Tianzifang

Tianzifang is a labyrinth of narrow streets in the old French Quarter of Shanghai. The area is home to a variety of shops, bars, cafes, design studios, and galleries, and is as popular with the young and trendy of Shanghai as it is with international visitors. 
Where nearby areas such as Xintiandi have been heavily reconstructed over the years, Tianzifang retains much of its olde world charm. It is said that local business owners campaigned to preserve the original architecture, and the area still features the old Shikumen houses, with their stone-framed doors. Despite it turning into something of a tourist attraction in recent years, thousands of locals still call Tianzifang home.

Practical Info

Tianzifang is based around Taikang Road in the Dapuqiao district. The entrance is rather unassuming, so look out for an archway over alley 210. As this area has become so popular with tourists, if you can visit during the week you’ll find it much less crowded than on weekend days.