China Destination Guides

Red lanterns glow over stone lanes. Sweet rice steams from old kitchens. Meanwhile, water towns slow down for Chinese New Year 2026. In this guide, I share my favorite 6 Ancient Towns near Shanghai—where you can follow lantern light, taste real holiday food, and feel the season the way locals still do.

Step into Shanghai’s Spring Festival and feel the city come alive. From glowing lanterns in historic gardens to fireworks dancing above rivers and rooftops, this guide takes you beyond the highlights and into everyday moments.