CITY CENTER. This central habitat, which is located in the Kunming region of the city, hosts an array of bird and plant species. Traditional Chinese houses, replete with grass roofs, line the streets of the market where a variety of items are sold. One section of the streets is dedicated to flowers and caged birds, hence the name.

OLD CITY. This region of the city was once the site of surrounding walls and many historic buildings. Today, it's dominated by narrow streets and alleyways that hold a treasure of interesting sights. The city is currently undergoing massive restorations, and locals say that since many historic and traditional buildings are being torn down, now is the time to visit. METRO: Huangpi Lu

CITY CENTER. Once the home to the city's racetracks, the region today is a center of culture and the arts. The main focus of the area is the impressive Shanghai Museum. Other interesting sites include the Grand Theater, Exhibition Center, and Art Museum. Be sure and visit the People's Park as well, which sits on the Square. METRO: People's Square

CITY CENTER. Shanghai city is divided into two sections, the Puxi and the Pudong ­ the more recently developed section of the city center. Located on the eastside of the Huangpu River, Pudong is the financial and cultural center. Interesting sightseeing options include the modern buildings and the Oriental Pearl Tower, a uniquely shaped building that offers sweeping views of the city below. Metro: Lujiazui Lu (Line 2)

XUHUI. With 13 million books and manuscripts as well as 20 reading rooms, this is a book lover's haven. The Shanghai Library covers 830,000 square meters and is considered one of the largest libraries in the world. Quite modern, the current site was completed in 1996. The facility has CD-ROM capabilities, AV rooms, and recently merged with the Shanghai Science and Technology Information Research Institute. Architecturally, it features two towers connected to a five-story main structure. METRO: Changshu Lu (Line 1)