Shanghai's historic Longhua Temple Fair returns with dazzling blend of heritage and high-tech

Spring has arrived in Shanghai, and with it comes one of the city's most cherished cultural traditions – the annual Longhua Temple Fair in downtown Xuhui District.

The fete, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty (AD 618-907), is Shanghai's largest temple fair.

Starting on Thursday, this vibrant festival promises a spectacular showcase of heritage and innovation, immersing visitors in a unique fusion of history, high-tech, and cultural vitality.

This year's event, themed "Marvelous Gathering: Spring Inspirations in Longhua," reflects Shanghai's modern spirit while staying true to its historical roots.

Set in Longhua Square, the fair comprises dynamic displays, interactive experiences, and performances.

Among this year's attractions is the striking "Livestyle Block," presented along the historic Gingko Avenue in a trendy way.

Evoking the elegance of traditional Shanghai architecture in pastel peach hues reminiscent of spring blossoms, this contemporary street scene seamlessly integrates cutting-edge automotive technology with local intangible cultural heritage. Visitors can explore stylish electric vehicles set alongside exquisite crafts – from miniature bonsai gardens that recreate serene urban landscapes, to dazzling enamel artworks.

The showcase also features paper-cut works, pankou (buttons on cheongsam) technique, a racing club and a cuju (ancient Chinese football) game field.

Also captivating the crowds will be "Qin: Awakening," an immersive XR metaverse experience blending history, mystery, and sci-fi storytelling, where visitors step into interactive realms inspired by ancient Chinese civilization.

Complementing this futuristic setting, fairgoers can enjoy live performances featuring robotic guitarists, further illustrating how Shanghai is bridging tradition and tech.

For book enthusiasts, the "Inspiration Book Market" will transform the temple fair into a literary haven. It features classic Shanghai-style comics and interactive literary programs, connecting visitors with the city's rich publishing heritage.

Performances will illuminate the stage throughout the fair, with daily spectacles including traditional Shanghai opera, Sichuan face-changing acts, acrobatic stilts, Jiangnan sizhu (string and wind music) ensembles, and vibrant folk dances from across China. Cultural troupes from surrounding provinces will contribute their own unique expressions of intangible heritage.

Nearby, the festivities extend into LONGHUAHUI, a cultural-commercial complex bustling with shadow puppet shows, Shanghai dialect comedy, health-focused workshops, and exhibitions highlighting traditional Chinese woodblock printing and international illustration art.

If you go:

Dates: April 10-13

Opening hours: 9:30am-7pm

Venue: Longhua Square (Intersection of Longhua W. Rd and Longhua Rd)