you off, Chiyou Jiuli City is one place you can consider setting your sights for.

Image credit: @yang_guangqing via Instagram

Located about a 3.5-hour drive from Chongqing’s city centre, it’s a small settlement that’s roughly about 10sqkm, brimming with Miao people culture. They’re one of the 56 official ethnic groups in China, and you’ll be surprised at how friendly their people can be. Besides, the city is bathed in the warm glow of lights once night falls, making it quite the spectacle.

Image adapted from: 7ang. & 肖你妹 via RED

The main attraction here is the Chiyou Jiuli Palace, where you have to walk through a total of 9 grandiose gates to reach. Once you’ve made your way past the gates, you can opt to rent traditional Miao costumes (from ¥30/hour) and silver jewellery (from ¥20/hour) for your own photoshoots with the palace in the background.

The Miao people have an interesting way of welcoming guests with rice wine too. Called the High Mountain and Flowing Water ritual, the drinks are poured from 4 different wine jars mimicking a rushing river. We’re hoping you’re not a lightweight, as you’re supposed to chug as much as you’re given.

Image adapted from: Tingtingbutingting & 羽甜 via RED

Other sites of interest include the 24m-tall Jiuli stone totem pole, which bears carvings of the various deities and demons of the Miao people’s culture. Those looking for keepsakes such as ornate jewellery and intricate handcrafts can buy some at a small shopping street nearby; it even doubles as a charming photo spot with its colourful lanterns dangling overhead.

Address: 4A Scenic Area, Pengshui District, Chongqing
Admission: ¥81/pax
Opening hours: 9am-6pm, Daily

7. Wulong Karst National Geology Park

Walk under 3 natural limestone bridges & pose beside Transformers statues

Most people know Chongqing for its skyscraping buildings and bustling CBD, but the city does have its fair share of natural wonders if you know where to look. So, we’re pointing you in the direction of Wulong Karst National Geology Park, whose stunning landscape is about a 4-hour drive away from the main city.

If you’d like to skip out on the hike, you can traverse the karst quickly by hopping into an elevator.
Image adapted from: 雪糕爸妈去探店 via RED

As you approach Wulong Karst National Geology Park, you might find it strange that a huge Bumblebee statue is standing guard at its entrance. The Autobot hasn’t wandered into the park by mistake; the park was used to film certain sequences in Transformers 4 so expect to bump into more of his buddies on your tour.

Image credit: 夏九九 via RED

Robots aside, what you’re really here for are the 3 Natural Bridges of Wulong Karst. They are a series of towering, naturally-formed limestone bridges within the park, and you’ll be able to catch all of them on a short 2km hike. The Tianlong Bridge is the first of the 3; try to spot its famed “thumbs-up” shape that’s framed within the underside of the bridge.

Image adapted from: 夏九九 & 爱笑的薇薇安 via RED

Along your hike, you can also make a pit stop at a clearing amongst the valleys, overlooking an old Chinese courtyard which dates back to the Tang Dynasty, over 1,400 years ago. Should the weather permit, you can even go on a hot air balloon ride for views of the karst from above.

Take on Chongqing with Changi Recommends’ Travel eSIMs

We all know how much of a hassle it is dealing with connectivity woes while on our travels, and holidays to China in particular are no different. The Great Firewall of China is no myth, but there is one quick remedy to all your WiFi-related issues when you’re touring cities like Chongqing and would still like access to your favourite social media apps.

You’ll also enjoy instant eSIM delivery and activation, so there’s no down time when you’re keeping your IG audience updated on your escapades.

Equip yourself with Changi Recommends’ Travel eSIMs (from S$0.72 each) for your travels, and you won’t have to scramble for the nearest handphone shop the moment you touch down. For starters, it has up to 5G data speed with reliable and consistent coverage that’s available in 22 countries, including top travel destinations among Singaporeans such as Malaysia, Japan, and China.

Their eSIMs are supported by eSIM-compatible Android and iOS phones, and you’ll also maintain unfettered access to social media apps like TikTok, Instagram, and WhatsApp. In case you’d like to keep your doomscrolling in check, you can even keep tabs on your daily data usage by visiting the Changi Recommends Data Usage Transparency website.

And here’s the best part: Changi Travel eSIMs come with 24/7 customer support, so whether you’re facing connection issues or need assistance on how to activate your eSIMs as a first-time user, you can seek assistance by reaching out to their team via WhatsApp.

Learn more about Changi Recommends Travel eSIMs

This post was brought to you by Changi Recommends.
Photography by Eldora Chong.
Cover image adapted from: 杰哥的旅行日记 & 冉冉玩不嗨 via RED

The post 7 Things To Do In Chongqing, China – Grand Palaces, Ancient Towns & Natural Limestone Bridges appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

7 Cities In China You Can Visit With Direct Flights From SG, Apart From Shanghai & Beijing

Aditi Kashyap — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 07:44:18 +0000

Cities in China with direct flights from Singapore

While most Singaporeans would have set foot in China, many may have yet to venture beyond the main cities, Shanghai and Beijing. We’re here to tell you all about the other spots worth visiting – cities in China with direct flights from Singapore.

Set your sights on the likes of Xi’An, Shenzhen, and Nanjing where travellers get to enjoy an array of experiences. From gorgeous natural landscapes and historic archaeological sites to unbelievable giant shopping malls and skyscrapers, China offers a nice blend of old and new. Plus, most of these cities are just a 4 to 6-hour plane ride away.

1. Xiamen

For solo travellers interested in archaeological sites & history

The Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster earthen buildings, which traditionally form as communal residences for mountain dwellers.
Image credit: @globetrotterj via Instagram

This coastal city has spring-like weather all year round, making it one of the best cities in China to visit at any time of year. Xiamen boasts a number of UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster which is said to have inspired the ending scene in Mulan.

Foodies will want to make a beeline for Zhongshan Road Walking Street for popular Fujian snacks and desserts such as Bapopo herbal jelly and Huang Zehe peanut soup.

Image credit: @nsak_nsak via Instagram

Gulangyu Island is another cultural heritage site with ancient relics and panoramic views of the sea. Speaking of which, Huangcuo Beach is where you want to be during sunset hour.

Other sites worth visiting include Xiamen University campus which has a gorgeous lake, Nanputuo Temple which has a thousand-year history, and the Riyuegu Hot Spring Resort.

Getting here: 4-hour flight via Singapore Airlines or XiamenAir

2. Chengdu

For couples looking to engage in fun winter activities & see giant pandas

Image credit: @nastya_zlenko via Instagram

As the capital of the Sichuan province, Chengdu is a pretty popular travel destination even for Chinese locals who flock there mainly to see pandas. Yup, this city is the hometown of these cute bears and you’ll get to see plenty of them at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

If you are heading to the city during winter, consider engaging in the fun activities that the Xiling Snow Mountain Ski Resort has to offer. Choose between skiing, snowmobiles, sledging, or sitting in a cable car to soak in views of the snow-capped mountains.

Image credit: @eunchae07 via Instagram

Stroll down Jinli Street to admire traditional Chinese architecture from the Qin Dynasty and ancient tea houses. This is also where one would find handicrafts and paintings to bring back as souvenirs or to decorate your home. If you’re lucky, you just might witness a hand puppet show or a craftsman making clay figurines. Don’t miss the local street snacks either.

For the most Insta-worthy spot, put Anshun Bridge on your itinerary. It is said to have impressed even Marco Polo during his travels to China. Here’s a tip: go at night when the pretty lights turn on and the area gets more lively with bars hosting live music.

Getting here: 4.5-hour flight via Air China, Sichuan Airlines or Singapore Airlines

3. Xi’An

For foodies wanting to indulge in the region’s famous noodles & dumplings

Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum.
Image credit: @terracottawarriorsmuseum via Instagram

This one’s for the history buffs. Witness China’s ancient civilisation in Xi’An – home to the famed Terracotta Army and a city that lies on the Silk Road. Get to learn more about the archaeological discovery of these sculptures that were buried with an emperor over 2,200 years ago.

Image credit: @melz_ong via Instagram

You’ll be surprised by how many ancient relics and structures have been preserved in Xi’An from the olden days. Another attraction not to be missed is the Ancient City Wall surrounding the old town. A fun way to see the entire wall is to rent a bike and cycle around. Nearby, you’ll find the famous Drum Tower and Muslim Quarter – a unique blend of Chinese and Muslim culture.

