Theme: Happy Plants
Pavilion Area: Around 3,000 Square Meters
Pavilion Day: May 8
Location: Within Zone D of the Expo Site

Coca-Cola has kicked off a national campaign to support its corporate pavilion for the 2010 World Expo. The Coca-Cola pavilion is named the “Coca-Cola Happy Plants” and displays its nearly 125 year history in beverage and sustainability with a collection of animated characters, performances and music.

Coca-Cola’s pavilion will take consumers on a “fully immersive journey of fantasy,” according to Coca-Cola. Visitors will be greeted by animated “happiness characters,” be able to taste new beverages and grab a limited edition PlantBottle. There will be celebrity performances and animation on a 15-meter high Coca-Cola bottle composed of more than 3,000 LED light panels.

Pavilion Features

Simple yet unique exterior walls of the two-storey pavilion are all installed with metal wind-proof blinds and decorated in red, the color of Coca-Cola. The Interior of the pavilion is divided into five sections: exhibition of symbolic Coca-Cola bottles, theatres, exhibition halls, VIP lounges and public exposure areas. With artful designs of these sections, healthy and enjoyable lifestyle and sense of environmental protection are delivered to visitors.

Pavilion Highlights

Highlight 1: Symbolic bottles of Coca-Cola

Symbolic bottles of Coca-Cola and various shows on its stage offer visitors unique sensory experience.

Highlight 2: Coca-Cola theatre

Another highlight at the Expo will be a visit of Coca-Cola’s Expedition 206 team – a worldwide trip where happiness ambassadors travel to 206 countries which sell Coca Cola, and tweet, blog, and post videos that present the spirit of happiness.

The special video will be broadcasted in the huge Coca-Cola theatre to inform visitors of the positive lifestyle the company has always promoted.

The Space Pavilion

Theme: “Harmonious City, Human and Outer Space”
Pavilion Area: 3,000 Square Meters
Location: Within Zone D of the Expo Site

The Space Pavilion which is being built by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, the China Aerospace Science & Industry Corporation and the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation.

Pavilion Features

The pavilion looks like a “magic cube” suspended in space. Supported by intricate pillars, it will give a feeling of space disorder and arouse the visitors’ desire for exploration. The design tries to convey the concepts of “technology”, “energy” and “space” with a sense of simplicity.

Based on the core concepts of “sky (outer space), land (city) and man (the explorer and creator)”, the pavilion will show how aerospace and electronic technologies promote urban development and improve human life to the fullest extent. The pavilion will offer a preview of people’s “environmentally friendly, safe and intelligent” future life. The spirit of the Chinese astronauts who are exploring space will be a centre piece in the pavilion.

Visitors may embark on a joyous journey filled with discovery and inspiration through three exhibition sections – “The Origin of Dreams”, “Spacewalk” and “Beautiful Homeland”, to get the “real experience” of how people have been trying to explore space.

Pavilion Highlights

Highlight 1

Starting with the first section of the exhibition, “The Origin of Dreams”, visitors will quickly become mesmerized and intrigued and build immediate expectations for the next exhibit.

Highlight 2

Then they will have a unique and lifelike experience in the section “Spacewalk”—an experiential theater filled with imagination.

Highlight 3

Finally in the next section “Beautiful Homeland”, visitors can get in touch with the concept of “Round Heaven” and “Square Earth”. Based on the concept of “Round Heaven”, models, real objects and multimedia technology will help replay the history of human space exploration, while a “future city” will provide a preview on the technological, intelligent and informative life of the future, in “Square Earth”.

Learn some Mandarin

饮料               yǐn liào                                 beverage

大使               dà shǐ                                  ambassador

悬浮               xuán fú                                 suspend

象征的           xiàng zhēng de                      symbolic

宇宙空间       yǔ zhòu kōng jiān                   aerospace

Theme: Movement and Interaction
Highlights: “Brain Cell” Structure
National Pavilion Day: June 13
Pavilion Area: Roughly 5,000 Square Meters
Location: Within Zone C of the Expo Site

Pavilion Features

“Brain Cell” structure is employed in the main body of the pavilion, which is also the design concept of the building. The inspiration of “Brain Cell” neuron comes from Belgium’s rich achievements in science and art, and its status as one of the European Political Centers. The pavilion is designed by JV Realys.

The Belgium Pavilion will be a 5,250-square-metre rectangle with a huge “brain cell” as the centre piece. It will be a transparent building that is meant to be as open and inviting as Belgium is towards other countries. Visitors will enter the pavilion via a vein of the “brain”.

The “brain cell” structure reflects the artistic richness of Belgium and Europe, as well as the scientific achievements which contribute to the development and enrichment of cultural and intellectual inheritance. The exterior of the pavilion will feature a transparent glass façade and three covered facades made from stretched metal plates.

Meanwhile, the interior will feature a variety of convivial spaces that embody Belgium’s spirit of openness. There will also be a diamond show within the pavilion as well as chocolate factory. Moreover, the EU will also have a 1,000-square-meter exhibition space on the ground floor of the two-story pavilion, using multimedia to showcase European cities.

All the internal functions required for the pavilion are organized in 2 main levels.

• The ground floor is dedicated entirely to the main exposition hall (both for Belgium and Europe) and the shop. It also offers circulation space and includes some technical rooms.
• The first floor consists of the restaurant, the VIP/business centre and the terrace. Diverse spaces on the 1st level have been organized in an L-shaped volume suspended around the “Brain Cell”.

As in many other countries, Belgium and Europe face huge ecological issues inherited from the 20th century. This is the reason why the sustainability of the pavilion, its openness and recyclability, its conception as a gathering and flexible place were key issues in the concept design of the pavilion.

Pavilion Highlights

Highlight 1: Multiple Visual Effects

The change of light and color of “Brain Cell” naturally melts into Shanghai’s night scenes.

Highlight 2: Movement and Interaction

To embody the theme “Movement and Interaction,” display boards in the pavilion will be hanged on the slide rail and be movable in the exhibition hall. In this way the maze composed of the wall and enclosed spaces can be avoided. “Water globules” rolling in the prescribed area near the slide rail system is like a rolling window to show the proud exhibits from Belgium-EU Pavilion.

Highlight 3: Diamond Showcase

During the period of Expo 2010, a top-level diamond exhibition will be held in the Belgium-EU Pavilion. On this occasion, diamond designers from all over the world, including more than ten Chinese designers, will bring their works for exhibit. Fashion models from both countries will also give performances to liven up the show.

Highlight 4: Chocolate Corner

Belgium-EU Pavilion will create a dreamy “chocolate plant” in which visitors can view the chocolate-making process, and even taste the chocolate from Belgium for free. Some chocolates will be made into figures of Shanghai’s landmark buildings.

Highlight 5: Cozy and Flexible Space

The pavilion’s huge ceiling will hold up the public space that completely links the outside area. Its design has features of flexibility, originality and the utility of sheltering. Trees will be planted in the public square in order to provide a comfortable gathering place for visitors. A series of activities will be held there, from which visitors can enjoy the wonderful performances by young Belgian artists.

Highlight 6: Prize Draw

Q&A and prize draws will also be held in Belgium-EU Pavilion. First prize may include a trip to Belgium or a Belgian diamond.

Netherlands Pavilion

Theme: Happy Street
Highlights: Figure Eight, Distinctive Small Houses
National Pavilion Day: May 18
Pavilion Area: Around 5,000 Square Meters
Location: Within Zone C of the Expo site

Pavilion Features

The Dutch submission to the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai is an exceptional one. This time around, it will not be the classic pavilion with long lines of visitors waiting outside and a presentation inside. The Netherlands is making its appearance at China’s world exposition along an entire street. The submission, entitled “Happy Street”, is the response by designer John Kormeling to the Chinese Expo theme “Better City, Better Life”.

The “Happy Street,” is constructed in a figure eight – a lucky number that suggests fortune in Chinese culture. It is mainly composed of a 400-meter pedestrian street that curves in a figure of eight and 26 small houses along the street. Built completely on stilts, the street looks like a suspended roller coaster.

It is an open pavilion with a happy atmosphere. Each of the 26 distinctive small houses forms a mini pavilion that celebrates Dutch innovation in the use of space, energy and water. “Happy Street” will show that the Netherlands is innovative and progressive in the fields of sustainability, environment and urban development.

