Black Life in Shanghai: Exploring Culture, Cuisine & Experience Now

Shanghai stands as one of the most dynamic cities in the world, blending rich history with modern energy. For travelers, it offers a unique mix of cultural landmarks, vibrant street life, and delicious food. But what is it like to explore Shanghai through the eyes of a Black visitor? This post takes you on a journey through the historic Yu Yuan Gardens and the lively Old Town, sharing not only the sights and tastes but also the personal experience of navigating this mega-city as a Black foreigner.

Traditional Chinese pavilion in Yu Yuan Gardens, Shanghai

Walking Through History at Yu Yuan Gardens

Yu Yuan Gardens, also known as Yu Garden, is a stunning example of Ming-dynasty architecture nestled in the heart of Shanghai’s Old Town. The garden offers a peaceful escape from the city's fast pace, with winding stone paths, serene ponds filled with koi fish, and intricately carved pavilions. Visitors can admire the craftsmanship of the rockeries and bridges, which have stood for centuries.

The garden is not just a place for sightseeing but a window into traditional Chinese culture. As you walk through, you can hear the gentle splash of water and the soft rustle of bamboo leaves. The atmosphere invites reflection and appreciation of history.

For a Black traveler, the experience here is layered. The beauty of the garden contrasts with the occasional curious glances from locals, highlighting the cultural differences and the rarity of seeing Black visitors in this part of Shanghai. These moments offer insight into how identity shapes travel experiences in subtle but meaningful ways.

Exploring the Yu Garden Bazaar

Just outside the garden lies the Yu Garden Bazaar, a bustling market filled with local vendors, street food stalls, and souvenir shops. The narrow streets are packed with people, colors, and smells that capture the essence of Shanghai’s street life.

Here, you can sample a variety of snacks such as:

• Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) fresh from steaming baskets

• Shengjianbao (pan-fried buns) with crispy bottoms and juicy fillings

• Candied hawthorn sticks for a sweet and tangy treat

  
  

The bazaar is also a great place to pick up traditional crafts, silk scarves, and tea sets. The lively environment makes it easy to strike up conversations with vendors and locals, who are often curious about foreign visitors.

Navigating the bazaar as a Black traveler brings a mix of reactions. Some locals show warm smiles and friendly greetings, while others may stare or ask questions about your background. These interactions reveal the complexities of cultural exchange and the curiosity that comes with being visibly different in a largely homogenous city.

The Taste of Shanghai: Food and Boba Adventures

No visit to Shanghai is complete without tasting its famous street food and refreshing drinks. The vlog that inspired this post highlights the joy of discovering authentic flavors in Old Town’s tea shops and food stalls.

Boba tea, or bubble tea, is a must-try. These tea shops offer a variety of flavors, from classic milk tea to fruity blends, all served with chewy tapioca pearls. The creator’s reactions to each drink capture the fun and surprise of trying something new.

Beyond boba, the food scene includes:

• Stinky tofu, a fermented delicacy with a strong aroma but beloved taste

• Scallion pancakes, crispy and savory, perfect for a quick snack

• Braised pork belly, rich and tender, showcasing traditional cooking techniques

  
  

Sampling these dishes provides a deeper connection to Shanghai’s culture through its cuisine. Food becomes a bridge that connects visitors to local traditions and everyday life.

Steaming basket of xiaolongbao dumplings in Shanghai

Being Black in Shanghai: Cultural Encounters and Reflections

Traveling as a Black person in Shanghai comes with unique experiences that go beyond sightseeing. The city’s residents may react with curiosity, surprise, or friendliness, creating moments that are both challenging and rewarding.

Some common experiences include:

• Curious stares and questions about where you are from

• Friendly interactions with locals eager to learn about different cultures

• Moments of feeling like an outsider in a city where diversity is less visible

  
  

These encounters highlight the importance of cultural awareness and open-mindedness. They also show how travel can expand understanding on both sides—visitors learn about Chinese culture, and locals gain exposure to different identities.

The vlog captures these moments with honesty and humor, offering a real look at what it means to be Black abroad in a city like Shanghai. It reminds us that travel is not just about places but about people and their stories.

Final Thoughts on Exploring Shanghai Through Culture and Cuisine

Shanghai offers more than just iconic landmarks and tasty food. It presents a chance to experience a city where history, culture, and identity intersect in unexpected ways. For Black travelers, this means navigating a space that feels both familiar and different, filled with moments of connection and curiosity.

Visiting Yu Yuan Gardens and the surrounding bazaar provides a rich cultural backdrop, while the food and boba adventures bring the city’s flavors to life. Together, these experiences create a fuller picture of what it means to explore Shanghai through a new lens.

If you are planning a trip to China or want to understand daily life in Shanghai from a fresh perspective, this journey offers valuable insights. It encourages embracing cultural differences, enjoying local traditions, and sharing stories that deepen our appreciation of the world.

Ready to see Shanghai in a new way? Dive into the sights, tastes, and stories that make this city unforgettable. And remember, every travel experience is shaped by who you are and how you connect with the places you visit.