People's Park
A bustling urban park in Shanghai, famous for its weekend marriage market and vibrant local life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the marriage market
People's Park
Best Time
See the marriage market
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling urban park in Shanghai, famous for its weekend marriage market and vibrant local life.
"The most fascinating thing was all these dating ads to find a wife or partner. Absolutely awesome and entertaining!
"🎯 Marriage Market Insights
Observe respectfully; it's a serious affair for parents. Best seen on weekends. :eyes:
☕ Enjoy a Tea Ceremony
Experience 'Kung Fu Tea' pouring for a unique cultural treat. :tea_leaf:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Marriage Market
Central area on weekends
Parents gather to advertise their unmarried children, seeking partners. A truly unique cultural phenomenon.
Tea Houses & Kung Fu Tea
Various locations within the park
Experience traditional tea culture, including the theatrical 'Kung Fu Tea' pouring.

Local Recreation
Throughout the park
Observe locals practicing tai chi, playing cards, and enjoying leisurely activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Marriage Market Spectacle
Local Life & Relaxation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Marriage Market Insights
Observe respectfully; it's a serious affair for parents. Best seen on weekends.
:eyes:☕ Enjoy a Tea Ceremony
Experience 'Kung Fu Tea' pouring for a unique cultural treat.
:tea_leaf:🚶♀️ Easy Metro Access
Accessible via Metro Lines 1, 2, & 8. Convenient for exploring.
:subway:💰 Bargain for Souvenirs
Some shops offer good deals if you're willing to haggle.
:moneybag:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Marriage Market Insights
Observe respectfully; it's a serious affair for parents. Best seen on weekends.
:eyes:☕ Enjoy a Tea Ceremony
Experience 'Kung Fu Tea' pouring for a unique cultural treat.
:tea_leaf:🚶♀️ Easy Metro Access
Accessible via Metro Lines 1, 2, & 8. Convenient for exploring.
:subway:💰 Bargain for Souvenirs
Some shops offer good deals if you're willing to haggle.
:moneybag:🌧️ Be Prepared for Rain
Sudden downpours can occur; an umbrella is a good idea.
:umbrella:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
People's Park is a vibrant urban oasis offering a unique cultural experience, particularly the fascinating marriage market on weekends. While some amenities like rides are dated, the park excels as a place to observe authentic local life, enjoy peaceful strolls, and experience traditional tea culture. Its central location and free entry make it a must-visit for those seeking genuine Shanghai insights.
"Very aged and not well kept mini carnival rides. Shockingly, my son enjoyed. Rides required a stored credit card and each ride cost between $2-$4.
Lots of locals take up the park raising funds for various things. They weren’t pushy, but definitely were a presence within some sections of park."
Jerry Ratigan
"This is place for us (we are on training course) to stop. From here, we walk to Nanjing Road for window shopping. We bought some souvenirs here to bring home. Some shops here can bargain for the cheap price. The vibe is good here. It is easy to find Halal food here. Good luck with hunting, guys!"
Khairil Azhar Aznan
"Lovely park to escape the bustling city and enjoy some nature, lake views and sunshine. On the weekends people flock to the park as there are lists of bachelors and bachelorettes. It’s an in person tinder. You’ll mostly see the parents there shopping for their child’s soulmate. Definitely a site to see how China’s Matchmaking works"
Benny Villanueva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
People's Park is very centrally located and easily accessible via Shanghai Metro. Take Line 1, 2, or 8 to People's Square Station, which is right next to the park.
:subway:Yes, People's Park is conveniently located across from the Radisson Blu hotel and a short walk from Nanjing Road, making it easy to combine visits.
:walking:From Pudong International Airport (PVG), you can take the Maglev train to Longyang Road Station and then transfer to Metro Line 2 to People's Square Station. Alternatively, Metro Line 2 runs directly from PVG to People's Square, though it takes longer. :airplane:
Taxis are readily available in Shanghai. Simply tell your driver 'People's Park' (人民公园 - Rénmín Gōngyuán). Be aware of potential traffic during peak hours. :taxi:
While there are parking lots near People's Square, they can be expensive and fill up quickly. Using public transport is generally recommended for ease of access. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, People's Park is a public park and entry is free for all visitors. You only pay for specific activities or rides within the park. :ticket:
People's Park is generally open from early morning until late evening, allowing visitors to enjoy it throughout the day. Specific attractions within the park may have their own hours. :clock:
The marriage market itself is part of the park and does not have a separate entrance fee. You can observe the interactions freely.
