With its own namesake metro station, Xintiandi has been a Shanghai icon for over a decade. An upmarket entertainment and shopping complex modelled on traditional alleyway (±ô¨°²Ô²µ³Ù¨¢²Ô²µ) homes, this was the first development in the city to prove that historical architecture makes big commercial sense. Elsewhere that might sound like a no-brainer, but in 21st-century China, where bulldozers are always on standby, it came as quite a revelation.
Well-heeled shoppers and alfresco diners keep things lively until late, and if you¡¯re looking for a memorable meal or to browse through some of Shanghai¡¯s more fashionable boutiques, you¡¯re in the right spot. The heart of the complex, divided into a pedestrianised north and south block, consists of largely rebuilt traditional ²õ³ó¨ª°ì¨´³¾¨¦²Ô houses, brought bang up to date with a stylish modern spin. But while the layout suggests a flavour of yesteryear, you should not expect much in the cultural realm. Xintiandi doesn¡¯t deliver any of the lived-in charms of Tianzifang or the creaking, rickety simplicity of Shanghai Old City. Beyond two worthwhile sights ¨C the Shikumen Open House Museum and the Site of the 1st National Congress of the CCP ¨C it¡¯s best for strolling the prettified alleyways and enjoying a summer evening over drinks or a meal.
