Shanghai at Night: Best Nightlife Handbook (2025)

I’ve lived in Shanghai for over a year, worked at a Chinese company, and performed in many clubs.

I can genuinely say that I’ve experienced Shanghai at night to the fullest.

If you’re looking for things to do, where to eat, and what to drink in Shanghai at night, you’ve come to the right place!

In this ultimate handbook, I’m sharing all my experiences, tips, things to do in Shanghai at night, and recommendations about Shanghai nightlife (from evenings to early mornings 😉), including videos to give you the most authentic insights.

Shanghai at Night

Shanghai’s transformation after dusk is absolutely spectacular. Depending on where you are in the city, the city’s energy shifts from a relaxed cafe or business vibe to this incredible city of neon lights and activity.

Is Shanghai a city that never sleeps? Well, yes and no! Shanghai is most alive during the day, but there are definitely lots of places to explore and things to do at night.

Shanghai has a really cool energy (much different than other cities in China). Still, you’ll notice that after 11 pm, the streets get quieter, and it’s actually an excellent time for a peaceful stroll.

But, there are plenty of clubs and restaurants open until late if you know where to look. Shanghai is, in my opinion, the best city for a great night out in China.

The Bund

The Bund is absolutely magical after sunset. I’ve brought so many friends here for their first Shanghai night experience.

It never gets old watching their faces light up when they see those futuristic Pudong skyscrapers, including the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and super-tall Shanghai Tower, all illuminated across the Huangpu River.

Around midnight, The Bund transforms again and becomes quieter. It’s actually a really peaceful area by that time. So if you have a hard time sleeping and are in the area, have a stroll along the Bund at night! It’s so peaceful and soothing to hear the quiet sounds of the Huangpu River and see the city lights reflecting in the water. 

Here’s a short video I recorded of The Bund late at night, way after the light show is finished.

Obviously, the Bund is a must-do, but try to time it right for the best experience. Make sure to make a reservation for restaurants close to the Bund. You’ll find a list of my favorite restaurants (and rooftop bars) later on below.

The other side of the Bund (Pudong): Great views and usually less crowded.

The restaurants are a bit less authentic on the Pudong side of the Bund, but it’s such a nice place to get an ice cream and go for a stroll on a warm summer night while watching the most historic side of the Bund.

If you're looking for a unique place to stay on the Pudong side of the Bund (the area with all the high skyscrapers) book a room in the IFC Residence. It's just incredible, the view and location, and even a bit more affordable than most other hotels in the area.

French Concession Bar Streets 

These are some spots with plenty of bars with a great mixed crowd where the real Shanghai nightlife happens:

Donghu Rd: Bars, restaurants, and more.

Anfu Lu: Quieter than the main French Concession strips, with some really cool bars. 

Tianzifang (and surrounding area): An incredible amount of local and hidden bars

Xintiandi: Mostly focused on shopping, but there are also plenty of bars and restaurants that stay open a bit later than others. Great for drinks in the evening, but not until late at night or early in the morning.

Huaihai Lu: Perfect for an evening stroll with shopping and people-watching. I’ve spent many evening hours in this area.

Check out my complete Best Things To Do in the French Concession Travel Guide.

Tip: Want to know the top 10 clubs in China? After 100 shows in clubs all over China, this is my top 10

Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden)

Although Yu Garden is quite a touristy area, if you’re in Shanghai for a week, it’s worth a quick visit. Yu Garden closes around 5pm, but the Yuyuan Bazaar next to it is open at night, and it’s like stepping into an ancient Chinese painting.

The historic buildings around Yu Garden illuminate beautifully with many lights.

Tip: If you're looking for a more authentic place visit, go to the Jade Buddha Temple during the day.

Nanjing Road

From Yu Garden, it is not far to Nanjing Road. That road is pure sensory overload at night, in the best way possible!

The neon lights, the crowds, the street performers, it’s like Times Square but with some Chinese energy and architectural styles mixing old and new.

Closer to the Bund, the shops in Nanjing Road will get more touristy, selling souvenirs etc. But, at the beginning (further away from the Bund), you’ll find more international brands.

There is also plenty of street food to find in the evening,

People’s Square

People’s Square transforms completely at night, and People’s Square Shanghai at night offers a totally different vibe from the daytime business crowd. During the day, it’s busy with commuters.

