Chengdu's ancient teahouses are going viral—here's why

This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).
It's barely 9am when I slide into a bamboo armchair at Heming Tea House in Chengdu's sprawling People's Park. This century-old stalwart is one of the oldest teahouses in the megacity that I called home until I was nine. While I was growing up here, in one of China's oldest tea-growing areas, many weekends were spent in an open-air teahouse like this one.
While adults played games of mahjong and the kids ran riot, roving hawkers carrying heavy baskets balanced on bamboo shoulder poles would come round selling snacks. The most famous of these is dan dan mian (shoulder pole noodles), where a nest of cold noodles is placed on a hot and tongue-numbing mala chilli oil base, topped with spring onion and minced meat, then mixed and greedily devoured.
But as I sip my grassy mao feng green tea, I'm struck by how unusually busy it is. Hordes of tourists with phones in video mode stream past the chairs crammed under teak pavilions and beige parasols. Most seats already filled by pensioners putting the world to rights or families cracking into toasted sunflower seeds.
A group of photography students is playing cards next to me, their backs turned on a pile of cameras carelessly stacked on a spare chair. I lean over and ask why there are so many people here on a weekday. One of the students looks up and tells me Heming has lately gained wang hong ('internet fame') with Chinese travellers — the local expression for going viral.
Later, I head to Lao Chuzi Sichuan Restaurant for a family gathering. The low-key restaurant and teahouse on the top floor of a four-storey office block isn't particularly well known, but my uncle picked it because it's a favourite in his neighbourhood, and it serves a stellar line-up of Sichuan dishes, including garlic-infused fish, fragrant aubergine and thin slices of poached pork served with a drizzle of sesame-laced chilli sauce.
I bring up the wang hong phenomenon. 'There are wang hong places everywhere now and business is booming,' my uncle tells me, noting a similarly popular place down the road: 11th Street. Later, we stroll over to take a look. Amid the low-rise residential blocks is a row of a dozen or so two-storey buildings, their exposed wooden beams and pitched roofs incongruous with the more modern surroundings. Each houses a hole-in-the-wall joint; their names — like Xiangxiang Mian ('alley noodles') or Du Youyou Boboji ('Du Youyou's spicy skewers') — advertise their specialities. Wooden tables and bamboo chairs spill onto the street in front, where there are as many people taking photos as there are noisily eating.
'These all used to be teahouses,' says my uncle, who's lived in the neighbourhood for over 30 years and watched the buildings' metamorphosis into buzzy restaurants. Before that, this ramshackle collective was made up of homes built during the tumultuous period after the Qing dynasty ended in 1912 and before the People's Republic of China was established in 1949.
Since the 1990s, billions of pounds of investment have poured into Chengdu from the central government and private developers, triggering a building boom that's given large swathes of the city a complete facelift. These buildings have somehow escaped the demolitions that razed their neighbours, and ironically their rundown appearance may now become their saving grace as people seek to hold on to the last vestiges of an old Chengdu.
In recent years, there's been a concerted effort to protect and redevelop old buildings with heritage value — the type that don't hold historical significance, like temples and monuments, but still have a place in the city's history. One of the more sensitively done projects is the downtown Taikoo Li shopping and entertainment complex, where a handful of 19th-century homes surrounding Daci Temple were restored and given a new lease of life a decade ago. Mi Xun Teahouse, the Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurant at The Temple House hotel, occupies one of these. The grey brick walls of this single-storey building — set aside from the modern tower that makes up the main hotel — hide a tranquil courtyard that transforms into a wood-panelled al fresco dining spot in fine weather, a single tree providing dappled shade. It's here that I meet executive chef Tony Xu, who tells me that in the beginning Mi Xun was just supposed to be a teahouse.
'Because Chengdu is very big on tea, we started with tea and some snacks,' he says, explaining that teahouses almost always serve some kind of food. 'But more and more people were requesting our food, so we added more dishes to the menu. And now people mainly come for the food.'
Tony takes inspiration from Buddhist culinary traditions in a nod to the temple next door, and so the menu is vegetarian with a very subtle use of spices and no garlic or onion. He is also an innovator, preparing dishes such as a vegan dan dan mian, made with an egg-free noodle of his own creation, containing wheat and cake flour for extra bite and spinach juice for colour; and mapo tofu, which is flavoured with mushrooms instead of the traditional pork mince. The result is a modern take on classic Sichuan flavours, with striking visual appeal.
For the tea connoisseur, Mi Xun also offers a selection of premium brews such as da hong pao from Fujian province, and Pu'er from Yunnan, served in a pared-down version of the traditional gongfu tea-preparation ritual. Instead of an elaborate ceremony where a tea master washes the leaves, warms the tiny cups and prepares the tea, some of these stages are done behind the scenes. All the guests need do is steep the tea according to their preference. Attention is still paid to the drinkware — green tea always served in a glass pot, for example, while red tea comes in white ceramic. 'We've simplified things so everyone can enjoy the experience and take joy from tasting tea,' says teahouse manager Yvonne Du.
Tea is cheap and widely available in Chengdu — meaning it's enjoyed by a wide cross-section of society. 'You'll find teahouses all over China,' explains Susan Yin, a guide at food tour company Lost Plate. 'In Chengdu, tea is for everyone. It doesn't matter what your background is, or whether you're rich or poor.'
Yin is my guide for a food tour just east of the downtown area. The company's co-founder, Ruixi Hu, lives in Chengdu and designed the itinerary around some of her favourite haunts. As part of the tour, we hop into a cramped tuk-tuk that whizzes us around the neighbourhood. At one stop, we try dan hong gao, fluffy pancakes stuffed with a mix of sesame, crushed peanuts and sugar. At another, we tuck into enormous bowls of freshly made pork wontons, some in plain broth and some swimming in fragrant chilli oil. We also stop at casual noodle shop Tang Dan Dan Tian Shui Mian, visited by the late US chef Anthony Bourdain for his CNN show Parts Unknown, and slurp through bowls of tian shui mian ('sweet water noodles') — a thick, springy, hand-cut variety that comes slicked in a sweet, peanut and sesame paste sauce.
It's only when we sit down at a restaurant serving jiang hu cuisine — a rough-and-ready style of cooking that has its origins in the street markets of Sichuan, a province that's big on flavour intensity — that Yin and I finally get some time to chat.
As we liberate chunks of dry-fried chicken from underneath piles of chillies, and fish out tender slivers of beef from a spicy broth, Yin tells me she settled in Chengdu over a decade ago for two very simple reasons: the food and the lifestyle. Taking a sip of buckwheat tea, she adds: 'Chengdu is a laid-back city, and the best way to experience this is in a teahouse.'
Published in the July/August 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Learn with AIFact CheckingText to SpeechAI Summary