Pavilion Highlights

Highlight 1: Pavilion without a Gate

Visitors walking on the “Happy Street” will be surprised to find that the 400-metre long street actually has no gate or single point of entry. Instead, entrances to the pavilion can be found everywhere, allowing visitors to walk into this “Happy Street” from wherever they like. This multi-door design is quite effective and reflects the “typical Holland-style.” During the evenings, colorful and glorious lighting will create a dreamland for visitors.

Highlight 2: View through Windows

There are twenty eight houses and various other objects on Happy Street that show visitors what the Netherlands has to offer in the areas of technological innovation, urban development & architecture, sustainability & environment, corporate social responsibility, as well as culture & creativity. The houses are built in various architectural styles, together representing the Dutch architectural tradition. There are designs by Gerrit Rietveld, but also reproductions of typical houses from Zaandam and The Hague, and featuring a replica of the narrowest house in Amsterdam.

Instead of arranging these houses in a monotonous straight line, the designers have made a smart decision – “hanging” these tiny houses on the street and “inviting visitors to enjoy the exhibition through windows.”

Highlight 3: Orange Eco-friendly Sunshades

About 50 sunshades are erected on the street. The orange color of the fabric symbolizes Holland. The hi-tech coating over the fabric is designed to absorb and gather energy.

Highlight 4: CINEAC Club from Amsterdam

Visitors will see a small house named “CINEAC” on the “Happy Street.” In Amsterdam, CINEAC, originated from a functional cinema in 1934, is a famous club and a popular concert hall. But the CINEAC in the Dutch Pavilion will not be a real cinema or club. It will serve as a symbol for the “Happy Street,” meaning that the street offers great fun with its clubs, shops and cinemas.

Highlight 5: VIP Crown Hall

A free-standing small house in the shape of an engineering boat sits on one side of the pavilion area. This is the public restaurant in the Dutch Pavilion. The boat-shaped restaurant is inspired by the landscape of Holland, with a part of the land beneath sea level. Another small house will follow, which is themed water preservation. Visitors can see how the water from the Huangpu River is purified and be able to drink refreshingly clean water.

Poland pavilion

Theme: People Create Cities
Highlights: Paper-cutting
National Pavilion Day: May 22
Pavilion Area: Approximately 3,000 Square Meters
Location: Zone C of the Expo site

Pavilion Features

The Poland Pavilion was design by architects Wojciech Kakowski, Marcin Mostafa and Natalia Paszkowska. It is composed of three concepts: Human, Creativity and the City. As a perfect example of the Polish architecture, it mirrors the combination of modernity and folk art, representing the creativity and imagination of Poland.

The design of the Poland Pavilion, appearing to be a folded paper box, is inspired by its folk art: paper cut-outs. During daytime, the exhibition hall will be filled with light filtering through paper-cutting patterns; at night, it will shine with different colours and leave a deep impression on its visitors.

Pavilion Highlights

Highlight 1: Irregular Exterior Covered with Flowery Cut-outs

The Poland Pavilion has an abstract and irregular exterior covered with flowery cut-outs designed to reflect Polish folk art (paper cut-outs). Sunlight can enter the hall through cracks in the walls. When dusk falls, the pavilion will shine with different colors that will change as the light outside changes and penetrates the paper-cutting designs.

Highlight 2: Flexible Exhibition Area

In addition to the folded “paper cut-out panel”, the pavilion will also create geometrical structures inside. The exhibition area is creative and flexible enough to be divided into several sections for small expositions, concerts and shops. Lighting in the main exhibition hall will create rich lighting effects while the inner walls can be used to project a film about the Polish social life. People-friendly designs and facilities are everywhere in the pavilion.

Highlight 3: Piano Concert on Chopin

The year 2010 will be the 200th anniversary of the birth of Frederic Chopin, one of the greatest composers and pianists of Poland. A piano concert on Chopin will be held each day in the center square and music hall of the pavilion to commemorate the Polish musician. Visitors will be able to enjoy the concert while tasting traditional Polish cuisine.

Highlight 4: Eco-friendly design

It will also be a “green” pavilion saving energy to the fullest extent, and protecting the environment by pollution abatement so as to provide visitors with a healthy, comfortable and highly efficient pavilion.

The pavilion is environmentally friendly, and there will be lots of green living things in the Expo environment. The basic construction material is wood, including the facade with the cut-out patterns that will be cut by laser. Most construction materials are recyclable, and since the pavilion must be removed from the Expo site after the six-month exhibition period, part of the wooden structure will be reconstructed in a Polish city.

Learn some Mandarin

脑细胞         nǎo xì bāo               Brain Cell

透明的         tòu míng de             transparent

地标            dì biāo                     landmark

八字形         bā zì xíng                figure eight

步行街         bù xíng jiē               pedestrian street

直线            zhí xiàn                   straight line

抽象的         chōu xiàng de          abstract

不规则的      bù guī zé de            irregular

Conversations

Background: A Vietnamese tourist plans to visit the Shanghai World Expo 2010 but got lost in Shanghai Metro. He is asking for help from a metro station staff.

Conversation 1:

.

.

.

.

conversation 2:

.

.

.

.

Conversation Breakdown and Explanation

When you asking for directions … You can say:

• 请 qǐng it’s a polite expression, which is mean please.
• 请问 qǐng wèn = May I ask .
• 高科西路 gāo kē xī lù refers to a road = West Gaoke Road. where,
  • 西 xī = west
  • 路 lù = road

• 怎么走 zěn me zǒu means how to walk (how to get to)

It is used in asking for direction in Mandarin.
Eg: 中国馆怎么走？ zhōng guó guǎn zěn me zǒu (where 中国馆 zhōng guó guǎn = China Pavilion)
How to get to China Pavilion?

Directions to take the metro:

• 坐 zuò = Sit or in this case, it also means ‘to Take’ as in to Take a train, a bus or any other transportation means.
• 地铁 dì tiě = metro
• 六号线 liù hào xiàn = Line number 6. where,
  • 六 liù = 6
  • 号 hào = number
  • 线 xiàn = line
• 下车 xià chē = to alight

Asking if the destination is far :

• 远 yuǎn = Far
• 吗 ma : this sentence structure is a very commonly used for asking questions. By adding a 吗 ma behind a sentence, you can very often change sentence into a question.

Asking how long you need to walk to destination :

• 走 zǒu = Walk
• 多久 duō jiǔ = How long / How much time

• 大 约 dà yuē = approximately
• 十 shí = 10 (ten)
• 分钟 fēn zhōng = minutes

iLearn Mandarin
Learn Mandarin Online

Theme: Well-being, Competence and Environment
National Pavilion Day: May 27
Pavilion Area: Around 3,000 Square Meters
Location: Within Zone C of the Expo site

Pavilion Features

The Finnish pavilion at Shanghai World Expo 2010 is called “Kirnu” (“Giant’s Kettle”). Designed by a team from Helsinki-based architect’s office JKMM, the “Kirnu” is surrounded by a lake, appearing to float on the water. It has the slogan “Sharing Inspiration,” where ideas can meet and mix. The design draws inspiration from Finnish nature. Elements reinterpreted in the pavilion include the shape of small rocks found on coastal islands, the surface of a fish, reflection on water, framed view of the sky and smell of tar on wood.

Finland attempts to capture the ideas of freedom, creativity, innovation, community, health and nature in its exhibition. The Exhibition Story extends through three spaces: the welcoming introduces essences of Finland as well as the Virtual Guide (aka Spirit of Finland), accompanying the guest along the exhibition.

The second area opens up breathtaking magical landscapes, attached to the foundations of Finland: nature, national character, society, economy, education and culture. The third area is named City of Dreams, an interactive and beautiful presentation of elements of the Better Life, as well as solutions and perspectives Finland wants to share. The architecture of the exhibition is functional and clean, serves as a background to present art, design and high technology. The flooring of best-quality Finnish wood and beautifully lit snow-cave or cloudlike structures in the air connects the spatial elements, along with one of the largest textile artworks in the world on the inner wall. The Story is free of verbal commentary, with only ambient soundscape created by Sibelius-Academy. The elements of a balanced, sustainable and enjoyable urban-oriented life are presented in many aspects.

Into the Pavilion

A bridge guides visitors through the water into the pavilion. The ground floor consists of the central yard, the restaurant and shopping area. Visits to the shop and restaurant can be made after the exhibition on the 2^nd floor without getting stuck in the flow of people. Visitors can not only enjoy typical Finnish food adapted to the Chinese taste but also buy some well designed Finnish souvenirs.

Facilities such as the VIP lounge, sauna, meeting and back office can be found on the third floor. Our partner companies can organize various events such as seminars, press conferences, product displays, performances or even banquets for their guests.

