Written and updated by Ruqin
Last updated: April 20, 2026
Red lanterns glow over stone lanes.
Sweet Eight Treasure Rice steams from old kitchens.
Meanwhile, firecrackers echo between tiled roofs.
Here, Chinese New Year still feels like childhood.
However, city crowds grow louder every year.
So for Chinese New Year 2027, I picked six ancient towns across Shanghai—each with its own festive charm.
Next, let’s slow down together.
Let’s follow lantern light, taste real holiday food, and rediscover tradition—one quiet water town at a time.
1. Panlong Xintiandi (Panlong Ancient Town)
蟠龙新天地（蟠龙古镇）
First, start here.
Panlong feels magical during Shanghai Chinese New Year 2027.
Red lanterns glow above quiet canals.
Meanwhile, bamboo rafts drift past glowing fish lanterns.
Then bridges sparkle.
Later, alleys soften.
Finally, the whole town settles into holiday calm.
Next, catch the Water Fish Lantern Parade on the main canal:
Time: 2.18 (Day 2) | 2.21 (Day 5) / 3.3 (Lantern Festival)
Then visit the Panlong Water Market Dragon-Horse Temple Fair on Chengci Lawn:
Time: 1.23–3.3, Fridays–Sundays & holidays, 11:00–21:00
Meanwhile, enjoy the Lucky Pony Parade:
Time: Feb 06 – 20,
Pony Parade: 15:00–16:00 (start: Anshi Qile)
Pony photos: 16:00–17:00 (Kids Fun Center)
It’s easily one of my favorite stops among the 6 Festive Ancient Towns in Shanghai.
Address: No. 8, Lane 123, Panding Road, Qingpu District, Shanghai
地址： 上海市青浦区蟠鼎路123弄8号
2. Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
朱家角古镇
Next, head to Zhujiajiao Ancient Town—one of my favorite Shanghai ancient towns.
A 5.5-meter giant lantern lights up the river at night.
Meanwhile, dragon dances roll through lanes.
Then lion dancers bring luck door to door.
Later, silk music drifts across bridges.
Finally, the whole town turns festive.
If you’re wondering where to celebrate Shanghai Chinese New Year 2027, this is an easy answer.
Don’t miss the Jiaoli Riverside “Lucky” Market by Fangsheng Bridge:
Time: Feb 06–20
Expect heritage booths, live demos, and classic New Year customs.
Next, try the “Light & Shadow Fantasy” immersive night walk inside Kezhi Garden:
Time: During Chinese New Year
It’s lively. Yet peaceful.
Address : No. 555 Kezhiyuan Road, Zhujiajiao Town, Qingpu District, Shanghai
地址： 上海市青浦区朱家角镇课植园路555号
3. Fengjing Ancient Town
枫泾古镇
Next, let’s head southwest to Fengjing—one of the most charming Ancient Towns in Shanghai.
Here, Chinese New Year feels thoughtful.
Meanwhile, lantern light reflects on quiet canals.
Then actors in Hanfu step onto floating stages.
Later, fans open. Sleeves turn. Songs drift.
Finally, Jiangnan romance fills the night.
If you’re deciding where to spend Shanghai Chinese New Year 2027, Fengjing offers something deeper.
Don’t miss the evening water show and lantern display.
Performers sing, dance, and glide along the river.
Time: Every Saturday, 17:45 & 18:15 (two shows)
Schedules may change with weather.
Location: From Taiping Bridge to Fengjing Third Bridge canal area
It’s calm. It’s poetic. And it stays with you.
Address : No. 28, Lane 8588 Tingfeng Highway, Jinshan District, Shanghai
地址： 上海市金山区亭枫公路8588弄28号
4. Nanxiang Ancient Town
南翔古镇
Next, head to Nanxiang for something playful and local.
Here, lanterns take the shape of xiaolongbao.
Meanwhile, the town celebrates with the theme “Spirit of the Steamer Basket.”
Then smiles spread fast.
If you’re wondering How to Spend Shanghai Chinese New Year 2027, this stop feels light and joyful.
Later, wander through the Chaxi Peddlers Market.
Next, catch the “Twin Towers Tide” comedy show.
Meanwhile, explore ceramic art exhibits and hands-on workshops.
Finally, bring kids to the Twin Towers and Renmin Street area.
During the Spring Festival holiday, they create five artificial snow sessions daily.
Yes—snow in Shanghai.
It’s one of the most family-friendly stops among the 6 Festival Ancient Towns in Shanghai.
Address : No. 206 Jiefang Street, Nanxiang Town, Jiading District, Shanghai
地址： 上海市嘉定区南翔镇解放街206号
5. Zhouqiao Old Street
州桥老街
Next, slow down at Zhouqiao.
This old street feels soulful during Chinese New Year 2027
Meanwhile, fish lanterns swim through crowds.
Then drums call in good luck.
Later, locals walk three bridges for blessings.
Finally, everyone pauses to make wishes.
From now through Febuary, Zhouqiao hosts the “2027 Zhouqiao Blue Season.”
You’ll find the Tanan Mini Market, traditional shows, and friendly NPC parades.
However, my favorite part is the quiet heritage crafts mixed with daily life.
If you’re searching for authentic Chinese New Year activities in Shanghai, this stop feels real.
Address : No. 68 Shaxia Road, Jiading District, Shanghai
地址： 上海市嘉定区沙霞路68号
6. Sijing Ancient Town
泗泾古镇
Finally, end your journey in Sijing—one of the quietest gems among the 6 Ancient Towns in Shanghai.
Meanwhile, mythical lucky beasts glow across riverside lanes.
Then lantern colors soften the night.
Later, families pause to make wishes.
However, the mood stays calm and hopeful.
The “Auspicious Beasts Welcome Spring – Shanghai Lantern Art” show runs from
Feb 06 to 20.
Just walk in and join.
It’s a gentle way to close Chinese New Year 2027 in Shanghai.
Address : Sijing Town, Songjiang District, Shanghai
地址： 上海市松江区泗泾镇
Chinese New Year 2017 or 2027—either way, the feeling stays the same.
Lantern light. Warm food. Slow walks by water.
Meanwhile, laughter drifts across bridges.
Then memories quietly take root.
These 6 Ancient Towns near Shanghai remind me why I still love this season.
So finally, don’t rush.
Pick one town. Or two.
However, let your feet decide.
Travel gently. Eat slowly. Listen more.
And wherever you land, may your New Year feel simple, bright, and deeply yours.
Warm wishes,
Ruqin
About the Author
Ruqin is the founder of Ruqintravel.com and has spent more than four decades working in China’s travel industry. Drawing on hands-on experience in cities like Beijing and Hangzhou, he personally researches and updates each guide to help international travelers navigate China with confidence.
Further Reading
How to Visit Zhujiajiao Water Town: Tickets, Things to Do & Tips
Top Things to Do in Shanghai – Your Complete Guide
Top 10 Must Try Foods in Shanghai: A Visitor Guide
Top 10 Famous Buildings in Shanghai: How to Visit Them
