Shanghai Daily News

Anting, the home of motor sport in Shanghai, has put Jiading District on the map as the China headquarters for many of the world's biggest auto companies as well as the city's Formula One race track.

This week's guide book profiles this fast-growing northwestern district where a visiting carnival kicks off today and several racing events are set to take place at the Shanghai International Circuit over the next couple of months.

Freij Carnival

Shanghai's passion for carnivals will undoubtedly get as hot as the weather as the United Arab Emirates-based Freij Entertainment returns to the city today with a host of new amusements and games for all to enjoy.

The 100,000-square-meter carnival has shifted location this year, moving from its previous base in Pudong to the Shanghai International Circuit near the satellite town of Anting.

The carnival features 45 amusements ranging from physically-challenging rides such as the Mega Drop and Kami Kage, to the exciting Sling Shot and Crazy Surf. The fair also features the world's longest roller coaster and highest Ferris wheel. There are also games of chance to test your skill and the always popular carnival food.

Address: 2000 Yining Road, Anting Town

Tel: 5957-5000

When: Today through September 10

Hours: Weekdays 10am to 9pm; weekends 10am to 10pm

Price: 50 yuan (US$6.25) for 10 tokens; 300 yuan for 38 activities

Transport: Several bus lines are providing free shuttles to the carnival. Buses depart from Shanghai Stadium and Hongkou Football Stadium.

Shanghai International Circuit

This uniquely-shaped race track, designed by German architects Hermann Tilke and Peter Wahl, was inspired by the shape of the Chinese character "shang." It stands for "high and above." In addition, other symbols from Chinese history were manifested through the various team buildings which were arranged like pavilions on a lake to resemble Shanghai's ancient Yuyan Garden.

One of the circuit's most impressive features is the extraordinary main grandstand. It has a capacity for 29,000 spectators and provides a spectacular view of almost 80 percent of the circuit.

During the Freij Carnival period, professional auto and motorcycle racers will demonstrate their skill on the circuit. Other attractions such as stunt diving shows and stunt driving performances will also entertain the crowds. A celebrity charity race will close the fair in September.

Address: 2000 Yining Road

Tel: 5956-0999

Kart World

For those who can't afford the high ticket prices involved with F1 racing, kart racing is considered a low-cost alternative and a relatively safe way to introduce new fans to motor racing.

Kart World, conveniently located beside the circuit, was completed two years ago and features a world-class facility and top racing instructors. The circuit's track is 1,234 meters in length and eight to 12 meters wide. Drivers can choose between the slow track and fast track, depending on their ability. The track operators encourage those with a driver's license to visit the facility to experience the first-hand thrill of racing.

Tel: 6956-9713

Price: Slow track: 30 yuan for three minutes; Fast track: 180 yuan for eight minutes

Royal Park Restaurant

This lakeside restaurant situated beside Shimin Park in Anting Town specializes in Cantonese food. The restaurant's second floor provides the best view of the park. Unlike other Chinese restaurants that seldom change their menu, Royal Park updates its offerings monthly. The star attraction for July is smoked duck. The birds, each weighing four to five kilograms, go through 11 different preparation techniques when being cooked. In short, they are smoked, steamed and fried. A special sauce, pu'er tea leaf, a famous tea material originating in Yunnan Province, is the highlight of this visually-spectacular feast. For big spenders, the restaurant also has abalone which costs a staggering 20,000 yuan per person.

Other recommended dishes include the dry braised prawns with soya sauce and the wine-preserved green crab.

Address: Block A, Shimin Square, Anting Town

Tel: 5956-0777, 5956-0588

Price: 100 yuan a person on average