Sanlin Old Street

Introducing Sanlin Old Street

Sanlin Town boasts a history of nearly a thousand years, dating back to the 21st century. The town originated in the late Northern Song Dynasty, originating from the descendants of Lin Legeng, a Song Dynasty hermit from Sunjiaqiao, Sanlin Town. Legend has it that Lin Legeng, a Song Dynasty hermit, brought his wife and children to Sanlin Town to start a business, leaving his three sons to live in different places. This gradually led to the formation of the three villages of Donglin, Zhonglin, and Xilin, hence the name "Sanlin."

In 1954, the government hosted its first temple fair on the 15th day of the third lunar month, titled the "Sanlin Urban-Rural Materials Exchange Conference." In 1978, the temple reopened, and the "Sanlin Urban-Rural Materials Exchange Conference" was established. In 1992, the exchange was renamed the "Shengtang Temple Fair," and a temple archway was erected for the first time. Afterward, the Shengtang Temple Fair was discontinued for 16 years.

The "Mid-Midnight" Temple Fair is a time-honored folk custom in Sanlin Ancient Town. The Temple, also known as Chongfu Daoyuan, is said to have originated as a family ancestral hall built by Lu Xun of the Eastern Wu Dynasty for his mother during the Three Kingdoms period. Located in the center of Sanlin Town, it was designated "Chongfu Daoyuan" in 1119, the first year of the Xuanhe reign of the Northern Song Dynasty. With a history of nearly 900 years, it is a Taoist sacred site.

Climate and best time to travel

Sanlin Town in Pudong boasts a subtropical monsoon climate and is said to have a history of nearly a thousand years. CCTV's hit series "A Bite of China 2" featured numerous scenes shot here. The Shanghainese cuisine featured in the show is renowned for its freshness and affordability, attracting tourists from all over the world to try it. It became an overnight sensation and is a great destination for travelers year-round.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Sanlin embroidery, Sanlin dragon dance, Sanlin temple fair, etc.

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Sanlin Old Street

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Sanlin Old Street is a well-preserved historic area in Shanghai, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage. The street offers a glimpse into Shanghai’s traditional way of life with its old-style buildings and local businesses, serving as a reminder of the city’s vibrant past before rapid modernization.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Sanlin Old Street is located in the southeastern part of Shanghai. The easiest way to get there is by taking the metro (Line 9) to Sanlin Station, followed by a short walk. Taxis are also a convenient option for those who prefer direct access.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Sanlin Old Street is open year-round and can be visited at any time during the day. The best time to visit is during the morning or late afternoon when the streets are less crowded, and the weather is pleasant for walking around.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit Sanlin Old Street as it is a public area. Visitors are only required to pay for purchases at local shops or for specific activities like guided tours, if available.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No tickets are required for entry to the street itself. However, if you plan to participate in a guided tour or visit any specific attractions or restaurants in the area, it’s advisable to book those in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Sanlin Old Street can take 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend shopping, exploring the alleys, and enjoying local snacks. It’s a relaxed area, so you can enjoy the sights at your own pace.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include the traditional architecture along the street, the bustling markets, and local snack stalls offering Shanghai-style food. Don’t miss visiting some of the small local temples and shops selling traditional crafts and antiques.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available at certain times, though they are not always necessary since the street is quite easy to explore on your own. If available, tours are usually conducted in Chinese, with occasional tours in English for international visitors.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are the colorful street scenes and the quaint shops. The old-style buildings and narrow alleys also provide excellent backdrops for photos. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by strolling along the main street, taking in the architecture and browsing the local markets. Then, explore the smaller alleys for a more intimate look at traditional Shanghai life. Finish with a stop at a local café or restaurant to enjoy a traditional Shanghai snack.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Sanlin Old Street is a more traditional area, so it does not typically have light shows. However, the street is still charming at night, with some local restaurants and shops remaining open. It’s an ideal time for evening strolls to soak in the quiet atmosphere.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Sanlin Old Street can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are during weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon, before or after the main lunch and dinner rush.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Sanlin Old Street offers basic amenities such as public toilets, food stalls, and rest areas. There are also plenty of shops selling souvenirs, local snacks, and traditional crafts. Water and snacks are available at many of the street vendors and small shops.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The street is relatively accessible, with paved paths suitable for elderly and children. However, the area can be crowded, and some of the alleyways may not be ideal for wheelchair users. It’s best to check for accessibility at specific attractions or restaurants beforehand.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Most businesses on Sanlin Old Street accept mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay, as well as credit and debit cards. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller transactions or at traditional shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several small restaurants and cafes around Sanlin Old Street offering traditional Shanghai dishes, including dumplings, fried rice, and noodles. A few more modern cafes are also available nearby for those looking for coffee or desserts.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Some restaurants and street vendors offer vegetarian and vegan options, especially in the more modern cafes. Halal food options are more limited but can be found in certain restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few budget hotels and guesthouses near Sanlin Old Street. For more upscale accommodations, visitors can stay in nearby areas such as Pudong or the Lujiazui financial district, which are just a short metro ride away.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Century Park, the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, and the Lujiazui area with its iconic skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower. These can all be easily combined into a day trip with public transportation.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are several souvenir shops along the street selling traditional Shanghai items like silk, calligraphy brushes, tea sets, and handicrafts. The area is also known for its vintage and antique shops.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From Sanlin Old Street, visitors can easily access the metro (Line 9) or take a taxi to other parts of Shanghai. The nearby Century Park and Lujiazui areas are popular destinations for the next part of your trip, both accessible by public transportation.