Walking under the intense sun on the streets of Shanghai, it feels like melting is only moments away. Fortunately, just around the corner, an ice cream shop offers a much-needed respite. This summer, let's explore five popular ice cream spots in Shanghai's Hongqiao area:

First stop: Corbridge Garden

Address: No 1437 Hongqiao Road

Nestled in a park, Corbridge Garden Cafe offers a peaceful escape surrounded by greenery. The charming white building stands out with its simple yet stylish design, making it an ideal summer retreat.

The cafe's seasonal highlight is Hokkaido ice cream, especially the pink ice cream cup — an enhanced version that catches the eye. With a base of colorful cereal stars and candy pieces, it blends perfectly with the creamy ice cream and is paired with three cookies of different flavors, evoking a sense of childhood nostalgia.

Second stop: Luneurs

Address: 1F, Vanke Plaza, No 37 South Shuicheng Road

Luneurs is a French-style ice cream and bakery shop known for its artisanal flair. Its signature caramel sea salt ice cream, studded with caramel crisp cookies in a refreshing sea salt base, delivers a pleasant balance of flavors.

A recent addition, the brandy caramelized ice cream, pairs the deep aroma of brandy with rich, velvety caramel for a truly indulgent treat. For a lighter option, the raspberry sorbet and mango passion fruit sorbet offer a burst of tropical refreshment, with icy textures and vibrant sweet-tart notes.

Third stop: Pony

Address: B1, No 1438 Hongqiao Road

Located on the B1 floor of the Takashimaya Department Store, Pony dessert workshop is a hidden gem among the many treats available.

Known for its heart-shaped cakes, Pony also offers a milk ice cream that is priced at just 12 yuan ($1.67). With a rich yet not overpowering milk flavor, the ice cream delivers a cool and smooth texture that refreshes without overwhelming.

Fourth stop: Chuan Dining

Address: No 55 South Shuicheng Road

Parfaits, known for their visual appeal and creativity, are a summer favorite. This restaurant offers seasonal parfaits like cantaloupe and loquat, while classic options like strawberry and chocolate banana are available year-round.

The parfaits feature a base of grains and jam, topped with traditional cream, and finished with fresh fruits. A combination of smooth ice cream, silky cream, and fresh fruits creates a harmonious blend of flavors.

Fifth stop: Drunk Baker

Address: No 7 Hongbaoshi Road

Entering Drunk Baker, you are greeted with a refreshing summer surprise. The mint chocolate ice cream, a seasonal favorite, is a vibrant blue-green, with the mint's coolness complemented by chocolate chips for added texture.

The mango sticky rice ice cream combines juicy mango with a hint of sticky rice fragrance, offering a taste of Southeast Asia. The pomelo ice cream is refreshingly aromatic, with a sweet and sour pomelo scent that transports you to a summer orchard. Each flavor delivers a unique and enjoyable experience.

Source: WeChat account of Changning district information office at "shchangning"