For Us, By Us: A Feminist Travel Guide to Shanghai
Feminism might not be the first thing that pops in your head when you think of China. The country however, has made major strides in becoming a global powerhouse, especially the city of Shanghai in particular. The city however is ripe with opportunity, laying the perfect foundation for a new crop of female entrepreneurs and creatives to shine.
V-Spot
The brainchild of Ying Wong, V-Spot, Shanghai’s first female-centered sex shop, aims to empower women to explore their sexuality on their own terms. On display you’ll find conceptual adult toys like the aptly titled, Cupcake vibrator, and dildos from designer Shiri Zinn. Moreover, the space regularly hosts pole dancing classes and burlesque workshops for the public.
Address: 218 Xinle Lu 5th floor
Riink
Those looking for a fun and nostalgic evening out should head over to skating rink/cocktail bar mash-up Riink. Spin around the modern day disco track or enjoy bar bites and their assortment of well-crafted tropical flavored adult beverages. They keep it kitschy with themed parties each weekend. Co-owner Ting Ting Liang is also behind Inferno, Shanghai’s only metal bar, and lesbian bar Roxie.
Address: 658 Dapu Lu Bund Square
Daliah
This whimsical restaurant complete with a slide in center of it all is the perfect place for an Instagram worthy weekend brunch.
Address: 408 Shaanxi Bei Lu
Sugahai Desserts
Sugahai is an e-commerce bakery that delivers fresh-baked goods throughout Chinese mainland. The standard menu includes: brownies and blondies, soft baked cookies, cinnamon rolls, as well as seasonal and select savory food items like red beans and rice. Pastry chef and New Orleans native Nicole Carr started Sugahai after taking note of the lack of American style desserts in this city of millions.
Contact: Sugahai.com, WeChat: Sugahai
The Wine Lady
Affectionately known as “The Wine Lady” Nataly Akoa started WineTime in 2017. Specializing in a wide range of European white, red, and rose wine, and sparkling champagne, this small online wine shop has steadily become the go-to for moms, singles, and young female professionals. Doing same day delivery within Shanghai, they also deliver throughout Chinese Mainland.
Contact: Winetimechina.com
Lu Noir Manifestation Blends
Lu Noir Manifestations is a holistic herb and spiritual brand that provides resources to facilitate the use of your own inner energy with that of the Universe, and Moon Phases, to produce beautiful results in manifesting specific desires into one’s life. Lu Noir specializes in all-natural teas, incense, manifestation candle kits, yoni steam blends, and more.
WeChat: AfroGypsy
Cocktails Cinema
This themed movie night is erected every few months at a different joint around the city. The general experience depends on the type of moving being shown, in the past they’ve done films like Catch Me If You Can in an airport, and the magician focused The Prestige at a magic-themed bar. Locations are usually a mystery until after your ticket has been purchased, with most entry fees including three accompanied drinks to boot. The event’s creator Camden Hauge is also behind EGG, a super cute brunch café. In particular, their vegan pastries are not to be missed.
WeChat: SocialSupplyShanghai
Unravel Storytelling Series
Clara Davis’ monthly storytelling series invites readers to use instances from their lives as fodder, in relation to each month’s unique theme. With a revolving combination of venues, themes, and participants, no two shows are alike. Unravel aims to connect the diverse population of Shanghai together through the illuminating and transformative power of storytelling.
Get involved: unravelshanghai@gmail.com
Candor
If you’re looking for a low-key yet entertaining night out, look no further than Melody Chen’s cabaret-themed cocktail bar Candor. Quant and swanky, with décor reminiscent of an old-school burlesque and circus venue, creative theatrical shows are put on nearly every night of the week.
Address: 57 Maoming Nan Lu
Shanghai School of Burlesque
Meet new friends, gain confidence, and learn the art of the tease with a class at Shanghai School of Burlesque. Each semester current school mistress Kara LeCroi puts on several six-week workshops like Gatsby and Diva Burlesque, silk fan dancing, and one-off day classes on everything from tassel making to stage presence.
WeChat: ShanghaiBurlesque
Ambadassador
Scholastica Tanyi believes “all bodies are good bodies” and has been at the helm of Shanghai’s plus-size community for quite some time. Specializing in body positivity Ambadassador regularly hosts belly dancing and Zumba classes, as well as plus-size clothing swaps on a semi-regular basis.
WeChat: Ambadassadorsh

