Shanghai for Business Travelers: Complete Guide

Shanghai is China's business capital and a major global financial center. Here is a local's guide for business travelers.

Business Districts

Lujiazui

Pudong's financial district with the iconic skyline. Home to the Shanghai Stock Exchange and headquarters of major banks.

Local's Take: Lujiazui is impressive but not where you want to spend your evenings. It clears out after 7 PM. Stay here for meetings, then cross the river to Puxi for dinner and nightlife.

Jing'an

A major business hub with mixed-use developments, luxury retail, and excellent dining.

Local's Take: Jing'an is the best area to base yourself for business. It has corporate offices, great hotels, and is walking distance to the French Concession for after-work dining and drinks.

Business Hotels

Park Hyatt Shanghai

Occupies floors 79-93 of the Shanghai World Financial Center. The views are extraordinary and the business facilities are excellent.

Pudong Shangri-La

Extensive meeting facilities, a great club lounge, and a riverside location with Bund views.

Jing An Shangri-La

Convenient central location for business meetings with excellent service.

Business Etiquette

Meetings

• Punctuality is important - being late is disrespectful
• Exchange business cards with both hands, Chinese side facing up
• Address people by title and surname (e.g., "Director Wang")
• Hierarchies are respected - the most senior person speaks first

Dining

• Business dinners are common and important for relationship building
• The host orders and pays - do not argue about the bill
• Toasting is expected - it is polite to toast each person at the table
• Leaving food on your plate is acceptable (it shows the host was generous)

Gifts

• Small gifts are appreciated but not expected on first meetings
• Avoid clocks (associated with death), umbrellas (associated with separation), and anything in sets of four
• Present and receive gifts with both hands

Practical Tips

Internet and VPN

A VPN is essential for accessing Google, Gmail, WhatsApp, and other Western services. Set it up before you arrive.

Transportation

• Didi (Chinese Uber) is the most convenient way to get around - the app has an English interface
• The metro is excellent for avoiding traffic during rush hour
• Allow extra time for travel - Shanghai traffic can be unpredictable

Payment

• WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate. Set these up if possible, or carry cash as backup
• International credit cards are accepted at major hotels and upscale restaurants

Shanghai's business environment is sophisticated and internationally oriented. With preparation, business travel here is smooth and rewarding.