Shanghai's Hidden Gem: Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel & Jinshanzhui Fishing Village!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into the delightful, occasionally chaotic world of Shanghai's hidden gem: the Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel & Jinshanzhui Fishing Village! Forget those sterile, cookie-cutter hotel reviews – this is the real deal, warts and all, and trust me, I've got some juicy warts to share. This review will be a slightly deranged, incredibly detailed, and ultimately, honest account of my stay. So grab a cup of tea (or something stronger, you’ll need it), and let's get started.
First Impressions & Accessibility (and Why I Almost Lost It in a Taxi):
Finding this place is… an adventure. Let's just say my taxi driver, a lovely but directionally challenged gentleman, took us on a scenic tour of Shanghai that involved a lot of frantic hand gestures and me questioning my life choices. The Jinshanzhui Fishing Village itself, where the hotel is nestled, feels wonderfully off the grid. Think less "Times Square" and more "charming, slightly run-down fishing village with surprisingly good seafood".
Accessibility: Okay, important stuff. The hotel claims "Facilities for disabled guests". I didn't personally experience this, but the website mentions elevators (essential!), and I did see ramps. Important Note: Double-check with the hotel directly if you have specific accessibility needs. Don't rely on my semi-informed ramblings! Getting TO the place, however… well, prepare for some navigational gymnastics.
Internet Access (Oh, the Joy of Being Connected… or Not):
Internet: Yeah, well, it's there. Wi-Fi is "free" in all rooms, which is always a win. Internet [LAN]: I think there's a LAN connection for the hardcore tech types. I’m more of a “can I stream Netflix in my pajamas?” kinda girl, so I didn’t bother. Internet services: Standard offerings like email access and such. My biggest issue? Remembering my password after a few too many happy hours (ahem).
Cleanliness and Safety (Because Nobody Wants a Zombie Apocalypse in Their Hotel Room):
Alright, let's be blunt. Cleanliness and safety are a HUGE deal, especially post-pandemic. And I’m happy to report that the Jinjiang Metropolo takes this seriously. Hand sanitizer stations are everywhere. Anti-viral cleaning products are clearly being used. Daily disinfection in common areas is a thing. Rooms sanitized between stays, yep. I even saw staff going at it with some serious sterilizing equipment! I mean, bordering on excessive, but hey, I ain’t complaining! Individually-wrapped food options, check. Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, yup. Staff trained in safety protocol – you bet. They looked like they’d seen some things. Some serious things. I felt safe, which is a massive thumbs-up. Oh, and there were smoke alarms, a fire extinguisher, and a fire alarm.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (My Personal Playground):
Okay, now we’re talking. This is where Jinjiang Metropolo really shines.
- Restaurants: Several, with a mix of Asian cuisine and at least one aiming at International cuisine.
- Breakfast [buffet]: A massive spread. Think everything from the usual bacon and eggs (Western breakfast) to seriously delicious noodles and dumplings (Asian breakfast). Pro-tip: Hit the dim sum early. It disappears fast!
- Coffee shop: Essential for fueling my caffeine addiction.
- Poolside bar: YES! Nothing beats sipping a cocktail while gazing out at the… well, a pool. We’ll get to the pool.
- Snack bar: Convenient for those late-night munchies when the room service is on the fritz (which, let’s be honest, it occasionally will be – more on that later).
- Room service [24-hour]: Blessedly available. Though sometimes it felt more like 24-hour-ish. Order early. Be patient. Worth it.
- Happy hour - Oh, the happy hour… Let's just say, this is a place to be happy.
- A la carte in restaurant: Yes, yes, and yes, even with their alternative meal arrangement.
A Side Note on the Breakfast (And Why I Almost Started a Riot):
Okay, the breakfast buffet. Magnificent. Seriously, a feast for the eyes (and the stomach). But here’s the thing: the sheer volume of options can be paralyzing. I spent a good 20 minutes wandering around, trying to decide between the congee and the… look, it was all delicious. But the lines… the crowds…it was a little chaotic. My advice? Embrace the chaos. And grab a plate of those dumplings first. You will regret it if you don't.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax (Or, How I Almost Became Indistinguishable from a Jellyfish):
This is where things get interesting.
- Spa/sauna: They have one! I didn't personally experience it, but the website promised Body scrub, Body wrap, Massage therapy and Sauna.
- Gym/fitness: A fitness center is listed.
- Swimming pool [outdoor]: Here’s the deal. The pool is… picturesque. View doesn’t quite live up to the hype. It’s still a pool, though. And a very welcome one after a day of exploring.
