As the saying goes "民以食为天 People regard food as heaven (i.e. god).", and in line with that sentiment food plays an important role in China. China's eight distinct regional cuisines' different features are shown through Chinese folk snacks, which can be easily found on some food streets.

You can have a great feast in a low-budget and relaxing way on the food streets. We at China Highlights have put together a list of the best and most popular food streets, including some recommended dishes and restaurants.

1. 'Ghost Street' (Gui Street) – Beijing

Location: Inner Dongzhimen Street, Dongcheng District (东城区东直门内大街)

Recommended dishes: Spicy Snacks 麻辣烫 (spicy peppery little lobsters, spicy crabs, scorpions, and stewed red mutton)

Recommended restaurants: Jiangbian Chengwai Roasted Fish (江边城外烤全鱼) and Jingui Xiaoshancheng Spicy Food (金簋小山城麻辣烫)

Other food streets in Beijing: Wangfujing Snack Street, Niu Jie Muslim Snack Street, Qianmen Snack Street, and Shichahai Snack Street

Check out more about Beijing food and restaurants.

Want to enjoy a feast of Beijing local food on Gui Street ? We at China Highlights can tailor make a tour including Ghost Street. You can also contact us for a fully customizable tour of Beijing.

2. City God Temple — Shanghai

Location: 249 Fangbin Middle Road, Huangpu District (黄浦区方滨中路249号)

Recommended dishes: Shanghai steamed dumplings (上海小笼包) and other local dim sum

Recommended restaurants: Kobayashi (小林煎饼) and Shanghai Chic (上海会馆)

Other food streets in Shanghai: Hongqi Square, Wujiang Road, Yunnan Road, Huanghe Road and Wukang Road Snacks Street

Click here to know more about Shanghai food and restaurants.

We at China Highlights can help you design a trip to enjoy Shanghai local food and snacks. You can also contact us for a tailor-made tour or a tour of Shanghai.