If you are sure that in the crazy rhythm of Asia it is impossible to find a calm breath of Europe, then you make a serious mistake. If you study the history of China and Shanghai in particular, then you will understand that there are many places that were deeply influenced by Europeans.

The title of the most unusual, exquisite and romantic district of Shanghai belongs to the French Quarter (or French Concession). This place is one of the most outstanding attractions of the city which tells about an important part of its colonial history and also immerse its residents and tourists into the cozy European atmosphere.

The French Quarter in Shanghai is partly located in the districts of Luwan and Xuhui. It starts from the roads of Huaihai and Julu which is kind of a border of the former concession and its main benchmark for tourists who decided to visit it.

For almost 100 years – from the middle of the 19th century to the middle of the 20th century – only French people lived there. They neighbored English in the north and Chinese in the southeast. After the October Revolution in 1917 Russians also started to inhabit the French Quarter. A fact for those who are interested in history and politics is as follows: that was the place where the first Chinese Communist Party appeared. That happened in 1921.

Today, the former French concession became a prestigious district of Shanghai. There you will find elite houses and hotels, fashion boutiques, expensive restaurants, bars and nightclubs. So, the French Quarter is good for both slow romantic walks under the shadow of sycamores and for up-all-night relaxation which is liked by young people.

Narrow streets made out of cobblestone, mansions smothered in greenery, cozy yards... It is so pleasant and unusual to take a rest in such a place without leaving the bright and noisy Shanghai! You definitely should take a walk across the park of Fuxing where locals do gymnastics in the early morning and dance outdoors in the evening. Go shopping on the street of Huaihai, visit some attractions in this district – for example, the Xu Guangqi Memorial Hall or the Xujiahui Cathedral.