Lunar New Year in Shanghai?

Question

I'm trying to decide which would be more interesting as an older, non-Chinese visitor: Lunar New Year DAY and

following week in Shanghai or in Taiwan (Taipei?)? I think I have the ability to choose, and thought I might get some opinions and suggestions from those who have experienced the celebrations in one or both of the locations. Thanks. (I plan to post this as a Taiwan thread, too.)

Answer

Experiencing Lunar New Year as a visitor in either Shanghai or Taipei offers very different experiences, so your choice depends on what kind of atmosphere, events, and cultural exposure you are seeking.

Shanghai during Lunar New Year:

Shanghai is a major city, so while the Lunar New Year is celebrated, many locals travel back to their hometowns, meaning the city can feel quieter in some areas. Public transport is busy around the holidays, but attractions may be less crowded if locals leave the city.
There are festive events, including temple fairs, lantern displays, and traditional performances at places like Yuyuan Garden and the Bund area. These offer an insight into traditional Chinese customs and decorations.
Shopping streets and malls are decorated with New Year themes, and you can find special seasonal foods like dumplings and glutinous rice cakes in restaurants and markets.
Some cultural experiences may be limited if you are looking for authentic family celebrations, as many Shanghai residents spend the holiday outside the city with relatives.

Taipei during Lunar New Year:

Taipei tends to retain a more vibrant festival atmosphere because many locals stay in the city or nearby areas. Streets, temples, and night markets are lively, and traditional celebrations are more visible to visitors.
Temple visits are a major feature, particularly at Longshan Temple, where locals perform rituals for good luck in the new year. The sights, smells, and energy can be very engaging for visitors.
Night markets like Shilin and Raohe are especially festive, offering New Year-themed foods and snacks, as well as a chance to experience local celebrations in a casual, interactive way.
The Lantern Festival typically occurs about two weeks after Lunar New Year, providing an additional highlight if your visit coincides with it. Colorful lanterns, folk performances, and parades are common.

Additional considerations:

Shanghai offers more cosmopolitan experiences, modern shows, and urban sightseeing combined with New Year events, while Taipei emphasizes traditional customs, street life, and temple rituals.
If you prefer seeing large-scale city decorations, riverfront celebrations, and a mix of modern and traditional, Shanghai is suitable. If you want to immerse yourself in local culture, family traditions, and temple visits, Taipei may feel more authentic and festive.
Weather-wise, both cities are mild in winter, but Shanghai can be colder and damper in January–February, whereas Taipei is generally milder and more comfortable for walking outdoors.

In summary, for an older visitor interested in traditional celebrations and street-level cultural experiences, Taipei offers a more vibrant and authentic Lunar New Year atmosphere. Shanghai provides a mix of urban sightseeing with festive decorations, but may feel quieter as many locals travel. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize modern city experiences or immersive cultural celebrations.

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