As Spring Festival approaches, the streets of Shanghai are buzzing with festive energy. Here's your guide to some of the must-visit places in the city this New Year.

Chinese New Year Market at Rockbund

The Rockbund New Year Market is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. With its grand entrance archway themed on the Year of the Snake zodiac and traditional cultural elements like Fuxi and Nyuwa, the market is filled with festive decorations.

Fuxi is considered one of the Three Sovereigns in Chinese mythology, and is often portrayed as a cultural hero. Nyuwa is a goddess in Chinese mythology, often associated with creation and protection.

The giant installations, over 6 meters high, are perfect for photo ops and have become a hot favorite for visitors. What's more, the market also features special stalls, such as Ms Chen's Chinese-style incense, inspired by classic poems.

New Year Celebration at the Bund Finance Center

At the BFC, visitors can enjoy a magical New Year atmosphere, including a nearly 8-meter-high golden tree, where people can hang wish cards for good fortune in the New Year.

The celebration also brings together a variety of activities, including a lantern display inspired by Zhuangzi and his butterfly dream — a philosophical concept of ancient Chinese philosopher Zhuangzi during the late Warring States period (475-221 BC) — and a special market offering hip items, intangible cultural heritage crafts and festive experiences. Activities will run from the third to the seventh day of the New Year.

Spring Flower Market at Xiangyang Park

The Spring Flower Market at Xiangyang Park is a lively affair, offering a variety of New Year flowers, cultural items and festive goods.

Traditional flowers like amaryllis, holly, moth orchids and narcissus are featured alongside newer offerings like large-flowered orchids and succulents. In addition, popular items like longevity flowers and silver willows are favored for dried arrangements.

The park's mix of nature and shopping is designed to allow visitors to enjoy the flowers and take home their favorites.

New Year Goods Market at Ruihong Tiandi

The Ruihong Tiandi New Year Goods Market offers a wide range of products, including preserved meats, grains, tea, wine and fruit.

The market manager hopes that visitors will find their favorite items and taste the flavors of home. "At the market, each guest can discover local specialties from different regions, like aged vinegar from Shanxi province or dairy products from Inner Mongolia autonomous region," he said.

Source: Official WeChat account of Changning District Information Office at "shchangning"