Shanghai's Qianjiatan Road Pedestrian Street has launched a winter program that brings large-scale public art, family activities, and a chocolate market to the area through early 2026.

A highlight of the program is a new art trail developed by Defrag Studio in collaboration with French illustrator and painter Jean Mallard, who is presenting his first major solo exhibition in China. A total of 26 installations are positioned across Qianjiatan area at locations such as New Bund Red Lane, Crystal Plaza, L+Plaza, and Youcheng Park. Together, they create an open-air storybook environment.

The works are based on the journey of a small bear from Mallard's picture book La-bas. Visitors can trace the scenes across the area, beginning at a "Forest Station" near Qiantan Avenue. Other stops include a climbing-themed installation outside AOKKA Coffee, a "Call of Companions" piece along Yaolong Road, and artworks celebrating friendship and courage on the outdoor terraces of Crystal Plaza and the rooftop of L+Plaza.

The experience expands beyond the art trail. A themed mini-train called The New Bund: A Starlit Gathering began operating on Dec 6. Running on weekends and during the New Year holiday period, it offers interactive features, character appearances, and family ticket packages as it travels through New Bund Red Lane.

Visitors will also find a new food attraction in mid-December. New Bund Chocolane, promoted as Shanghai's first chocolate-focused market, will open on Dec 13 for two consecutive weekends at New Bund Red Lane. The market will feature 115 brands from eight countries, including well-known chocolatiers from Belgium, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

The winter installations and art trail will remain open until March 6, 2026.

Sources: Shanghai Observer; official Xiaohongshu accounts of New Bund Red Lane and Crystal Plaza