Highlights in Xintiandi
The Xintiandi, spreading out on both sides of Xinye Road, consists of the south and north parts. In the South Block, modern architecture is the motif while Shikumen is an accompaniment. In the north, preserved Shikumen set a nostalgic tone, forming a splendid contrast with the modernity to the south. A shopping, entertainment and leisure complex of 25,000 square metres in the South Block opened in mid 2002. In this modern structure full of glass screens, a flurry of businesses thrive. Aside from a series of international restaurants representing the flavors of the world, there are classy boutiques, accessory shops and a movie theater.
In the North Block, antique buildings with their modern interior design, decorations and equipment play host to a dazzling array of restaurants specializing in French, American, German, British, Brazilian, Italian, Japanese, Taiwanese and Hong Kong cuisine, putting on display the full international dimension of Shanghai Xintiandi. The dividing line between the two blocks, Xingye Road, is the site of the First Congress Hall of the Chinese Communist Party. Its fellow Shikumen buildings along the sides of the street are set to become part of the scenery embodying the cultural and artistic features of the city.
The neighboring Taipingqiao Lake and Park are also built into Shanghai Xintiandi. The expansive park occupies 44,000 square metres and is situated at the centre of the project. Inside the park are tall trees and low-lying greenery, affording visitors a serene resting place. The lake covers 12,000 square metres, is the largest man-made lake in downtown Shanghai. At the centre of the lake are a set of impressive fountains and two little islets dotting the surface. The islets are named Magnolia and Unison. The terrace surrounding the lake runs up and down, strewn with trees and bushes. A path 1,200 metres long to the north of the greenery cuts a beautiful curve on the lake, leading to the Shikumen compounds of Shanghai Xintiandi, adding to the already impressive sight of the city's new favorite landmark.
