Tianzifang

Introducing Shanghai Tianzifang
Located at Lane 210, Taikang Road of Shanghai, Shanghai Tianzifang or Tian Zi Fang is an artsy area that has developed from a renovated residential area in the French Concession area. It is known for small craft stores, coffee shops, trendy art studios and galleries.

Shanghai Tianzifang Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: Shanghai Tianzifang 上海田子坊
• Best Time to Visit: All year around
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 2 to 3 hours
• Things to Do: Architecture, Shopping, Leisure, Photography
• Opening Hours: 24 hours
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Address: Lane 210, Taikang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai

What to expect at Shanghai Tianzifang

Shanghai Tianzifang becomes one of the most popular destination, and a well-preserved example of local Shikumen architecture, with some similarities to Xintiandi. The neighborhood was originally built in the 1930s as a Shikumen residential district. Then Taikang Road area was built up by the French Concession expansion. The year 1998 is a watershed in Tianzifang's history. Chen Yifei, one of China's most renowned contemporary artists, took over two abandoned factory buildings and converted them into studios. Then artists from other countries and regions start to move in.

Rezoning of Shanghai Tianzifang began in 2005 and 2006 with nearby art schools and studios, and later small international business owners found out about Shanghai Tianzifang. Its development began very slowly with merchants, coffee shops, restaurants and craft stores setting up in the district. From the beginning of 2007, journalists, visitors and Shanghai local residents began to visit the area and spread the word about a cozy lane district that housed some interesting and creative businesses.

At a glance, this area looks to be a mix of old and refurbished brick houses. However, do not be fooled by the traditional old lanes or wet clothes hanging on bamboo poles above your head. Shanghai Tianzifang deserves a second look. There are many art studios and galleries. These studios which are mostly situated at Buildings 3 & 5 feature many contemporary works of design, painting and photography. There is no cover charge to view the works and you can always purchase any of the beautiful pieces created by the local artists in Shanghai.

How to get to Shanghai Tianzifang

By Metro
• Take Metro Line 9 and get off at Dapuqiao Station( Exit 1).

By Bus
• Take bus No. 17, 24, or 304 and get off at Jianguo Zhonglu Ruijin Erlu Station.
• Take bus No. 43, 218, 303, 786, 931 or 985 and get off at Dapuqiao Station.
• Take bus No. 41, 96, 104, 146, 301, 864 or 955 and get off at Ruijin Hospital Station.

Additional travel advice on Shanghai Tianzifang
• Most shops in Tiangzifang open around 10:00am and close around 21:30. Bars open and close late.
• Please take care of your belongings at Tianzifang as there are many tourists there.