Related Articles

Travel + Leisure

7 hours ago

• Travel + Leisure

This East Asian City Has the Most Skyscrapers in the World—Plus Iconic Hotels and Legendary Dim Sum

See Hong Kong from above by riding the gondola up to Ngong Ping village, home to the largest Buddha statue in the city. Party the night away at the tallest rooftop bar in the world at Ozone. Take a Rolls-Royce or helicopter ride at The Peninsula. Dine on modern Cantonese cuisine and listen to 80s Canto-pop at Ho Lee Fook. Try your hand at haggling at the famous Temple Street Night Market. It's hard to imagine a place more international and metropolitan than Hong Kong. Hong Kong is a vibrant hub that sees millions of travelers every day. It's also one of the most significant financial centers in the world, and home to one of the most important commercial ports—a fact that has caused this little slice of the South China Sea to change hands between major world powers a few times in recent history. But all that change and cultural melting pot action has led to one of the most diverse, complex, and vibrant cities that you'll find in East Asia. A trip to Hong Kong is very much a choose-your-own adventure. You could eat noodles at a hawker stall or tuck into Michelin-starred dining. You could get lost in the hustle and bustle of city life or spend a quiet beach day on the outer islands. "Hong Kong holds a special place in my heart," says Virginia Chan, owner of Humid with a Chance of Fishballs, a tour operator offering guided tours of the city. "The vibrant energy is palpable. The best thing is the synergy between the East and the West, and how perfectly the old and the new marry together. Many might not realize that just 20 minutes away from the concrete jungle lies a natural oasis with beautiful hiking trails." Here's what you need to know before planning a trip to Hong Kong. Scenes inside the Rosewood Hong Kong. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure The Rosewood Hong Kong has large luxurious rooms, amazing views of the harbor, incredible design and artwork, as well as 11 different bars and restaurants, including one of the city's best afternoon teas at the Butterfly Room. Or you could load up on curry, samosas, or chicken tikka at the Michelin-starred Indian restaurant Chaat. The Peninsula is arguably one of the most well-known and historic hotels in Hong Kong. On Christmas Day in 1941, British officials surrendered to Imperial Japanese forces in the Peninsula, ushering in four years of Japanese occupation in Hong Kong. Major historical events aside, the Peninsula is known for its distinct, East-meets-West style of luxury (if you couldn't tell by the massive stone lions and bellhops in white tunics). For those looking for a sumptuous stay in the city, there's no better place than the Peninsula, according to Chan. 'Should one wish for a real treat, they can choose to take a helicopter ride for panoramic views of the city, starting at the helipad located on the top of the Peninsula," she says. "Also, The Peninsula boasts the largest fleet of Rolls-Royce cars owned by a hotel, so Rolls-Royce airport transfers are fair game!' For those looking for a luxe option on Hong Kong Island, look no further than Mandarin Oriental. Since it opened in 1963, this hotel has been a favorite among the rich and famous, and has welcomed guests such as Eartha Kitt, Christian Dior, and, more recently, Michelle Yeoh. It's just steps away from Hong Kong's SoHo district, making it a convenient home base to explore all the shops, restaurants, and bars that the one of the city's liveliest neighborhoods has to offer. This iconic hotel recently underwent a major two-year renovation and reopened in 2023 to rave reviews. In fact, it was voted the best in the city by Travel + Leisure readers in 2024. "Regent Hong Kong's location makes it a great place to post up," said T+L editor Susmita Baral. "The Victoria Harbour waterfront means you have stunning views, easy access to museums, and can get around the city through public transit or ferries. But my biggest takeaway is that it feels like a private oasis in the bustling city." The Big Buddha in Ngong Ping village. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure A fun fact: Hong Kong has the most skyscrapers in the world. There are many ways to admire the skyline, but taking the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak is the best way to see Hong Kong's iconic skyline. In fact, it's one of Chan's favorite tourist attractions. She recommends buying a ticket beforehand or using an Octopus Card to skip the line. 