Another thing Xi’An is known for is its cuisine, specifically for hand-pulled noodles known as biang biang noodles. While numerous establishments serve this dish, locals swear by the street food stalls to get their share. Don’t miss out on the sweet and sour dumplings and pork buns either.

Getting here: 6-hour flight via China Eastern

4. Shenzhen

For families with young kids & shopping enthusiasts

Image credit: @facingchina via Instagram

Shopaholics may want to plan a trip to Shenzhen; the city is known for its malls selling an array of items such as tailored custom clothing and faux designer bags. Most prominently, Luohu Commercial City is the go-to shopping haven for great deals and all sorts of items including tech gadgets and toys. Fair warning though, the huge mall is like a maze with endless boutiques and shops, so give yourself enough time to wander around.

Image credit: @lance.xun.rollercoasterfan via Instagram

Another thing this city is known for is its many theme parks. Families with kids in tow will want to pop by Happy Valley Shenzhen amusement park. Apart from the usual roller coasters and rides like carousels, there’s also a water park to splash around in.

There’s also Shenzhen Safari Park where animals roam freely and visitors go around in caged buses to experience close encounters with wild animals. For something a little more historical and cultural, head to Splendid China Folk Park featuring miniature reproductions of the country’s iconic landmarks.

Getting here: 4.5-hour flight via Singapore Airlines or China Southern

5. Hangzhou

For nature lovers looking for an escape from the city life

Image adapted from: @momijys, @boraminpink via Instagram

Probably best known for producing the Longjing variation of green tea, Hangzhou isn’t too far from Shanghai. Despite its proximity, Hangzhou’s natural beauty is a lovely respite from its neighbouring bustling city. Upon searching the city online, you’ll notice the most famous visual is the Jixian Pavilion found along the Xi Lake, AKA West Lake. Time your visit during golden hour and you’ll have a postcard-perfect holiday snapshot.

Image credit: @flccf4 via Instagram

When in Hangzhou, you’ll want to set aside time to explore the countryside. We’re talking about the vast tea plantations, hiking through Yunxi Bamboo Forest, and riding a boat through Wuzhen water town.

Of course, if things are getting too slow, you can opt to seek some thrills at OMG Heartbeat Paradise – a giant park in the mountains with a luge ride, glass boardwalk, and caves. Or pretend you’re in Europe at Tianducheng where there’s an Eiffel Tower replica.

Getting here: 5-hour flight via Xiamen Air or Scoot

6. Nanjing

For cultured folk interested in architecture & the arts

The stunning interiors of the palace will leave you in awe.
Image credit: @jsuisting via Instagram

At a glance, you might mistake the Usnisa Palace for Esplanade Singapore but trust us, it’s something quite different and magnificent. This monument in Niushoushan is said to hold relics of Buddha and is located in the city of Nanjing, a port town along the Yangtze River.

The city does have a well-documented tragic episode referred to as the Nanjing Massacre when the Japanese invaded. Learn more about what happened at the Nanjing Museum and Memorial Hall.

Image adapted from: @cha_amme, @a.s.avchinnik via Instagram

Nanjing is also where you’ll find a really popular tourist destination – Zhongshan Mountain National Park, sometimes referred to as Purple Mountain. The name comes from clouds with purple hues that are often sighted at the mountain peak.

We recommend taking a ticket package here to see multiple historic sites including Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, Linggu Temple, and Liu Hui Pavilion. The package also includes scenic train rides to help you get around to the different sites.

Getting here: 5-hour flight via Scoot

7. Chongqing

For travellers wanting a balance between urban & natural landscapes

Image credit: @travellingaroundtheworld__ via Instagram

Here’s a fun fact for you: in terms of population size, Chongqing has surpassed both Shanghai and Beijing. It is also one of the biggest cities in the world, being almost 100 times the size of NYC. That means that there’s so much to explore here. For starters, book a relaxing cruise down the Yangtze River where you’ll pass by the famous Three Gorges mountain range.

Image credit: @enkhzul_96 via Instagram

Also, add Hongya Cave to your list of spots to visit. This huge stilt house complex will remind you of Mother Tang’s bathing house in Spirited Away. It’s been built on a waterfront cliff along the river, making it the perfect spot to enjoy night views of the Yangtze River Bridge. Once serving as a military fortress, the place now houses many restaurants serving a smorgasbord of Sichuan dishes.

If you’re missing home, Raffles City Chongqing will seem like a familiar sight considering it resembles MBS quite a fair bit. It’s definitely worth a visit; here you can walk the tallest sky bridge in the world, shop till you drop in the 5-storey mall, and grab a drink at the open-air bar perched on the 47th floor.

Getting here: 5-hour flight via Singapore Airlines, Air China or Chongqing Airlines

Make the most of your travels with DBS PayLah!

Now that we’ve convinced you to book a holiday to China, it’s time to share more lobangs to help you save on your trip. It’s no secret that the best flight, hotel, and attraction deals can usually be found by comparing prices on sites like Agoda, Trip.com, Expedia, and Klook. But for even further discounts, read on.

Image adapted from: DBS PayLah!

Open up DBS PayLah! (App Store | Google Play) on your smartphone, click on the “Deals” icon, and there you have it – thousands of deals for travelling, dining, and shopping. These include:

Flights

Up to S$30 off AirAsia flights
6% off China Airlines flights
5% off round-trip or 2.5% off one-way EVA Air flights

Accommodations

15% off hotel bookings on Agoda
Up to S$100 off selected hotels worldwide on Expedia
Up to S$100 off flights and hotel bookings on Trip.com

Tours & activities

- Redeem a free luggage and get up to S$50 off tour packages from ASA Holidays
- Up to S$100 off Klook activity bookings
- S$200 off Japan and Korea tours, and S$100 off China tours on Super Travel
- S$50 off tours and additional voucher worth USD80 (~S$107.38) on Trafalgar
- S$150 off cruises and up to 6% off sitewide on Traveloka

Image adapted from: DBS PayLah!

Furthermore, with the DBS Altitude Card, you’ll get to unlock more Miles for Life! From now till 31st December 2024, the first 10,000 to register each month on DBS PayLah! will earn up to 5 miles per S$1 on foreign spend with a minimum spend of S$1,000 per month. The best part is that the miles are awarded in the form of DBS Points earned that do not expire, so you can redeem them for future trips!

Now, if you’d rather save on foreign exchange fees, consider the DBS Visa Debit Card which offers zero exchange fees on 11 currencies. That’s not all; you get 5% cashback on all foreign currency spending including online purchases.

With your itinerary and direct flight information sorted, all that’s left to do is to start making reservations at your desired accommodation and securing tickets for all the things you want to do. Then, you’re well on your way to having an unforgettable holiday in China.

Find more deals on the DBS PayLah! app

*T&Cs apply.

This post was brought to you by DBS.
Cover image adapted from: @nastya_zlenko, @terracottawarriorsmuseum & @momijys via Instagram

The post 7 Cities In China You Can Visit With Direct Flights From SG, Apart From Shanghai & Beijing appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

6 Best Malls In China, Including A Futuristic-Themed Shopping Centre & A Forest Within A Mall

Khoo Yong Hao — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 03:28:06 +0000

Best malls in China

As the holiday season inches ever so close, it seems like China is poised to become a Singaporean hotspot once December rolls around. Just ask around; you’re bound to find a colleague or relative who’s skipping out on Hokkaido to experience winter in Harbin instead, or shopaholics opting for the bustling city of Chongqing rather than Seoul.

Speaking of which, a visit to the local shopping malls is never a bad idea, whether you’re looking to do some retail therapy or just curious if they can hold a candle to the ones back at home. Well, here are some of the best malls in China to put on your itineraries, and trust us when we say these sprawling retail havens give even MBS a run for its money.

1. Shenzhen Wanda Plaza, Shenzhen

Futuristic, space-themed mall with IG-worthy photo spots

Image credit: 香港吃喝玩乐師® via RED

Since Shenzhen is widely known as China’s Silicon Valley, it should come as no surprise that its malls have to look the part. As such, swing by the Shenzhen Wanda Plaza. The building might look like an innocuous box on the outside, but go past its doors and you’ll get a glimpse of what your shopping experience can look like decades into the future.