Still, evenings bring out the street performers, couples on dates, and families enjoying the cooler air. The surrounding buildings create this cool urban canyon effect with all their lights, and it’s a great spot for exploring downtown Shanghai at night.

If you walk from the Bund to the end of Nanjing Road, walk slightly to the left where you will find People’s Square.

Where do foreigners party in Shanghai?

Found: A big underground space, great if you want that international crowd mixed with locals. Seen here below on the left during the day.

Cages: A mix of a sportsbar/arcade/pool hall and board games. Fun place!

Foreigners also visit clubs, but the nightclub scene (the ones with giant LED screens, dancers, and DJs, etc.) in China is vastly different from those in Western parts of the world.

In China, you have to book a table which is crazy expensive. You can get in without booking a table, but don’t expect a big dance floor if there even is one.

Most foreigners go to rooftop bars at the Bund, the French Concession, or Found.

How to spend a night in Shanghai with kids

Shanghai is surprisingly family-friendly at night. It’s safe, there isn’t any chance of strange folks hanging around, and club-goers won’t bother you.

Take them on the ferry to the other side of the Bund. Kids love seeing the city from the water, and the buildings all lit up are pretty magical. On the Pudong side of the river, there is plenty of space for kids to walk around and get some ice cream. You’ll see lots of Chinese kids there as well.

Another great place for kids, perhaps a bit older kids, (and adults!) is Cages. It’s like a mix of a sports bar, arcade and where you can play games like Jenga. I’ve been here countless times.

Tip: Most malls are open until 10 pm. Inside almost every mall, right at the center, there are large play areas for kids. From gigantic Paw Patrol figures with slides to SpongeBob attractions.

Restaurants & Food in Shanghai

The Fellas

The Fellas (BundArea) is my favorite restaurant in Shanghai. This place has excellent Italian food, it’s not too pricey, and the rooftop terrace is perfect, with an incredible view. The atmosphere is relaxed but still feels special.

Alimentari (Can be found in several Areas): So good! Famous for its cheese platters and cold cuts. I love this place.

Villa Le Bec (French Concession):

Famous, more upscale restaurant.

Yaya’s Pasta Bar (Jing An Area):

Great pasta if you’re looking for something different than Chinese food.

La Creperie

I love Chinese food, but sometimes you want something different. These are the best crepes in Shanghai. And the surrounding area has plenty of other international restaurants. Cocktail bars, clubs, bakeries, and more.

Lotus Eatery

The best Chinese food, Beijing style, affordable and so good! The entire street (Dingxi Road) is great as well to check out.

Baker & Spice

You’ll find these basically anywhere in Shanghai. Great for lunch, but I still wanted to mention it.

Starbucks Reserve Roaster

I know, I know, it’s Starbucks… But it’s one of the biggest Starbucks in the world. It is quite an experience and fun to visit. Plus it’s open late and perfect to try some new coffee you’ve never had before after dinner.

Right next to the Roastery is a gigantic Louis Vuitton Ship! It’s just one of those crazy Shanghai things.

But, keep in mind that Shanghai is a city that changes a lot, and fast, so many restaurants or clubs can be hot and happening now, and then they’re gone the next year.

Smart Shanghai has an accurate list of great places to go to for dinner and drinks in Shanghai at night.

Street food

Close to most clubs, you’ll find restaurants and street food late at night, such as on Huai Hai Lu. If you don’t know what to eat in Shanghai late at night ask street food vendors for “xiaolongbao”, “jianbing” (crepe-like things), or grilled skewers, usually “Yang-rou” (sheep meat).

Have food delivered anywhere you want

Also, quite some restaurants are open in Shanghai late at night where you can order online. One of the cool things about Shanghai is that they can deliver it anywhere. You don’t have to be in a house with an address; you can just point to a location on a map, and it will be delivered.

Tip: Many times it's the small local restaurants that are open at times like 6am, such as this wonton restaurant.

I’ve had many times after a show where my friends and I couldn’t find a place to eat, so we ordered food while waiting outside on a bench on the street!

The most common food delivery apps are “e le me” and Meituan. You might have to connect a Chinese bank account, but these things change, so a foreign credit card could work, similar to Alipay. Or just ask someone to order it and give them cash! This is not uncommon.

So if you’re thinking about what to do in Shanghai at night, food-wise? I’m pretty sure you’ll find something in this super convenient city.

