8 Festive Spots in Shanghai to Experience the Strong Chinese New Year Vibe
As the Chinese New Year approaches, the festive spirit is filling every street and alley in the city. Shanghai's Lunar New Year charm is a unique blend of historical heritage, international flair and local neighborhood life, flowing through every corner of the city.
1. Longhua Temple
The limited-edition butterfly lanterns for the New Year are back at Longhua Temple! The Chinese New Year atmosphere is perfect once the lanterns light up.
Transport: Metro Lines 11/12, Exit 5, Longhua Station
Time: Lanterns light up promptly at 17:00
2. Yu Garden
The annual Yu Garden Lantern Festival, themed "Celebrate the Shanghai New Year in the Old Town", is now open.
Transport: Metro Lines 10/14, Exit 7, Yuyuan Station, 700 meters on foot
Time: Jan 26 - Mar 3
3. Yuyuan Road
The 1km highlight stretch is full of New Year surprises, perfect for a city walk.
Transport: Metro Lines 2/11, Exit 7, Jiangsu Road Station
4. The Bund
Jan 15 – Jan 22, take photos with the Year of the Horse elements at three landmark buildings on The Bund (The Bund No.12, Bund FTC, SITIC Plaza), post on Xiaohongshu and get a festive Year of the Horse souvenir.
Transport: Metro Line 2, East Nanjing Road Station
5. North Bund
North Bund is blooming with flowers, the lighthouse is wrapped in a red scarf, and there's an adorable Year of the Horse installation here.
Transport: Metro Line 12, Exit 3, International Cruise Terminal Station
6. Jinchao 8 Lanes
Admire the stunning blend of horse-themed decor, blooming flowers and twinkling lights – fairy-tale romance meets festive Chinese New Year joy here.
Transport: Metro Line 10, North Sichuan Road Station
7. Shenyuli
A giant red Chinese knot stands here, and every snap is a perfect festive photo.
Transport: Metro Lines 10/12, Tiantong Road Station, 5 minutes on foot
8. Shanghai Panlong Tiandi
Experience the authentic Jiangnan Chinese New Year vibe without leaving Shanghai.
Transport: Metro Line 17, Panlong Road Station
