Yan Qing Li, a newly renovated shopping area in Xuhui district, is aglow with festive lights ahead of its official opening next spring. Located at No 110 Yanqing Road, the historic area is now open to the public as a winter attraction until Jan 3.

The lighting event offers an early glimpse of what Yan Qing Li will become. Warm lights trace the facades of historic buildings and the branches of mature plane trees, inviting visitors to stroll through the preserved lanes and experience the space before shops fully open.

Rather than a large, newly built mall, Yan Qing Li is made up of restored lane houses, courtyards, and narrow passages that have long been part of the neighborhood. The original street layout and architectural features have been carefully preserved, allowing the area's historic character to remain visible and accessible.

As a shopping and lifestyle destination, Yan Qing Li is designed around everyday urban life. Most future stores will be small, typically between 100 and 200 square meters, focusing on well-designed products, creative concepts, and personalized service. The aim is to create destination shops that people visit on purpose, not just by chance.

Food and drink will be central to the street experience. Cafes and casual restaurants are expected to draw people in throughout the day and into the evening, encouraging visitors to sit, talk, and spend time under the plane trees, turning the area into a place to linger rather than simply pass through.

Tenant selection emphasizes synergy among shops. The operator aims to attract brands popular with younger consumers, creating a complementary mix that includes trendy toy stores, light dining, and cultural-creative retail.

Yan Qing Li sits within the Yanqing Road–Donghu Road area, a long-established hotspot for young shoppers in Shanghai. The surrounding streets are known for strong foot traffic and high spending, providing a solid base for the new shopping area.

Part of the Hengshan Road–Fuxing Road Historical and Cultural Block, Yan Qing Li reflects Shanghai's broader approach to renewing historic neighborhoods. By maintaining the original lane layout while adding new retail and dining options, the area demonstrates how historic streets can seamlessly accommodate modern urban life.

Sources: Shanghai Observer and WeChat account of Xuhui district