Xintiandi

Historical Overview
Xintiandi’s history dates to the early 20th century when Shikumen houses, a blend of Western and Chinese styles, were built for migrants from Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. These narrow lanes hosted bustling communities until the 1990s, when urban redevelopment threatened their demolition. In 1999, Hong Kong developer Shui On Group launched a preservation project, retaining 90% of the original architecture while repurposing interiors for commercial use. The district gained global fame after hosting the 2001 APEC Summit and now serves as a model for heritage-led urban renewal.

Structural Layout
Xintiandi is divided into two main zones:

• North Block (Xintiandi Style): The original Shikumen area, featuring preserved houses converted into shops, cafés, and art spaces.
• South Block (Xintiandi Plaza): A modern shopping mall with glass-roofed atriums and luxury brands.

Key landmarks include:

• Taipingqiao Park: A central green space with fountains and sculptures.
• Xintiandi Metro Station: An underground art gallery with rotating exhibitions.
• Historic Lane 137: A restored Shikumen lane showcasing pre-1949 daily life.

Major Attractions

Shikumen Houses: Explore renovated residences like “House of Roosevelt” (No. 181), blending Art Deco interiors with traditional courtyards.

Xintiandi Style Mall: Shop for designer brands like Shanghai Tang and browse contemporary art at the Dongtai Road Antique Market annex.

中共一大会址 (Site of the First National Congress of the CPC): A National Heritage Site (No. 76 Xingye Road), where China’s Communist Party was founded in 1921.

The Waterhouse: A boutique hotel in a 1930s warehouse, offering rooftop bar views of the Pudong skyline.

UVA Gallery: A subterranean art space hosting immersive digital exhibitions.

Calypso Restaurant: A Mediterranean-style venue in a glass pavilion, known for its Sunday brunch.

Suggested Itineraries

Classic Route (2–3 hours):
Start at Xintiandi Metro Station → Explore North Block’s Shikumen lanes → Visit the CPC Congress Site → Shop at Xintiandi Style Mall → Coffee break at %Arabica → End at Calypso Restaurant.
Highlights: Heritage architecture, luxury shopping, and historic landmarks.

Cultural Deep Dive (4–5 hours):
Start at UVA Gallery (art exhibition) → Guided tour of Shikumen houses → Lunch at Lost Heaven (Yunnan fusion) → Visit Taipingqiao Park → Explore South Block’s boutiques → Evening cocktails at The Waterhouse.
Highlights: Art, cuisine, and panoramic city views.

Full-Day Experience (6–7 hours):
Morning: CPC Congress Site museum → North Block shopping.
Afternoon: Art workshop at UVA Gallery → tea ceremony at a Shikumen house.
Evening: Fine dining at Jean-Georges (French-Asian) → Nightlife at Bar Rouge.
Highlights: History, creativity, and gourmet experiences.

Ticket Purchase

Free Entry: Xintiandi’s public areas are open 24/7.

Paid Attractions:

CPC Congress Site: ¥50 (adults), ¥30 (students).

UVA Gallery: ¥80 (includes digital guide).

Shikumen House Tours: ¥150–300 (private guides).

Online: Book CPC Site tickets via Trip.com or its official WeChat.

On-Site: Purchase tickets at attraction entrances.

Transportation

By Subway: Line 10/13: Xintiandi Station (Exit 1), directly connected to the district.

By Bus: Routes 911, 926, or 42 to Huangpi South Road Xingye Road Stop.

By Taxi: Direct to “新天地” (Xintiandi).

Bike Rental: Use HelloBike for short rides between North and South Blocks.

Best Time & Tips

Peak Hours: Avoid weekends 12–4 PM; visit weekday mornings for quieter strolls.

Crowds: Evenings (6–9 PM) are lively but crowded; early mornings offer photogenic empty lanes.

Weather: spring (April–May) and autumn (October–November) are ideal for outdoor walks.

Essentials:

Wear comfortable shoes (8,000+ steps possible).

Bring a light jacket (Shikumen lanes can be breezy).

Try local snacks like “crab roe dumplings” from Din Tai Fung.

Prohibited Items: Drones require prior permission; no large bags in museums.

Hidden Gems:

Explore “Lane 24” for street art.

Visit “Shanghai Village” for discounted luxury brands.