Tianzifang has been popular for many years. It is a paradise for the petty bourgeoisie in an old alley. Various exquisite cafes, handicraft shops, and creative cuisine restaurants hidden in the alleys make this old alley, full of nostalgic flavor, feel very bourgeois.
Xintiandi
Xintiandi, true to its name, is a fashionable and trendy district in Shanghai. The entire area is built on the foundation of old Shanghai Shikumen architecture, incorporating Western elements to create a meticulously crafted, modern, and international district.
Sinan Road and the surrounding Huaihai Road area were originally part of the French Concession. The historical legacy of this area has resulted in a collection of distinctive Western-style old houses. Under the shade of the French plane trees, the scenery here stands in stark contrast to the bustling glamour of Shanghai, forming a tranquil and nostalgic route. Sinan Road is home to many old residences of literary figures, including the former residences of Sun Yat-sen and Mei Lanfang. Some quaint cafes and antique shops are also highlights for visitors. On a leisurely afternoon, finding a quiet old street and cycling through rows of exquisite Western-style houses might just be the most pleasant experience in Shanghai.
The China Art Museum was once the China Pavilion at the 2010 Shanghai World Expo. After the Expo, the Shanghai Art Museum officially moved in. This grand art palace is a major attraction in itself, featuring design elements of China Red and the 'Crown of the East,' making it particularly magnificent. The gallery is free to enter, where you can admire over a thousand masterpieces and revisit the China Pavilion of the Shanghai World Expo. The gallery is closed on Mondays, and special exhibitions may require ticket purchases.
Shanghai Zhujiajiao Ancient Town Tourist Area
Zhujiajiao Ancient Town is the closest ancient town to Shanghai in the Jiangnan region. It is not as crowded as Qibao Ancient Town in the city, nor as popular as the famous Zhouzhuang Ancient Town. This is precisely what makes Zhujiajiao unique, offering a more pure and unspoiled scenery. The commercial development of the ancient town is within an acceptable range, and it is only a one-hour drive from Shanghai. The ancient town is free to enter, with no admission fee required. The busiest area is the street along the river. Most taverns are built along the river, where you can taste local specialties like Grandma's Zongzi and enjoy the old streets of Jiangnan by the river. The 'Fangsheng Bridge' in the ancient town spans a wide river and is an excellent spot to appreciate the beautiful scenery of the ancient town.
