As spring brings warmer days, seasonal delicacies are returning across Shanghai's Putuo district, with many local shops launching their signature qingtuan — sweet green glutinous rice balls traditionally enjoyed in early spring.

Yue Lai Fang

Yue Lai Fang's qingtuan has been recognized for years as one of Shanghai's premium varieties. Handmade and freshly steamed, it follows traditional water-milling techniques, blending wheatgrass juice with finely ground rice flour to create a soft, fragrant texture that captures the essence of spring.

Where: No 199 Shiquan Road, No 8 Lantian Road, No 3001 North Zhongshan Road, No 165 Lanxi Road

Jade Buddha Temple

Known for the jade Buddha statue it houses, Jade Buddha Temple is also home to some of Putuo's most sought-after qingtuan. This season's selection includes a variety of flavors, such as red bean paste, dried tofu with malantou greens, and shepherd's purse. A standout is the freshly made black sesame crispy qingtuan, featuring a crispy outer layer and a chewy, flavorful filling.

Where: No 170 Anyuan Road

Si Ru Chun Restaurant

Si Ru Chun Restaurant's seasonal qingtuan has earned widespread praise among local residents. With varieties such as red bean paste, shepherd's purse with pork, salted egg yolk with meat floss, and malantou (Indian aster), it caters to a wide range of tastes.

Where: No 72 Shiquan Road

Source: Official WeChat account of Putuo district administration of culture and tourism at "shpt_wl"