Image credit: @snapshot_____story via Instagram

You won’t have to search hard for the mall’s sci-fi themes; just have a look at the mall’s 6-storey tall escalator. The ride will take about 2 minutes to reach the top, during which you can gaze at the giant LED screen fixed on the bottom of the 6th floor that displays captivating, futuristic backdrops.

Image adapted from: 辰以安Yion via RED

The fascination with stairs doesn’t end there, as there are other IG-worthy steps to strike a pose at, such as an intersecting bridge which spans multiple levels and a red-hued spiral staircase. If you’re not too squeamish, you can also take a walk on a 77.77m-long glass bridge that straddles the corridors of the mall on the upper levels.

Image adapted from: 辰以安Yion &樱樱樱 via RED

Back on the 6th floor, you’ll find a mini art gallery containing a shimmering replica of a planet suspended in the air. Feel free to stay for a while to experience this light show, as the planet will periodically glow in different shades and patterns.

Image credit: Klook

On the same level, the mall also has an entertainment park called Partyday (from RMB168, ~S$31.20), and calling it huge is an understatement. This singular facility alone houses a bowling alley, ice skating rink, Go-Kart circuit, laser tag arena, and trampoline park all in one, so spending an entire day here shouldn’t pose too big of a challenge.

Address: Huanan 2nd Road, Pinghu Street, Longgang District, Shenzhen
Opening hours: 10am-9pm, Daily
Contact: 0755-84502411

2. Wushang Dream Plaza, Wuhan

Humongous 10-storey mall housing an indoor theme park & ski resort

This 9-storey tall LED screen will probably be the biggest screen you’ll ever see in your life.
Image credit: 江边芦苇 via RED

When it comes to megamalls, the ones in China are of a different level; take the recently opened Wushang Dream Plaza mall for example. Located in Wuhan, this mammoth of a mall opened late 2022 and has 800,000sqm of commercial space. For comparison, Singapore’s largest mall VivoCity has about 100,000sqm of net lettable area.

So, what can you find in a mall that’s roughly 8 times larger than the already massive VivoCity? For starters, the mall is split into 3 zones, A, B, and C, and they each have 10 stories of boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and entertainment facilities to explore.

Image credit: Trip.com

Once you’re done shopping, head on over to its indoor theme park called WUSHANG DREAMPARK (from RMB220, ~S$40.86). Here, you’ll be able to let loose on rides such as a viking ship, roller coaster, carousels, and even sit in for a fairytale-themed live performance, all in the comfort of the mall’s air conditioned premises.

Image credit: Trip.com

If that’s not enough, you can also partake in winter sports at the WUSHANG BONSKI ski resort (from RMB139, ~S$25.82). Yes, you needn’t fly too far North to experience a winter wonderland; you can go on ice slides, duck into igloos, and ski, and snowboard to your heart’s content right at Wushang Dream Plaza.

The question now is how did they get horses onto the mall’s roof?
Image credit: 小红薯5F0E2042 via RED

Finally, as a testament of how much space Wushang Dream Plaza has, it even has its own equestrian club – horse stable and all – in the form of Celestial Equestrian Center. It’s sat on the mall’s rooftop, where visitors can saddle up and pick up horseback riding right after their shopping sprees.

Address: 598 Wuluo Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan
Opening hours: 10am-10pm, Daily

3. Guanghuan Shopping Park, Chongqing

A forest within a mall, complete with a 20m waterfall & “floating” trees

Image credit: 小菇总再也不打工了 via RED

For a literal interpretation of the phrase “concrete jungle”, look no further than Guanghuan Shopping Park. Also known as The Ring, this mall in Chongqing is what Gardens by the Bay would look like as a retail haven, as it houses a living, breathing forest within its premises.

Much like GBTB’s Cloud Forest, there’s an ascending walkway here too that gives you views of the indoor forest.
Image credit: 小菇总再也不打工了 via RED

Dubbed the Tree Light Forest, the mall has transformed a section of its space to become an indoor forest and botanical garden which contains over 300 kinds of tropical rainforest plants. To go along with the greenery on the ground, visitors can relax by the 20m-tall waterfall, or marvel at the 7 trees that seemingly suspend in the air.

Image credit: 蓝师傅 via RED

To go along with the green theme, there’s even a cosy reading nook where you can donate old books for credits that you can spend at the mall.

Image adapted from: 江荨野 & 重庆CKG via RED

Guanghuan Shopping Park also has multiple works of art to fill your camera reels with. There’s a seashell structure outside the mall carved with intricate patterns, and a 15m-tall squirrel statue made out of 16,500 colourful tiles which seems to hug the building when viewed from the inside.

Address: 118 Hucai Road, Yubei District, Chongqing
Opening hours: 10am-10pm, Daily
Contact: 023-63363515

4. New Century Global Center, Chengdu

Largest building in the world, has an indoor water park & aviation museum

Image credit: 英雄联盟手游赛事 via RED

The sheer scale of the New Century Global Center in Chengdu is almost foreboding, until you realise that it’s just an oversized shopping mall. It’s not just any oversized shopping mall though; it stands as the world’s largest building in terms of floor area, measuring in at a whopping 1.7 million sqm.

Image credit: CE via RED

However, the retail section of the building only takes up about 400,000 sqm, which is nothing to be scoffed at. In fact, quite a sizable portion of the mall is made up of office space. Still, there’s over 400 stores here, selling everything from luxury goods to tasty local bites, for you to shop till you drop.

Image credit: Trip.com

What you should be amazed at instead, is the fact that they managed to fit an entire indoor water park within the building’s premises. Enter Paradise Island Ocean Park (RMB50, ~S$9.29). It’s a water park complete with slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool to splash about in; it even has an artificial beach and a giant LED screen that forms a horizon to provide digital sunsets.

There’s also an aviation museum to check out, decked out with life-sized models of planes.
Image credit: @摩卡出门啦 via RED

The water park is also right next to the luxurious InterContinental Chengdu Global Center 5-star hotel. Stays here start from RMB805 (~S$149.52), and might as well be compulsory as there’s no way you can thoroughly explore all 4 corners of the mall in a single day.

Address: 1700 Tianfu Avenue, Wuhou District, Chengdu City
Opening hours: 10am-10pm, Daily

5. The Hill Mall, Changchun

“Mountain” within the mall, with a towering Buddha statue & viewing pagoda

Image credit: 青山夕照水悠悠 via RED

Similar to The Ring mall’s indoor forest, The Hill mall in Changchun also draws inspiration from the great outdoors to enhance its shoppers’ experience. Like its name suggests, the mall contains an artificial mountain, and its various stores are built into different levels of the man-made mountain face.

Image adapted from: 王酸酸_Jattie & 圆圆的小岛之旅 via RED

While exploring this quirky mall, one moment you could be walking through archaic archways and the next, visiting a cyberpunk-esque food street illuminated by neon-lit signs. Even if you’re not planning on emptying your wallet while shopping at The Hill, just strolling down its narrow walkways will feel like trekking through a valley.

You can also throw coins down at the statue for additional blessings; try landing your coins on the small frog for extra good luck.
Image adapted from: 闹儿姐 & CaroX_X via RED

Before you leave, be sure to swing by the enormous Buddha statue situated at the back of the mall; you might’ve spotted it peeking above the storefronts when you first entered the mall. Here, you can buy a little charm for RMB5 (~S$0.93), write your wishes on it, and tie it against the railings. There’s also a small pagoda located on the upper levels of The Hill, which gives you sweet aerial views of the mall.

Address: 1005 Hongqi Street, Chaoyang District, Changchun
Opening hours: 10.30am-10.30pm, Daily
Contact: 0431-81137000

6. Louvre International Furniture Exhibition Centre, Foshan

Giant furniture mall with European-inspired architecture & quirky art sculptures

Image credit: Michelle叮叮当 via RED

Even if you’re not planning on sprucing up your home with the offerings you’d find at the Louvre International Furniture Exhibition Centre in Foshan, it definitely still warrants a visit. That’s because once you venture past its various showrooms and seemingly countless furniture stores, you’ll realise why it borrows the namesake of Paris’ most famous museum.