'Take a leisurely stroll to Lugard Road Lookout Point for a magnificent 180-degree view of the city," Chan says. Visiting Tian Tan Buddha (aka the Big Buddha) is truly one of those things where the act of getting there is just as exciting as reaching the destination. The 3.5-mile gondola ride not only has great views of Hong Kong's densely packed cityscape, but you'll also get to see the lush jungle landscapes that hug it. Spend some extra time exploring the surrounding village, the Po Lin Monastery, where you can even enjoy a lunch cooked by the local monks. Chan recommends making it a full-day trip to see the old stilt houses of nearby Tai O, a historic fishing village. This massive complex was originally constructed in the early 1860s and served as the Central Police Station until the 2000s. Over the years, new additions were added to the original building, and it would eventually also have a dormitory and a prison. These days, however, it's now used as a retail and entertainment complex, after a massive revitalization project transformed the building. Visitors can now dine, shop, and even go to the movies at Tai Kwun. Don't skip the museum, which focuses on the building's history and even has some display prison cells. This promenade runs along the harbor on Kowloon and has incredible views of Hong Kong. Here, you'll find the Avenue of the Stars, which pays tribute to famous Hong Kong film stars such as Jackie Chan, who was born in the city. You can also shop till you drop at the massive luxury malls, watch (or catch) the ferries and the junk boats along the water, and watch the twinkling lights of the skyline at night. The bustling Temple Street Night Market. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure For a unique souvenir, go treasure hunting in Hong Kong's first and last hand-painted porcelain factory. As you wander the stacked aisles, you can see employees painting new inventory. But be aware that not everything is painted on-site, so Chan suggests checking the bottom of the pieces that you're interested in to confirm its origin. No matter what you may be looking for, there's probably a street market in Hong Kong that sells it. From Goldfish Street to Flower Market, there truly is something for everyone in the city. Temple Street Night Market is a favorite for trinkets and souvenirs. If you're looking for bags or dupes in general, head to Ladies Night Market. Chan suggests Cat Street (also known as Antiques Street) for unique finds, like charms that will match your Chinese Zodiac sign. Also, don't let the 'Night Market' label fool you—most of the markets are open in the afternoon. This massive compound used to be a dormitory for married police officers, but it's now an artist residence, full of studios and shops. "[There are] lots of unique and very cool one-off stores in here and great souvenirs as well,' Chan says. Your typical souvenir shop, this is not. Gods of Desire focuses on modern, design-forward and modern gifts and has everything from locally designed clothing to Hong Kong-themed games. The Hong Kong skyline at night. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure Located on the 118th floor of the Ritz-Carlton, this is the tallest rooftop bar in the world. While it's a great place to sip cocktails and enjoy small plates atop the city any day, a visit here feels particularly special on New Year's Eve, when the night sky is peppered with fireworks. If you're ready to get the party started, then head to Lan Kwai Fong, one of the city's most popular nightlife hot spots. The streets of LKF (as the locals call it) are lined with live music venues, cocktail bars, and clubs, but you'll also spot young people simply partying it up in the street. If you're looking for a more sophisticated cocktail experience, Chan suggests heading to SoHo, a neighborhood located next to LKF. This small area is packed with award-winning bars that have creative menus and excellent service. Chen especially recommends the Mexican-inspired Coa, Bar Leone, or the Savory Project. 'You'll never have to sober up or have an empty drink in hand before your next," Chan says. Dishes served at Chaat. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure Eating at this Michelin-starred restaurant is more than just a meal—it's an experience. Expect elevated takes on Cantonese classics using the finest of luxury ingredients. Menu highlights include items like braised abalone, honey-glazed barbecue pork, and stuffed crab shells. Ho Lee Fook, owned by the Black Sheep hospitality group, describes itself as "a Chinese restaurant with a Hong Kong heart." Here, you'll find an elegantly decorated space (think boldly patterned wallpaper, a wall of golden maneki neko, and an open kitchen), and solid Cantonese dishes. 