Located in central Shanghai just south of Huaihai Zhong Road, Xintiandi is a redevelopment of a once rundown part of town based on the layout of an old Shanghainese neighbourhood.

 

Now it is a state-of-the-art warren of upscale shops, bars and restaurants based on the theme of "where old meets new". Here you find the oddly complimentary combination of the traditional houses of old Shanghai (the 'Shikumen') hosting ultra modern restaurants, bars and shops. The exterior of these shikumen style houses of 1920's Shanghai have been tastefully restored, whilst inside they have been fully renovated to accommodate the tastes of the modern Westerner.

 

From Starbucks to T8, to international chains of Chinese restaurants you will find plenty to soothe a homesick expat, and with a price tag to match.

 

Moreover Xintiandi is most famous for its nightlife when the Western style bars open their doors for business. No doubt every Westerner that comes to Shanghai will pay at least one visit here, if not more.

 

The complex also includes a museum of Shanghainese architecture and a restored school where the Chinese Communist Party held its first congress in 1921, now also a museum.

 

 

Travel tips:

 

Xintiandi North Block: Lane 181, Taicang Road.

Xintiandi South Block: Lane 123, Xingye Road.

The Location of Shanghai Xintiandi: Shanghai Xintiandi is conveniently located right in the centre of cosmopolitan Shanghai. It is close to Middle Huaihai Road and Taicang Road, bordering upon South Huangpi Road, Madang Road and Zizhong Road.

To get there: Metro line 1 - alight at South Huangpi Road Station and exit from gate 2, then turn left and walk along Madang Road for about 200 metres to Taicang Road.

 

Inside Xintiandi, visitors also can know more about Shanghai culture in the shikumen museum, Shanghai Tang and Liu Li Museum.

  

 

(Shanghai Daily July 25, 2007)