As dusk falls over Panlong Xintiandi in Qingpu district, the water town takes on a different character. Along the waterways, lights begin to glow, transforming the quiet riverside into a vibrant summer evening destination.

Light show on the ancient bridge

A summer light show illuminates an ancient stone bridge four times each evening at 7:30 pm, 8 pm, 8:30 pm, and 9 pm. Images of lotus blossoms, dragonflies, and koi are projected onto the bridge in sync with music, creating a vivid spectacle.

The best viewing spot is on the stone steps to the right of the bridge, where the reflections and the bridge's silhouette come together to create a picture-perfect scene.

From the shore, the layered reflections of visitors, the bridge, and the lights merge into a dreamlike scene that feels like stepping into a Jiangnan painting. For an even more immersive experience, visitors can take a rowboat or kayak and drift through the mist as the lights dance across the water.

Floating water market

The Panlong water market recreates the lively atmosphere of a Thai floating market, while retaining its own Jiangnan charm. Small boats line the canal, with vendors selling flowers, fruit, and handmade goods from their boats.

At the goldfish stall, transparent bags of fish hang from branches, glowing under the lights. Nearby, small pools invite visitors, especially children, to try their hand at goldfish scooping.

A lotus stall brings a touch of summer romance. For 39.9 yuan ($5.88), visitors can choose three lotus stems, carefully wrapped into a beautiful bouquet by the vendor. Even without making a purchase, simply pausing to admire the blooms is a quiet pleasure.

Visitors can also wander along the riverside or take a boat to experience the market from the water. Snacks, craft stalls, and the evening breeze make it a relaxing way to spend a summer night.

Summer lotus and moonlight festival

The festival combines night tours, water activities, lotus viewing, and traditional garden strolls. Whether visiting with children, enjoying a date, or exploring with friends, visitors will find something for everyone.

• Daytime boat cruise: On select days before 4 pm, a lotus boat cruise travels along the main waterway. On holidays, performers in traditional costumes offer lotus-scented tea to passing visitors.
• Lotus viewing: The site's expansive lotus ponds are now in full bloom. As a sub-venue for the 13th Shanghai Lotus and Water Lily Exhibition, Panlong Xintiandi joins the main venue at Guyi Garden in offering one of the city's finest lotus viewing experiences.
• Night shows: As night falls, paper lanterns light up the water market, where stalls sell hand-painted fans, lotus-shaped pastries, and heritage sachets. On Saturday evenings from 7 to 10 pm, live folk music fills the air, with performers singing by the water.
• Family fun: A free water play area invites both children and adults to cool off on hot summer days.

Visitor tips

Venue: Panlong Xintiandi, No 8 Alley 123, Panding Road, Qingpu district

Dates:

• Water market: June 12 to Sept 13, Fridays to Sundays and public holidays, 11 am to 9 pm
• Lotus and moonlight festival: June 18 to Aug 30

Advance booking: Activities such as kayaking, visits to the pet zone, and craft workshops can be booked in advance through the "Quyou Panlong (趣游蟠龙)" mini program to avoid queues on busy weekends.

Transport: Metro Line 17 to Panlong Road Station, Exit 2 or 3; five-minute walk

Reminder: Bring insect repellent for the evening and watch your step on the damp riverside paths.

Sources: Shanghai Municipal Commission of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Panlong Xintiandi