'The flavors are more bold and cater to those who like punchier flavors," she says. "[There's also] great cocktails and a great interior to match." You'll have no problem finding Chinese food in Hong Kong, so if you're craving something different, try Louise. This Michelin-starred French restaurant is tucked away in a heritage building and serves seasonally inspired dishes in a cozy ambiance. Indian food in Hong Kong might not sound like a must-do experience, but this restaurant located in the Rosewood Hong Kong serves truly unforgettable meals. Dishes like lobster curry and burrata palak will have you nearly licking the plate. View of a park on along the water in Hong Kong. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure Hong Kong has a subtropical climate, meaning the summer season brings heat and humidity—and sometimes even typhoons. You'll experience the best weather if you visit between October and December, and Hong Kong rarely gets colder than 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Summers can be hot and rainy, but Chan points out that it's actually a great time to find deals on flights and accommodations. The city also plays host to several huge events throughout the year, the biggest holiday naturally being Lunar New Year, which brings parades, fireworks, and Hong Kong's famous flower markets. Art Basel Hong Kong, one of the largest art shows in Asia, usually takes place in March. There are also a number of smaller, quirky festivals. Chan says her two favorites are the Cheung Chau Bun Scrambling Competition, where racers try to climb up a 46-foot-tall tower of buns, and the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance, which takes place during the Mid-Autumn Festival. As part of the celebration, a 220-foot-tall dragon is constructed out of 12,000 sticks of incense. A plaza in Hong Kong's central neighborhood. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure Hong Kong's Central neighborhood is the heart of the city and is filled with skyscrapers, intertwining malls, and bustling streets. It's also home to some of the city's most popular nightlife spots as well as major attractions like the Victoria Peak Tram. This trendy neighborhood has several award-winning bars, including Bar Leone, which holds the title of the best bar in Asia and the second-best in the world. You'll also find a ton of unique Australian coffee shops and fun eateries in the area. If you want a peek into Hong Kong's past, there's no better place to visit than Wan Chai, which seamlessly blends the past and present. In between independent boutiques and cool cafes, you'll find cultural landmarks like the Blue House, the oldest prewar tenement building in the city, and wet markets. This little village on Lantau Island was once a bustling fishing community, but is now one of the more unique destinations in the Hong Kong area. 'Tai O is called the Venice of the Orient for good reason," Chan says. 'You can go on a boat ride through the stilt houses and, if you're lucky, you'll get a glimpse of the pink dolphins that are found in Hong Kong's waters.' She also suggests trying the Chinese-style donuts at Tai O Bakery. Hong Kong International Airport (HGK) is located on the island of Chek Lap Kok, about 21 miles from the heart of the city. As a major travel hub, the airport receives multiple direct flights every day from all around the world, including places like Seattle, New York, and even Dallas, thanks to a recently added Cathay Pacific route. Cathay Pacific even has a stopover program that lets passengers explore Hong Kong for a couple of days before heading to their final destination. Passengers on Hong Kong's Star Ferry. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure One of the best things about Hong Kong is its robust public transportation system. The expansive Mass Transit Railway system includes metro lines, buses, and even old-school trams. I also recommend taking the ferries, which give you incredible skyline views for less than a U.S. dollar. The best way to pay for any mode of transportation in Hong Kong is to opt for an Octopus Card. The Octopus Card is also accepted at some stores and restaurants, making it the most convenient way to pay for almost anything in Hong Kong. These can be purchased (and topped up) at the airport or convenience stores like 7-Eleven. Taxis (which are red in Hong Kong) are abundant and easy to use—but keep in mind that they're metered and cash-only. Uber is available in Hong Kong, but operates in a legal gray area.