Image credit: 你的冰冰呀 via RED

Make your way to level 5 of the building, and you’ll momentarily get transported to a whole different continent. Called the Constellation Plaza, this floor is intricately decorated with buildings whose architecture resemble those found in Europe. You’ll want to get your cameras out, as the Roman columns and intricately designed arches are a sight to behold.

Image adapted from: 爱定家居 & 罗浮宫家居 via RED

Apart from the Baroque-like buildings, there’s also a colossal steel structure which takes the form of a cyclone in the middle of the Constellation Plaza. For more works of art to fill your IG stories with, level 1 of the Louvre Furniture Mall has a tower made of 382 translucent blue chairs that’s supposed to mimic a waterfall.

Image credit: Louvre International Furniture Exhibition Center

For major Sistine Chapel vibes, make a stop at the Golden Hall, also found on level 5. Tilt your gaze towards the ceiling, and take in the views of the masterfully painted murals above you.

Address: 325 National Road, Shunde District, Foshan City
Opening hours: 9am-6.30pm, Daily
Contact: 0086-4001881222 | Louvre International Furniture Exhibition Center website

Explore these malls in China with StarHub’s various mobile plans

Of course, you’re gonna want to solve all your connectivity woes before you hop on a plane to explore these astounding malls in China for yourself. How else are you going to keep the folks back at home and on IG updated with your latest shopping escapades? As such, look no further than StarHub’s mobile plans.

When you’re in the market for a hardware upgrade, you might want to consider StarHub’s 2-year contract Device Plan. These plans come bundled with the latest phones to choose from; have a peek at the full list of phones available for the Device Plan on StarHub’s website.

Apple fans can rejoice, as you’ll be able to pick up an iPhone 16 completely FOC with plans like StarHub’s Device Plan L ($135/month). On top of that, subscribers to the plan get to indulge in freebies such as 2GB global data roaming monthly, a 12-month subscription to watch the Premier League, and a 3-month Amazon Prime subscription, amongst other goodies.

StarHub’s Star Plan also comes equipped with lag-free 5G connectivity, which you’ll be able to tap into if it’s supported in your travel destination.

Also, take a look at their 5G SIM Only Star Plan, an all-digital mobile service accessible via the StarHub App. For frequent travellers, the Star Plan L ($32/month) is especially handy as it’s bundled with free 2GB data roaming to popular holiday destinations, such as South Korea, Thailand, and Indonesia. For a complete list of all the countries that support StarHub’s data roaming services, do visit the StarHub website.

With its many nifty features, opting for StarHub’s Device Plan or Star Plan L is a great way of ensuring fuss-free holidays. With data roaming included, you won’t need to rely on unsecured public Wi-Fi which can leave your devices vulnerable to cyber attacks. You also get to retain your number to receive important calls and messages from home, so kiss goodbye to swapping SIMs to receive your 2FAs and OTPs.

Plus, all plans come with an eSIM option too, so you can activate quickly and get connected easily without having to change physical SIM cards.

Learn more about StarHub’s mobile plans with data roaming

This post was brought to you by StarHub.
Photography by Jaslyn Tan.
Cover image adapted from: 青山夕照水悠悠, 爱定家居, & 小菇总再也不打工了 via RED
Based on prices and offers valid as of publishing date. Check www.starhub.com/mobile for the latest offers.

The post 6 Best Malls In China, Including A Futuristic-Themed Shopping Centre & A Forest Within A Mall appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

8 Most Beautiful Destinations In China, All With Direct Flights From SG Starting At $209 Return

Kezia Tan — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 02:00:42 +0000

China holiday destinations

We’re always on the lookout for the next “Bangkok”, “Bali” or “Tokyo” – i.e. destinations near Singapore that check off all the right boxes for the perfect getaway. What’s going to be the next hooha? Our bet’s on China, and not just because it’s been all over TikTok lately.

China’s filled with lots of true hidden gems, from stunning national parks to beach getaways that could give Nusa Dua a run for its money. Heck, they even have landscapes that look straight out of Europe. Below are some of the best destinations in China you’d want to visit before they become “mainstream”.

P.S. All of them have direct flights from Singapore – no troublesome transfers needed! Prices below are for return flights in SGD.

How to get around China?

China’s public transport system is probably more technologically advanced than you think. Much like Japan and Korea, China has an extensive railway system, with high speed trains connecting major cities and towns. Within most cities, you can also find a highly connected network of buses and trains.

A good option is to use DiDi taxi booking (iOS, Android). It’s generally safe, affordable, and there are lots of drivers around so you don’t have to wait long before you get a ride.

Now on to the fun part – where to visit.

1. Wuxi

Cherry blossom-lined waterways & bamboo forests

Image credit: @raquel_ege via Instagram

Nestled close to the ever-so-popular hotspots of Shanghai and Suzhou is Wuxi. Located a 5-hour direct flight from Singapore, the quaint city doesn’t get as much love from international travellers – but it should. If for one thing only, visit in spring for the cherry blossom trees that line the picturesque waterways and frame the ancient temples.

Image credit: @raquel_ege via Instagram

At Turtle Head Island, you’ll be surrounded by 30,000 cherry blossom trees kissing the surface of the water, flushing the landscape in hues of pastel-pink. And, if this is starting to sound like a great alternative to fighting the spring crowds in Japan, we have more good news for you. Wuxi is also home to Yixing Bamboo Forest. You can consider it an Arashiyama alternative without the gazillion Singaporean tourists.

Image credit: @leekingriver via Instagram

Try not to fall too madly in love with the city adorned with the giant sculptures of Smile Square and flower fields you thought you could only see in music videos. Google “Jiangsu flower fields” – you’ll thank us later. Other attractions include the film set of The Romance Of The Three Kingdoms, which has been converted into a theme park.

Getting there from Singapore: Take a 5-hour and 20-minute direct flight via Scoot from $333.

2. Chongqing

“Cyberpunk city”

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At risk of sounding a little cynical, a lot of cities tend to fall into the cookie cutter trap. But not Chongqing. You might have seen it popping up all over TikTok, with dramatic skyscrapers built atop steep hills. Call it a city where architects test the boundaries of physics.

Image credit: @chongqing.info via Instagram

I liken it to Hong Kong – the city is extremely quirky, compact and there’s something new and surprising around just about every corner. Along the riverfront, there’s Hongya Cave, which looks like a scene straight out of Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away. At Liziba station, you’ll see a metro train going straight through a building.

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There’s really so much to ramble on about this eccentric city. But if there’s one thing you should know, it’s to stay longer than you think you need to – that’ll give you the flexibility to take a short trip out to Fairy Mountains and Wulong Karst, 2 hours away by High Speed Rail. If you still have time to spare, don’t miss a 3-day river cruise down the 3 Gorges Dam.

Book a day trip to Wulong Karst.

Getting there from Singapore: Take a 5-hour direct flight via Air China (from $419), China Southern (from $418), or Singapore Airlines (from $656).

3. Haikou

Beach paradise with return flights from just $209

Image credit: @sakura9527 via Instagram

Haikou’s one to keep on your radar, if you’ve already checked other beach destinations like Bali, Gold Coast, and Da Nang off your list. The city has long stretches of sandy beaches and water sports that you can visit any time of the year. Chill at Sunset Beach Bar or browse knick knacks at Baishamen Beach Night Market.

Once you’ve gotten a nice tan, dust the sand off and explore the rest of Hainan Island. Qilou Old Streets is filled with Sino-European architecture and alleyways filled with local food.

Qilou Old Streets.
Image credit: @nssmxnn via Instagram

Sanya, located 1 hour away by bullet train, is filled with attractions like theme parks and loads of beach clubs that rival Bali’s beach clubs. Make the most out of your visit by staying at least a night at the quaint Tianya Town, where you can find waterfront cafes and hotels under $100/night.

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For more itinerary ideas, read our full guide to exploring Haikou.

Getting there from Singapore: Take a 3-hour and 40-minute direct flight via Jetstar (from $251) or Scoot (from $209).

4. Chengdu

Giant pandas & stunning parks for nature lovers

Image credit: @aliciadrnd via Instagram

Kai Kai, Jia Jia, and LeLe have stolen our hearts. Now imagine a zoo filled with loads of fluffy pandas. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is one of the must-visits in this up and coming city. You could spend a whole day in this massive park housing baby pandas, giant pandas, and red pandas.