- Foot bath: Really wish I had tried this. Maybe next time!
The Pool – An Unforgettable Experience (Even If I Did Forget My Sunscreen):
Okay, the pool deserves its own paragraph. It's not enormous, and the view… well, let's just say I've seen better. But it's a pool. Clean, refreshing, and perfect for cooling off after a day of Shanghai adventures. Here’s my confession: I’m a total pool person. I spent hours there, alternating between swimming and lounging with a book in the sun. I also, regrettably, forgot my sunscreen on day one. Let's just say I resembled a lobster for a good 24 hours. Ouch. Learn from my mistake, people! Pack the SPF! But the pool? Still a winner.
Services and Conveniences (The Stuff that Makes Life Easier… Mostly):
- Concierge: Helpful, friendly, and surprisingly good at understanding my broken Mandarin.
- Daily housekeeping: Excellent. My room was always spotless, even after I'd thoroughly trashed it.
- Doorman: Always a friendly face to greet you.
- Elevator: Crucial.
- Cash withdrawal: In case you run out of Yuan after hitting the happy hour.
- Food delivery: Got a little hungry? This is your fix.
- Laundry service: Because, let’s be honest, who wants to do laundry on vacation?
- Luggage storage: Convenient.
- Safety deposit boxes: Always a good idea.
For the Kids (Because, You Know, Families):
- Babysitting service Not sure I'd trust anyone to watch me, but hey, if you have little ones, this is a plus!
- Kids facilities Definitely a little something.
- Kids meal Yes, you can keep the young ones fed!
Available in All Rooms (The Essentials, and a Few Surprises):
- Air conditioning: Phew! Shanghai gets HOT and HUMID.
- Free bottled water: Always appreciated.
- Coffee/tea maker: Essential for early mornings.
- Hair dryer: Check.
- Internet access – wireless: Wi-Fi, baby!
- Mini bar: Sadly, mine was mostly empty. But maybe I just drank everything?
- Non-smoking: Standard.
- Private bathroom: Duh.
- Refrigerator: Helpful for keeping those drinks cool.
- Satellite/cable channels: For when you’re too exhausted to leave your room.
- Wake-up service: Useful if you need to get up early (or actually, late).
- Wi-Fi [free]: Winning again. This stuff is available in all the rooms including: Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Blackout curtains, Closet, Desk, Extra long bed, Hair dryer, In-room safe box, Ironing facilities, Linens, Mirror, On-demand movies, Reading light, Safety/security feature, Seating area, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels.
Getting Around (The Saga Continues):
- Airport transfer: Available. Book it!
- Car park [free of charge]: Bonus!
- Taxi service: Read my taxi driver anecdote above. Use with caution. Or, you know, just use the hotel’s transfer
Okay, buckle up Buttercups. This isn't your perfectly curated Instagram travel post. This is the REAL DEAL of my recent Shanghai adventure, centered around crashing at the Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel – Shanghai Jinshanzhui Fishing Village. Prepare for the beautiful mess that is me, on the road.
Day 1: Arrival, Jet Lagged and Hangry (and Possibly Slightly Delusional)
- Morning (or what I think is morning): Landed in Shanghai. The air tasted like…well, Shanghai. A mix of promise and something vaguely industrial. I was running on about 3 hours of sleep, fueled by lukewarm airplane coffee. Getting through passport control felt like an eternity. Honestly, I think that security agent looked at me with a mixture of pity and amusement. I probably looked like a walking zombie.
- Mid-Day: The Metro! Yes, my first brush with the legendary Shanghai subway system. Terrifying and exhilarating at the same time. Managed to navigate it relatively unscathed, though I may have almost elbowed a very elegant elderly woman. I swear, it was an accident! Finding Jinshanzhui Fishing Village was a bit of a trek, but the hotel was a sight for sore eyes. The Metropolo? Clean lines, slightly dated, but hey, it had a bed and a shower, and right now, that's all that mattered.
- Afternoon: The Great Dumpling Debacle: Found a tiny restaurant near the hotel. I’d heard stories of incredible Shanghai dumplings. I found the place, and I found them… and I ordered a mountain of them. They were incredible, the soup in the juicy bits making me close my eyes with every bite. I think I may have cried a little bit from pure joy. The owner just gave me a knowing smile. I felt a connection that transcended language. Then, disaster struck. I, in my jet-lagged delirium, spilled a HUGE amount of soy sauce. It looked like a miniature flood. I apologized profusely. He shrugged and just… brought me more dumplings. Bless him.
