French Concession

French Concession – It refers to the district governed by French during the colonial period (1849-1943). Despite rampant re-development over time, this area retains a distinct character. Many villas were once the residences of celebrities like Sun Yat-sen, Mao Zdong, Soong Ching-ling and Zhou Enlai, etc. Xintiandi and Tianzifang are also in the area. Xintiandi is a bistro-like complex with cafes, boutiques and bars there, while Tianzifang is an creativity-oriented district where you can find a lot of studios, galleries, handcraft workshops and designer's shops.  Reproducing the old residential quarters known as Shikumen or Longtang, both Xintiandi and Tianzifang are iconic attrations in the city.