Yahoo

10 hours ago

• Yahoo

1-day Shanghai itinerary: Where to go, what to do & where to eat

For a first-timer like me in Shanghai, planning the itinerary felt intimidating — even overwhelming at times. Thankfully, I have resourceful colleagues who did the tough work, and we had a ball! So here I am, passing the good stuff to all of you. The exchange rate is S$1 = 5.58CNY (at time of writing), and I've added the prices in SGD as well for your convenience. Rate fluctuations may affect what you actually spend. This curated list showcases a compilation of touristy spots, local eats, and accidental discoveries we stumbled upon during our trip. It's up to you to mix and match these places to maximise your day, or pick just a couple if you prefer to take things easy. Here's a 1-day Shanghai itinerary on where to go, what to do and where to eat. When my colleague, Dean wanted to take all of us for life-changing xiao long baos at Lai Lai Xiao Long (菜菜小龙), I was skeptical. I mean, how good can they taste? Thankfully, this popular spot was located just behind our hotel along Tianjin Road. The queue might seem daunting, but it clears quite fast. In my opinion, it's best to order the Pure Crab Xiao Long Bao (S$15.40 for 4 pieces), Pure Pork Xiao Long Bao (S$5.00 for 8 pieces), and Crab & Shrimp Xiao Long Bao (S$11.10 for 8 pieces) all in one seating to enjoy the complete experience. If you're a small eater, go for the Crab & Shrimp Xiao Long Bao which contains some pork as well. They were indeed, ahem… mind-blowing! Don't forget to dunk them in ginger and vinegar. Complement your buns with the juicy and tasty Fried Pork Steak (S$4.50) as well as crispy Crab & Vegetable Spring Roll (S$2.70). 504 Tianjin Road, Huangpu, Shanghai, China 200001 Daily: 8am – 9.30pm No visit to Shanghai is complete without heading to the Bund, a waterfront area that's lined with historical European-style buildings. Swing by around 6.50pm, ready your mobile phones and cameras, because at exactly 7pm, the buildings light up in a majestic golden glow. And if that's not charming enough, the clock tower throws in some classy chimes for good measure. Then, admire the lights of the beautiful Shanghai skyline that illuminate the Huangpu River. It can get very crowded, so be sure to reserve your spot for great photo opportunities. Feeling a little parched after all that? Use Amap to head to Dugout Coffee & Brunch, a SILENT cafe just 10 minutes away on foot. This place is managed by 7 hearing-impaired staff and posters depicting sign language are everywhere. One of us tried ordering a drink with one of the waitresses and we succeeded! For something unique, try the Ice Coffee with Beer Flavoured Syrup (S$6.90). Wukang Mansion is an iconic building and a favourite backdrop for Instagram photos, attracting hundreds of people at the traffic junction. There are even freelance photographers standing by to snap a professional picture for you either by camera or mobile phone. When you're done, take a 300-metre stroll to The Cue Brunch & Bistro, a spacious and bright cafe with a wide variety of fusion mains and beverages. My Eggs Benedict w/ Pulled Pork (S$14.20) was incredibly delicious! We discovered Zhong Yao Tang Gelato by accident, just a 5-minute walk from The Cue Brunch & Bistro. And guess what? It turned out to be one of our favourite spots of the trip! This little nook offers various gelato flavours infused with Chinese herbs, and you're allowed to sample each type. I enjoyed a Triple Scoop (S$8.10) consisting of ginger cinnamon, persimmon cheese and yam angelica wolfberry. Each flavour was so unique and delicious (I swear!). The stall also sells adorable plushies in the form of oriental ingredients. Think barley, brown sugar cubes, red dates, Chinese yam… just to name a few. Yes, we caved and brought home a couple! The Cue Brunch & Bistro 1720-1 Huaihai Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China 200031 Daily: 10am – 9.30pm Zhong Yao Tang Gelato 3 Hunan Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China 200031 Mon to Thu: 1pm – 8pm Fri to Sun: 1pm – 9pm Instead of heading to the main Wei Xiang Zhai restaurant with a Michelin Guide mention that's 40 minutes on foot, we took a 10-minute stroll to its newer outlet at 151 Hubei Road. This heritage joint was established back in 1937, making them 88 years old — wowza! Each serving of the Signature Sesame Tossed Noodles cost a mere S$2.50, and they tasted SO GOOD! The noodles are drenched in a thick sesame sauce with a little peanut butter, chilli oil, soy sauce, and some rice vinegar. Order a bowl of Fresh Meat Small (S$2.90 for 12 pieces) to complete your meal, and you're all set! 151 Hubei Road, Huangpu, Shanghai, China 200002 Daily: 7.30am – 8.30pm If you have loads of time to kill before your flight, why not rest and relax at Yang SPACE Hot Spring Life? This one-stop 24-hour destination has various services including Chinese (S$66.20 per hour), Pedicure (S$14.20 