Shanghai's got Seoul

Word to the wise: Hongqiao is somewhat suburban; though there is Metro access, a cab here from downtown will cost RMB 30-40.

Hongqiao is home to much of Shanghai's Korean population, and it feels like a tiny slice of Seoul, complete with the chatter of Korean and endless neon lights. Here are some highlights from this sprawling area:

Shanghai's best Korean barbecue joint, Ben Jia, can be found here – always packed with Korean families. Be sure to order the marinated pork, and dig into the ample side dishes that come with all the meats.

New Star is a beloved, 24-hour bathhouse where you can get a full-body scrub just as you would in Korea. Go for the almond body wrap and mask which leaves your skin smooth and baby soft.

Seoul Plaza has all manner of Korean businesses – grocery stores, restaurants, hairdressers and electronics shops. Behind the mall is a digital driving range that offers private rooms, alcohol and indoor smoking. The same building also has a karaoke bar where you can warm up your vocal cords before painting the town red.