In Shanghai, there exists a special way of experiencing the city known as dangmalu, which means "strolling the streets" in English.

With its streets brimming with charm and exuding the distinctive essence of Shanghai culture, you can embark on a wonderful journey through the city's alleys and lanes – rediscovering the ordinary yet remarkable way of life of Shanghai residents and reveling in the abundant joys it offers.

1. Nanchang Road

- One Day Gallery

Situated on Nanchang Road, the One Day Gallery is a quaint art gallery where each piece of art is one of a kind, yet surprisingly affordable. Here, you can admire a variety of artworks, engaging in what seems like a cross-space dialogue with their creators.

Address: No 144 Nanchang Road

- Boutique de Fruits

Having been in business for over 30 years on Nanchang Road, the marvelous shop Boutique de Fruits exudes a cozy atmosphere with its colorful array of fruit. Besides offering a selection of fresh fruit, you can also indulge in freshly squeezed fruit juices, with a blackboard showing the owner's carefully curated juice combinations.

Address: No 124 Nanchang Road

- Cottage Barber Shop

With its American retro vibe, the Cottage Barber Shop has undergone a recent revitalization. Boasting a striking cream-colored storefront with outdoor seating, it's become a standout sight on Nanchang Road. Apart from haircuts, you can also enjoy a cup of coffee, have a glass of wine, listen to music, or chat with the owner.

Address: No 360 Nanchang Road

- Spring House

Nestling deep within the lanes of Nanchang Road lies Spring House, a small teahouse in a heritage building.

The interior is elegantly simple yet sophisticated, with a variety of teas neatly displayed, wooden furniture exuding a warm fragrance, and soft curtains gently swaying in the breeze. Here, time seems to stand still.

Address: No 1-2 Lane 196, Nanchang Road

2. Huanghe Road

- Tai Sheng Yuan Restaurant

The TV drama Blossoms Shanghai has brought renewed attention to the time-honored Tai Sheng Yuan Restaurant on Huanghe Road, the real-life inspiration behind the famous Zhi Zhen Yuan in the series. While it may not be as bustling as before, it still attracts visitors looking to savor its classic Shanghai cuisine.

Address: No 50 Huanghe Road

- Chang Jiang Theater

Located at the intersection of Huanghe Road and Fengyang Road, the Chang Jiang Theater, formerly known as the Carlton Grand Theatre, opened in 1923. You can catch a delightful performance of comic monologue at the Chang Jiang Theater, where you might even encounter well-known veteran actors.

Address: No 35 Huanghe Road

3. Fuzhou Road

-Shanghai Book City

Evoking cherished memories from childhood, as well as learning and romance for many Shanghai locals, the Shanghai Book City - established in 1998 - stands as the largest stand-alone retail bookstore on Fuzhou Road and even in Shanghai.

The newly refurbished Shanghai Book City retains its seven-story retail space.

Address: No 465 Fuzhou Road

- Xing Hua Lou Restaurant

With its nostalgic charm on Fuzhou Road, the time-honored Xing Hua Lou Restaurant awaits every diner's visit. Founded in 1851, the first year of the Xianfeng reign of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), the restaurant is one of the oldest Cantonese restaurants in Shanghai and is beloved by old Shanghai locals. Here, you not only savor delicious dishes but also experience a warm touch of Shanghai sentiment.

Perhaps overshadowed by its renowned mooncakes, you might forget to praise the Cantonese dim sum of the restaurant: Classic shrimp dumplings, soft and glutinous rice rolls, fragrant steamed sponge cakes, and savory barbecue pork buns, among the many temptations.

Address: No 343 Fuzhou Road

Sources: Huangpu district administration of culture and tourism, Taozui Shanghai, Xing Hua Lou Restaurant