Gallery: Sweltering, sizzling, blistering Shanghai

It is no exaggeration to say that Shanghai summers are hot. Sometimes pleasantly so, often oppressively so, with swamp-like humidity levels.

With temperatures rocketing past 35 C -- some days hitting 40C -- and the reach of the sun inescapable even on the haziest day, folks that spend any time outdoors have to find ways to beat the heat, whether through basking in or hiding from it.

We’ve captured some of our favorite hot weather practices around (and just outside of) town this summer. Feel free to add yours in the comments section.

While the summer luxuries of tube tops and short shorts belong only to women, men here don’t lack the guts to show a bit of skin either, whether by rolling up their shirts halfway or just letting it all hang out. Six-pack not required, but bonus points for nose picking caught on film. 

When the sun is beating down and a retreat to air-conditioning is not an option, lounging half-naked in the shade is an appealing way to pass an afternoon. Pull up a lawn chair, drape a damp towel over your face, and nap away.

What would any sunny day be without sunbrellas? Bonus points if yours has flowers and frills. Sunbrellas -- or should we say parasols -- in Shanghai are truly unisex.

For some, even an umbrella doesn't offer enough protection from ultraviolet radiation. Their answer to summer is actually more articles of clothing, including the reflective full-coverage visor, backwards jacket (or specially designed arm sleeves) and motorcycle gloves. They might sweat more, but they’ll stay paler.

When it comes to portable electric fans, we here in Shanghai are spoilt for choice. Our favorite option, though, is the solar powered fan-cum-visor. Harnessing the sun’s energy while protecting the wearer from it is nothing short of genius.

And while we’re on the subject of headgear, why buy one if you can make one? This beverage delivery man, pausing to pump a flat tire on his bike, shows us how it’s done.

Not only are cucumbers an excellent defense against dehydration, but they’re also a great alternative to sugar-laden ice-cream cones for those planning to expose a bit of flesh (as well as a traditional Chinese medicine trick for keeping cool in the summer). As tempers rise with the temperature, this healthy habit will keep you as cool as... well... the thing you’re munching. 

Another way to keep calm and collected on stifling Shanghai streets is to hitch a ride on the back of someone’s bike. Stay shaded, enjoy the breeze, and let the other guy sweat it out for you. 

If the above options aren’t enough, there’s always escape from the city. Our recommendation: Putuoshan in neighboring Zhejiang, where the beaches are surprisingly clean and you can actually go in the water. Don't trust us? Head out there and see for yourself. (Pop quiz: Can you spot the person who has gone for some cupping before venturing out?)