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)
