After some organic renovation, “The Inlet” block which consists of eight old lanes in the city’s Hongkou District is now open to the public.

The block near the North Sichuan Road Subway Station features both Shanghai’s typical “Shikumen” architecture and modern elements. While preserving the traditional elements, it aims to create an immersive cultural and artistic experience zone. By integrating various formats such as cultural experience, theater performances, avant-garde costumes, food and drink, and night entertainment, “The Inlet” aims to become a trendy new landmark.

To some extent, urban renewal represents emotional connection.

North Sichuan Road lives in many Shanghai people’s memories. Wang Peiyu, a Peking Opera artist known for her role of “Lao Sheng”, said her mother used to work there. Gao Bowen, an actor of the Shanghai Pingtan Troupe, said he lived there when he was a child. They all want to make the place popular again and are willing to make a contribution to the revival of the block. Wang will set up a Peking Opera training base in “The Inlet” and Gao will deliver a performance combining pingtan and Bel Canto.

(Photos: Youth Daily, Shanghai Observer, Wenhui Daily)