Cordoba Cafe.
Image credit: Xingxingpaofan via SoHu

Cuddly “Oreos” aside, the capital of Sichuan has loads to offer. Perfect for fans of the cafe scene in Bangkok and Seoul, Chengdu is chock full of aesthetic themed cafes and tea houses like % Arabica which has a traditional theme, and garden cafes like Cordoba. But that’s not even the best part.

Image credit: @ximu408 via Instagram

If you have time to spare, the city is a great base to take a day trip to one of the most beautiful national parks in China. Jiujaigou is essentially the Swiss Alps of the east, with breathtaking views of snowy mountain peaks and crystal clear turquoise waters. You can get there via a 2.5-hour bus and train ride from the city, or by booking a guided tour with transport included.

Book a 3-day tour to Jiuzhaigou Valley.

Getting there from Singapore: Take a 4-hour and 45-minute direct flight via Air China (from $400), Singapore Airlines (from $535), or Sichuan Airlines (from $451).

5. Changsha

Dramatic landscapes that inspired the Avatar movie

Image credit: @bowl_marry via Instagram

The biggest reason why anyone flies into Changsha, Hunan, is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. It’s one of China’s most iconic national parks, and is quickly gaining in popularity amongst foreigners for good reason. Zhangjiajie is home to the “Avatar mountains”.

Avatar like the movie with blue people? Yes.
Image credit: @bigyelo via Instagram

Image credit: @oddlyterrifying via Reddit

Despite being 320km from the city, Zhangjiajie is easily accessible via trains, buses or a 4-hour drive. It’s recommended that you stay near or in the national park as a 1-day visit isn’t going to be enough to cover everything there is. We’re talking about a “grand canyon”, a glass bridge that’s not for the faint of heart, and a zipline.

Image credit: @dudu898 via Instagram

You’ll be remiss if you skip the ancient waterfall town of Furong, also in Hunan province, with nature and traditional homes melded into one picturesque scene. Phoenix Ancient Town is also in the area with centuries-old wooden houses that look like a scene out of a beautiful period drama. We could go on and on about this destination but the article cannot be 100 pages long.

Getting there from Singapore: Take a 4-hour and 45-minute direct flight via Scoot (from $759), China Eastern Airlines (from $759), or Singapore Airlines (from $914).

6. Kunming

Looks like Europe

Is spring in Kunming blue or purple? pic.twitter.com/aUgc8U05Li

— Xizi (@ZhejiangToday) April 2, 2024

Fly into the province of Yunnan via Kunming and you’re in for a road trip to remember. Kunming has affordable budget flights from Singapore priced around $400 – return. Visit in spring – from March to May – for a vibrant bloom of jacaranda flowers that bring to mind Tuscany’s wisteria. They’re known to bloom all around Kunming city, but are most beautiful at the following locations:

Panlong River Bank
Dianchi Convention and Exhibition Center
Chuncheng Road

Luxury Lake View Double Room With A Private Swimming Pool.
Image credit: Trip.com

Santorini, sorry Dali is a 4-hour coach or 2-hour high-speed train ride away and is a dupe of the iconic Greek island. Sound on the Clouds Santorini (from $235/night) looks like a bougie hotel in Oia, but without the thousand-dollar price tag. You can even book a room with a private swimming pool ($793/night) if you’re there for your honeymoon.

Sound on the Clouds Hotel Santorini, Dali

Google Reviews

4.5

(2)

Address

C2a-03-03 Ideal State Town, 大理市大理白族自治州云南省 China, 671006

Opening Hours:

Tuesday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings

Contact Information

+86 08722295567

Also, visit Flying Lotus Island that looks like Türkiye.
Image credit: Ctrip

Getting there from Singapore: Take a 4-hour and 15-minute direct flight via Scoot (from $411) or China Eastern Airlines (from $710).

7. Xiamen

Coastal city with skyscrapers & vehicle-free island

Skyscrapers and Meihai Flower Terrace.
Image adapted from: @__morris.com__ & @visit_xiamen via Instagram

We all only have so many days of annual leave, and if you can’t decide what type of holiday to spend them on, Xiamen has an eclectic mix of many things. You’ll find skyscrapers stretching high above, surrounded by an abundance of parks, hiking trails, and cycling paths. Among the must-visits are Xiamen Mountains-to-Sea Trail and Meihai Flower Terrace.

Gulangyu Island.
Image credit: @fairway_byfair via Instagram

Thanks to its coastal location, this Fujian town has pleasant weather all round and has been coined as “Garden on the Sea”. The island of Gulangyu is one of the highlights you can’t miss, located a short ferry ride from the mainland. This car-free town is chock full of colonial villas and quiet beaches you can explore on foot.

This was one of the film sets of Mulan live action.
Image credit: @babetka_cz via Instagram

Take a trip inland to check out the “earth buildings” of Fujian, also known as tulou. Nope they aren’t spaceships that descended from Mars. These were constructed before the 20th century and are shaped this way for fortified defence.

Getting there from Singapore: Take a 4-hour and 35-minute direct flight via Singapore Airlines (from $326) or Garuda Indonesia (from $480).

8. Qingdao

Stay in castles & explore picture-perfect hiking trails

Jufeng Peak at Laoshan Mountain.
Image credit: @bogcsaaa via Instagram

Considering that return flights to Qingdao come under $500, it’s a surprise that most Singaporeans are still largely unaware of this hidden gem. With a mountainous landscape next to the seaside, the charming city is dotted with European-style churches and museums from the colonial era.

Image credit: @visitqingdao via X

First up, go castle hopping – there are unique hotels you can stay in such as Zhao’s Castle Shiyong B&B, which teleports you to the Middle Ages. Here are more castles you shouldn’t miss:

Qingdao Qingdao Film Museum – Museum with a “Disneyland” aesthetic
Yantai Xifram Chateau – French castle with wine tastings
Yantai Wencheng Castle – Gothic architecture reminiscent of Dracula

Image credit: @fullc_jerry_chung via Instagram

Badaguan Scenic Area is perfect for one of those Xiaohongshu popularised “city walks”. And of course, you can’t miss a visit to the iconic Tsingtao Beer Museum, with freshly brewed beer samples to try.

Getting there from Singapore: Take a 5-hour and 50-minute direct flight via Scoot from $448.

What are some things I should know before going to China?

Truth be told, it can be difficult to plan for a free-and-easy trip to China. Google, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube don’t have a whole lot of in-depth information on the country. ICYMI, these sites are also blocked within China.

But with the right tips and tricks, you’ll be able to explore the country like a pro. For a start, get a VPN – it’s a quick hack that’ll allow you to access all the blocked sites mentioned above. A popular option is Surf Shark – while it has a subscription fee, you can sign in to unlimited devices so you can share log-ins with your travel gang and split the cost.

A lot of SIM cards and travel eSIMs these days come with VPN without extra charge.

A brief list of apps you’ll need to navigate China:

Baidu Maps (iOS, Android) – Alternative to Google Maps
WeChat (iOS, Android) – Commonly used for mobile payment, some hotels also send you details like WiFi password via this app when you check in. Restaurants also have menus you can scan and order on WeChat.
Alipay (iOS, Android) – Similar to WeChat. It also has DiDi taxi integrated within it – a.k.a China’s local version of Grab or Gojek.
Xiaohongshu (iOS, Android) – Local alternative to Instagram to search for activity ideas.

Places to visit in China before they get popular

So, there you have it – China’s way more than just the Shanghai and Beijing you visited with your family on tour aeons ago. Would it really be the next “ Japan” for Singaporeans? Only time will tell but you best bet it’ll be a good idea to add this to your 2024 travel bucket list before they become flooded with “leh”s and “lah”s.

For more travel ideas:

Cover image adapted from: @visit_xiamen, @ximu408, @babetka_cz via Instagram
Last updated 17th May 2024.

