Shanghai is divided by the Huangpu River. The area to the west of the river is referred to as Puxi; the area to the east is called Pudong. Below is information regarding the most popular districts for expatriates to live in.
Changning (Puxi)
A small part of Changning District is located in downtown Shanghai. In this section is Zhongshan Park, one of Shanghai's many large public parks. The rest of the district is referred to locally as Hongqiao and Gubei, and offers a step away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Shanghai. Hongqiao is best known for its airport, zoo, and communities of expatriate families, as well as the large number of international schools and kindergartens situated there. Gubei is a residential area within Hongqiao with many apartment compounds catering especially to expatriates.
Hongkou (Puxi)
Hongkou District is located in the northeast part of the city bordering the Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek. Here you will find Hongkou Park, where the Chinese philosopher and writer Lu Xun lived and worked, as well as Hongkou Stadium where football is played. The part of the district bordering the Huangpu River is currently being developed as a residential and entertainment area dubbed the "New Bund".
Huangpu (Puxi)
Huangpu District is located in the center of downtown Shanghai and is the most popular destination among tourists. At the eastern edge of the district is The Bund, which refers to the historical buildings and wharves that line the western bank of the Huangpu River. At night, expatriates flock to The Bund to enjoy many of Shanghai's most upscale restaurants, bars and nightclubs, while taking in the most picturesque view of the Pudong skyline. Also located in Huangpu are City Hall, Shanghai Grand Theater, historic Yu Garden, and People's Square.
Jing'an (Puxi)
Jing'an District is home to Jing'an Temple, built over 1760 years ago during the Three Kingdoms Period. The district is located in the center of downtown Shanghai, and is a favorite neighborhood for expatriates and Chinese alike. Many head over to West Nanjing Road for arguably the best shopping in the city. Jing'an District also has the highest concentrations of 4 and 5 star hotels and includes many famous skyscrapers, such as Plaza 66 and the Kerry Center.
Luwan (Puxi)
Luwan District is located just south of People's Square. It is part of the old French Concession area, famous for its boulevards and tree-lined streets. In the northern part of Luwan is one of the best sections of Huaihai Road, where you can find luxury brands and fine dining establishments. Also in Luwan is Xintiandi, an outdoor retail and dining venue famous among expatriates, and Fuxing Park, a favorite destination for Shanghai nightlife.
Xuhui (Puxi)
Xuhui District is centered around Xujiahui, a major commercial hub famous for its large department stores and shopping centers. Xuhui is one of the most prestigious living areas in Shanghai and shares with Luwan the beautiful characteristics of the old French Concession. The district has the lowest population density in downtown Shanghai, but boasts the highest concentration of scientific and cultural institutions. Among Xuhui's landmarks are the St. Ignatius Cathedral of Shanghai, the former residence of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, and prestigious Jiaotong University.
Pudong
Pudong District comprises the area of Shanghai east of the Huangpu River. Pudong was mostly farmland as late as the early 1990s, but stands today as a testament to the strength of the growing Chinese economy. Pudong encompasses an area far greater than any other districts and is much quieter and more spacious than Puxi. Pudong is where you find many of the largest and most spacious homes, golf courses, and most renowned international schools in the city. The section of Pudong known as Lujiazui is the financial hub of China and is home to the head offices of many international banks and financial institutions. The most famous and symbolic skyscrapers in Shanghai - notably the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and the Jin Mao Tower - stand side-by-side in Lujiazui.