Unlike Beijing, Shanghai Preserves Some History

Preservation in Shanghai isn't without its challenges: historic buildings have been known to be demolished late at night by developers with the tacit approval of the government. But in comparison to much of China, Shanghai is holding on to a significant amount of its cultural heritage.

Dan Levin writes, "The government's motive for such moves is often profit; it has recognized that the city's extraordinary mix of architecture contributes to its tourist appeal. But there has also been pressure from the citizens of Shanghai, who have grown increasingly proud of their city's landscape, including the Western-style architecture, once a symbol of China's subjugation."