Dynamic, cosmopolitan and outward-looking, this thoroughly modern city is the powerhouse of the Chinese economy. Standing on the coast roughly equidistant from Beijing and Hong Kong, Shanghai is the prime example of the headlong pace of China's growth. Traces of its decadent past are still visible along the bustling waterfront of the Bund and in the colonial charm of the French concession - in its heyday Shanghai enjoyed the nickname "Paris of the East". Across the Huangpu River the distinctive futuristic architecture of Pudong creates a science fiction skyline that points to the future, rather than speaking of the past. In Shanghai you'll find some of China's best food and nightlife and, although historical attractions are somewhat thin on the ground, the world's most populous city merits a good look around so you can fully appreciate the extent of the economic miracle.