Tianzifang is an alley with a long history, rich culture, and distinct local vibes. It was named by the Chinese painter Huang Yongyu, in honor of Tian Zifang, a statesman, philosopher, and artist during the Warring States Period (475-221 BC).

The area used to be the cradle of national industry in Shanghai, housing more than 10 small factories and handicraft workshops. Standing as a window into the past, the industrial factories of the early 20th century have been preserved through the decades.

Various architectural styles come together at Tianzifang, ranging from bamboo-fenced courtyards and Shikumen (stone-gate) residences to Western-style buildings built during the Republic of China (1912-1949) and modern lane houses.

The former residence of renowned artist Wang Yachen is located here, while artists Chen Yifei, He Youzhi, and Wang Jieyin, Haipai paper-cutting artisan Li Shoubai, and photographer Er Dongqiang all once had studios in the area. Their creative spirits have long imbued Tianzifang with a rich artistic aura.

Striking a harmonious balance between cultural preservation and innovative integration, Tianzifang is a vibrant tapestry where history and modernity intertwine, East and West converge, and classic and contemporary styles work in harmony.

In 2016, the national 3A scenic spot was the only place in China to be selected as a reference case in Shanghai Manual: A Guide for Sustainable Urban Development in the 21st Century, as the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) cited the "bottom-up old city renewal and inclusive entrepreneurship of the Tianzifang community".

If you go

Open: 24/7

Admission: Free

Location: Alley 210, Taikang Road, Huangpu district

Source: Huangpu district government