Pavilion Highlights

Highlight 1: Advanced technology and Interactivity

Virtual guides: on the huge animated screen, there are virtual guides who will help the guests to understand the themes and stories by playfully interacting with screen contents, without speaking.

Augmented reality: augmented reality technology will be used to create an inspiring experience which brings together many diverse elements of Finland in an exciting interactive adventure. The first public premiere of augmented reality on Nokia’s N900 mobile device will be shown in the Finland Pavilion.

Interactive electronic artwork: 200 mobile phones will react to passing guest by changing their display colours. The guest may also take his/her snapshot and add it to the artwork; the snapshots are continuously replaced by following guests.

KONE Lantern elevator: The KONE Lantern elevator was designed to replicate the effects of a Chinese lantern but with a Finnish twist. The elevator, combining innovative technologies and cutting-edge design, will be a highly visible and integral part of the pavilion both as a functional elevator and an exhibition piece. The elevator will feature the latest in RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology which will enable the pavilion’s VIP guest to access the top floor.

Highlight 2: Sustainable Innovation

The construction materials and methods have been selected so that construction generates as few greenhouse gas emissions as possible and the building will be easy to disassemble and rebuild after the Expo. The most innovative construction material of the pavilion is a composite UPM ProFi -shingle based on recycled paper and plastic. 25,000 injected marble white scaly shingles cover the outer facade of the pavilion.

Highlight 3: Finnish Culture and Design

Textile artwork: Blue wall, one of the world’s largest textile art works is displayed in the exhibition hall.

Sauna: the Finland Pavilion includes a 100-square-meter sauna, which will introduce a typical Finnish sauna to VIP guests. It is the only pavilion that has sauna facilities at the 2010 Expo. Finland is a “sauna country” as the concept originated in the nation.

Santa Claus: the visitors will have chance to meet Santa Claus on certain days during Expo. Korvatunturi, the mountain in Finnish Lapland where Santa Claus lives, lies 1000 kilometres north of the capital, Helsinki. He lives there with his wife and hundreds of elves. He glides lightly over the snow in a sleigh drawn by prancing reindeer, with Rudolph in the lead to deliver gifts to children all over the world.

Culture Feast: Finland has designed a comprehensive cultural program to promote Finnish music, especially the music for the younger generation of Expo 2010 visitors. On the list are jazz, opera, ballet, symphony, children’s drama and some classical types of music.

Meet Santa Claus at the Finland Pavilion!

Major Events

Finland will organize around 50 events including music, design, visual arts, film screenings and dramas during the Expo. May 27, 2010 will be the Finland Day when events will be held throughout the whole Expo area. Visitors can enjoy a wide array of international cream of Finnish music from world music，electronic and heavy metal to classical. Other productions include ie. A collaborative production between Jin Xing dance group & Marimekko design company, Finnish National Ballet, Spin the musical, Moominpappa at Sea childrens theatre, and many more.

Sweden pavilion

Theme: Spirit of Innovation
Highlights: Energy-saving Wood
National Pavilion Day: May 23
Pavilion Area: Around 3,000 Square Meters
Location: Within Zone C of the Expo site

The pavilion was designed by the architectural firm SWECO, and the concept aligns closely with Expo’s main theme, “Better City, Better Life”. The Swedish pavilion at Expo 2010 is a temporary building that will contain the Swedish exhibition, VIP areas and other facilities such as offices. The 3,000 square metre building will be constructed on a section approximately the same size, and will be located in the European section alongside the other Nordic countries.

Pavilion Features

As the key words “Sustainability, Innovation and Communication” cornerstones, the Sweden Pavilion showcases how the nation’s spirit of innovation solves problems, improves the urban environment and living standards, and demonstrates the importance of communication under the new technology situation.

The pavilion comprises four cube-like structures that are arranged to form a cross-like space between them – a shape much like Sweden’s flag when seen from above. The outside walls show a city-like grid; the inside walls are covered with images of nature. These cubes are connected by elevated walkways, and house the exhibition, VIP areas, a shop, a café, and a large covered courtyard – room enough for everyone.

Pavilion Highlights

Highlight 1: Sustainable Design

Sustainable Design Adhering to the concept of sustainability, the design of the pavilion emphasizes the concept of recycling and reuse. The four sections of the pavilion are connected at an intersection, which symbolizes the harmonious interaction between city and countryside. Through this crossroad, visitors are able to reach every section of the pavilion with ease and comfort.

Highlight 2: Creativity and Innovation

Creativity and Innovation are displayed everywhere in the Sweden Pavilion, inviting people to interact and think deeply. Visitors can experience Swedish culture, society, engineering and traditions, which demonstrate Swedish people’s passion for nature and spirit of innovation.

Highlight 3: Cafes and Boutiques

This three-storey complex composed of four connected blocks contains an exhibition area of about 1500 square meters, and a number of cafes and boutiques. The third floor includes the VIP section and restaurants. Visitors can savor Swedish coffee while enjoying Swedish movies and music. Souvenirs from Sweden will also be available.

Norway pavilion

Theme: Norway, Powered by Nature
Highlights: Wood Structure, 15 Model Trees
National Pavilion Day: May 28
Pavilion Area: Around 3,000 Square Meters
Location: Within Zone C of the Expo Site

A forest from Norway is providing a cool experience for visitors to the 2010 World Expo. Norway’s pavilion, with the theme “Norway, powered by nature.” The pavilion will be made of wood and bamboo with 15 model trees. The trees will be arranged in groups giving a solid interpretation of Norway’s varied landscapes. The Norwegian government hopes to keep the “15 trees” in China after the Expo as a “symbol of the friendly relations between the two countries.”

The pavilion aims to present an impression that Norway is a livable place, Norwegians’ harmonious relationship with nature, their reverence for nature and how nature has provoked Norway’s inspiration. Norway hopes to dedicate each tree to different cities in China.

Rugged coastline, enchanting fjords and amazing glaciers, Norway boasts a storm of spectacular scenery. Cities in Norway are close to nature, which are surrounded by sea, mountains or forests. A visit to the pavilion is a fun journey through coastline, forests, mountains, fjords and Arctic region. If you are longing for an unforgettable and dreamlike journey around the country’s breath-taking landscape, the Norwegian Pavilion is the right place for you to go.

Pavilion Highlights

Highlight 1: Eco-friendly Design

The model trees are covered by a semi-transparent roof and when the sun shines through the roof, it will create the effect of shade or blue skies. The roof is also able to collect solar energy to make the entire pavilion self-sufficient.

Highlight 2: Northern Lights Show

When dark envelops, dreamlike and fantastic northern lights shows will be staged on the roof of the pavilion via projection, and visitors will be able to enjoy special concerts against the backdrop of lights from the Arctic circle.

Highlight 3: Amazing Journey

Large screens describe how Norwegians use solar, wind and wave energy in the Coastline section. People can watch movies in the Forest section, which will introduce the natural scenery and daily lives of Norwegians, as well as outline its scientific research. The nation’s fishing industry is introduced in the Fjord section. And in the North Pole section, visitors can learn the importance of these wastelands to global climate change. Then, visitors can walk onto a terrace to view the pavilion’s scenery.

Highlight 4: Authentic Norwegian Delicacies

At a Norwegian restaurant, visitors will be able to try authentic salmon, reindeer and lamb meats as well as Akvavit, a flavored spirit that is produced in Scandinavia and typically contains 40 percent alcohol. The restaurant will mainly provide the freshest sea food transported from Norway.

Learn some Mandarin

Conversations

Conversation 1:

.

.

.

.

Conversation 2:

.

.

.

Conversation Breakdown and Explanation

When you ask for a direction – You can say:

• 请 qǐng it’s a polite expression, which is mean please.
• 请问 qǐng wèn = May I ask.
• 哪儿 nǎr （or 哪里 nǎ lǐ） = where.

When you want to know how to get to a place – You can ask:

• 这里 zhè lǐ = here.
• 中山东路 zhōng shān dōng lù ( Zhongshan East Road) is a place in the example where 路 lù refers to Road
• 怎么走 zěn me zǒu = how to walk (how to get to)

It is used in asking for direction in Mandarin.

Eg: 车站怎么走？chē zhàn zěn me zǒu (where 车站 chē zhàn = station)

How to get to station?

Giving Directions :

In this example, the policeman answers

• 向前走 xiàng qián zǒu = walk straight ahead
  
• 左转 zuǒ zhuǎn = turn left
• 就到了 jiù dào le = right there, or (you) will (be able to) reach there.

