Shanghai Expat Interview: Fetishes, Curiosities and Unspoken Desires
Shanghai, a city where the old meets the new and cultures converge, is a playground for exploration. For expats, this dynamic metropolis often becomes a backdrop for self-discovery — sometimes in unexpected ways. Among the stories of adventure and adaptation shared by expats, some stand out for their bold honesty about personal fetishes and kinks.
In this candid interview series, expats open up about their unconventional desires and how life in Shanghai influenced them. Here are 10 fascinating BDSM and fetish stories from the heart of this city, featuring some particularly unique examples.
1. The Pegging Pioneer
A British architect, shared how his curiosity about pegging began after a playful conversation with his partner. “It started as a joke,” he explained, “but the more we talked about it, the more I realized I wanted to explore it. The idea of flipping traditional roles and surrendering control was incredibly exciting.” Living in Shanghai’s open-minded expat circles gave him the courage to try it, and it’s now a regular part of their intimate life.
2. The Golden Shower Adventurer
An American business consultant, admitted her fascination with water sports developed after a casual dare during a party. “It felt taboo but also freeing,” she shared. “Shanghai’s underground kink scene provided a safe environment to explore something I never thought I’d try. It’s not about humiliation — it’s about trust and pushing boundaries.”
3. The Armpit Enthusiast
A French teacher, the allure of unshaven armpits became a surprising fixation. “It’s the natural, raw aesthetic of it,” he explained. “I first noticed it on a partner during Shanghai’s humid summers — it was incredibly sexy and primal. Now, it’s something I actively seek.”
4. The Smelly Foot Devotee
A professional dominatrix based in Shanghai, shared the story of one of her expat clients, “He was a high-powered executive by day, but in our sessions, he surrendered control at my feet,” she said. “Shanghai’s fast-paced environment makes submission a relief for some people.” For him, being under the guidance of a professional mistress became a form of therapy.
5. The Body Marking Artist
An Italian chef, discovered his fetish for body marking during a calligraphy session. “Watching ink glide on skin reminded me of tattoos, but more temporary,” he said. “In the bedroom, we started using body-safe markers to write messages or draw designs — it’s like creating a story together every time.”
6. The Bondage Enthusiast
An Australian artist, shared her love for rope bondage. “Shanghai’s art scene introduced me to shibari, and I was hooked. It’s a beautiful mix of art and intimacy. The trust required to tie someone or be tied is incredibly empowering.”
7. The Roleplay Revolutionary
An English teacher, revealed her obsession with roleplay inspired by Shanghai’s mix of tradition and modernity. “My favorite scenario is reimagining classic Chinese legends with a kinky twist,” she laughed. “Think warrior and concubine, with a dash of mischief.”
8. The Exhibitionist on the Bund
An American photographer, shared his love for exhibitionism. “There’s something thrilling about semi-public moments, especially in a city as visually stunning as Shanghai,” he said. “The Bund at night became a favorite spot for playful, subtle dares with my partner.”
9. The Latex Explorer
A Brazilian designer, talked about his growing interest in latex clothing after attending a themed party in Shanghai. “It started with gloves, then escalated to full outfits,” he said. “The feeling of compression and the sleek appearance make it irresistible.”
10. The Pain Player
A German engineer, revealed his fascination with impact play. “Shanghai’s bustling energy mirrors the intensity I enjoy in the bedroom,” he said. “The sound of a paddle or whip creates a rhythm that’s both grounding and exhilarating.”
