Shanghai Daily News

Pudong boasts not only towering skyscrapers but also historic relics. Such antiquities are often hidden among the high-rises.

Among its historic sites are the former residences of Soong Ching Ling, known as Madame Sun Yat-sen (forerunner of China's democratic revolution), Huang Yanpei, chairman of the First and Second Central Committee of the China National Democratic Construction Association, Hu Shi, the famous philosopher, diplomat and promoter of the Chinese renaissance, and Zhang Wentian, the Chinese revolutionary. All spent their adolescent years in Pudong. Here are a few suggestions on where to go to see history.

Wu Bingsheng residence

The famed local architect built this 3,200-square-meter house in 1933 in a typical "szu-ho-yuan" (compound) style with gray bricks and tiles built around a courtyard. Unlike other traditional Chinese architects, Wu chose to use concrete instead of wood and brick to build the walls and paths. This was considered a brave decision at the time but the strength of the materials used made the residence strong enough to stand up to wind and attack.

In its three yards, there are five ancient trees, each aged more than 200 years. The structure of the building features carefully carved roof beams depicting Chinese dragons and beautifully painted walls showing the ancient fairy tale of the Eight Immortals. In addition, the residence is a perfect combination of East and West. Wu's pioneering architectural concept is evident in the Western-style materials and furniture used in the house.

Address: 5 Shenjianong, Gaoqiao Town

Tel: 5046-3632

Price: Free

Huang Yanpei's former residence

This two-story house in Chuansha Town was built in 1859 by Shen Shuyong, a court secretary and a collector during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). The high-ranking official collected hundreds of priceless Chinese paintings and calligraphies. These include inscriptions from the Han Dynasty (206BC-220AD), stones from the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and sculptures from six different dynasties.

In 1878, Huang, an educator and chairman of the CNDCA, was born here. He opened schools, constructed railways and built factories. When he heard that Japan was to invade China and the authorities were doing nothing, he burst into tears.

This house was also the birthplace of Soong Ching Ling and her two sisters. She spent her childhood here. The residence is said to have three courtyards, but because of the city's renovation, only one is left. What remains is under careful preservation. Zhu Qi, a special type of paint, has been applied to the floor to protect its original look. Wooden walls and china vases are displayed with great care.

Stepping on the brittle floor and smelling the fragrance of the orchids, one can feel as if he is back in days of yore.

Address: 1 Lane, 74 Nanshi Road, Chuansha Town

Tel: 5892-1865

Price: 2 yuan

Zhang Wentian's former residence

Situated in Dengsan Village, Zhang's residence is more like a farmhouse with its vast gardens of eggplants and cabbages. Known as the great revolutionary, the patriot politician was born on this farm and spent his adolescence years here.

In the house, one can see how Chinese lived in the olden days. A weaving machine, a stone cooking stove and a mill are all on display. All these reflect how this strong supporter of Mao Zedong lived in his early life. Other artifacts displayed include his watch, books and a radio he once used.

Address: 50 Wenju Road, Jichang Town

Tel: 6896-1738

Price: 2 yuan

Da Huchun fried steam bun

This franchise restaurant specializes in fried steam buns, a popular Shanghai delicacy. They are created by using carefully-chosen meat of exceptional quality and sold at an affordable price. An average meal here costs about 10 yuan. Other house specialties include curry soup and dumplings filled with meat and vegetables.

Address: Lane 136, 4 Pudong Avenue

Tel: 5882-5121

Longsheng Japanese cuisine

This restaurant features sumo hot pot. In the dining area, customers can watch live sumo from Japan on a big-screen television via satellite. The owner of the restaurant, Wang Yu, was once a sumo wrestler in Japan.

Address: B1, 855 Pudong Road S.

Tel: 5054-5533