Tip: Most of the time, you can find the international restaurants on Instagram (make sure you have a working VPN such as Astrill) with a link in bio or phone number to make a reservation. 

Bars & Drinks in Shanghai

The Fellas

The Fellas (BundArea) Again, The Fellas is also a great place just for a drink. They have amazing seats outside to view the Bund.

Captain

Great mixed crowd and incredible view on the Bund.

Roosevelt Sky Bar

Great rooftop bar

VUE Bar at Hyatt

on the Bund is an amazing place, but a bit outside the main attraction area

Boxing Cat

Well-known brewery, relaxed vibe, great for a meet-up.

Stone Brewing

Several nice bars in the area!

Heim

Underground club and events in various locations

Club Master

When you want to dance until sunrise, this is the place. Multiple areas, different music styles (EDM, hip-hop, and techno most of the time), and the vibe is always really good. There is also a dance floor, which is rare for Chinese clubs.

Convenience stores

First of all, almost all convenience stores are open 24 hours a day! The most common convenience stores in Shanghai are Lawson, Family Mart, and 7-Eleven.

So, how to spend a night in Shanghai? If you have two nights to spend, you can get a good taste of the nightlife, especially on weekends.

First night, do the classic tourist route: stroll around the Bund, maybe a quick visit to Yu Garden, Nanjing Road, eat at a restaurant at the Bund to see the light show in the evening, grab drinks at a rooftop bar.

Second night, explore the French Concession, try some local bars, and if you’re up for it, experience the nightlife scene in a club.

Essential Nightlife Info

Shanghai is one of the most convenient cities in the world. Making sure that everything runs smoothly is one of the top priorities of the government. So getting around in Shanghai at night is very easy.

Closing times at night in Shanghai:

• Public Parks: Usually close at 10 pm. 
• Subway trains run from 5:30 am to around 11:00 pm, depending on the line.
• Taxis: Available 24/7
• Bund Light Show: From 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm in the summer and from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm in the winter.
• Ferry from The Bund to Pudong: The tourist ferries run until about 21:00 pm 
• Shopping: Malls typically close at 22:00, but street markets can stay open later 
• Convenience stores: Most are 24/7 open
• Street food: Close to bars and clubs, you’ll find street food vendors outside with some tasty hot snacks.

If you take the subway to East Nanjing Road Station, you’ll be right at the center of Nanjing Road, where most shops are.

Talking about convenience, did you know that there’s a service in Shanghai (and many other Chinese cities) where you can go with your car to the club, drink, and then pay someone to drive you home in your own car!

They have their own electric scooter that the driver will put in the trunk to ride back to the clubs, and bring more people to their home. Such a genius thing!

Tip: Did you know that during the week, only cars with a "Shanghai" license plate can enter the city? This makes getting around during the week much easier and faster. During weekends, anyone can enter Shanghai with their car, so there is a big difference in traffic (although it still isn't too bad).

Also, knowing just a few phrases will completely change your Shanghai night experience! I’ve seen how much more open and welcoming locals become when you make even a small effort with the language.

Essential nightlife phrases:

• “Ganbei!” (干杯) – Cheers! You can really use this in a bar.
• “Duōshǎo qián?” (多少钱) – How much does this cost?
• “Jiē zhàng” (结账) – The bill, please
• “Bù là” or Bu La De (不辣) – Not spicy (trust me, you’ll need this, thank me the next morning 😉 )
• Xǐshǒujiān?” (洗手间) – Bathroom?

Translation Apps That Actually Work

Google Translate works well in Shanghai, IF you download the offline Chinese package before you go out. 

WeChat works amazingly for basically anything, as well for translating; you can scan an image, such as a menu, and have it translated, or translate any incoming message.

Tip: Have your hotel address saved in Chinese characters on your phone to show it to the taxi driver. Most taxi drivers don't speak English, but they're usually super patient if you're polite about it.

Chinese Drinking Customs

Toasting etiquette: When someone older or more senior toasts you, hold your glass slightly lower than theirs. It’s a small respect thing that locals notice.

Group dynamics: If you’re drinking with Chinese friends, expect lots of toasts throughout the night, and the more you drink, the more often you’ll toast! It’s a social thing, not about getting wasted. (Well, maybe a little bit)

Business situations: If you’re networking, the person who invited you usually pays. Don’t fight it too hard; maybe offer once politely, but it’s usually best to just thank the person who invited you for the drinks.

