Built around 1862, West Nanjing Road used to be called Jing'ansi Road, because it was the only road that led to the Jing'an Temple.

It is the sole historical and cultural block situated entirely within Jing'an district, covering around 115 hectares. This area is bordered by Jiangning Road, West Beijing Road, Shimen Road Number Two, Shimen Road Number One, Weihai Road, North Maoming Road, Middle Yan'an Road, Tongren Road, West Beijing Road, Jiaozhou Road, Xinzha Road, and Jiangning Road.

At the other end of West Nanjing Road was the British Jockey Club's racecourse. The club claims to have built both the road and the racecourse after receiving permission from the Qing government.

Another fun fact, English speakers used to call this road "Bubbling Well Road", probably because of the well located in Jing'an Temple.

In the early 1890s, the rough road was paved evenly with gravel and trees were planted, greatly enhancing the environment. Its beauty soon attracted wealthy people that then built private gardens and elegant villas here.

By the early 20th century, the road was lined with delicate courtyards surrounded by high walls, allowing only a few eyes to appreciate the scenery inside.

Zhangyuan in the West Nanjing Road Historical and Cultural Block has been renovated into one of Shanghai's best public spaces that blends fashion and humanity, as well as a shopping destination for top brands. [Photo/WeChat account: jaxwzx]

The 1920s marked the heyday of the historical zone, when West Nanjing Road was expanded to its scale. Many buildings built in the early 20th century are well preserved, showcasing the unique architecture of the era.

Since the historical zone is located near the center of Shanghai, peaceful alleys and apartments form a strong contrast with the skyscrapers of Jing'an district, showing the great changes this city has gone through over the past century. Here one can find countless buildings that are not only famous for their exquisite exteriors, but also for their history.

A glimpse of Jing'an Villa in the West Nanjing Road Historical and Cultural Block reveals a classic red-brick neighborhood. [Photo/WeChat account: jaxwzx]

Source: shtong.gov.cn