Don't let the gleam of Shanghai's skyscrapers fool you; the city is just as proud of its history as it is of its modernity. For many a local and expat alike Shanghai's beauty lies in its quiet roads, its hidden historic buildings and its natural beauty, all of which are ideal for walking tours. The Global Times went in search of five of the city's best walking tours, some of which are downtown and some of which are harder to get to.
Tian'ai Road - a road for lovers
As its name states, Tian'ai (which means sweet love in Putonghua) Road is especially tailored for lovers. Framed by high walls and flourishing fir trees on both sides, Tian'ai Road provides a quiet and mysterious environment for lovers to stroll.
Located near Sichuan Road North, Tian'ai Road is easily overlooked. It is a one-way street, no longer than 750 meters and is completely undisturbed by noise, except for the occasional passing bus. Couples can stroll down the quiet lane and read quotes from various romantic poets. All in all there are 28 romantic quotes on the wall that lines Tian'ai Road. The road also has Shanghai's only "love mailbox." Every letter dropped into the mailbox receives a special love postmark.
There is a romantic legend behind Tian'ai Road. According to the legend, once a beautiful and intelligent woman named Tian Ai lived on the road. She was the daughter of a wealthy landlord, but fell in love with a cowboy named Xiang De who worked for her father. Through much struggle the young lovers ended up living happily ever after. In honor of their story, the two adjacent roads "Tian'ai" and "Xiangde" were named after them.
"I've walked through this road hundreds of times since I started dating my husband," said 49-year-old Huang Yafeng, a resident who lives in the neighborhood.
"In our generation, there was not much entertainment for young lovers. A pleasant walk was probably what lovers did every day."
Where to stop?
Tian'ai coffee shop
Located on the intersection of Tian'ai Road and Tian'aizhi Road, it is one of the few stops on the road.
