The two Chinese characters in the name "Shanghai" literally mean "on" and "sea". In Mandarin the meaning is "go onto the sea", which is consistent with the seaport status of the city. The city has had various nicknames including "Paris of the East," "Queen of the Orient," and "Pearl of the Orient." The Yangpu District, meaning "Willow Bank," is one of the 19 districts in Shanghai. It is located in the northeast of Shanghai, bordering the Huanpu River. The southern part of Yangpu District is a major residential area with a population of some 1.24 million. Situated in northern Yangpu District are two of China's most distinguished universities, Fudan University and Tongji University.
Historically very Western in lifestyle, Shanghai is increasingly a critical center of communication with the Western world. Visitors to Shanghai find free public parks manicured to startling perfection in distinct contrast to the massive industrial installations. Shanghai’s international diversity is perhaps the world's foremost window of opportunity into the rich, historic and complex society of today's China.
The Winston-Salem Sister Cities Board has two members native to Shanghai, as well as several members who have traveled there. The WSSC Board is confident that this partnership will be both interesting and beneficial to both cities and looks forward to a long and rewarding relationship.
