Creative Food Market at Shanghai X Tower Night Market: Visitor’s Guide
Shanghai X Tower Night Market Guide
In a city known for its glittering Bund and bustling Nanjing Road, a younger, more experimental night scene thrives in Shanghai’s creative pockets. The X Tower Night Market (ChuangXiang Tower) transforms a repurposed century-old factory into an industrial-chic playground of fusion street food, designer stalls, and live art — a must-visit for trend-seeking travelers.
1. Core Highlights: A Trendy Mix of Old and New
The X Tower Night Market is best described as an industrial heritage meets modern culture social hotspot. More than just food, it’s an immersive experience where historic red brick and steel frames host cutting-edge snacks, pop-up art, and stylish locals. It’s both a weekend hangout for Shanghai’s fashionable crowd and a fresh must-see destination for international visitors wanting a different night in the city.
2. Atmosphere & Local Vibe: Modern Shanghai’s Open Embrace
Shanghai’s spirit of openness and innovation is distilled here. The vibe is relaxed, lively, and exploratory — stroll past preserved factory walls to upbeat music, creative stalls, and young people snapping photos. You’ll sense the weight of Shanghai’s industrial past while tapping into its current cultural pulse.
3. Food Guide: From Classic Street Snacks to Global Fusion
Food is the heart of the market and showcases true fusion. Vendors respect tradition while experimenting boldly.
– Classic night-market hits: Crispy, juicy Changsha stinky tofu; fragrant grilled skewers (don’t miss lamb and grilled gluten); and the crispy-outside, soft-inside egg waffles — dependable, delicious choices.
– Creative and international options: Expect authentic Thai stir-fried chicken feet, generously filled Mexican tacos, photogenic hand-shaken lemon tea, and inventive dishes that blend Chinese ingredients with Western techniques. Every visit can reveal a new surprise.
– Don’t forget dessert: Save room for artisanal ice cream from local creators, or grab a specialty mixed drink to sip while you wander.
4. Value-Added Experiences: More Than Just Eating
The X Tower is a multi-purpose leisure space:
– Creative shopping: Independent designers and artisans sell unique jewelry, collectibles, and handmade crafts — great for meaningful souvenirs.
– Cultural programming: Check the night market’s official channels for live jazz sets, mini art exhibitions, and holiday-themed parties that often pop up and elevate the evening.
5. Practical Planning & Tips
– Recommended visit length: Allow 2–3 hours. One hour can feel rushed; more time lets you eat, shop, and enjoy performances.
– Who it suits: Ideal for friend groups and couples; also easy and comfortable for solo travelers. Families with children will also enjoy the lively but orderly setting.
– Pairing suggestion: Combine an afternoon at nearby M50 Creative Park (an early contemporary art district) with an evening at X Tower for a full “art + trendy food” day.
6. Local Know-How (Essential Info)
– Name: The X Tower Night Market (located in THE X TOWER creative park)
– Address: No.100 Yejiazhai Road, Putuo District, Shanghai
– Opening hours: Typically opens around 17:00 and runs until 22:00 or later. Check the market’s social accounts for event or seasonal changes. The park itself is open daily.
– Cost: Free to enter. Expect average per-person spending around CNY 80–150 to sample several dishes.
Transport & Logistics
– Metro: Take Line 13 to Wuning Road Station, exit 2, then about a 10-minute walk — the most convenient route.
– Bus: Multiple lines serve the area, including routes 63, 105, and 838 to the “Changshou Road / Yejiazhai Road” stop.
– Taxi / driving: Search for “The X Tower” on your map app. On-site parking exists but can be limited at night — public transport is recommended.
Tips & Safety
– Payments: Mobile payments (Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted.
– Lines: Popular drinks and viral snacks may queue on weekend nights, but waits are usually manageable.
– Ordering: Most stalls have photo menus; pointing is perfectly fine. Basic Mandarin works, but gestures are often enough.
– Facilities: Public Wi-Fi is available but spotty; consider using mobile data. Restrooms are modern and well-maintained.
– Security: Generally safe, but watch personal belongings in crowded areas. Prices are fairly transparent; ask before purchasing higher-priced creative goods.
Summary
The X Tower Night Market redefines the idea of a night market in Shanghai. It’s a stylish urban living room where imaginative food, independent design, and live culture collide. Whether you’re hunting fusion snacks, unique souvenirs, or simply a lively evening out, add the X Tower to your Shanghai night plans for a memorable, photo-ready experience.
