If you’re a foreigner interested in Shanghai or China, you’ve probably heard of Xiaohongshu (RED). This app combines social media and e-commerce, often called the “Chinese Instagram + Yelp”. Whether you want to discover local food, find trendy spots, learn Chinese, or understand Chinese culture, Xiaohongshu is the perfect tool.
But how do you register, search, and post content? This guide will help you quickly master the basics of Xiaohongshu so you can explore China like a local!
1. What Is Xiaohongshu (RED) and Why Should Foreigners Use It?
(1) Introduction to Xiaohongshu
Xiaohongshu (RED) is a social media + content-sharing platform with over 200 million active users. Users post photos, short videos, shopping recommendations, and travel guides, making it similar to a mix of Instagram and Pinterest.
(2) Why Should Foreigners Use Xiaohongshu?
✅ Find real local experiences (restaurant reviews, travel guides, shopping tips)
✅ Stay updated on Chinese trends (fashion, beauty, technology, fitness)
✅ Learn Chinese & make new friends (interact in the comments section)
✅ Check real user reviews (avoid tourist traps!)
2. How to Download and Register for Xiaohongshu?
(1) How to Download?
📲 iPhone Users: Search “小红书” or “RED” in the App Store and download.
📲 Android Users: Search “小红书” on Google Play or Chinese app stores like Huawei, Xiaomi, etc.
⚠️ Note:
- Xiaohongshu may not be available in some countries, so you might need a Chinese Apple ID or change your Google Play region.
- If you’re in China, make sure your phone has access to Chinese app stores.
(2) How to Register?
- You can sign up using your phone number, email, WeChat, or Apple ID.
- WeChat login is recommended since it’s more convenient in China.
- Choose English or Chinese interface (Xiaohongshu supports English, but most content is in Chinese).
3. Xiaohongshu’s Core Features
Xiaohongshu has four main features:
(1) Home Feed (For You / Discovery)
🔎 Similar to Instagram Explore, where you see trending posts and personalized recommendations based on your interests.
(2) Search Function (Magnifying Glass 🔍)
🔍 Want to find the best coffee in Shanghai? The hottest night markets? Shopping malls?
✅ Enter keywords (in Chinese or English), such as:
- Shanghai Food (上海美食)
- Shanghai Disney Guide (迪士尼攻略)
- Best Bubble Tea in Shanghai (最好的奶茶店)
🔥 Pro Tip: If you don’t know Chinese, use a translation app before searching!
(3) Notes (Posts) – You Can Share Your Own Content!
📸 What you can do:
- Upload photos or videos (like Instagram)
- Write detailed descriptions (your experience, tips)
- Add hashtags (#) (helps with search ranking)
(4) Save & Interact
- ❤️ Like (thumbs up)
- 💾 Save (bookmark posts for later reference)
- 💬 Comment (ask questions & interact with locals)
4. How to Use Xiaohongshu to Explore Shanghai and China?
(1) Find the Best Places to Visit, Eat, and Shop in Shanghai
You can search for:
- 🏙 #Shanghai Travel (上海旅行)
- 🍜 #Shanghai Food (上海美食)
- 🛍 #Shopping in China (中国购物)
- 🌆 #The Bund Night View (外滩夜景)
🔥 Useful Keywords (Copy & paste to search):
- “Best coffee shops in Shanghai”
- “Most popular night markets in Shanghai”
- “Trendy restaurants in China”
(2) Read Real Reviews & Avoid Tourist Traps!
- Check real user reviews before visiting restaurants or attractions.
- Look for “warning” posts (避雷笔记) to see places that are NOT worth visiting.
5. How to Post on Xiaohongshu? (For Bloggers & Travelers)
If you’re a travel blogger, photographer, influencer, or just want to share your China experiences, you can create your own content on Xiaohongshu!
(1) How to Post Your First Note?
📸 Steps:
1️⃣ Tap the “+” button and select photos or videos
2️⃣ Write a title & description (describe your experience)
3️⃣ Add hashtags & keywords (e.g., #Shanghai #Food #Travel)
4️⃣ Publish & wait for engagement! 🎉
🔥 Pro Tips:
- Use both English & Chinese (helps more people find your post)
- Share real experiences (e.g., “Must-Visit Spots in Shanghai Disney! 🏰”)
- Post regularly to gain followers!
6. Xiaohongshu vs. Other Social Media (Instagram, TikTok, WeChat)
| Platform | Main Users | Content Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaohongshu (RED) | Chinese young users | Photos + Short Videos | Travel, Food, Shopping |
| Global users | Photos + Short Videos | Fashion, Photography, Food | |
| TikTok | Global young users | Short Videos | Entertainment, Dance, Humor |
| Chinese local users | Stories + Articles | Local networking, Chatting |
💡 If you want to explore China, Xiaohongshu is one of the best platforms!