- Evening: Bed. Sweet, Glorious Bed: Collapsed into the comfy bed. Tried to stay awake to combat the jet lag, but I gave up after 20 minutes and passed out.
Day 2: Fishing Village Charm (Sort Of), Shanghai Serenity (Maybe), and Seafood…Lots and Lots of Seafood.
- Morning: The Coastal Mirage: Woke up, convinced the world was ending. Jet lag is a monster, people. Dragged myself out of bed and attempted to explore Jinshanzhui Fishing Village. Okay, a bit underwhelming. The "fishing village" aspect was a bit… sanitized? It felt a little bit like a theme park version of a fishing village. But, I did wander along the coast. Salty air, seagulls, and the faint smell of…fish. This is where it got interesting.
- Afternoon: The Seafood Odyssey: I dedicated the day to seafood. And, as I understand it, the area is known for it. I sought out a tiny seafood restaurant. Forget fancy Michelin-starred dining. This was the real deal. The woman, who reminded me of my own grandma, brought out platters piled with…everything. Shrimp, crab, some creature that looked vaguely alien. I ate everything. Every. Single. Thing. The flavor was unlike anything I'd ever experienced. The sweetness of the crab alone was worth the trip. I think I may have become part-crab.
- Evening: The Beach at Dusk: It was magical. The sun dipped into the sea, the colors exploding across the sky. I sat on a bench, listening to the waves, feeling strangely content. I felt like I could actually breathe. The kind of moment worth the jet lag, the slightly touristy fishing village, and the near-death experience with the soy sauce.
Day 3: Shanghai - It's a Whale of a Time
- Morning: A Day Trip into The City: Took the train into Shanghai proper. I could taste the adventure. Headed straight for the Bund. Okay, it was crowded and touristy. But the view! The towering skyscrapers, the history, the sheer scale of it all… It took my breath away.
- Afternoon: The Tea Ceremony: Dove into the world of tea. I visited a traditional tea house. I was feeling a strong need for calm, and what a place to have one! I learned about the different types of tea, the rituals, and the art of tea making. It was a moment of pure zen. The tea master, a wise woman with knowing eyes, helped me to focus. I actually felt myself unwind – and then I realized I was probably hallucinating again.
- Evening: Back to 'The Village': Final Reflections: Returned to the Jinjiang Metropolo. While it wasn't exactly a luxurious resort, I had really begun to enjoy this place. It was safe, clean, and it felt like…well, home base. I sat at the window with a bottle of local beer, looking out at the quiet night. The whole experience had been a beautiful, messy, delicious adventure.
Day 4: Departure (and the inevitable post-travel blues)
- Morning: Woke up in a slight panic. Did I really enjoy the trip? Was I a tourist? I should probably take one last, long look around the fishing village. Walked down to the coastline again, had a final breakfast of noodles, and headed to the airport.
- Afternoon: Saying goodbye to Shanghai was bittersweet. I left with a full belly, a slightly lighter wallet, and a heart full of memories. Was Jinshanzhui Fishing Village exactly what I expected? No. Was the Metropolo Hotel a five-star experience? Nope. But was it an adventure? Absolutely. And that, my friends, is all that matters.
Quirky Observations/Imperfections/Rambles:
- I still don't understand the logic of the squat toilets.
- I've never eaten so much seafood in my life. My cholesterol levels are probably through the roof. Worth it.
- I bought a ridiculous paper fan that I will probably never use again.
- Shanghai traffic is…an experience. I mostly closed my eyes.
- I think I’m going to need a vacation from my vacation.
- This trip reminded me that sometimes, the most memorable moments are those we don't plan, the ones we stumble upon (or accidentally spill soy sauce on). And also -- sometimes, you just need more dumplings.
This is My Shanghai, messy, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable. Don't be afraid to embrace the chaos, people. That's where the magic happens. Now, where's my next adventure?
Winterberg Balcony Bliss: Your Dream Apartment Awaits!
Shangai's Secret Spot: FAQs about Jinjiang Metropolo & Jinshanzhui! (Brace Yourself...)
Okay, spill! Is the Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel actually *good*? I've seen some, uh, *interesting* reviews online...
