Looking to avoid downtown crowds during Chinese New Year? Shanghai's ancient water towns offer lantern festivals, cultural performances and serene riverside walks — all with a tranquil pace and traditional atmosphere.

Here are some of the best places to experience a different side of Chinese New Year in Shanghai.

Panlong Tiandi

Panlong Tiandi is hosting a large Jiangnan-style water lantern festival with more than 15 illuminated viewing spots. Installations inspired by traditional craftsmanship line bridges, corridors and canals, while glowing fish lanterns drift across the water beside bamboo rafts.

Where: No 8, Lane 123, Panding Road, Qingpu district, Shanghai.

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

Zhujiajiao combines oversized zodiac lantern sculptures with roaming folk performances. A 5.5-meter inflatable lantern centerpiece anchors the town square, while dragon dances, lion blessings and traditional music parades move through the streets.

Handicraft and cultural markets run alongside the performances, making it easy to explore between shows.

Where: No 555, Kezhiyuan Road, Qingpu district, Shanghai.

Qingxi Old Street

Qingxi Old Street focuses on a central Tianma, mythical flying horse, lantern installation that blends zodiac imagery with classic water-town architecture. The lantern trail is compact and walkable, ideal for evening strolls and family visits.

Where: No 2765 Nanfeng Highway, Qingcun Town, Fengxian district, Shanghai.

Fengjing Ancient Town

Fengjing is staging a full holiday fair built around food, crafts and folk entertainment. Visitors can sample regional snacks, browse handmade goods and watch cultural performances across multiple squares and riverside lanes.

Where: No 39 Xinfeng Road, Fengjing Town, Jinshan district, Shanghai.

Source: WeChat account of Changning district information office "shchangning"