The post 8 Most Beautiful Destinations In China, All With Direct Flights From SG Starting At $209 Return appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Miniso Land In Shanghai Has Kuromi Blind Boxes, Anime Merchandise & K-Beauty Products

Kelly Lai — Sat, 09 Nov 2024 01:00:12 +0000

Miniso Land, Shanghai

China has recently become a popular holiday destination for Singaporeans due to its affordable food and picturesque scenery. Here’s one more place to add to the list of new things to do in Shanghai: Miniso Land.

What is Miniso Land?

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Miniso Land is a 3-storey lifestyle store that sells anything from collectable merchandise to daily necessities. It’s Miniso’s 2nd largest flagship store in the world, and the 2,000sqm space is well-decorated with props and interactive elements featuring characters from their brand collaborations.

How do I get to the Miniso Land in Shanghai?

Image credit: @paploy.jt via Instagram

Miniso Land is located along the busy street of Nanjing Road, Shanghai. To get there, take metro Line 2 or 10 and alight at the East Nanjing Rd Station.

Hop on a 5.5-hour direct flight from Singapore to Shanghai aboard China Eastern Airlines, with tickets starting from $400. The place is then a 46-minute drive from the Shanghai Pudong International Airport.

Find official merchandise such as Disney & Sanrio

Image adapted from: 25个丸子, 上书房不打烊 via RED

Over at Miniso Land, you’ll be able to find official merchandise in collaboration with popular brands like Disney and Sanrio. Spot your favourite childhood characters like Winnie the Pooh, Hello Kitty and Loopy in plushies form. Or if you’re into the bag charms trend lately, there’s also the smaller keychain versions so you can carry the cuteness with you everywhere.

Image adapted from: C 很 T, Sela 色拉酱 via RED

Peanuts merchandise is also found in stores for fans of the white beagle and his scouts. Die-hard Potterheads, you can even get matching Harry Potter bags with your friends. It’s also a great way to tell people if you’re a spicy Slytherin or a creative Ravenclaw.

Image adapted from: C 很 T, 不想吃五花肉 via RED

Apart from plushies and keychains, the flagship store also sells themed daily necessities. Look cute even when lazing around the house with these adorable Kuromi home slippers and thermal cups. Stock up on cute school supplies such as notepads, stickers and pens.

For mommies, you can also find entertainment for the young ones, like the Minion-themed puzzle set.

Image adapted from: éclair, 不想吃五花肉 via RED

Anime-lovers, exclusive merchandise like badges and photo cards of popular manga series Spy x Family and Jujutsu Kaisen can also be found here. K-pop fans, especially those of Blackpink, can buy the plush version of their lightsticks if you can’t get your hands on the actual one. Other finds include pillows, fluffy keychains, and phone straps in the iconic 2 colours.

Try your luck at the blind box alley

Image adapted from: 君子轩 via RED

Given the recent craze over the Labubu series, we doubt the POP MART trend will die soon. Though there’s no sight of the sharp-toothed monster in Miniso Land, there are still many other characters to pick from to satisfy your blind box obsession.

Image adapted from: C 很 T via RED

Some blind box series you’ll be able to find are Stitch, Zootopia, and Mickey Mouse.

Beauty & skincare section

Image adapted from: 25个丸子, 上书房不打烊 via RED

Head on to the 2nd level of the store, where you’ll spot the beauty and skincare section. Miniso Land carries popular Korean and Japanese brands such as Peri Pera and Za Cosmetics.

Image adapted from: 上书房不打烊 via RED

Not forgetting about fragrances, you can shop from an extensive range of perfumes and reed diffusers, so it won’t just be you smelling fresh, but your house too.

Tons of themed photo ops

Image adapted from: @paploy.jt, @littlegabylin via Instagram

It won’t be a complete experience without snapping tons of photos with the adorable characters. Pose beside 3D posters, giant plushies and the various decorated set-ups around the store.

Meet your favourite characters at Miniso Land

Spice up your next Shanghai shopping adventure with a visit to Miniso Land. Even if you aren’t looking to purchase anything in the store, it’s still an adorable place to browse around when you’re near the area.

Address: No. 479 Nanjing East Road U479 Mall

For more attractions in China:

Cover image adapted from: 不想吃五花肉, Sela 色拉酱, C 很 T, raul7 via RED

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11 New Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 – Indoor Ski Resort, Candy-Like Cosmetics Store & JENNIE Collab

Ariel Soh — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 09:26:18 +0000

New things to do in Shanghai in 2024

When planning a getaway from Singapore, it’s natural to gravitate towards more nearby countries. However, don’t overlook Shanghai that’s just 5.5 hours away. It is a dynamic city that offers a blend of modernity and tradition. Beyond its iconic skyline and delicious xiao long bao, Shanghai is brimming with new experiences.

If you’re unsure about what spots to check out while there, here are some new things to do in Shanghai in 2024 organised by type of activity.

The current exchange rate is S$1 = ~RMB5.44 as of 16th October 2024.

What you need to know before visiting Shanghai

When it comes to making payments in tech-savvy Shanghai, Alipay and WeChat pay are the go-to methods since cash is rarely used. So, make sure to download these apps and set them up before you travel.

For transport, a convenient and affordable way is the Shanghai Metro which is one of the most extensive subway systems in the world, that even has lines travelling out to the suburbs. If you do not want to crowd with others, there’s Didi Chuxing, China’s generally affordable rideshare app.

And for nearby travels, you can try their bike and e-scooter sharing apps such as, a fun way to explore the city.

– Things to do & shop –

1. Wintastar Shanghai

Largest indoor ski resort in the world

Image credit: Klook

Since we don’t get to enjoy winter in Singapore, head to Wintastar Shanghai to enjoy winter activities at the largest indoor ski resort in the world, taking up 90sqkm. To put that into perspective, that’s about 33 times the size of Snow City Singapore. This Nordic-themed resort will make you think you’re in Santa’s village – perfect for the upcoming Christmas season.

Image adapted from: 璃鱼妹妹 Serafina, iiiiiiiris via 小红书

Other than the usual snow activities like skiing, there are over 20 snow-themed attractions like the Snow Mountain exhibition, tyre-sledding, and ziplines for the whole fam to experience.

Tickets to Wintastar Shanghai start from RMB410/pax for a 4-hour play.

Hucheng Ring

Address

Hu Cheng Huan Lu, Pu Dong Xin Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China

Opening Hours:

Tuesday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings

2. TimePark FUN

6,000sqm indoor adventure park

Image adapted from: @J周公子 via 小红书

For families with children or those who are still children at heart, TimePark FUN is for you. There are over 50 activities to do here including highlights like bumper cars, go-karts, double catapult, bowling, rock climbing, archery, Xbox, high-altitude zip line, 4-person high-altitude swing, billiards, e-sports, and double catapult.

While activities are suitable for adults and kids, take note that some activities have a minimum height requirement.

Image adapted from: @635917059, @刘欢乀via 小红书

When it comes to safety, ease your worries as there are staff all around the adventure park to guide you.

They also have free bag storage available and even a parent rest area for the grown-ups that need a break from all the action.

Admission: RMB98/pax
Address: Room 106-107, Building 44, Dianzhi Wentong Media Park, No. 709 Lingshi Road
Opening hours: 9.30am-9.30pm, daily

3. Party King

An all-you-can-play indoor amusement park with a bar

Image credit: @卡卡库超爱拍 via 小红书

For the price of 1 entry ticket, you can spend as much time as you want to indulge in over 30 activities offered at Party King like karaoke, archery, VR experiences, racing simulators, and pool, just to name a few.

Image credit: @永远在减肥的腿子 via 小红书

To up the vibes and fun, there’s also a bar within the premises where you can get 2 bottles of qingdao liquor, 4 bottles of beer, and snacks for just RMB58.

P.S. We heard that this is a hot spot for singles to mingle.

Admission: RMB99
Address: Room G09-01F04-1-0021, South District, 4th Floor, Bailian City, No. 8 Songhu Road, F04
Opening hours: 10am-10pm, daily

4. Jellycat Cafe pop-up store

Cafe experience serving up plushies

Image credit: @jaxwzx via WeChat

For those chronically online, some of you must have seen the Jellycat experience pop-up in London, New York, and Paris, each with its own theme.

For mega Jellycat fans, the Jellycat Cafe in Shanghai would be the closest one to Singapore, making this your sign to get there pronto.

