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Comprehensive Guide to Night Markets in Shanghai, China

Shanghai, a bustling metropolis blending modernity with tradition, is home to a vibrant night market scene. These markets are a haven for food lovers, offering a wide variety of street food, snacks, and local delicacies. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate and enjoy Shanghai’s night markets.

1. Overview of Night Markets in Shanghai

Night markets in Shanghai are lively hubs of activity, offering not just food but also a glimpse into local culture. While Shanghai is more known for its upscale dining and international cuisine, its night markets provide an authentic and affordable way to experience the city’s culinary heritage.

2. Popular Night Market Locations

Here are some of the most popular night markets in Shanghai:

a. Shouning Road Night Market (寿宁路夜市)

Specialty: Seafood, especially crayfish (小龙虾), grilled oysters, and clams.
Atmosphere: Bustling and lively, with small restaurants and street vendors lining the road.
Location: Near People’s Square, Huangpu District.
Operating Hours: Typically from 5:00 PM to late night (around 2:00 AM).

b. Tongbei Road Night Market (通北路夜市)

Specialty: Barbecue skewers (串串), fried dumplings (生煎包), and noodles.
Atmosphere: A more local vibe, popular with residents rather than tourists.
Location: Hongkou District.
Operating Hours: 6:00 PM to midnight.

c. Yuyuan Garden Night Market (豫园夜市)

Specialty: Traditional Shanghainese snacks like soup dumplings (小笼包), mooncakes, and fried rice cakes.
Atmosphere: A mix of traditional and touristy, with a focus on local delicacies.
Location: Near Yuyuan Garden, Huangpu District.
Operating Hours: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

d. Wujiang Road Night Market (吴江路夜市)

Specialty: A mix of street food and international options, including bubble tea, fried chicken, and grilled skewers.
Atmosphere: Modern and trendy, popular with younger crowds.
Location: Jing’an District.
Operating Hours: 5:00 PM to midnight.

3. Types of Food Available

Shanghai’s night markets offer a wide variety of dishes, ranging from local specialties to regional Chinese cuisines. Here are some must-try items:

a. Shanghainese Specialties

Xiaolongbao (小笼包): Steamed soup dumplings filled with pork or crab.
Shengjianbao (生煎包): Pan-fried pork buns with a crispy bottom and juicy filling.
Cong You Bing (葱油饼): Scallion pancakes, crispy and savory.

b. Seafood

Xiao Long Xia (小龙虾): Spicy crayfish, often cooked with garlic or chili.
Grilled Oysters (烤生蚝): Topped with garlic and butter.
Clams (花蛤): Stir-fried with chili and soy sauce.

c. Barbecue and Grilled Items

Chuan (串): Skewers of meat, seafood, or vegetables, grilled and seasoned with spices.
Grilled Squid (烤鱿鱼): A popular street food item, often served on skewers.

d. Snacks and Desserts

Tanghulu (糖葫芦): Candied fruit skewers, typically hawthorn berries.
Fried Rice Cakes (年糕): Sweet or savory, made with glutinous rice.
Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶): A refreshing drink with tapioca pearls.

4. Average Costs

Night markets in Shanghai are budget-friendly, making them an excellent option for travelers. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:

Snacks and Small Dishes: ¥5–¥20 per item (e.g., dumplings, skewers).
Seafood Dishes: ¥30–¥80, depending on the type and portion size.
Drinks: ¥10–¥30 (e.g., bubble tea, local beer).
Full Meal: ¥50–¥100 per person for a satisfying experience.

5. Dining Customs and Etiquette

When dining at night markets in Shanghai, it’s important to be aware of local customs and etiquette:

a. Ordering and Payment

Most vendors operate on a cash basis, but mobile payment apps like Alipay (支付宝) and WeChat Pay (微信支付) are widely accepted.
It’s common to order multiple small dishes to share with friends or family.

b. Eating on the Go

While it’s acceptable to eat while walking, many vendors provide small tables or stools for customers to sit and enjoy their food.

c. Cleanliness

Vendors typically provide disposable chopsticks and napkins, but it’s a good idea to carry your own tissues or wet wipes.
Avoid drinking tap water; bottled water is readily available.

d. Respect for Vendors

Be polite and patient, especially during busy hours.
Bargaining is not common for food items, as prices are usually fixed.

6. Tips for Navigating Night Markets

Arrive Early: Popular markets can get crowded, so arriving early ensures you get the best selection of food.
Explore Before Committing: Walk around the market to see all the options before deciding what to eat.
Bring Small Bills: Vendors may not always have change for large denominations.
Stay Safe: Stick to vendors with high turnover, as this indicates fresh ingredients. Avoid raw or undercooked items if you have a sensitive stomach.
Dress Comfortably: Night markets can be hot and crowded, so wear light clothing and comfortable shoes.

7. Cultural Considerations

Respect Local Customs: Avoid being overly loud or disruptive, as this can be seen as disrespectful.
Queueing: If there’s a line, wait your turn patiently. Cutting in line is frowned upon.
Food Waste: Take only what you can eat, as wasting food is considered disrespectful.
Tipping: Tipping is not customary in China, and vendors do not expect it.

8. Additional Notes

Seasonal Variations: Some night markets may have seasonal specialties, such as hairy crab (大闸蟹) in autumn.
Language Barrier: While many vendors speak basic Mandarin, English is not widely spoken. Learning a few key phrases or using a translation app can be helpful.
- Example: “How much is this?” = 这个多少钱? (Zhège duōshǎo qián?)
Weather Considerations: Night markets are typically outdoors, so plan accordingly during rainy or cold weather.

Conclusion

Shanghai’s night markets are a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the city’s culinary diversity and vibrant street culture. With a little preparation and an adventurous spirit, you’ll be able to enjoy a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re savoring a plate of spicy crayfish or indulging in a sweet tanghulu skewer, the night markets of Shanghai promise a feast for the senses.