Time Out, a global city life magazine, released its ranking of "the 40 coolest neighborhoods in the world in 2026", with Changning district in Shanghai ranking 26th.

Based on a range of criteria, including food and drink, nightlife, unique local businesses, livability, and community, the ranking has helped refresh the public's perception of Shanghai as a travel destination.

Located in western downtown Shanghai and shaded by wutong trees, Changning is emerging as a distinctive area with a vibrant blend of everyday life and contemporary style.

The district’s unique character stems from a combination of traditional and modern neighborhoods. Many garden villas and historic buildings have been preserved and thoughtfully revitalized, with some now serving as boutique shops, specialty restaurants, and intimate art spaces.

Numerous universities, restaurants, and urban green lungs, such as the historic Zhongshan Park, create a comfortable atmosphere for strolling, dining, playing, and resting.

The magazine also mapped out a "perfect day" in Changning. "Newly hot Park Dimanche is where we'd choose to spend an entire day: this cute indie hub is made up of creative studios, restaurants, and lifestyle stores. Start at Kainos or Polly for cake and coffee, register for a reformer Pilates workshop with Pilactive, then browse the shelves at Little Forrest Bookstore."

"Spend the late afternoon learning to tango with Tango Cool, and stop at Den-Q for Taiwanese fare. Continue into the evening at new nightlife destination C-Park. On weekends, you can dip in and out of different spaces and sample diverse music styles, from psytrance and punk rock to Hokkien hardcore and deep house," said Sammi Sowerby, an English editor of Time Out.

From spring through winter, Changning consistently launches new activities. This autumn, the district unveiled a range of events, including the autumn session of the Premier Hongqiao Carnival, the Changning session of the third Shanghai International Light Festival, and a series of consumption-boosting events such as Panda Lifestyle Week.

Source: China Daily