Alright, deep breath. Here's the deal. The *Jinjiang Metropolo*? It’s…a *vibe*, okay? Think "charmingly faded grandeur meets budget-friendly practicality." Forget five-star luxury. This is about authentic Shanghai, scars and all. I've stayed there twice. The first time, the wallpaper in my room was peeling, but hey, at least the air conditioning worked, and that was a GOLDEN GODSEND in the Shanghai summer. The second time, the staff seemed to magically appear whenever you needed them. Seriously. It's a gamble, but a *charming* gamble. They're not going to win any design awards, but they're probably secretly really good at making you forget your troubles.
Jinshanzhui Fishing Village – Is it really worth hauling myself out there? It sounds…remote.
Remote? Honey, picture this: you're on a crowded subway, surrounded by a sea of faces. Then, you emerge…and suddenly you're in a fishing village! Jinshanzhui is pure, unadulterated escapism. Yes, getting there takes a bit, but it's part of the adventure. The first time I went, I ended up on the wrong bus for about an hour, speaking zero Mandarin, waving my arms wildly at the bewildered bus driver. But when I finally got there? *Worth it*. The sea air hits you, the smell of fresh seafood fills your lungs, and the stress just…vanishes. It's the antidote to Shanghai's hustle.
Seafood! Let's talk food. Is the seafood actual *good* seafood in Jinshanzhui? Like, fresh-off-the-boat-good?
Oh. My. God. The seafood. Okay, I'm getting hungry just *thinking* about it. Forget everything you think you know about frozen fish sticks. Jinshanzhui is where seafood dreams are made. The restaurants along the waterfront are…informal, shall we say. Think plastic tables, boisterous locals, and mountains of fresh catches. You walk along, pointing at the *enormous* crabs, the glistening fish, the…things I couldn't even name (but ate with gusto). The first time, I was so overwhelmed, I just pointed at a fish that looked particularly angry and demanded they cook it. It was the best meal of my life. Seriously, I almost cried.
Any tips for navigating Jinshanzhui? I don't speak Mandarin…
Okay, Mandarin-challenged friend, fear not! Here’s the secret weapon: hand gestures, pointing, and a smile. Seriously. Most people are incredibly patient and helpful. Learn a few basic phrases like "xie xie" (thank you) and "ni hao" (hello). Download a translation app – it's a lifesaver. And be prepared for some hilarious communication breakdowns. The first time, I tried ordering a beer, and the waiter thought I was trying to adopt his pet chicken. We eventually sorted it out…with a lot of laughter. Just embrace the chaos, and you'll be fine. And don't be afraid to look lost. That's half the fun!
What's the best time to visit Jinshanzhui?
Weekends are busy. Very busy. The crowds can be intense, and the restaurants can fill up fast. But that also means a bustling atmosphere, and more options for food. If you want tranquility, aim for a weekday visit. If you want the full, crazy experience, embrace the weekend chaos. Personally, I love going in the spring or fall, when the weather is perfect. The summer can be scorching, and the winter...well, Shanghai winters can be brutal. But honestly? There's magic to be found in Jinshanzhui any time of year.
Is there anything *else* to do in Jinshanzhui besides eat seafood? (Crazy, I know!)
Okay, okay, I hear you. While the seafood is the main event, there's more! Stroll along the waterfront, watch the fishermen hauling in their catch (it’s mesmerizing!), and soak up the atmosphere. There are small shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. There’s a pretty pier where you can take photos. The views of the ocean are a welcome change from the concrete jungle of Shanghai. But honestly? *Mostly* the seafood. Don't fight it. Just embrace it. I took a walk along the beach once, to feel like I was "doing something", and it was, well, a walk. The seafood, though... that’s where it's at. Every. Single. Time!
Anything I should avoid? Any horror stories to prepare me for?
Patience is a virtue, especially in China. Delays happen. Lost in translation happens. Be prepared for some things to *not* go according to plan. The one time I was there, there was a massive power outage. No lights, no air conditioning, nada. My friend, who I was with, was convinced we were trapped. We weren’t (we had to walk 20 minutes, which was an adventure in itself) but it was *memorable*... in a sweaty, slightly terrifying kind of way! The moral of the story? Pack a portable charger and bring a sense of humor. And maybe a small flashlight.
So, final verdict. Is it worth the trip?
Absolutely. Absolutely. If you're looking for a polished, perfectly curated tourist experience, go somewhere else. But if you want raw, real, and utterly delicious Shanghai, the Jinjiang Metropolo and Jinshanzhui are calling your name. It's not perfect. It's a bit rough around the edges. But it's unforgettable. Go. Eat all the seafood. Get lost. Laugh a lot. And be prepared to fall a little bit in love with this hidden gem. I know I did.
