This article was originally published in 2022. It has been updated for 2023.

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'Tis the season for pop-up ice skating in Shanghai. Here are three places around town for open-air ice skating. The first two are good for families and younger skaters just starting out. Check out that last one for a larger rink.

Changfeng Joy City

Duration: Until February 27, 2023

Hours: 10am-5pm

Price: 146rmb per person during CNY holidays, otherwise it's 96rmb per person

Extras: Ice Skating Walkers: 50rmb /90 minutes

Occupying the central area at Changfeng Joy City mall in Putuo District, this is an indoor ice rink with cute cartoon décor, making it particularly family-friendly for young skaters just learning. The glass dome above allows a touch of warmth and natural light to come through during the day. Tickets include the rental of basic equipment, including helmets, shoes, and pads. Walkers are also available, as are instructors imparting skating tips for additional charges. Family tickets include entrance for one parent, as well as one child aged 3 to 14 years old.

The Bund Finance Center

Duration: Until February 27th, 2023

Hours: 9.30am-4.30pm; 5-10pm (last entry: 8.30pm)

Price: 90 mins for 298rmb during CNY holidays, 188rmb otherwise. Check Dianping for discounts.

Gutted there hasn't been any news about whether the annual ice skating rink in front of the OPTV power will come back this year...

But wait, here comes another option to ice skate on the Bund – a charming 200-square-meter rink tucked in the walkways of Bund Finance Center in Huangpu district. As part of the Center's holiday celebrations, the rink is open every day for roughly two months from mid-December. They also host other concurrent events like a weekend Christmas market, light shows, music performances presented by crews from Jazz at Lincoln Center... Ticket price for ice skating is the same for all ages, which includes helmets, shoes, and pads. Walkers are accessible on site. Ages 4 and up only.

Sinar Mas Plaza

Duration: Until February 28, 2023

Hours: 9am - 4pm

Price: 90 minutes for 199rmb during CNY holidays

The shopping complex Sinar Mas Plaza has low-key set up a 1,200-square-meter outdoor skating rink at the beginning of December on the North Bund, replete with light shows in the evening and a nice river view. Price includes basic skating equipment. Walkers and instructors are also available on site for newbies. The rink can host up to 120 people, and can be booked entirely as a private event space.

Now there's an idea...