As a world-renowned tourist attraction, Tianzifang (田子坊) only rose to fame quite recently. Until 1998, it was still a normal area near the city center of Shanghai, consisting of dilapidated factories and low-rise residential buildings. Then, attracted by the low rent and convenient transport, many Chinese contemporary artists, like Chen Yifei, Er Dongqiang, Wang Jieyin, and Li Shoubai set their workshops there, gradually turning it into a cluster of culture industries, crowded with cafes, bars, and boutique shops. Because of this characteristic, Huang Yongyu, a famous painter, named this place Tianzifang, which is homophonic to an artist two thousand years ago.
Since most buildings in Tianzifang have only been renovated instead of reconstructed, they retain the original style. And one of the features people often refer to is Shikumen, which combines Chinese and western decorations. For example, the stone door frame is a typical Chinese design, but the carves on it is in western style.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Tianzifang
- Vlog about Tianzifang
- Famous Stores
- Map of Tianzifang
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Interesting Facts
- Attractions near Tianzifang
Basic Information
| Website | http://www.tianzifang.cn/ |
| Estimated length of tour | 1-3 hours, depending how many stores you visit |
| Opening hours | the area is open to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. But most shops open at around 10 am and close at 8 – 9 pm, except for the bars. So do not go there too early in the morning |
| Ticket | Completely free |
Location and Transportation
Tianzifang is located in Jingan District, south of the city center. Around it are shopping malls and residential areas, and there is convenient public transport leading there.
Bus: Take bus No. 17, 24, or 304, get off at Jianguo Zhonglu Ruijin Erlu stop, and walk 120 meters to the south; Or take bus No. 41, 43, 96, 146, 218, 786, 955, or 985, get off at Dapuqiao station, and walk 300 meters to the north.
Subway: Take subway line 9, get off at Dapuqiao Station, get out from exit 1, and walk 220 meters to the north.
Self-drive: There is no parking lot in Tianzifang, but you can park your car in the shopping mall nearby (Riyueguang Center).
Highlights of Tianzifang
Integration of different cultures
As one of the most prosperous cities, Shanghai is a hub for communication between Chinese and western cultures, and Tianzifang is the epitome of this city.
It perfectly combines the traditional Chinese building with western elements, the lively shops on the first floor with the normal life of residents living upstairs, the cuisines from every corner of the world, and different schools of arts. In front of the old factories, you can see dozens of countries’ flags, representing the origins of the artists working there.
Bars and Cafes
There are numerous bars and cafes serving wonderful drinks and food in Tianzifang. Most of them have retained the original style of the building and only do moderate modifications. It is terrific for you and your friends to sit down, sip something, wind down a bit, and feel the unique charm of the city. After all, this is the essence of having a vacation in another country with different cultures, isn’t it?
Boutique Shops
As an area that was initially famous for artists, Tianzifang has many marvelous boutique shops selling sophisticated artworks, handicrafts, and decorations. Some of them will blow your mind and make you wow at first sight. If you are a lover of art, please wander around in the lanes and take your time to browse the shops. You will find every minute is worth it.
Vlog about Tianzifang
Famous Stores
1. Mojing Gongzuoshi (Magic Mirror Workshop)
Feature: turning digital pictures into oil paintings in minutes
Address: 14, Lane 274, Taikang Road, Huangpu District
2. Chen Yifei Studio
Feature: selling duplicated works of Chen Yifei, one of the most famous contemporary artists in China and one of the founders of Tianzifang
Address: 2, Lane 210, Taikang Road, Huangpu District
3. Teddy Bear Family
Feature: Decorated with numerous Teddy Bears. Customers can diy their own plush toys and enjoy Thai food
Address: 23, Lane 248, Taikang Road, Huangpu District
4. Sansheng Youxin (Mails throughout your life)
Feature: various postcards, notebooks, and letters
Address: 260, Taikang Road, Huangpu District
5. Zhuoma Himalayas
Feature: Tibet Jewelry and decorations. Mysterious Tibet culture
Address: 7, Lane 210, Taikang Road, Huangpu District
Map of Tianzifang
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Exploring the Variety of Shops: Tianzifang is known for its diverse range of shops, many of which offer similar products. You can typically explore the area in about an hour. Some shops have particularly picturesque storefronts, making it a great spot for taking photos with friends.
Trying Flower Tea and Fruit Tea: There are vendors offering flower tea and fruit tea for tasting. It’s worth trying out these teas, but purchasing them may not offer the best value for money. Prices can range from 1.2 yuan per gram to 600 yuan per kilogram.
Exploring Handmade Soap Shops: If you’re interested in handmade soap, Tianzifang has several shops worth exploring. The soaps often come in cute shapes and designs. One reviewer mentioned purchasing a piece of calendula essential oil soap, which they found effective for freshening up closets and wardrobes.
Bargaining and Price Awareness: When shopping in Tianzifang, it’s important to be aware of pricing and to consider bargaining if you’re interested in making a purchase. Some items may be priced higher due to the touristy nature of the area, so it’s wise to compare prices and negotiate if possible.