for 15 minutes), Foot Massage & (S$125.10 including entrance fee), and Facials starting from S$23.20. There's a central cafeteria where you'll be treated to an array of bottomless fresh fruits ranging from durian and mango to blueberries and rock melon. There's also a complimentary Häagen-Dazs ice cream counter and a free drinks 'minimart' offering water, juices, Starbucks canned coffee, and more. Rest assured we made the most of it! You can catch a movie via the projection screen while having a foot and shoulder massage, or soak your body in a public thermal pool. There are also beanbags for chilling in common areas, plus sleep pods if you need a nap. For those who enjoy games, Chinese mahjong, billiards, and Nintendo Switch are all available at an extra charge. It might be a little pricey, but you're paying for an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experience! 57 Pudian Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai, China 200127 Open 24 hours Shang Hai Fried Xiao Long Bao: Utterly addictive pan-fried pork buns by ex-Crystal Jade dim sum chef If exploring gardens at Yu Garden isn't your kind of thing, then head to Yuyuan Market in the evening instead. Over here, awe-inspiring lights illuminate the stunning Chinese architecture of the buildings, creating a magnificent atmosphere that attracts tourists and locals alike. Explore the lineup of stalls that offer a vibrant mix of traditional Chinese snacks, shops, and food stalls. Visitors can also find a wide variety of handicrafts, restaurants, cafes, and souvenir stands. 279 Yuyuan Old Road, 四牌楼 Huangpu, Shanghai, China 200120 Explore the Orchard Road of Shanghai at Nanjing Road where the mixture of modern and heritage buildings intertwine with one another. Shop at crowd-favourite fashion brands like H&M and Zara, or experience the excitement of unboxing a blind box at Pop Mart. You can discover street food stalls selling local delights like sheng jian bao and Spiced Squid Skewers (S$5.40 for 4 sticks), or get a fancy fridge magnet from S$4.50. There's also a White Rabbit stall that not only sells the iconic candy in interesting flavours (like mango and coffee), but you can also purchase other merch like cushions and lip balms which would make ideal gifts. If you're seeking a solid hotpot establishment in Shanghai, you can seriously consider Hongjie Old Hotpot that stays open till 4am daily. Besides prompt and sincere service, the broths and meats here are to-die-for. For a dual pot with a decent amount of meat and vegetables including drinks, the cost for each person ranges between S$18 to S$28, which is very affordable! 102 Xiangyang South Road, Xuhui District, China Construction Bank, 2nd Floor, Shanghai, China 200031 Daily: 11am – 4am Head on down to the Anfu Road district where a whole throng of cafes, trendy shops, and lifestyle shops greet you. If you're into skincare and makeup, pop over to the double-storey Harmay store and shop till you drop! Also say hi to the teddy bear mascot at Wiggle Wiggle, teasing, waving and being funny to customers at the entrance. Love fragrances, especially miniature ones? Then swing by Harmay X Notes Shanghai and pray that they have great offers. You can also get your coffee fix at 13DE Marzo Cafe, known for its adorable little teddy bear that comes attached with your drinks — perfect for taking home and definitely one for the 'gram. Jing'an Temple on West Nanjing Road is an Esoteric Tangmi Buddhist temple, boasting 3 Southern-style halls, each with its very own courtyard. To enter the grounds, you're required to purchase an entrance fee of about S$9. Over here, you can spot many Buddhist followers paying their respects and offering joss sticks. You can even catch an enthusiastic crowd tossing their coins multiple times into the gaps of the 3-tiered wishing well, praying that their wishes come true. With Jing'an Temple located right beside Jing An Kerry Centre, it's easy to enjoy some retail therapy after your visit. While you're there, remember to check out M Stand Cafe for its nutty Coconut Latte (S$6.80). If your stomach is rumbling after hours of shopping at Nanjing Road, then satisfy your taste buds with some umami-rich crab roe noodles over at Yuxing Ji. This restaurant is said to serve one of the best versions in Shanghai. We tried the Crab Sky, Crab Earth (S$46.30, U.P. S$80.30) that's meant for sharing among 2 people. It comes with 2 plates of la mian (noodles), 3 different types of crab parts including meat and roe, small shrimps, appetisers and a bowl of soup. This place also sells the Crab Roe Xiao Long Bao (S$15.80 per basket), but I recommend you to order them from spot #1 instead. 686 Jiujiang Road, Tengfei Yuanchuang Building, 1st floor, Huangpu, Shanghai, China 200001 Daily: 9am – 10pm 11 best native Chinese food stalls in Singapore that offer more than just mala The post 1-day Shanghai itinerary: Where to go, what to do & where to eat appeared first on

