Shanghai’s local wet markets are experiencing a downturn. Once a staple in small neighborhoods across the city, the local wet markets that you pass by every day are being phased out by the government. In my neighborhood, at least two small supermarkets, our local snack street and a long established wet market have all disappeared recently, the latter of which has been replaced by a newer, sanitized and soulless version of its former self.
This is a trend caused by the public’s growing concern over hygiene and food safety. If you visit one of the older wet markets that are still standing, you’ll see instantly how valid these concerns are.
Smaller markets aren’t the only ones affected though. Last year, we said goodbye to Shanghai’s biggest fish and seafood market, and it seems that by the end of this year, another Shanghai institution, the Caojiadu Flower Market, will also be gone.
A Shanghai Daily reporter wandered through the market last weekend to talk to some of vendors and market regulars. Many of those interviewed said that they preferred to shop for plants and flowers in person, and building a friendship with the vendors and neighbors at the market.
I don’t know where my local veg vendor is now, but I still miss her and I’ve always enjoyed our regular chats about how quickly our children are growing and all the other day-to-day banalities.
If you’d like to experience this side of Shanghai life, it’s best to do it soon. Even if your Chinese skills are just basic, you can use sign or body language to communicate with the vendor, and you’ll be rewarded with a smile and a connection with a local, who’ll definitely remember you next time.
[Images via ShanghaiDaily]
