Locals Should Go Too: Why I Changed My Mind About Shanghai Romance Park

As a native Shanghainese, I used to view "Shanghai Romance Park" as just another tourist trap. It wasn't until last weekend, when a friend finally talked me into going, that I realized how wrong I was. If you share the same doubts, I’ll use my firsthand experience to clear up a few common misconceptions. Many people hear "Shanghai Romance Park" and assume it's just a place name or a single large-scale dance performance. In reality, the entire area is called "Shanghai Romance Park," and while the main show, *The Romantic Show of Shanghai*, is indeed the highlight—featuring stunning stage effects that cover everything from Lord Chunshen’s river dredging to the golden age of the Bund and World Expo memories—there is much more to see. The 5D live-action drama *The Great Earthquake* features seats that vibrate with the plot and even recruits audience members as extras. Along Crossing Street, the "Hydrangea Toss" takes place spontaneously, allowing you to experience Republic-era wedding customs. There are also street interactions like the "Cute Dance Class," where you can earn "silver notes" by learning simple dances, and "Fortune Telling," which acts as a mobile spiritual station to help clear your mind. Another common thought is that it must be boring for locals. However, I spent the entire day taking photos at Crossing Street and Love Valley. The modern streetscapes and night lights are incredibly photogenic, and even the Cliff Theater offers great shots. If you have a deep connection to Shanghai’s history, watching the main show actually evokes a sense of local pride—that feeling of "so many stories happened right beneath our feet" is something out-of-town visitors might not grasp as deeply. Some also feel the tickets are overpriced. Setting aside the specific price, one ticket covers the major performance, the 5D drama, and multiple street interactions, plus you can have lunch at the on-site restaurants or food court. For a local, it’s a very full day of spending time, taking photos, and interacting. The park isn't overwhelmingly large, so you can stroll between shows without rushing, and since there are both indoor and outdoor venues, the weather won't ruin your plans. Finally, here are a few practical reminders: The park is located at 1750 Expo Avenue, Pudong New Area. It’s very convenient to take Metro Line 13 to Expo Avenue Station and walk over. There are self-service lockers at the entrance, and the service center offers wheelchairs and strollers. Note that pets, professional filming equipment, and drones are not allowed. Next time friends visit Shanghai, or if you just want somewhere new to go for the weekend, you might want to rediscover this place that has been misunderstood for so long. You might just change your mind like I did. Scenic Area