Originally Posted by Jenbel

No, it is shorter than you imagine. 6-7 hours I am probably thinking ex-CPH. From LHR last year, ISTR flight time was about 8ish. Given we mentally think of it as a long way away, it's more akin to east coast US flight times. For that, if you are trying to maximise your flight experience, it's too short a flight.

I love China visas - they are exactly what they say on the tin. They will be ready on time, and they function with brisk efficiency.

And my personal preference in terms of visiting them would be Beijing>Tokyo>Shanghai (and I have visited them), but for the OP's plans, Shanghai does seem to me the best option.