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To give you the true cafe experience, other than the mock cafe setup, the staff are also dressed up in aprons while they “prepare” and “serve” the stuffed toys to you.

Image adapted from: @InvestShanghai via X, Thái Gia Yến via Facebook

Every pop-up location has exclusive plushies. For Shanghai, there have the Amuseables Sip & Slurp Teacups (RMB359), Amuseables Titia Teapot (RMB399), Amuseables Yulan Taro Cake (RMB359), Amuseables Yulania Latte (RMB59), and Bartholomew Bear ‘Cupcake’ (RMB459).

As this pop-up is very popular, secure your visit by booking a slot through Jellycat on WeChat.

Opening hours: 10am-10pm, daily

Jing An Kerry Centre

Google Reviews

4.5

(35)

Address

1228 Yan An Zhong Lu, 久光 Jing An Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200041

Opening Hours:

Tuesday 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Show More Timings

5. More Than Just Eyes exhibition

Gothic IG-worthy installations

Image adapted from: @9783009006 via 小红书

For art and goth enthusiasts, the More Than Just Eyes exhibit is right up your alley. Once you enter the exhibition hall, it will feel like you have just travelled to another dimension full of mystery and fantasy.

The exhibit is on tour from Chengdu and features deep and meaningful art pieces by renowned artists like Li Dashuai and Keelee.

Image adapted from: @Keelee via 小红书

To fit the vibe, we suggest you wear either a full black or white outfit when visiting this exhibition.

Admission: RMB66/pax
Dates: Now till 1st December 2024
Address: TPark Art Center, North Bund B1, No. 198 Yangshupu Road
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 11am-8pm | Sat-Sun 10.30am-8.30pm

6. Bread Workshop by Harmay & Tyakasha

Concept store selling beauty products

Image adapted from: @高端气模美陈源厂, @我要减肥肥 via 小红书

Taking inspiration from bakeries, the Bread Workshop concept store combines the warehouse-style shelf aesthetics of Harmay and the humorous artistic style of Tyakasha. However, instead of selling buns and loaves, the store sells cosmetic products and adorable merchandise that look like candy on the shelves.

Image credit: @上海蟠龙天地 Tiandi via 小红书

Just like a self-service bakery, you can use tongs to pick up the products and put them on your tray. Skincare and makeup here are a mix of a bunch of brands with familiar ones being Avene and Kheil’s with products going for as low as RMB20.

Address: BS101, BS103, BS105, Panlong Tiandi, No. 1, Lane 177, Panding Road, Qingpu District, Shanghai
Opening hours: 10am-10pm, daily

7. Hai550

Sustainable & eco-friendly fashion

Image credit: @6742215131 via 小红书

Hai550 is a mall that promotes sustainability and slow fashion, with all 8 stories of the building housing a mix of retailers, exhibitions, galleries, F&B establishments, workshops, and boutique stores with the same mission in mind.

Image credit: @400312087 via 小红书

As you enter the first floor, step into the Unfashionable Exhibition by Patagonia showcasing upcycled clothing and promoting eco-friendly practices.

Image adapted from: @101164605, @491517218 via 小红书

On the remaining floors, you’ll see shops like WAARCHI which mainly sells incense towers and paperweights made from recycled building materials, and StopShop which offers a variety of natural and eco-friendly products, including refillable soy sauce, fragrances, laundry detergent, floor cleaners, and pet food.

Fun fact: Hai550’s building used to be a Barbie flagship store.

Address: 550 Huaihai Zhong Lu, Near Chengdu Bei Lu Huangpu District, Shanghai, China
Opening hours: 10am-10pm, daily

– Places to eat & shop –

8. 13DE MARZO cafe

Free bear cup hugger

Image adapted from: @qingbb via 小红书

13DE MARZO, known for their chic doll collection of clothing and shoes now has a cafe featuring their iconic teddy bear. On top of the teddy bear-themed cafe design, almost every drink you purchase comes with a free mini teddy hugging your cup.

Top drink choices here would be the Rose Petal Latte (RMB36) and Blue Curacao Sparkling Lemonade (RMB26).

Address: Anfu Road No.322 Building 4 Building 1, Xuhui Shanghai, China
Opening hours: 10am -10pm, daily
Contact: +86 158 0170 7855

9. Alligator BF cafe

Bakery hidden inside a clothing store

Image adapted from: @尐鮭厷Nicky via 小红书

This retro cafe is hidden inside of the Alligator BF clothing store where they sell American-style clothing similar to Brandy Melville.

This bakery serves both sweet and savoury treats that look aesthetically pleasing. Some must-try items would be the Strawberry Puff (RMB15) and the Jalapeno Cheese Sausage Crisp (RMB18). Plus, they have cute packaging if you’re tabao-ing.

Address: Chief Mansion Hotel, Xinle Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai
Opening hours: 11am-9pm, daily

10. Nudake Haus Nowhere

Dessert cafe with croissant-themed gym

Nudake Haus Nowhere Shanghai is a concept by the popular eyewear brand, Gentle Monster, offering an immersive retail experience blending art, fashion, and dessert culture.

Image credit: Gentle Monster via 小红书

On level one, Blinks can admire Jentel Salon, a collaboration between Gentle Monster and JENNIE for their eyewear collection.

Looking CRISPY.
Image adapted from: @100512996 via 小红书

The second story is where the gym exhibit and cafe is at. Every Nudake outlet has a different food theme, so while the one in Seoul, South Korea features onigiris, the one in Shanghai features croissants. While they resemble real gym equipment, these are just for you to admire.

You can expect to see all the usual gym equipment like barbells, dumbbells, and even treadmills croissani-fied.

Image adapted from: @foodihuni via Instagram

At the cafe, the most popular menu items on the menu are the Creamy Matcha Latte (RMB50), Creamy Black Sesame Latte (RMB50), and The Colosseo Small Cheesecake (RMB150).

Admission: Free
Address: No. 798-812 Huaihai Middle Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
Opening hours: 10am-10pm, daily

11. Cat Ice Story

Cat cafe with aesthetic desserts

Image credit: @Vv_xian34894019 via 小红书

Cat Ice Story is home to over 30 cats that you can play with, some of which are still young and mischievous kittens. The aesthetic interior and desserts served here, alongside the cats, make it a great place to take pictures for your next Instagram post.

Image adapted from: @9740856796, @4273334271 via 小红书

Apart from the cute cats, there are also picture-perfect desserts like shaved ice (from RMB48) available.

Admission: RMB90
Address: 101, 1st Floor, Building B, Mali, No. 850, Xikang Road, Jing’an District
Opening hours: 12pm-9pm, daily
Contact: +15 618 366 404

Check out these new things to do in Shanghai in 2024

Whether you’re into arts, a shopaholic, or enjoy cafe hopping, there are plenty of new things to do on your next trip to Shanghai other than the usual sightseeing and tourist hot spots.

Many of these places are only found in Shanghai, so take advantage of the opportunity to visit them.

Other attractions in China:

Cover image adapted from: @selawu1022, @上海静安嘉里中心JAKC via 小红书

The post 11 New Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 – Indoor Ski Resort, Candy-Like Cosmetics Store & JENNIE Collab appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Pop Land Beijing: A Pop Mart Theme Park With Life-Sized Labubu & Limited Edition Collectibles

Ariel Soh — Sun, 13 Oct 2024 01:00:36 +0000

Pop Land Beijing

There’s no doubt that the popularity of Pop Mart has skyrocketed in the last couple of years. New collections launch every few months, and some become so popular that mega fans are willing to queue hours before the stores open just to make sure they get their hands on the latest collection before it sells out.

The latest craze in the Pop Mart world is none other than Labubu, which is already sold out in Singapore. But while you may not be able to get your hands on one from Pop Mart stores in Singapore, you can still get it from Pop Land Beijing where you can meet your favourite characters in person and also purchase limited edition collectibles.

The current exchange rate is S$1 = ~RMB5.41 as of 10th October 2024.

All you need to know about Pop Land Beijing

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Pop Land Beijing, is a 40,000sqm Pop Mart theme park within the revamped Chaoyang Park. Despite being called a theme park, don’t expect to see thrilling rollercoasters or rides as this theme park is more similar to Korea’s Snoopy Garden or Japan’s Ghilbi Park where cute photo ops are the main draw.