Yahoo

19 hours ago

• Yahoo

Hotel Faces Backlash for Using Endangered Red Pandas to Wake Up Guests

The Lehe Ledu Liangjiang Holiday Hotel is facing backlash for providing guests with 'wake-up calls' using red pandas The hotel in Chongqing, China, is a popular destination for influencers and people looking for unique tourist experiences Local authorities have since forbade the hotel from allowing guests to have 'close contact' with the endangered speciesA hotel in China is facing backlash after using endangered red pandas to wake up guests in the morning. The Lehe Ledu Liangjiang Holiday Hotel, located in the countryside near the southwestern city of Chongqing, is known for its 'red panda-themed holidays,' per The London Times. The hotel boasts close contact with one of its four red pandas — bringing them to guests' rooms in the morning for 'wake-up calls.' The amount of time that the animals stay with guests depends on 'the red panda's mood that day,' according to China Newsweek, per The Times. The hotel has become popular on social media, with travel influencers posting videos and photos of their visits. Never miss a story — sign up for to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. However, the hotel recently sparked backlash and online public debate among people who questioned whether the hotel's practices were ethical, especially given that red pandas are considered an endangered species. The local forest bureau became involved, and the bureau has since ordered an immediate pause on any activities involving 'close contact' with the creatures at the hotel. They also stated that disobeying the order could potentially result in prosecution or fines, per The Times. According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) there are fewer than 10,000 red pandas in the world. The WWF noted that many red pandas reside in the Eastern Himalayas, but are losing their natural habitat due to deforestation. Additionally, they are killed when caught in traps meant for other animals, and they are sometimes poached for their fur. Despite their name, red pandas are not technically pandas — or bears at all. They are slightly larger than domestic house cats, and are known for their red fur and raccoon-like markings. Read the original article on People