Receiving a drink or gift: In some countries, it is polite to first kindly refuse something that’s given to you. In Chin, it is not. It is polite to accept it and thank the person right away. Unless you had enough drinks, it is totally fine to kindly refuse it.

Drinking Games: Drinking games in Shanghai are widespread in clubs. A popular game is “grabbing fingers”, though I’m not sure what the Chinese name is. But it works as follows:

One person holds up their hand with the inside down, and everyone else holds their finger against that person’s hand. At some point, the person grabs one finger. They will then do some pose, make a move, or just basically do anything, and the others have to copy it as fast as possible; the last one needs to drink.

Volume and Behavior at Night in Shanghai

Shanghai’s pretty relaxed, but here’s what I’ve noticed:

• When walking back from the club at night through residential areas, keep the volume very low. If you talk too loudly, some might let you know it’s not appreciated.
• Public displays of affection are less common here.
• Taking photos or videos is totally fine in clubs, unless there is a sign that says not allowed.

Read here more about insider tips on Chinese clubbing etiquette.

Payment and Costs for Shanghai Nights

Shanghai is moving toward cashless, but as a tourist, you’ll want some options. Most international cards work at upscale places, but street food vendors? Nope.

What I recommend:

• Get some cash (200 or 300 RMB at least) for night markets, smaller bars, and to pay for a taxi home.
• WeChat Pay and Alipay work if you can set them up (your hotel can often help). You can do this before going to China.
• Higher-end restaurants and rooftop bars usually take cards.

Tipping
Good news, there’s basically no tipping culture in Shanghai, or anywhere in China! Don’t feel awkward about not leaving tips; it’s genuinely not expected (might even be more of an insult).

Transportation at night

• Subway: Different Subway lines have slightly different closing times. Lines 1 and 2 usually run until about 11:00 pm, but some newer lines stop earlier. 
• DiDi (Chinese Uber), download the app and set up payment before you need it.
• Regular taxis – they’re everywhere near popular nightlife areas
• Night buses exist, but DiDi is easier
• Maps Apps: Baidu Maps, Gaode (where you can order taxis), and Apple Maps work.
• Bikes: If you can connect your foreign credit card to Alipay, you can unlock a bike. Try to unlock a bike during the day, just to be sure, so someone can help more easily.

Tip: Screenshot the Chinese app and translate it in Google Translate or WeChat

Best Time To Visit

Shanghai is actually great to visit all year round. Of course, it’s hotter and a bit humid in the summer from July to September, and winters are colder, but it isn’t too crazy. It’s actually much more pleasant than the humidity in Seoul, for instance.

Summer nights in Shanghai are especially great. It cools off a bit, and it’s the perfect temperature for a drink outside on a roof terrace.

Make sure to bring some mosquito repellent when you visit Shanghai in the summer. It’s not that bad with mosquitoes, but there are some.

At the heart of winter, Shanghai gets cold, and it feels colder than it is because of the wet weather.

I drove my scooter a lot in the winter, and my hands would freeze off without gloves. But there are so many attractions in Shanghai, indoor and outdoor, and taxis are easy to get anywhere, so don’t expect to have to walk outside in the cold for too long.

Tldr:

• Spring (March-May): Perfect for rooftop bars as the weather warms up. Cherry blossom season makes evening walks incredible.
• Summer (June-August): Rooftop season! Yes, it’s humid, but the night breezes are lovely. Just be ready for sudden downpours.
• Fall (September-November): Cool enough for walking, warm enough for outdoor drinks.
• Winter (December-February): Cold, but plenty of places to go inside.

Rainy Night Backup Plans
Shanghai gets those sudden summer downpours I mentioned, so here’s what to do:

• Underground shopping: People’s Square underground mall connects to multiple metro lines
• Covered markets: Tianzifang has covered sections perfect for bar hopping

Tip: Those convenience store umbrellas are cheap and work great, just buy one and keep exploring!

Chinese Holidays

There are several Chinese holidays that can impact your trip:

• Chinese New Year: Most places close for about two weeks, but some international hotel bars stay open. It’s eerily quiet and not a good time to visit Shanghai.
• Golden Week (October 1-7): Everything’s packed with domestic tourists. Avoid this week at all costs!
• Singles Day (November 11): A huge one-day shopping festival, with discounts available before and after the 11th. Malls and shopping areas stay open later with special events and discounts. Actually, a great time to be in Shanghai!

