My second day in Shanghai

I had started watching videos before remembering I had not written today’s diary. I panicked a little when I noticed. It is already 10:30 at night, and aside from my curiosity, nearly every part of me wants to shut down.

I am at the bus stop at Yan’an West Road and Zhenning Road, waiting for the Route 01 bus to my hotel. Some parts of Shanghai remind me of Japan, especially the generous open space in its urban design. One thing puzzles me: some public information pages have English, Korean, and even Spanish, but no Japanese. I have seen this in several places. I do not know why, and I would rather keep looking for an answer than guess.

Walking along Wukang Road tonight in the mild, low-teen temperatures, I sometimes felt as though I were on a street in Japan. The light was gentle, and there were few people. Those I saw seemed relaxed, strolling in the space beside the road. Everything felt calm. Being here on something like paid leave has let me appreciate the city more fully.

On my second day here, Ping recommended local places to eat. He chose them with my tastes in mind, including both Shanghainese and Western food. He sent links and explained what he liked about each place. I am grateful he took such care.

And so my second day in Shanghai ended happily!