China s drive into the 21st century has been fueled by the relationship—and competition—between Beijing, considered by some observers to be the capital of capitals in China, and Shanghai, the nation s economic growth engine. The political and cultural history of China since 1850 has, in many ways, been shaped by Beijing s exercise of policy over what was once a small shipping port and fishing centre. In little more than a century, Shanghai has cast off these nets and is rising to be the region s leading economic metropolis, a position it seems determined to hold, this time with Beijing s blessing. As Beijing bounds forward to host the 2008 Olympics, its majesty, well reflected in its cultural gems—the Forbidden City, The Temple of Heaven and the Ming Tombs—remains unfettered by the country s economic development.This vibrant second edition of Beijing & Shanghai brings readers up-to-date on what s hot and what s cool in China s twin cities. Combining the latest information about restoration, entertainment, transportation and accommodation with historical writing, Beijing & Shanghai is the sophisticated guide to urban China that travelers have always wanted. 230 color photos, 17 maps.