:moneywithwings:There are no age restrictions for entering People's Park. It's a family-friendly space enjoyed by people of all ages. :baby:
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy in the park. There are also cafes and vendors available if you prefer to purchase items there. :sandwich:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
On weekends, parents gather in People's Park to advertise their unmarried children, listing details like age, height, income, and education, in hopes of finding a suitable partner. It's a unique cultural tradition.
:couplewithheart:You can observe locals practicing tai chi, playing chess, singing, and enjoying tea. There are also small amusement rides, a lake for boating, and pleasant walking paths.
:rowboat:Yes, People's Park has some mini carnival rides that children might enjoy, though they are described as aged and not well-kept. The open spaces are good for them to run around.
:child:Yes, reviews suggest that it is easy to find Halal food options in the vicinity of People's Park.
:halal:Simply wander through the park, observe the daily activities of locals, and perhaps enjoy a cup of tea at one of the tea houses. Engaging with locals, if possible, can offer deeper insights.
:speech_balloon:📸 📸 Photography
The marriage market on weekends offers unique candid shots of parents and their advertisements. The tea houses, lake, and local life provide plenty of authentic cultural imagery.
:camerawithflash:While people are generally open to being observed, it's respectful to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially at the marriage market.
:respect:Morning light can be lovely for general park scenes, while weekend mornings are essential for capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the marriage market. Late afternoon can offer softer light. :sunrise:
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas of the park. However, be mindful of private spaces or specific cultural sensitivities. :camera:
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide park scenes and candid portraits. A prime lens can be useful for low-light tea house shots. :lens:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the peak crowds of the marriage market, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Pack some snacks and drinks, as the park is a great place for a casual picnic. The easy metro access also makes it a convenient stop for families exploring the city.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there are costs associated with the small amusement rides and tea houses, these are optional. You can easily enjoy the park's atmosphere and cultural insights by simply walking around. Bringing your own food and drinks will also help keep costs down. The park's central location and excellent metro connectivity mean you save on transportation costs as well.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for softer light. A versatile zoom lens is recommended to capture both wide park vistas and intimate portraits. Remember to be respectful when photographing people, especially at the marriage market, and always ask for permission when possible.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enigmatic Marriage Market
It's a fascinating, albeit sometimes poignant, display of traditional matchmaking practices in modern China. Visitors often describe it as a 'real-life Tinder' or an 'in-person dating app,' highlighting the blend of old and new societal approaches. While it can feel a bit voyeuristic, observing this unique cultural phenomenon offers a profound glimpse into Chinese family values and social dynamics. Remember to be respectful and discreet if you choose to photograph this area.
Navigating the Market
* Timing is Key: The market is most active on Saturdays and Sundays, typically from late morning through the afternoon.
* Observe with Respect: While it's a public spectacle, remember these are people's personal lives. Avoid intrusive photography and be mindful of the emotions involved.
* Cultural Context: Understand that this practice stems from a desire for familial stability and societal expectations, rather than purely romantic love as often perceived in Western cultures.
A Local Oasis in the Urban Jungle
The park features a serene lake, often dotted with small boats for rent, providing a picturesque setting for a leisurely afternoon. Landscaped lawns and wooded areas offer shaded spots for relaxation. It's a fantastic opportunity to witness authentic daily life in Shanghai, far from the glitz of commercial districts. The park's central location makes it a convenient meeting point and a beloved spot for both residents and visitors seeking a touch of local flavor.
Experiencing Local Life
* Tea Culture: Don't miss the chance to visit a tea house and experience traditional Chinese tea culture, perhaps even witnessing the theatrical 'Kung Fu Tea' pouring.
* Observe and Participate: Feel free to wander, observe the diverse activities, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere. While participation might be limited by language, observation is highly rewarding.
* Accessibility: The park is easily reachable by multiple metro lines, making it an accessible escape for anyone exploring Shanghai.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit