Shanghai is a provincial-level direct-administered municipality in the People's Republic of China. It sits on the southern estuary of the Yangtze River, with the Huangpu River bisecting the urban area. As a major administrative center, it serves as one of the country's most significant economic and political hubs, holding global status in finance, business, and technology.

Originally a fishing village, Shanghai gained prominence in the 19th century due to trade and its port location. It became one of five treaty ports after the First Opium War, leading to the establishment of the Shanghai International Settlement and French Concession. The city later served as a primary commercial hub in Asia before undergoing extensive redevelopment following the reform and opening up policies.

The municipality is divided by the Huangpu River into Puxi, the historic core, and Pudong, a modern financial center. The city features diverse architecture, including Art Deco buildings and shikumen houses. Notable landmarks include the Lujiazui skyline, Yu Garden, the City God Temple, and the Bund, reflecting its cosmopolitan history and rapid urban development.

Shanghai is renowned for its cuisine, local language, and vibrant culture. It hosts numerous museums and historic buildings, attracting visitors interested in its blend of Eastern and Western influences. The city is also a major destination for tourism, offering a mix of traditional heritage sites and modern attractions that define its dynamic urban landscape.

The population was 24,870,895 as of 2020. Shanghai is a global center for finance and manufacturing, with the Port of Shanghai being the world's busiest container port. It is served by the Shanghai Metro, the largest metro network by route length, and hosts the Shanghai Stock Exchange, reinforcing its role as a leading international financial center.