Mayday Buzz on Nanshan Street: A Springtime Stroll Through Dalian’s Hidden Gems
The Mayday holiday in Dalian, running from May 1st to May 5th, brings a special kind of energy to the city—and nowhere is that more alive than on Nanshan Street. I visited on May 2nd, right in the heart of the festivities, and the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. The streets were buzzing with people, laughter, and the unmistakable feeling that something exciting was happening around every corner.
If you’re planning a visit, start your journey at Upper Kitchen, a popular brunch spot that perfectly sets the tone for the day. It can get busy during the holiday rush, so if there’s a wait, don’t stress—just head downstairs, grab a coffee to-go, and begin your walk along Nanshan Street. Sometimes the best experiences start unplanned.
As you stroll down the street, you’ll quickly notice that Nanshan isn’t just a place—it’s a vibe. Quaint coffee shops line the sidewalks, each with its own personality. Small, niche boutiques and vintage stores invite you to slow down and explore. It’s the kind of place where you lose track of time in the best way.
One standout stop is a vintage store simply called Vintage. Before you even step inside, the front yard draws you in with clean, cozy egg chairs—perfect for relaxing or snapping a few aesthetic photos. Inside, the atmosphere shifts into a nostalgic time capsule.
Music from Michael Jackson fills the space, accompanied by fan memorabilia that adds to the charm.
The collection is a treasure trove of 90s culture: a Betty Boop leather jacket, vintage Los Angeles Lakers shorts that are somehow still on-trend, classic Troll dolls, and even references to Star Trek like R2-D2-inspired items. Jewelry, collectibles, and quirky finds fill every corner—it’s the kind of place where you don’t just shop, you explore.
Back outside, continue your walk and you’ll come across Hipilato, a gelato shop that adds a refreshing twist to your journey. Their flavors are anything but ordinary—think cucumber and other unexpected combinations that somehow just work. It’s a fun, cooling stop that captures the creative spirit of the street.
There’s truly so much to see and experience during the Mayday holiday, but Nanshan Street stands out as a must-visit destination. Whether you’re there for the coffee, the vintage finds, the food, or simply the atmosphere, it offers a fresh perspective on Dalian’s cultural scene.
If you’re looking to catch a new vibe this season, take a walk down Nanshan Street—you won’t regret it.