Local Talk: Zizhong Lu
On your way to Xintiandi, make sure you take a short jaunt down Zizhong Lu. The tree-lined road will show you hidden shops and cafes sure to delight! Escape the hoards of tourists in Xintiandi and sneak away to the undiscovered shops that await you. Here are some of our favourites.
Maid Jump
Looking for something out of the ordinary? Maid Jump café will help you get just that. If you’re hungry and looking for an anime fix, they don’t disappoint. When you walk in, you’re greeted by waitresses that look like they’ve jumped straight out of the pages of a comic book. They’ve also got an impressive collection of anime memorabilia to boot. Settle into one of the comfy arm chairs and chow down on Japanese and western favourites.
Maid Jump. 453 Zizhong Lu, near Chongqing Nan Lu. Tel: 133 8614
The Pablo For Hair
Looking to make a change to your look? The Pablo For Hair is a tucked away hair salon that’ll do the trick. Their baby pink door, surrounded by a matte dark grey frame, makes the storefront hard to miss. While the salon may be small in size, they offer a wide array of services and styles. You know you’ll be in good hands with one look at the stylists’ perfectly groomed hair.
The Pablo For Hair. 414 Zizhong Lu, near Danshui Lu. Tel: 156 1887 0476
Lululemon
Namaste, and peace be with you. Lululemon, a Canadian athletic wear designer, has made its way to Shanghai. The Xintiandi show room is a little hard to find, but well worth the search. When you walk up the stairs, a wall covered with little pieces of inspiration greets you, pushing you towards completing your personal yoga goals. Inside the second floor show room, you’ll meet well trained yogis, ready to help you find exactly what you need.
Lululemon. 2/F, 396 Zizhong Lu, near Madang Lu. Tel: 6339 1697. Web: www.lululemon.com
Yiyun Jewel
Yiyun Jewel boutique is filled with beautiful stones and gems. They’ve got traditional jade bracelets as well as more modern pieces. Hanging on a carved tree, they have beautiful wood bead bracelets dangling next to jade and gems. It’s a perfect place to pick up a little something as a souvenir for that special someone, or even for you!
Yiyun Jewel. 369 Zizhong Lu, near Madang Lu. Tel: 181 2109 3588
Jade Therapeutic Retreat
Treat yourself to a massage at Jade Massage. As soon as you walk in, the dim lights and incense provide a calming effect, especially when combined with the hot tea. You’ll feel yourself starting to relax in no time. Downstairs, enjoy a relaxing traditional Chinese foot massage. If you have the time, indulge in a full body massage in their private upstairs rooms. Have a friend coming to town? Bring them and get massages side by side!
Jade Therapeutic Retreat. 367 Zizhong Lu, near Danshui Lu. Tel: 6384 8762
Yiyun Tea Shop
If you’re looking for a traditional Chinese teahouse, then look no further than Yiyun Tea Shop. They offer a traditional tea ceremony, fit for a king, but cater to all budgets. After enjoying the ceremony, take a look at all the different teas they offer. Pick one up as a reminder of your afternoon!
Yiyun Tea Shop. 361 Zizhong Lu, near Madang Lu. Tel: 139 0183 2286
Bini Colour House
Interested in learning more about makeup? Stop by the Bini Colour House for a lesson in makeup application and hair tutorials. While they specialise in Korean makeup and hair, they can also reproduce any look you give them. Their welcoming associates also love to do wedding applications, if booked in advance of course!
Bini Colour House. 359 Zizhong Lu, near Danshui Lu. Tel: 3305 0501. Web: www.bincaiyi.com
Sissi Vintage
Hats, jewellery, scarves, glasses or anything reminiscent of the 1950s, Sissi Vintage has it! Walk through a front courtyard into the brightly lit boutique. The back wall is covered in beautiful pillbox hats fit for Jackie Kennedy. This is a perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs.
Sissi Vintage. 351 Zizhonglu, near Madang Lu
Ca Cent Bon Café
Hidden behind an outer gate, this Taiwanese café is a must visit. As you walk through the outer gate into a little courtyard and café, you’ll immediately smell their home roasted coffee. Try their specialty house blends! They also offer an excellent afternoon tea with an assortment of delicious cakes and sandwiches.
Ca Cent Bon Café. 347 Zizhong Lu, near Madang Lu. Tel: 156 0195 7339. Web: casentbon.taobao.com