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There are 3 main sections of the park, namely LABUBU’s Adventure Forest, Molly’s Castle, and Pop Street that feature all the popular series Pop Mart addicts are familiar with like Dimooo, Sweet Bean, Pucky, and Skull Panda just to name a few.

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When you enter the park, you can pick up a stamp passport to collect the 8 different intricate stamps from collection points all over the park. This not only makes your exploration of the park more interesting but can also be kept as memorabilia.

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Within the park, there are countless free minigames and 5 pay-to-play games. By getting the stamp passport, you’ll get 1 free attempt for all the paid games which is such a steal considering additional tries cost RMB30 each. Prizes up for grabs include stickers and exclusive badge blind boxes.

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Typically, visitors spend 2 hours here, but if you want to take your time to capture pics for your social media feed, you should plan to stay for at least 3 hours. Tickets go for RMB150/pax on weekdays and RMB180/pax on weekends. To secure tickets before your visit you can book through Wechat or Trip.com.

How to get to Pop Land Beijing from Singapore

For budget-friendly travel deals from Singapore to Beijing, here’s a list of hacks to book cheap flights.

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Once you’ve arrived in Beijing, Pop Land is just a 30-minute taxi ride from Beijing Capital International Airport.

For those taking public transport, take the Airport Express train from Terminal 2 or 3 towards Dongzhimen, then transfer to Beijing Subway Line 14 – towards Beijing South Railway Station and get off at Jintai Lu Station. From there, you can choose between walking 1.5km to the park or taking Bus 677 from the station. Your journey would take you approximately 50-70 minutes.

What to see at Pop Land Beijing

LABUBU’s Adventure Forest

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For all the people who have been obsessed with Labubu blind boxes, this portion of the park is tailored perfectly for you. There are 19 different Labubu displays here, all with a unique concept and theme where you can capture solo pics with Labubu to make everyone at home jealous.

Some installations in the fantasy forest are based on the Monster Forest series, so you can expect to see some huge versions of the familiar Pop Mart figures.

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One part of the Adventure Forest we think you’ll particularly like is the LABUBU Forest Concert where you’ll get to watch these cute creatures perform live.

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You can even catch some cheeky ones messing around with each other or interact with them yourself.

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Plus if you brought your kiddos along, you can accompany them to the 1,100sqm Adventure Playground to play on swings, trampolines, and slides.

Molly’s Castle

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Another big highlight of the theme park is Molly’s Castle which looks over the lake. Inside this humongous castle, there are 4 levels with life-sized Molly figurines all around the halls.

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In the basement, you can find the immersive room, Wish Journey, with even more Labubu and Molly displays.

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At level 1, you have the Pop Mart collection display area and Molly Toy’s House, a souvenir shop that sells limited edition and exclusive Pop Land merch that is a definite must-get when you are here.

Plus, they stock almost every Pop Mart available so Labubu fans, this is your sign to visit and buy it as it’s permanently out of stock in even the largest Pop Mart store in Singapore.

Take note that there is a purchase limit of 2 blind boxes per person for these exclusive boxes.

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On levels 2 and 3, they have restaurants serving up Pop Mart-themed dishes like a Soft Shell Crab Burger (RMB168) and Kid’s meals from RMB69. And if you’re just looking for a quick snack, you can get the Molly Cake (RMB188) or Molly Cappuccino (RMB42).

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When you exit the castle, you’ll be at the open area where character meet-and-greet sessions are held and where you can get up close and personal with the characters.

Pop Street

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Over at Pop Street, you’ll be welcomed by the vibrant street filled with other popular Pop Mart characters that are almost as popular as Labubu and Molly. You can also find stores, statues, and structures featuring different characters like Dimooo, Sweet Bean, Pucky, and Skull Panda here.

Visit Pop Land Beijing on your next trip to China

Pop Land Beijing is the first and only one of its kind theme park in the world dedicated to Pop Mart’s iconic characters like Labubu, Molly, Dimooo, Sweet Bean, and more. It’s a dream destination for Pop Mart fans to explore life-sized figurines, immersive installations, and exclusive collectibles so make sure to add it to your Beijing itinerary when you visit.

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The post Pop Land Beijing: A Pop Mart Theme Park With Life-Sized Labubu & Limited Edition Collectibles appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

The World’s Largest Indoor Ski Resort Opens In Shanghai, With Snow-Themed Activities & Rides

Kelly Lai — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 07:38:45 +0000

Wintastar Shanghai – Indoor skiing resort in China

With summer taking up all 4 seasons in Singapore, it’s no wonder we flock to other countries to experience winter and its icy activities. China is well known for its indoor skiing facilities, boasting some of the biggest arenas. They’ve recently added another to the list with the opening of the largest indoor ski resort in the world, Wintastar Shanghai.

What is Wintastar Shanghai?

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Wintastar Shanghai is an indoor skiing-themed resort in Lingang city in the Pudong district. It is a 25-minute drive from the Shanghai Pudong International Airport. Getting to the resort is a relative breeze; hop on a 5.5-hour direct round-trip flight aboard China Eastern Airlines with tickets starting from S$349.

Spanning across a 90sqkm land area, Wintastar Shanghai takes the crown for the largest indoor ski resort in the world. The resort is part of China’s tourism industry project, especially seeing the increasing interest in the snow and ice industry after Beijing hosted the Winter Olympics in 2022.

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It doesn’t stop at the ski park. Visitors can also enjoy other entertainment at Wintastar, such as retail and dining establishments, theatre performances and concerts, and even a Viking-themed water park.

What can I expect at the ski resort?

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A walk around the ski park entails the Nordic elements that inspired the dreamy, fantasy-like landscape. All of a sudden, you’re on holiday, celebrating an early Christmas in the Scandinavians.

Don’t bet on the ski park being like the air-conditioned spaces we’re used to. Cooling machines maintain the temperature at -3 to -5 degrees Celsius, and the floors are covered in pillowy artificial snow to mimic the look and feel of the real deal.

Beginner-friendly to advanced slopes

Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, skiing is easy and accessible for everyone here. There are 4 ski slopes of increasing difficulty levels for beginners to advanced skiers.

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The beginner-friendly track is a 60m slope with an 8-degree incline, which is great for absolute newbies. Instructors are also on hand to guide and coach you through the basics of the sport.

Skiing and snowboarding equipment, such as boots, jackets, skis, and helmets, is also available for rent, so there’s nothing to worry about if you’re not decked out in the necessary attire for the park.

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There are intermediate, advanced, and S-shaped ramps for those up for a challenge. The 340m advanced slope is said to be the hardest lane, with an inclination of a staggering 26 degrees.

Over 20 snow-themed activities

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If you’re not one for the adrenaline, plenty of other entertainment is still to be found at the park. There are over 20 snow-themed attractions for visitors to explore. The Snow Mountain exhibition is perfect for families with young kids. There are slides where you get to slide down a bed of ice on a tyre and even a zipline where you can get a bird’s eye view of the park.

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Hop on the country’s first domestic indoor snow train cruising through the park.

Winter-themed resort hotels

If you’re planning a stay at Wintastar, there are 3 hotels with over 1,000 winter-themed guest rooms near the park. 17 unique ski suites offer convenience, as guests can use cable cars to access the ski park directly from their rooms.

Visit the snowy resort the next time you’re in Shanghai

Traditional outdoor ski zones have been affected by rising temperatures, and many are turning to indoor arenas to fulfil their icy passions instead. Tickets to the snow world are starting from S$40.13/pax for a 4-hour play or if you’re visiting purely to ski, tickets are from S$76.61/pax for 4 hours of ski time.

Book your tickets to Wintastar Shanghai

Hucheng Ring

Address

Hu Cheng Huan Lu, Pu Dong Xin Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China

Opening Hours:

Tuesday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings

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The post The World’s Largest Indoor Ski Resort Opens In Shanghai, With Snow-Themed Activities & Rides appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Monday	Open 24 Hours
Tuesday	Open 24 Hours
Wednesday	Open 24 Hours
Thursday	Open 24 Hours
Friday	Open 24 Hours
Saturday	Open 24 Hours
Sunday	Open 24 Hours

Monday	10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday	10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday	10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday	10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday	10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday	10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday	10:00 AM - 10:00 PM