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China/Things to Do in Shanghai, couple trip

Shanghai Old Street (couple trip)

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How Couple-Friendly is Shanghai Old Street?

81%Couple-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 81% Couple-Friendly: Ming-Qing façades, lantern nights, tea in Mid-Lake Pavilion, and Nine-Bend Bridge photos create a romantic mood, yet constant hawkers and tight alleys reduce privacy for pairs.

Google
Reviews4.4/ 5
(from 720 reviews)

Positives:

  • Historic authenticity: Buildings showcase restored Ming-Qing features like lattice windows and horse-head walls.
  • Evening ambiance: Red lanterns and soft lighting create a romantic atmosphere after dark.

Challenges:

  • Crowded streets: Narrow cobblestone lanes fill quickly on weekends and holidays.
  • Uneven ground: Cobblestones can be slippery—wear comfortable, flat shoes.
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🏖️ Explore Shanghai Old Street with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Shanghai Old Street. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Shanghai Old Street?

  • A historic thoroughfare in Shanghai’s old town preserving late Qing dynasty architectural styles
  • Featuring restored shopfronts with lattice windows, flying eaves and horse-head walls
  • Home to traditional specialty trades and century-old folk craft shops reflecting old Shanghai culture

What is so special about Shanghai Old Street for couple trip?

  1. Stroll under lanterns along a restored Ming-Qing street
  2. Share a traditional Gongfu tea ceremony by the pond
  3. Try a hands-on sugar-painting workshop together
  4. Snap romantic night shots at the Nine-Bend Bridge
  5. Browse century-old shops for local crafts

Recommended visit duration: 1-3 hours

Why 1-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time to stroll, visit shops, join a tea ceremony and try a sugar-painting workshop without rushing.

(View Shanghai Old Street on Map)

Couple-Friendly Activities in Shanghai Old Street

Romantic stroll along Yuyuan Old Street:

Walk the 380 m pedestrian street lined with restored Ming-Qing buildings and red lanterns.

Tip: Go after 6 PM to see lanterns lit and avoid midday crowds.

Visit the City God Temple:

Enter the quiet Ming-dynasty courtyard, light incense and observe local worship rituals.

Tip: Bring small change for an optional donation at the altar.

Tea ceremony at Mid-Lake Pavilion Teahouse:

Enjoy a Gongfu tea set of Longjing tea and snacks while seated by the garden pond.

Tip: Reserve ahead to catch live Pingtan storytelling performances.

Hands-on sugar-painting workshop:

Learn to shape molten sugar into animal or flower designs in a 30-minute class.

Tip: Book around midday when workshops have fewer participants.

Night photography at Nine-Bend Bridge:

Capture the zigzag bridge and pavilion lit up over the pond.

Tip: Arrive at sunset for soft light and quieter paths.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Shanghai Old Street

  1. Best visit times: Go right at opening or after 6 PM to avoid peak crowds.
  2. Walking route: Start at the east end near Deshun Restaurant and head west toward the bridge.
  3. Combine nearby sites: Pair your visit with Yuyuan Garden and the City God Temple just steps away.
🏖️ Tour Shanghai Old Street like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Shanghai Old Street. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Shanghai Old Street

Powered by Google
Karen Graham

Karen Graham

Nov 2025

Shanghai Old Street 上海老街 is a lively stretch rich with traditional architecture, souvenir shops, and local snacks that capture the charm of old Shanghai. It’s busy but atmospheric, great for a relaxed wander, people-watching, and picking up small gifts. While touristy, it still offers a nostalgic feel and plenty of interesting corners to explore.

Emel

Emel

Nov 2025

In summary: traditional architecture, lights, shops. Note: the buildings light up at night and it's worth seeing! Its also near Yu Garden (which is closed on Tuesdays).

indarwati soekirman

indarwati soekirman

Oct 2025

This was the original old street Shanghai (Renmin) nowadays there’s no activity on this street. But the facade of the historic building is still intact. You can enjoy strolling along this street in the morning or afternoon, but be careful with motorcycles 🏍️ and other fast vehicles 🚗.

Aslan Venom

Aslan Venom

Oct 2025

Old style street in Shanghai. Unfortunately a lot of buildings have been demolished, or evicted for renovations. The beautiful gates still remind of the past. Almost no old residents could be found on the streets, but a few old shops were still operating. I'm curious how the area will be developed!

Jasem Alhosani

Jasem Alhosani

Aug 2025

Shanghai Old Street is a must-visit spot if you want to experience the charm of old Shanghai blended with the city’s modern vibrance. Walking down the street feels like stepping back in time, with beautifully preserved traditional architecture, intricate wooden facades, curved rooflines, and vibrant red lanterns hanging above the narrow lanes. The atmosphere is lively yet not overwhelming, with a...

When is the best time to visit Shanghai Old Street (Shanghai, China)?

Spring and autumn bring mild days ideal for outdoor strolls. Summer is hot—visit early or late. Winter is quiet but bring a warm coat.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Shanghai on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Tea ceremony for 2CNY 240
Sugar-painting workshop for 2CNY 100
Local snacksCNY 60
SouvenirsCNY 100
Total EstimatedCNY 500

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Shanghai Old Street

Address: 6FGW+4QG, Bao Dai Long, 四牌楼 Huang Pu Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200010

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