Shanghai’s Safety at Night

Shanghai is one of the safest cities in the world, even at night. You will not have to worry about anything happening.

I’ve been alone on the streets in Shanghai at night so many times; after my shows, after visiting friends, coming back late from the airport, after finishing work (meetings at 3 am!!), and so on. You might see a few folks passed out on the street after a heavy clubbing night. Is Shanghai safe at night? Yes.

If you’re going to clubs at night, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Some clubs serve a kind of “cheap” or “fake” alcohol. This alcohol might hit you harder and later than you might be used to, so be careful with that. Your safest bet is sticking to bottled drinks like beer or champagne, especially when you’re out alone.

If there’s any drama or fights at a bar (which I doubt there will be), just walk away. As a foreigner, the cops aren’t going to take your side if things get messy.

You’ll probably encounter baijiu at some point. Bai means “white” “jiu” means alcohol. This is rice wine, and it’s incredibly strong. Don’t drink too much of that!

Clubs here don’t really have dance floors like back home. Instead, everything’s set up around tables that people rent for the night, and they’re pretty expensive. Don’t just wander over to someone else’s table unless they invite you. Though if they do, it can be really fun and has happened to me several times.

Just use common sense and you’ll be fine. The nightlife scene here is fun once you know how it works.

Jack, really, how safe is Shanghai at night? Honestly, I feel safer walking around Shanghai at 2 am than I do in most Western cities during the day. The crime rate is incredibly low, there’s good street lighting everywhere, and you’ll usually see other people around even late at night. Sidewalks are wide and spacious, traffic is clear and easy to understand, and there aren’t any ‘crazy drivers’.

Tip: Keep in mind that most cars and scooters run on electricity in Shanghai, so they make almost no sound! Don't rely solely on your ears, but always really look to the left and right before crossing the street.

So if you’re wondering if Shanghai is dangerous at night? It certainly is not. Most problems are just inconveniences rather than real emergencies, but knowing your options makes everything more relaxed.

Read my full Shanghai Safety guide here.

Is Shanghai foreigner-friendly?

From my personal experience, Shanghai is very foreigner-friendly. Still, as anywhere in China, they will always see you as a foreigner. To break these cultural barriers a bit, learning a few Chinese words truly helps. Learn how to pronounce Nihao, and XieXie, and you’re already on the right track.

Is Shanghai dangerous at night for females?

Shanghai is a very safe city. I’ve seen many women walking alone outside at night, leaving the club and hanging out with friends. But, around 25 million people live in Shanghai… so it’s impossible to say if nobody has any bad intentions.

It is always smart to be cautious and go with a friend. Also, make sure to always have enough battery on your phone to stay connected.

And get a SIM card that works. Airalo works really well, from my experience.

Like I said, if you’re alone, it’s better to stick with bottled drinks and not mixed drinks they make at the bar.

Important Numbers to Save:

• Police: 110
• Ambulance: 120
• Fire: 119
• Tourist Hotline: 962020 (they speak English!)

What to do at night in Shanghai when you lose your Phone or Wallet 

This happened to me one time, so here’s what you can do:

• If you remember where you might have lost it, go back to the place; there’s a big chance it’s still there. (Even the next day!)
• There are delivery services available for lost phones (or anything). Find someone who can help, explain where you left your phone, and they can help get your phone back.
• Report to police for insurance (you’ll need the report number)
• Your embassy can help with emergency travel documents.
• Most hotels can call a taxi for you if you’re phoneless.
• Keep a photo of your passport, visa, and the Chinese address of your hotel on a friend’s phone.

Late-Night Pharmacies in Shanghai

Watson’s and Mannings usually stay open until 10 pm in major areas. For real emergencies, the international hospitals (like Parkway Health) have 24-hour services.

Hospital Locations

Huashan Hospital and Ruijin Hospital are well-regarded and centrally located. Your hotel can call ahead and arrange translation if needed.

Final thoughts

After living here and exploring the nightlife extensively, I can honestly say that Shanghai has such an amazing variety of nightlife.

You have to know where to look a little bit. But just try some places, grab a taxi, and if it isn’t the right spot, just order another taxi and go.

There are just plenty of fun things to discover here, and each night out reveals something new about this truly unforgettable city.

If you’re still deciding on which hotel to stay in Shanghai, read my complete ‘where to stay in Shanghai‘ guide.

F.A.Q.