To say ‘thank you’ in mandarin, you can say:

• 谢谢 xiè xiè = thank you.

To reply a thanks in mandarin, you can say:

.

or

.

or

iLearn Mandarin
Learn Mandarin Online

Have you ever been moved by the film soundtrack of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon? Musician Tan Dun used a traditional Chinese musical instrument, erhu, in his arrangement.

Erhu is a two-stringed bowed musical instrument and sometimes known in the west as the “Chinese violin” or “Chinese two-string fiddle”. It is a very expressive instrument and often used as a drama accompanied instrument in small ensembles and large Chinese folk orchestra.

Erhu History

Erhu is developed from and part of Huqin – a family of Chinese musical instrument.

Huqin was introduced to the Han nationality during the Tang Dynasty (A.D.618-907). ‘Hu’  meaning ‘foreign’ and ‘Qin’ referring to ‘string instrument’, the Huqin has its root in the Xiqin which  originated from the Mongolian Xi Tribe.

After centuries of development, a series of similar bowed stringed instruments derived from Huqin surfaced in the market, in order to meet the high demand of bowed stringed instruments used for music accompaniment in local opera shows and dramas. For example, now we have banhu, jinghu, gaohu, yehu and sihu etc, and erhu being the most popular and well-known in the huqin family of instruments.

The instrument was named Erhu only in recent times. The first Chinese character of the name of the instrument (二, èr, two) is believed to come from the fact that it has two strings. An alternate explanation comes from the fact that erhu is the huqin that produces the second highest pitch relative to the gaohu in the modern Chinese orchestra. The second character (胡, hú) indicates that it is a member of the Huqin family.

Erhu - a unique Traditional Chinese instrument

The Beauty of Erhu

The tone of erhu is mellow and bright, similar to the violin, yet more soulful and expressive. And it can imitate many natural sounds such as the sounds of birds and horse. Its midrange and high frequency stand out and enables it to perform music with a variety of moods, especially melancholic tunes, but also capable of playing merry melodies.

Erhu – Instrument Parts

Here are the introduction to the different parts of this instrument to you.

Erhu - breakdown and explanation of the instrument's parts

Erhu - sound box

Qín tǒng (琴筒), sound box or resonator body

The sound body of the erhu is a drum-like little case usually made of rosewood, sandalwood or other dense and heavy hardwoods and python skins. It usually has a hexagonal or octagon shape with the length of approximately 13 cm. The front opening is covered with skin of python (snake) and that of the back is left open. The function of this case of resonance is to amplify the vibrations of the strings.

Qín pí (琴皮), skin

The resonator is covered with a piece of stretched python skin that produces a unique tone. The bigger the scales of the python skin used, the better the tone produced.

Erhu - skin & pad

Erhu - Neck

Qín gǎn (琴杆), neck

The neck of the erhu is about 81 cm long and is manufactured with the same materials as the resonator. There is no fret or fingerboard and the player plays the instrument by pressing their fingertips onto the strings without them touching the neck.

Erhu - top of neck

Qín tóu (琴头), top or tip of neck

The top of neck is bent for decoration. It usually has a simple curve with a piece of bone or plastic on top, but is sometimes elaborately carved with a dragon’s head.

Qín zhóu (琴轴), tuning pegs

There are two cone-like tuning pegs through the neck vertically. Traditionally, it was made of wood, metal machine gear pegs are common used in these days. The upper one is bound with the inner string and the under one is bound with the outer string.

Erhu - tuning pegs

Erhu - nut

Qiān jīn (千斤), nut

It’s a small loop of metal wire placed around the neck and strings acting as a nut pulls the strings towards the skin, holding the bridge in peace.

Erhu - bridge

Qín ma (琴码), bridge

The bridge is often made of wood and together with the nut determines the scale length.

Nèi xián (内弦), inside or inner string

It is usually tuned to pitch D4, nearest to player.

Wài xián (外弦), outside or outer string

It is usually tuned to pitch A4.

Gōng (弓), bow

The bow is made by two parts: Gōng gǎn (弓杆, bow stick) and Gōng máo (弓毛, bow hair). The proper length of the bow is about 80cm. Just like other bowed stringed instrument, bow rubs against the string and then makes the sound. What is special about the erhu is that the bow hair is never separated from the strings. The bow stick is made by bamboo and white horse tail hair is regarded as the best material for the bow hair.

Erhu - bow hair between strings

Qín diàn (琴垫), pad

It is a piece of sponge, felt, or cloth placed between the strings and skin below the bridge to improve its sound.

Qín tuō (琴托) ,base

It’s a piece of wood attached to the bottom of the qín tǒng to provide a smooth surface on which to rest on the leg.

Playing posture

An erhu player normally sits with the instrument on his or her left upper thigh with left hand mastering the strings meanwhile moving the bow horizontally over the two vertical strings by right hand. Vibrato, slide, trill, harmonic overtone and pizzicato are frequently-used skills during the performance.

Famous Erhu masters:

Liu Tianhua

A notable composer and player for the erhu was Liu Tianhua (刘天华) (1895-1932)

Liu Tianhua - a noteable and famous Erhu player and composer

He is a Chinese musician who studied western music as well. He composed 47 exercises and 10 solo pieces (1918-1932) which were significant to the development of the erhu as a solo instrument. His works for the instrument include Yue Ye (月夜; Yuè yè, Moon Night) and Zhu Ying Yao Hong (烛影摇红; zhú yǐng yáo hóng, Shadows of Candles Flickering Red).

Ah Bing

Another famous composer and player for the erhu was Ah Bing (阿炳, 华彦均) (1893-1950), a blind erhu mobile busker.

Ah Bing - a blind Erhu player

He can play many Chinese traditional musical instruments when he was young. The composition Er Quan Ying Yue (二泉映月; èr quán yìng yuè, Moon Reflected on Second Spring) is one of the most famous erhu music in China. It is seldom that people were not moved after hearing the melancholic tune.

Song Fei

Song Fei (宋飞) (born 1969) is an outstanding erhu musician in modern times and once performed in Carnegie Hall and Golden Concert Hall.

She began to learn erhu playing when she was seven from her father, who was also an excellent erhu player, and became famous when she was a teenager. She replayed many classical erhu compositions such as Er Quan Ying Yue and injects her own style in it. Also she plays some western classical music such as Korsakov’s Flight of the Bumble Bee, which shows her exquisite skill and expands the influence of erhu in the west.

Thanks to the contribution of pioneer Erhu performers, ever since the Erhu was created, the instrument has been constantly improved. Played with a variety of techniques, it is now extremely popular for both solo and orchestral performances. In classical Chinese music the erhu is melodic, haunting, ever changing, and alive. The traditional style of playing is rich in ornamentation, giving the music a deep, three-dimensional quality.

Listen to Erhu Music

Erhu piece – “Er Quan Ying Yue”

Learn Some Mandarin

Dragon Boat Festival, regarded with similar significance as other Chinese festivals like Spring Festival, Tomb-Sweeping Day and Mid-Autumn Day, is a very important day to Han people in China and the history of this traditional festival dates back to 2000 years ago.

Dragon Boat Festival is also known as Duanwu Festival, Calamus Festival and Chongwu Festival. The festival occurs on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar of China, that’s why it is also known as Double Fifth Festival. The festival usually falls in June of the western calendar. This year of 2010, the festival falls on 16th of June.

There are plenty of folk activities on this day and the focus of the celebrations includes eating the rice dumpling-zongzi, drinking realgar wine, and racing dragon boats.

History & Legend of the Dragon Boat Festival

There are various versions about the origin of the Double-fifth Festival, and at least ten different ones were sorted out by scholars, among which the most influential version is to reminisce about Qu Yuan (屈原, BC340-BC278).

It is said that Qu Yuan was a poet and a minister in the State of Chu during the Warring States Period (BC475-BC221). At first he won the full confidence and respect of his sovereign, King Huai of the Chu State. But later the king was surrounded by jealous self-seekers, so he ignored Qu Yuan’s advice that the State of Chu ought to unite with the state of Qi to fight against the state of Qin.

As a result, King Huai was tricked into the State of Qin and died there. King Qingxiang of Chu, the eldest son of King Huai, didn’t take revenge.  Instead, he dismissed Qu Yuan from office and sent him into exile as a vagrant. Later the capital of Chu was captured by the troops from Qin. In great agony, Qu Yuan drowned himself in the Miluo River (汨罗江, located in today’s Hunan province) with his wishes to save his beloved country unfulfilled.

