The one of a kind pocket park in the middle of old town Shanghai built for and loved by the local community. An inspiring Utopian urban living in reality, I used to commute a lot both for pleasure and field research of my service design assignment. It's currently used by the local government as a PCR test spot. Wish it could reopen soon to public! 

Surrounded by historic architectures and cultural institutes, it is a new retail concept aimed to be creative community hub for shopping and events. Personally, not a fan of the select shop but the coffee shop and the outdoor setting is a nice place to hang in the quieter end of the hood. 

I connected with Sarah, one the two co-founders behind AENTOS at her pop-up dinner. I was under the assumption that it is another independent wellness brand focusing on beauty and fragrance products when I paid my first visit to their shop. And I instantly fell for the artistic vibes. The shop is located at a very Shanghainese alley, pretty close to one of the creative campus and retail complex that I frequent. From natural essence-based scented oils, candles to grass/wood aroma, they have a thoughtful range of original products alongside their selection by other designers/artist friends. The shop is so well curated in line with their statement: a lifestyle brand that believes in the power of slowing down and self-care. It is a little hidden gem for those who look for a gentle pause to browse or eclectic wellness gift for their loved ones in downtown area. 

Accidentally walking into this coffee shop the other day as the space making looks quite interesting from across the street. The line-up of the magazines caught my eye instantly - UNION, they are the first coffee shop I spotted in town who carries this independent fashion x photography magazine, one of my favorite publications. That triggered my interest to try their coffee - apparently, we love cafes where we meet like-minded people to share a taste not only about coffee:-) The minimal and thoughtful interior design makes it a very cozy place to chill with good coffee and good reads. 

New Chinese bistro inspired by cyber punk and re-imagined by a young pair of modern food culture enthusiasts at downtown, Shanghai. Great for casual dinner and natural wines with folks