Awesome season for Shanghai sights

From ancient architecture to modern marvels, the fall adds color and crowds to vibrant megacity

From the mesmerizing autumn light that bathes everything in a sheen of gold to the cool, crisp weather and iconic plane trees that are slowly but surely shedding their red and yellow leaves, everything seems so beautiful in Shanghai during the season.

Be it the old cobbled paths running between ancient shikumen architecture, the modern streets in the city center or the picturesque waterfront routes that flank Suzhou Creek, every corner of Shanghai brims with an infectious energy this time of the year.

No matter the time of day, people can be seen shooting the breeze and reveling in the pleasant weather at alfresco cafes and restaurants, and the parks are always a hive of activity. Shutterbugs often have to jostle to snap the best shots in the parks, alongside throngs of others who are either taking leisurely strolls, walking their dogs or performing tai chi as the sun sets.

Indeed, if there is ever a time that Shanghai can seem even more energetic than it is already known for, autumn would be it.

It is perhaps most befitting that the China International Import Expo is held every November, for now is the opportune time to showcase Shanghai to the world.