Qu Yuan, a poet and political advisor in ancient China, which the origin and history of Dragon Boat Festival is based upon.

The legend claims that the day when Qu Yuan drowned himself in the river was the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. The local people rushed in boats to rescue or search for him. Some of them threw bamboo tubes with rice and other food inside into the river, hoping to feed fish and shrimps lest they should eat away his body. This is said to be the origin of zongzi (rice dumpling).

An old doctor of traditional Chinese Medicine poured the realgar wine into the river to make river dragons drunk, otherwise they would hurt Qu Yuan. The local people were also said to have paddled out on boats, either to scare the fish away or to retrieve his body. This is said to be the origin of dragon boat racing.

Customs & Activities of Dragon Boat Festival

Dragon Boat Racing

Dragon boat racing is one of the main highlights during the Dragon Boat Festival. This competition is very popular all over China especially in the south.

Dragon boat racing is a popular traditional sport during the festival

A dragon boat is a human-powered boat traditionally made of teak wood to various designs and sizes: from small dragon boats with 10 paddlers, up to the massive traditional boats which can have a capacity of 50 paddlers. It is a long, slim, dragon-like canoe and is often brightly painted and decorated with designs of Chinese dragon heads and tails. The crew use single bladed paddles to drive the boat forward, a method of propulsion common to many other paddled water craft around the world. Every boat usually has one drummer or caller at the bow facing towards the paddlers, and one sweep or helmsman at the rear of the boat.

A dragon boat race usually cover distances over 200m or 250m, 500m, 1000m and 2000m. Before the race starts there is also a series of ceremonies such as worship and awakening the dragon. A fierce battle among the competitors was ignited the moment the competition starts. Bursts of percussion and the cheering from viewers heat the atmosphere up rapidly.

During the sprint, the drummer leads the paddlers throughout a race using the rhythmic drum beat to indicate the frequency and synchronicity of all the paddlers’ strokes (that is, the cadence, picking up or accelerating the pace, slowing the rate, etc.) The drummer may issue commands to the crew through a combination of hand signals and voice calls, and also generally exhorts the crew to perform at their peak. The drummer may be considered the “heartbeat” of the dragon boat.

Nowadays, dragon boat racing is a worldwide sport. Modern dragon boat racing is organised at an international level by the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF). IDBF International Standard Racing Boat has a Crew of 22, consisting of 20 paddlers, one Drummer and a Helm (Steerer).

Dragon boat racing has since become an Internationally practised sport

Eating zongzi

Eating zongzi is an essential activity of the Dragon Boat Festival. This kind of traditional Chinese food is made of glutinous rice stuffed with different fillings and wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves.

It is said that as early as the Spring and Autumn Period(BC 770- BC 476),the earliest form of zongzi: Tongzong(筒粽) and Jiaoshu(角黍) came into existence. The former was made of rice in the bamboo tubes while the latter was made of the broomcorn millet wrapped in leaves in cow-horn shapes. With the evolution over many dynasties, Zongzi is seen in various shapes with a variety of fillings.

The shape of zongzi ranges from being relatively tetrahedral in southern Chinese to cylindrical in northern Chinese. Wrapping a zongzi neatly is a skill which is passed down through families, as are the recipes.

The many types and flavours of zongzi

Zongzi comes in many types and flavours. The more traditional ones includes savoury rice dumpling with fillings like meat, mushroom, salted eggs and nuts. The sweeter versions may have red bean or a plain rice dumpling which is usually dipped in honey or sugar before every bite.

Different fillings give the dumpling different tastes. Mung beans, red bean paste, jujubes, Chinese sausage, red-cooked pork, dried shrimp, dark’s egg yolk and so on are very common ingredients in zongzi recipe.

While making a zongzi with red-cooked pork filling, the glutinous rice in the recipe is commonly dipped in soy sauce beforehand making the zongzi tastier, complimenting the filling better and giving it its distinctive brownish color.

Zongzi need to be steamed or boiled for several minutes depending on how the rice is made prior to adding the fillings. Usually, 20 minutes will be sufficient. Once cooked, the zongzi can easily be frozen for later consumption. While Zongzi is a daily food product that is available in many Chinese markets throughout the year, during this Dragon Boat Festival, Zongzi becomes very popular. Being synonymous with the festival, many families will buy or even home-make Zongzi as part of a Chinese tradition.

Standing the egg

An interesting and fun custom during this festival is to make eggs ‘stand up’.

In the Lunar Calendar, June is the ‘Horse month’, while the ‘Horse hour’ is from 11:00 AM to 13:00 PM. The Dragon Boat festival being in June, it is traditionally believed that you will be lucky for the coming year if you can make an egg standing up during Horse hour on day of the festival. It is said that it will be easier to make an egg stand up at noon.

This feat seemed quite a phenomenon and people looked for the scientific explanation. It seems an egg can stay ‘standing up’ because the Dragon Boat Festival is close to the summer solstice, which is the longest day of the year. The summer solstice occurs when the Earth’s axis tilts the most toward the sun, causing the sun to be farthest north at noon. During the day and especially at noon, the gravitation between sun and earth pulling at each other are the strongest, hence explaining the phenomenon.

Try making an egg stand during the noon of Dragon Boat Festival! It may amuse you and your friend and bring you good luck for the coming year!

The Balmy Bag

Children often hang a small balmy bag on their necks on this day. It‘s believed that if you carry the small spice balmy bag around with you, it not only drives away evil spirits but also brings fortune and happiness to those who wear it.

The small bags are hand-made by local craftsmen. They‘re made with colourful silk, fine satin or cotton. Figures of animals, flowers and fruits are often embroidered onto the bags and inside are mixed Chinese herbal medicines which send out the charming flavour.

Happy Dragon Boat Festival !

In recent years, the Dragon Boat Festival has been restored in China as an official national holiday. 14^th, 15^th, 16^th in June are the holidays in 2010. If you have a chance to tour around China during then, join us in the fun!

Learn Some Mandarin

In this last article of the series, we will show you more fun with the most popular Tourist spots, Entertainment attractions and Amusement Parks in Shanghai!

Shanghai has many interesting tourist places to visit. These are good choices for returning to the nature while exploring new and exciting activities on a day tour or family day outing.

Changfeng Ocean World 长风海洋公园

Shanghai Changfeng Ocean World, opened in April 1994 at the cost of 25 million dollars, is 13 meters under the surface of the Silver Shovel Lake in Changfeng Park. The Ocean World is China’s first large-scale theme aquarium and is the flagship tourist attraction of the Oceanis Australia Group, the world’s largest aquarium operator.

The Shanghai Changfeng Ocean World offers a mix of marine sightseeing, aquarium viewing and show and performances at the stadium. The park has become a famous tourist attraction of Shanghai.

This theme park in East China is also known as “Shanghai Ocean World” and is the only theme park which combines marine sightseeing with ecological leisure.

Info

Website : Changfeng Ocean World

Address: No.451 Daduhe Road

Opening hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm

Ticket Price:

Adult 130RMB

Child 90RMB

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium 上海海洋水族馆

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is located just next to the Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai’s busy financial district of Lujiazui, Pudong. It is the largest modernization in Asia Marine Aquarium and covers an area of about 13,000 square metres and a total construction area of over 20,000 square metres.

In Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, you will find distinctive fresh water and marine creatures all over the world. Not only that, Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is currently the only aquarium that has the separate exhibition area showing the aquatic animals in China, especially the rare animals along Yangtze River.

Info

Website: Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

Address: No.1388 Lujiazui Ring Road

Opening hours: 9:00am – 6:00pm

Ticket Price:

adult 135RMB

child 90RMB

Jinjiang Action Park 锦江乐园

Jinjiang Action Park is the first modern amusement park in Shanghai. There are more than 40 attractions in the park and the huge Ferris wheel has been regarded as a landmark among theme park lovers.

With other activities such as shopping, dining in the park, Jinjiang Action Park will be a fun-filled attraction for everyone.

Info

Website: Jinjiang Action Park

Address: No.227 Hongmei Road ,Minhang District

Shanghai Happy Valley 上海欢乐谷

Shanghai Happy Valley is renowned as a theme park of beautiful scenery, with huge areas to explore, superb scientific and technological content with breathtaking and exciting amusement rides.

It is located in the central area of Shanghai Sheshan National Holiday Resort, Songjiang District, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) west of the downtown area. It covers an area of 863,500 square meters (213 acres).

