Shanghai is one of Asia’s most electrifying cities—modern, fast-paced, and full of surprises. If you’re new to the city or just visiting and wondering how to find hookups in Shanghai, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a tourist or expat, this guide breaks down exactly where to meet single women in Shanghai for casual fun, what apps actually work, and what the local hookup scene is really like.
What’s the Hookup Culture Like in Shanghai?
Let’s keep it real: hookup culture in the Shanghai expat community is alive and buzzing—but it’s different from what you might expect in the West.
In Shanghai, dating and hookups often blur together. You’ll find people looking for everything from serious relationships to one-night stands to low-key flings. Foreigners are generally welcomed with curiosity (especially if you’re respectful and clean), but don’t assume everyone is down for casual fun just because you’re not local.
How to meet Chinese women for casual relationships in Shanghai? Start with the right approach: be clear, chill, and honest. If you’re after something casual, be upfront without being crude and find the places where women want to hookup.
Best Hookup Apps for Foreigners in Shanghai

Forget what worked in your home country—casual dating sites that work in Shanghai are often different. Here’s what’s popular and safe:
- Tantan – China’s version of Tinder, used for both dating and hookups. It’s swipe-based and has a big local user base.
- Tinder – You might be asking: Is Tinder banned in Shanghai or still working? Technically, Tinder is blocked in China—but if you use a VPN, it works perfectly and many expats still use it.
- LustFriend – A newer alternative to Tinder, made only for finding one night stands. Has real people and less fake accounts than some Western apps.
- WeChat – Not a hookup app, but you’ll need it. It’s how locals chat and sometimes flirt. Many bars have QR codes or groups where you can connect fast.
Safe apps for foreigners looking for hookups in Shanghai tend to be those with identity checks (like Tantan or premium Tinder). Avoid sketchy sites or local platforms you’ve never heard of without reviews.
Top Places to Hook Up with Girls in Shanghai
Apps aside, sometimes you just want to meet people in real life. So where are the top places to hook up with girls in Shanghai?

🔥 Best Bars & Clubs:
- Bar Rouge (The Bund) – Touristy but full of expats and open-minded locals.
- M1NT – Exclusive vibe, upscale crowd. Great for casual encounters.
- Cotton’s – Chill garden bar, perfect for mingling over drinks.
- Revolucion Cocktail (Fahuazhen Rd) – Latin vibes, flirty energy.
If you’re wondering about Shanghai bars for meeting local girls, these places have the right mix of locals who speak English, travelers, and expats all looking to connect.
🕺 Bonus Tip:
Try nightlife areas like Xintiandi, Jing’an, and The French Concession—loaded with singles and places open late.
How to Find One Night Stands in Shanghai (Without Being Creepy)
The golden rule? Don’t be the guy shouting in English or pushing for “fun” within 2 minutes of chatting.
If you want to know how to find one night stands in Shanghai, it’s all about reading the vibe. Use Tinder or Tantan to pre-screen, then suggest drinks somewhere social. Be respectful and smooth—not desperate.
Many locals are curious about dating foreigners, but don’t expect everyone to be interested in hookups. Those who are—will usually let you know fast.
⚠️ Safety & Respect
Hookups are fun—but don’t forget the basics:
- Always meet in public first.
- Use protection.
- Watch your drinks.
- If it feels weird, walk away.
Whether you’re here for a few days or building a life in the city, finding hookups in Shanghai is totally possible—if you know where to look and how to play it cool.
✅ Recap of What You Need:
- Best hookup apps for foreigners in Shanghai → Tinder (with VPN), Tantan, LustFriend
- Where to meet single women in Shanghai for casual fun → Bars like Bar Rouge, Revolucion, or Cotton’s
- How to find one night stands in Shanghai → Use apps + hit up the right nightlife spots
- Top places to hook up with girls in Shanghai → The Bund, Jing’an, Xintiandi bars
- Casual dating sites that work in Shanghai → Tantan, Tinder with VPN
- Is Tinder banned in Shanghai or still working? → Blocked, but works with VPN
- Hookup culture in Shanghai expat community → Relaxed, curious, but nuanced
- How to meet Chinese women for casual relationships in Shanghai → Be chill, use apps, and respect boundaries
- Safe apps for foreigners looking for hookups in Shanghai → Stick to reviewed apps like Tantan or premium Tinder
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