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Long Hua Temple Fair Area attraction in Hongkou, SH
Photo: Google
View of Long Hua Temple Fair Area in Hongkou, SH
Photo: Google
View of Long Hua Temple Fair Area in Hongkou, SH
Photo: Google

Long Hua Temple Fair Area

Activity
🕑 3-4 hours👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger children enjoy the vibrant performances, colorful decorations, and interactive craft stations, while older kids and teens appreciate the cultural performances, food exploration, and opportunities to practice basic Mandarin phrases with friendly vendors.

About

Long Hua Temple Fair Area offers families an immersive cultural adventure with colorful performances, hands-on craft activities, and delicious street food in a festive atmosphere. Kids will love watching traditional lion dances, trying their hand at calligraphy or paper cutting, and sampling sweet treats like tanghulu (candied fruit on sticks) while experiencing authentic Chinese culture alongside local families.

Highlights

  • Traditional folk performances including dragon dances, acrobatics, and Chinese opera demonstrations
  • Hands-on craft workshops where kids can try calligraphy, paper cutting, or clay figurine making
  • Diverse street food stalls offering dumplings, candied fruits, cotton candy, and other Chinese snacks
  • Colorful decorations, lanterns, and festive atmosphere perfect for family photos
  • Local games and activities like ring toss and traditional Chinese puzzles

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Download a translation app like Google Translate with offline Chinese capability before your visit, as English signage may be limited and it helps when ordering food or asking questions.
  2. 2.Bring small denomination yuan cash (1, 5, and 10 yuan notes), as most food stalls and craft vendors prefer cash over cards or mobile payments.
  3. 3.Arrive early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid the largest crowds, especially during Chinese New Year when the fair is most popular.
  4. 4.Let kids pick one or two craft activities to try, such as making sugar paintings or paper lanterns, for memorable hands-on experiences.
  5. 5.Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be on your feet exploring crowded outdoor areas for several hours.

Best Time to Visit

Visit during weekday mornings for smaller crowds and cooler temperatures. The fair is most lively during Chinese New Year (late January to mid-February) and on weekends, but expect large crowds. Late afternoon offers beautiful lighting for photos but can be very busy.

What to Know

The temple fair is seasonal and typically runs during Chinese New Year and select holidays with modest entrance fees (usually 10-20 yuan per person). Food and activities are purchased separately with cash. Bathrooms are basic public facilities, so come prepared.

Seasonal Notes

The temple fair operates seasonally, primarily during Chinese New Year (late January to mid-February) and occasionally during other traditional Chinese holidays like Mid-Autumn Festival. Check dates in advance as the fair is not year-round. Weather can be cold during Chinese New Year, so dress warmly.

Nearby Eats

The fair itself offers extensive street food options perfect for trying with kids. For sit-down meals, explore nearby Hongkou district restaurants offering family-friendly dim sum and noodle shops within walking distance.

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