Practicalities

» Offline map

» Lane 210, Taikang Rd 210

» Dapuqiao

Galleries

There are three main north–south lanes (Nos 210, 248 and 274) crisscrossed by irregular east–west alleyways, which makes exploration slightly disorienting and fun. On the main lane is the Deke Erh Art Centre Offline map Google map (; No 2, Lane 210; 9am-10pm), owned by local photographer Deke Erh, who also runs the Old China Hand Reading Room (Click here). A good range of books on Shanghai are on display. Another gallery to seek out is Beaugeste (Click here), which has excellent contemporary photography exhibits that are in a league of their own when compared with the digitally enhanced photos for sale everywhere else.

Just outside the complex on Taikang Rd, an enormous peony bloom covers the exterior of the Liuli China Museum (Click here), dedicated to the art of glass sculpture.

Shopping & Drinking

Of course the real activity here is shopping, and the recent explosion of creative start-ups makes for some interesting finds (Click here), from local fashion brands to Beijing-style messenger bags. An increasing number of stalls selling mass-produced souvenir dross have moved in, so you’ll need to hunt for the genuine boutiques, but rest assured, they’re still here.

Elsewhere, a growing band of cool cafes – such as Kommune (Click here), the Bell Bar (Click here), Kaiba (Click here) and Origin (Click here) – can sort out lunch or drinks, provide a wi-fi connection and take the weight off your feet.

LONELY PLANET / GETTY IMAGES ©

TOP SIGHTS

Xintiandi

Xintiandi has only been around for a decade and already it’s a Shanghai icon. An upscale entertainment complex modelled on traditional alleyway (longtang) homes, this was the first development in the city to prove that historic architecture does, in fact, have economic value. Elsewhere that might sound like a no-brainer, but in 21st-century China, which is head-over-heels for the bulldozer, it came as quite a revelation.

Well-heeled shoppers and al fresco diners keep the place busy until late, and if you’re looking for a memorable meal (Click here) or a browse through some of Shanghai’s more fashionable boutiques (Click here), you’re in the right place.

Don’t Miss

» Shikumen Open House Museum

» Al fresco dining

» Window shopping

Дата добавления: 2015-11-14