Shanghai Happy Valley is composed of seven major areas, each with different themed zones, such as Sunshine Beach, Happy Times, Typhoon Bay, Gold Mine Town, Ant Kingdom, Shanghai Beach and Shangri-la Woods. There are more than a hundred attractions and 12 top recreational attractions.

Info

Website: Shanghai Happy Valley

Address: No.888 Linhu Road, Sheshan, Songjiang District

Entrance Fee: 200RMB

Shanghai Film Shooting Base 上海影视乐园

Shanghai Film Shooting Base (also known as Shanghai Film Park) is invested by The Shanghai Film Group Corporation. It is built as an ideal site for film shooting, sightseeing and culture communication.

What attracts visitors here are the beautiful and unique buildings only seen on the television of the olden China streets and sights. You will find yourself back in time at different scenes in the park, like “Nanjing Road in the 30′s”,”Shanghai traditional houses”, “Downtown Shanghai in old times”, “European style architecture”, “Suzhou Creek”, “Church”, “Peace Plaza”, “Old Shanghai bridge” and scenic “Lake and mountain area”. You can also visit the large soundstages, costume and prop ware-house, film library and their screening rooms.

Other attractions include Exhibition of SFS Costumes & Props Selection and old Shanghai street show, just to name a couple.

Info

Website: Shanghai Film Shooting Base

Address: No.4915 Beisong Road, Songjiang District

Entrance Fee: 50RMB

Shanghai Wild Animal Park 上海野生动物园

Shanghai Wild Animal Park (SWAP) is the first national wild animal park established by Shanghai Municipal Government and State Forestry Administration. The park is located in XuanQiao Town of Nanhui District in Pudong New Area, and about 35km from Shanghai downtown and coving an area of 153 hectares.

More than 200 types of representative and rare animals from the world were collected in SWAP. The total number of animals is about 10,000. These include foreign giraffe, zebra, antelope, white rhinoceros and more. Shanghai Wild Animal Park also house Nationally protected animals like the giant panda, snub-nosed monkey, and Chinese tiger.

The park is divided into 2 parts, Bus visiting area and Walking area.

In the Bus visiting area, you can see gentle giraffe, elongating his neck in expectation of your visit. You also can see elephants – the biggest mammal on land, greeting guests gently. Spot the fastest animal in the world, the cheetah, whose speed can reach up to 110 km per hour. Be in awe at the African lion, the king of beasts, showing his grand demeanor. Observe the Clumsy bear, begging for food from the passing buses. And watch the Majestic tiger striding along.

In the walking area, you can enjoy the world’s rare animals such as white lion, white tiger, white kangaroo, giant panda, Chinese alligator and more. You can even take photos with the alpaca camel, zebra and elephant. It is an amazing experience to be able to view these unique animals at such close proximity.

In the small animal garden, you can even hug the small animals, feed the lovely monkeys, and experience how it is like being close to the animals.

At the Wild animal Park, there are shows and performances by some of the animals. There are many animal shows like the beast training show or where both the tiger and lion perform on the same platform, or a world-class sea lion show which will sure to give you a stunning experience. The greyhound race is also a popular and exciting show to watch out for.

Info

Website: Shanghai Wild Animal Park

Address: No. 178 Nanliu Road, Nanhui District

Opening hours:

Mar.1st – Nov.30th           8:00am – 5:00pm

Dec.1st – Feb.29th           8:00am – 4:30pm

Entrance Fee: 120RMB

Shanghai Circus World 上海马戏城

Shanghai Circus World is located in the Pudong district of Shanghai City and is renowned as the No. 1 Circus World in China. The Circus World has a large indoor circus stadium and with unique architectural shape of a golden dome-like roof, Shanghai Circus World has become a landmark in Shanghai.

The Acrobatics Field, the main body of Shanghai Circus World, has 1,638 seats. The field is equipped with modern computer-controlled lighting facilities, multi track and stereo sound systems. The design of the performance area is creative with a revolving stage, a lifting stage and picture-frame stage.

The glittering Shanghai Circus World has been well known internationally. The place is a center for national and international acrobatic and circus performances exhibitions and exchanges. The prominent Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe gives its sensational performances here on a regular basis.

Circus performance with amazing acrobatic acts and performances with animals like elephants, chimps, horse, giant pandas and some fierce beasts including tigers, lions can be enjoyed at the Circus World.

Info

Address: No.2266 Gonghexin Road

Qibao Ancient Town 七宝古镇

Qibao Ancient Town, approximately 18 kilometers from downtown Shanghai, is the only ancient Chinese town in Shanghai. This old town is 2 square kilometers in size and is crossed by two strips of water. Surrounding the water is a variety of well preserved ancient Chinese houses, shops, and restaurants. Qibao means “Seven Treasures” in Chinese and the town got its name from a legend that referred to seven treasures in this area. Qibao Ancient Town, with a history of more than 1000 years, is one of the most important historical sites in Shanghai.

This old town started development in the Song dynasty of China and was at its best in the Ming and Qing Dynasty. The stone roads and long narrow lanes that are worn over time at Qibao Ancient Town date all the way back to the Song Dynasty while the traditional Chinese architectural specialties, such as pavilions, terraces, and towers came from the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

Walking along the lanes in the ancient town, you will be transported back in time to ancient China with the scenic sights of stone bridges and chinese pavilions.

Info

Website: QiBao Ancient Town

Address: QiBao Town, Minhang District, Qing Nian Road (Subway Line 9 – Qibao station)

ZhuJiaJiao 朱家角

ZhuJiaJiao is located in a suburb of Shanghai city and is also popularly known as the Venice of Shanghai. With a history of more than 1700 years, ZhuJiaJiao is a water town that exhibits ancient charms of the Ming and Qing Dynasty. The architecture is preserved and representative of that time. 36 unique wood and stone bridges connect this town with numerous rivers running through it.

The ancient water town well-known throughout the country and worldwide. Covering an area of 47 square kilometers, the little fan-shaped town glimmers like a bright pearl in the landscape of lakes and mountains.

Endowed with another elegant name – ‘Pearl Stream’ – the little town is the best-preserved among the four ancient towns in Shanghai. Unique old bridges across bubbling streams, small rivers shaded by willow trees, and houses with courtyards attached all transport people who have been living amidst the bustle and hustle of the modern big city to a brand-new world full of antiquity, leisure and tranquility.

Info

Website: ZhuJiaJiao

Address: Qingpu district, Zhu Jia Jiao Town

Grand View Garden 大观园

Shanghai’s Grand View Garden, located at the lakeside Dianshan in Qingpu in Shanghai, is a complex in typical architectural style of the Qing Dynasty (1616 AD – 1911 AD).

The garden is modeled from the scenes described in The Red Chamber Dream, one of the greatest Chinese novels. Because the landscapes in the garden and the stories depicted in the book are beautiful and accurately created in reality, the Grand View Garden quickly, become an attractive scenic spot in Shanghai area in recent years.

Chinese literature classic – The Red Chamber Dream

The beautiful scenery and sentimental love story depicted in The Red Chamber Dream have enchanted readers for generations. It is said that this is a love story that can be retold over and over again and still charms and interests people.

Visitors walking in the Grand View Garden can imagine the scenes described in the love story vividly as they experience the sight and atmosphere of the imperial private gardens of the Qing Dynasty.

Walk inside Bamboo Lodge – the home of Lin Daiyu, the male protagonist and stroll along the Pleasant Red Court in which Jia Baoyu, the female protagonist lives. Exquisitely constructed pavilions, towers, caves, rocks scenes and pavements will leave you in a surreal and beautiful world of the ancient Chinese era.

Info

Website: Shanghai Grand View Garden

Address: No.701 Qingshang Road

Opening hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm

Entrance Fee: 60RMB

Mt. SheShan 佘山

Last but not the least of Shanghai’s attractions, is the breathtaking Mt. SheShan. Mt. Sheshan is the only existing hill of Shanghai and it is renowned for its mesmerizing natural beauty. The place boasts of a pleasant weather and attracts large number of tourists especially during the spring. Mt. SheShan features some popular tourist destinations like the Basilica Minor of St Mary, which is a Roman and Gothic-styled Catholic basilica along with a butterfly garden that covers an area of 800-square-metre.

Marian Basilica

Sheshan National Forest Park is another popular destination in the area, which is located in the nearby Tianma Hill. The entire area boasts of a rich cultural and historical heritage, which is reflected in numerous monuments, landmarks and temples, all of which are scattered throughout the area.

