People's Square
Shanghai's bustling central square, famous for its weekend marriage market and proximity to the Shanghai Museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Marriage market is in full swing
People's Square
Best Time
Marriage market is in full swing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Shanghai's bustling central square, famous for its weekend marriage market and proximity to the Shanghai Museum.
"A fascinating cultural spectacle where parents 'advertise' their children for marriage on weekends."
Observe the Marriage Market Respectfully
Watch the unique 'marriage market' with curiosity, but avoid intrusive photography.
Explore the Shanghai Museum
Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the vast collections. Free entry! :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Marriage Market
Central area of People's Square
Parents showcase resumes of their unmarried children, seeking ideal partners. A unique cultural spectacle!

Shanghai Museum
North side of People's Square
Explore ancient Chinese art and artifacts. A must-visit for history buffs and art lovers.

People's Park
Adjacent to People's Square
A green oasis for locals to relax, exercise, and socialize. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Marriage Market
Best for People-Watching
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Observe the Marriage Market Respectfully
Watch the unique 'marriage market' with curiosity, but avoid intrusive photography.
Explore the Shanghai Museum
Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the vast collections. Free entry! :ticket:
Enjoy Local Street Food
Sample delicious snacks from vendors around the square. Look for what locals are queuing for! :street_food:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the square and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Observe the Marriage Market Respectfully
Watch the unique 'marriage market' with curiosity, but avoid intrusive photography.
Explore the Shanghai Museum
Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the vast collections. Free entry! :ticket:
Enjoy Local Street Food
Sample delicious snacks from vendors around the square. Look for what locals are queuing for! :street_food:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the square and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
People's Square is a vibrant hub offering a unique cultural experience, particularly the weekend marriage market, and access to significant attractions like the Shanghai Museum. Visitors appreciate the lively atmosphere and the opportunity to observe local life, though it can get very crowded. Some find the marriage market a bit overwhelming or ethically questionable.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
People's Square is easily accessible via the Shanghai Metro. Take Line 1, 2, or 8 to People's Square Station. It's a major transportation hub, making it convenient from most parts of the city.
Yes, People's Square is generally very safe for tourists. It's a public space with a constant presence of people and police. However, as with any crowded area, be mindful of your belongings.
The square itself is best explored on foot. For getting to and from the square, the metro is highly recommended. Taxis are also available, but traffic can be heavy.
Yes, there are several underground parking garages around People's Square, but they can be expensive and fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Depending on your destination, yes! Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is a short walk away. The Bund is also accessible with a longer walk or a short metro ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, People's Square itself is a public space and entry is free. However, attractions within or around the square, like the Shanghai Museum, may have their own admission fees or require booking.
People's Square is open 24/7 as it's a public park and plaza. However, individual attractions within the square, such as the Shanghai Museum, have specific operating hours.
The 'marriage market' is a spontaneous gathering within the park, and there is no entrance fee to observe it.
The Shanghai Museum offers free admission, but you may need to book a time slot in advance, especially during peak seasons. Check their official website for the latest information. :ticket:
While there aren't official guided tours specifically for the square itself, many private tour operators offer Shanghai city tours that include People's Square as a stop.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the marriage market on weekends,
the grand architecture of the Shanghai Museum, and the lively street performers. The park offers great candid shots of local life.It's best to be discreet and respectful. While observing is fine, avoid intrusive close-ups or flash photography without permission. Many creators advise being mindful of privacy.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for the square and surrounding buildings. Weekends offer the most dynamic scenes for candid shots.
Drone usage is generally restricted in major public areas in Shanghai, including People's Square, due to security regulations. It's best to avoid bringing drones. :noentrysign:
A versatile zoom lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide scenes and candid moments. A prime lens (like a 50mm) is good for low-light and portraits. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
You'll find numerous street food vendors around the square offering local snacks. For sit-down meals, explore the underground malls or nearby streets for a variety of Chinese cuisines.
Look for Jianbing (savory crepes), various skewers, and sweet pastries. Many travelers recommend trying whatever looks popular with locals.
Yes, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes. Look for 'su cai' (vegetarian dishes) on menus. Some smaller eateries might have limited options, but larger restaurants are usually accommodating.
Street food can range from ¥5-¥20. Casual restaurants might cost ¥30-¥80 per person, while more upscale dining options are also available.
Absolutely! The underground shopping complexes and surrounding streets host a wide array of international restaurants, from Western fast food to Japanese and Korean eateries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the marriage market might be a bit abstract for younger children, the general atmosphere of the square with street performers and local families can be entertaining. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as food options can be busy. The metro access makes it easy to get to and from the square without much hassle.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Culture Enthusiasts
This area is also excellent for people-watching and soaking in the local vibe. Grab a coffee at a nearby cafe or sample street food while observing the daily life unfold. The central location and excellent metro connectivity make it easy to navigate and explore other parts of Shanghai from here.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique 'Marriage Market'
While it might seem unusual to Western eyes, it's a deeply ingrained practice for many families. Travelers are encouraged to observe with respect and avoid being intrusive. The resumes often include details like 'good health,' 'stable job,' and 'owns an apartment,' reflecting the practical considerations parents prioritize.
This phenomenon is a significant draw for visitors interested in cultural anthropology and social dynamics. It's a living example of how traditions adapt and persist in modern urban environments. Remember to be a respectful observer and capture the essence of this unique cultural practice without causing discomfort.
Exploring People's Square and Its Surroundings
Adjacent to the square is People's Park, a green lung in the heart of the city. It's a tranquil escape where you can see locals practicing tai chi, playing chess, or simply relaxing. The park is also where the famous marriage market takes place on weekends, adding another layer of cultural interest.
Key landmarks surrounding the square include the Shanghai Museum, renowned for its extensive collection of ancient Chinese art, and the Shanghai Grand Theatre. The area is also connected to extensive underground shopping malls, offering a modern contrast to the cultural sites. It's an ideal location for those seeking a blend of culture, local life, and urban energy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit