Spotlight On: Fuxing Zhong Lu

District: Luwan

Cross Streets: Chongqing Nan Lu and Sinan Lu

Nearest Metro Station: Xintiandi, Exit 5 (Line 10, Line 13)

About: This block of the famous street has Fuxing Park to its north, and Sinan Mansions to its south. A visit to the park is well worth it, after which you can cross the street and spend some quality time in Sinan Mansions, a renovated part of Xuhui which now accommodates upmarket establishments.

Who said a good time needs to cost anything? Experience a lovely part of Shanghainese culture in pleasant Fuxing Park where amiable locals dance, play musical instruments, practice calligraphy and perform tai chi. Beautifully kept gardens, lawns, and water features make for a relaxing family walk. There are also some rides for younger kids, and interesting spaces to explore. 

Free; 516 Fuxing Zhong Lu.

Sinan Books the perfect place if you are a bookworm who still gets excited by the feel and smell of paper. This three-storey literary haven boasts a pretty decent English section, and includes a lounge area, a café, an exhibition area, an outdoor patio, and cosy secluded reading rooms that are ideal for kicking back with a favourite book. 

Sinan Mansions Building 25

Sinan Mansions Building is a multi-functional three-storey building that is used for art exhibitions, displays, demonstrations and fairs, which vary every so often. Check out what is taking place when you visit.

Truefitt & Hill Barber Shop , certified as the oldest barber shop in the world from The Guinness Book of World Records, is a London based barber that has been offering high-end grooming products and services for men since 1805. Now here in Shanghai, expat and local men alike can treat themselves to a luxury cut and/or shave. 

Sinan Mansions Building 3

Sporting a western menu specialising in steak and lobster, this three-storey upmarket restaurant, Shanghai Slim’s , boasts a chef’s table, an area for parties and special events, and an outside patio. Apart from its fine menu, they also offer an excellent bar selection. 

Sinan Mansions Building 26d