Info

Website: Mt. SheShan Tourism Site

Address: Shanghai, Songjiang District

Shanghai Attractions Articles

This is the last part of Shanghai Attraction, I hope you will thoroughly enjoy yourself in Shanghai! Shanghai is really a place of attractions and opportunities and you are sure to find yourself mesmerized by the city’s charms. I hope this series of Shanghai Attractions could do you a little favour by providing you information on where to go and what to expect. Have fun in Shanghai!

Learn Some Mandarin

Vera loves clothes beyond loving clothes; she loves everything that has to do with clothes. This is not a make-believe love here; it’s the real thing. Anything that has happened to Vera is fallout of this love. It’s her only agenda. So she is going to present you clothes in an extremely loving manner: beautiful clothes in the most beautiful way possible.”

—Paul Cavaco, the editor of New York Magazine

Vera Wang - renowned for her designs of wedding dresses

Vera Wang’s Story

Vera Wang, born on June 27 1949, is an American fashion designer based in New York and especially known for her wedding dresses collection.

Her parents were born in Shanghai, China, and came to the United States in the mid-1940s. Vera Wang was born and raised in New York and after graduating from The Chapin School in 1967, she attended the Sorbonne, University of Paris and earned a degree in art history from Sarah Lawrence College.

While in high school, Wang trained as a figure skater with pairs partner James Stuart, and won the 1968 U.S. Figure Skating Championships. She was featured in Sports Illustrated in the January 8, 1968 issue. When she failed to make the US Olympics team, she entered the fashion industry.

Vera Wang’s love for fashion was discovered during her studying years in Paris. Returning to the US after graduation, she became American Vogue’s youngest ever fashion editor at the age of 23. She left Vogue in 1985 after being turned down for the editor-in-chief position and joined Ralph Lauren as a Design Director for two years.

Qing Shupei - famous Chinese supermodel, wearing Vera Wang’s design in the Fashion Show For Fall 2010

In 1989, 39-year-old Vera Wang was a high-powered, high-fashion design director. She was also engaged to marry businessman Arthur Becker, and she wanted the perfect dress for her wedding day. But even though she visited stores all over New York City, she found only traditional, fussy gowns, designed for a younger bride.

“I’m very modern and sophisticated,” Wang said, “I didn’t want to look like the girl on top of the wedding cake.” Frustrated at the lack of options, Wang decided that she would simply have to create her own dress. It was the first dress Vera Wang designed. Soon after her wedding, Wang made an important decision: she knew there was a need for more sophisticated, elegant wedding gowns. In 1990, she opened her own design salon in the Carlyle Hotel in New York that features her trademark bridal gowns.

Within months, word of Wang’s designs spread quickly among well-to-do New Englanders, upper-class socialites, and celebrities. Vera Wang eventually launched a signature collection of streamlined and sophisticated bridal wear and soon became the foremost designer of wedding gowns in the world. In 2005, she was awarded Womenswear Designer of the Year by the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America).

Ms Carina Lau, in blissfulness with groom Tony Leung, dressed Vera Wang’s gown in 2008

Vera Wang’s Recognition

Evening Gowns popular with Celebrities

Wang’ story doesn’t stop at bridal dresses. She has also designed formal gowns for many top celebrities too. Wang has made gowns for Mariah Carey, Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Simpson, Avril Lavigne, Victoria Beckham, Khloe Kardashian, Jennifer Garner, Sharon Stone, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Uma Thurman, Holly Hunter and many more top celebrities. Many famous celebrities dress in her beautifully designed evening gowns for award ceremonies, movie premieres, and other important events.

Vera Wang’s designs are very simple but not boring, she is known for simply constructed, slinky gowns that drape smoothly over a woman’s body as the pictures below show.

Celebrities in Vera Wang designed dresses

Rachel Weisz in 2007 Oscar party

Keira Knightly in 2008 Oscar party

Debra Messing in a stylish evening gown designed by Vera Wang

Fashion in Figure Skating

Wang was inducted into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame in 2009, and was honoured for her contribution to the sport as a costume designer. She has designed costumes for figure skaters, including Nancy Kerrigan, Michelle Kwan and Evan Lysacek. Silver medalist Nancy Kerrigan wore a unique design of Vera’s for the 1994 Olympics. She designed the two-piece uniforms currently worn by the Philadelphia Eagles cheerleaders.

Vera Wang's hand-beaded ensemble for Figure skater Nancy Kerrigan received International attention

Evan Lysacek wore a creation by designer Vera Wang in the ice ring

Appearance on popular media

In the ‘Sex and the City’ TV series, Charlotte York found Wang’s wedding dress to be the perfect wedding dress, and wore it for her wedding to Trey MacDougal. In ‘Sex and the City’ movie, Vera Wang was featured amongst the bridal gowns Carrie Bradshaw wore in her Vogue photo shoot.

Vera Wang’s wedding dress in the Sex and the City

Beyond Wedding Gowns and Dresses

By balancing modern designs with traditional elegance, Vera Wang has acquired a large following, particularly in Hollywood. Eventually, Wang ventured beyond fashion designs in gowns and dresses, expanding her brand name through her fragrance, jewelry, eyewear, shoes and house ware collections.

On October 23, 2001, her book Vera Wang on Weddings was released.

Vera Wang on Weddings Book

The world’s most successful bridal gown designer shares her vision for this most important event of a person’s life – the wedding. Rather than a soup-to-nuts approach with endless lists of what to do, Vera Wang details each aspect of the wedding with her thoughts and ideas, culled from years of experience in the wedding business.

In 2002, Vera Wang launched her first signature fragrance which was simply called Vera Wang. An exotic and feminine scent featuring notes of mandarin, lotus and iris, it was designed with brides in mind. During that year she also began to enter the home fashion industry, launching The Vera Wang China and Crystal Collection.

Vera Wang Princess Fragrance

She continued to launch several perfumes, for example – Vera Wang for men (2004), Princess (2006) and Truly Pink (2007).

2007 also saw the release of her diffusion line called Simply Vera Wang, sold exclusively by Kohl’s (an American departmental store chain)

The Vera Wang brand covers from wedding fashion basics like jewelry, eye wear and shoes to post-wedding lifestyle choices like chinaware, stationary and even mattresses.

Vera Wang’s most outlandish project to date is coupling with Eight Wonder (Las Vegas based casino developer) to design hotel suites under the Vera Wang name.

Vera Wang’s Latest Collection-Fall 2010 Fashion Show

Tailoring was a focus of this fashion show. However Vera Wang put her luxurious, ultra-femme stamp on it; adding Mongolian lamb trim to the hem of a coat and cutting the sleeves off at the elbows so it can be worn with opera gloves;affixing sequins to the mesh pockets of a charcoal felt double-lapel jacket.

A pair of her easy paper-bag-waist tuxedo pants, worn with a draped one-shoulder top in white linen voile or an ivory silk faille tucked bustier, would make fabulous alternatives to the little black cocktail dress.  Among the best was a simple twisted and draped jersey frock that fell to just above the knee.

“Less is more” is not a concept that feels entirely natural for Wang. Still, she nailed it with a scalloped black organza gown that looked practically weightless as it glided down the runway.

Spring 2011 Wedding Gown Collection

Each piece embodies the delicate, airy feeling that spring brings to each of us. Soft hues, luxurious fabrics, and clouds of silk and tulle dominate this Spring 2011 Collection.

As always, Vera’s collection include both classic, simple white or ivory wedding dresses, as well as more daring gowns in unexpected shades. Every detail (including hints of lace and floral appliqué) is beautifully done, while being restrained and demure.

If you’re a fan of the impeccable layering often present on Vera Wang creations, then THE dress might be waiting for you in Vera Wang’s Spring 2011 collection.

Learn some Mandarin Words

Following our previous article on Sightseeing in Shanghai, today we visit the Famous Streets and Buildings in Shanghai.

XinTianDi 新天地

XinTianDi literally means ‘New Heaven and Earth‘. In Chinese language, this ‘Heaven and Earth’ is usually referred to as a realm or world. Hence XinTianDi is a ‘new world’. This statement is both right and wrong, because while basking in its unique atmosphere and architecture does make one feel like you are in a different world, the elements of XinTianDi is not exactly foreign within the city of Shanghai. Conversely, XinTianDi represents the very blend of western and eastern influence existing in Shanghai.

XinTianDi is considered one of the first lifestyle centres in China and currently still an active and popular spot for both tourists and locals alike. Here, you can find retail, entertainment, cultural, recreational, commercial and residential facilities in restored Shikumen houses (an architectural style distinctive of Shanghai which combines western and eastern elements).

Shikumen houses are restored to create XinTianDi's unique architecture style of old and modern.

Artistically ancient architecture coupled with modern and trendy interior is what makes XinTianDi special. Fashionable boutiques, designer shops, restaurants and cafes can be found at every corner. The open-air bars are especially popular; sipping your drinks whilst basking in the atmosphere is a relaxing and culturally enriching experience.

Get enthralled by the nightlife at XinTianDi, which is when the place really becomes alive.

Nightlife at XinTianDi. Lively crowds in the restaurant bars. Some halloween decorations added to the festive mood seen in this photo.

Coloured lightings give XinTianDi alleys a serene and mysterious feel.

There are a number of outstanding stores in XinTianDi, click here and get more information about them.

TianZiFang 田子坊

TianZiFang is a residential area near downtown Shanghai. It is transformed and furnished by old houses of the Shikumen architecture style.

TianZiFang is similar to XinTianDi but also special in its own ways. It has become a place which is embraced by the artistic community in Shanghai. You can find many contemporary Art galleries, studios and craft shops. There are also bars and fashion boutiques here. Walking down the narrow lane of TianZiFang, you will be forgiven for wondering if you were really in Cosmopolitan Shanghai.

TianZiFang is not just about the mix of old and refurbished brick houses. Strolling along the alleys, you will find the atmosphere inspiring and refreshing.

TianZiFang Art Galleries

With many artists and local designers setting up boutiques and laid-back cafes, TianZiFang draws crowds of yuppies, fashionistas, designers, expatriates as well as visitors with its alluring charms.

Art Galleries, craft shops, fashion boutiques and cafes in brick house styled architecture give TianZiFang a unique and vibrant atmosphere.

At night, TianZiFang lights up with a different charm.

TianZiFang night scene

Contemporary Chinese Art hangs along the alleys of TianZiFang

Info

TianZiFang Address: Lane 210 Taikang Road

Hengshan Road 衡山路

About 2.3 kilometres long, Hengshan Road was first constructed in 1922 by Police Consulaire Francaise. Its old name was Beidang Road, and was renamed “Hengshan Road” in Oct. 1943. Its over 80-year history has left many outstanding historical architectures and human landscapes for Hengshan Road now.

One end of the Hengshan Road connects to the bustling Xujiahui District, where many young white collars work in foreign-founded enterprises. The other end adjoins to the areas of embassies and high-class residences, inhabited mostly by expatiates and the more well-to-do locals.

Recently, along with the increasing prosperity of Xujiahui business circle, Hengshan Road ceaselessly rediscovers its cultural and historical extract details, combining the business and tourism, and putting priority on the development of businesses such as the catering industry of different countries’ tastes and customs, leisure bars, entertainment and bodybuilding.

Hengshan Road has now built an atmosphere of unique individuality, enterprise culture and management characteristics. It is a leisure and characteristic street of New Shanghai with an European taste.

Duolun Road 多伦路

Located in Hongkou District, Duolun Road is a peaceful taste of the past behind busy Sichuan Road. The villas, which line this pedestrianized road, are attractive examples of the Chinese and International architecture styles of this former American concession area.

Today the road is home to a fascinating selection of art and antique shops as well as the more usual souvenirs stalls selling Chinese curios and collectibles.

Duolun Road was once a popular haunt of many eminent figures from Shanghai’s past. Life size bronze figures of some of the road’s former patrons are poised at intervals around the beautifully paved road and add some extra historical perspective.

Shanghai Museums and Theatres

Shanghai Museum 上海博物馆

As a museum of ancient Chinese art, Shanghai Museum possesses a collection of 120,000 precious works of art. Its rich and high-quality collection of ancient Chinese bronze, ceramics, painting and calligraphy is specially celebrated in the world.

History of Shanghai Museum

Founded and first open to the public in the building previously of the horseracing club at no.325 W. Nanjing Road in 1952 and then moved into the former Zhonghui Building at no.16 S. Henan Road in 1959, the museum developed very quickly in aspects of acquisition, conservation, research, exhibition, education and cultural exchanges with other institutes.

In 1992, the Shanghai municipal government allocated to the Museum a piece of land at the very center of the city, the People’s Square, as its new site. The whole construction took three years, from August 1993 to its inauguration on October 12th, 1996.

The 29.5 meters high building has a construction space of 39,200 square meters. Its unique architectural form of a round top with a square base, symbolizing the ancient Chinese philosophy that the square earth is under the round sky, is a distinguished architectural combination of traditional feature and modern spirit. The present Shanghai Museum has eleven galleries and three special temporary exhibition halls.

Info

Shanghai Museum Address: No.188 Wusheng Road, People’s Square

Opening hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm (9:00am – 8:00pm)

Entrance Fee: Free

Shanghai Science and Technology Museum 上海科技馆

As the primary site for the APEC meeting in 2001, Shanghai Science and Technology Museum is a rising helicoids structure that resembles the advancement of science and technology. Located in Shanghai City, Shanghai Science and Technology Museum has a spacious construction area of 68,000 square meters and a total floor area of 98,000 square meters.

The museum’s themes, “Nature, Human, Science and Technology“, are well integrated into all aspects of its features. The Shanghai Science and Technology Museum features exhibitions, science and technology education, scientific studies and exchange, collections and productions, and tourism in Shanghai. With 12 various exhibition halls, four scientific theatres and many interactive stations, Shanghai Science and Technology Museum offers all kinds of entertainments and information about science and technology. Shanghai Science and Technology Museum contains a large 3-D screen cinema and a 4-D screen cinema that provides spectacular experiences for its visitors.

Info

Shanghai Science and Technology Museum Address: No.2000 Pudong Century Avenue

Opening hours: 9:00am – 5:30pm (closed on Monday)

Entrance Fee: 60RMB

Shanghai Grand Theater 上海大剧院

Shanghai Grand Theater is located to the north of People’s Square in the heart of the city. Since its opening on August 27, 1998, the Shanghai Grand Theater has staged operas, musicals, ballets, symphonies, chamber music concerts, spoken dramas and various Chinese operas.

The construction of the Grand Theater lasted four years from 1994 to 1998. The theater covers an area of 11,528 square meters, with 10 stories, two underground, six making up the theatre and two above. The Grand Theater houses three stages: a 1,800-seat main stage for ballets, operas and symphonies, a 600-seat medium theater for chamber orchestras and a small 200-seat auditorium for dramas and fashion shows.

The elegantly decorated lobby covers approximately 2000 square meters. A large chandelier, shaped like six pan-pipes, is suspended in the lobby. The floor is made of a rare marble called “Greece Crystal White”. The floor has piano keyboard patterns, together with the pillars and the stairs, making the lobby seem full of rhythms.

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall 上海城市规划展示馆

The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall is a six-story building, with two basement levels, which displays Shanghai’s urban planning and development. Exhibitions include models of planned and recent developments, as well as Shanghai’s history. The centerpiece of the exhibition is a huge scale model of the city of Shanghai, showing all existing and approved buildings. Visitors can view the model at “ground level”, or ascend a gallery running around it for views from above.

The model is intended to represent the entire city, including all planned developments. However, a few stout pillars, necessitated by the building design, penetrate the scale model. This means certain areas are missing from the model, and views of the model are sometimes obscured by the columns.

Info

Address: No.100 Renmin Avenue

Opening hours:

9:00am – 5:00pm (Monday — Thursday)

9:00am – 6:00pm (Friday – Sunday)

Entrance Fee: 30RMB

Shanghai Art Museum 上海美术馆

The Shanghai Art Museum (上海美术馆) is an art gallery in the city of Shanghai. It is located in the former clubhouse building of the Shanghai Racing Club. Today, it is the home of the Shanghai biennial and stands adjacent to People’s Square. It sits on the edge of People’s Square, and was once the Shanghai Horse Racing course.

The Shanghai Art Museum features 12 exhibition halls, located on five floors and exhibiting a mixture of modern and traditional fine art. Various temporary art shows are also organised regularly and often support local artists. Visitors can take sketching and painting lessons for a small fee, and popular art lectures are held regularly at the gallery.

Info

Address: No.325 Nanjing West Road

Opening hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm

Entrance Fee: 20RMB

More of Shanghai

Next we will bring you to some popular shopping spots in the bustling metropolis of Shanghai in our next article!

Learn Some Mandarin