Shopping is the favorite pastime in Shanghai
and the best place to do it is Lane 248 (also
known as Two Well Lane), a tiny street in the
French Concession area where
traditional stone shikumens
are being converted into trendy boutiques, patisseries
and cafes. Since last summer,
nearly two dozen shops have opened. A sort of
Lower East Side of Shanghai, this
narrow lane at the southern end of Taikang Road
(which you get to by going through
a dark alley) has plenty of character
and personality, and new designers share
space with old bicycles,
yam carts, and hanging laundry.
Try Vervia
(Shop 46, Lane 248; 86.21.5466.7832),
a modern lifestyle design
shop with a cozy coffee lounge.
Nuzi (Shop 30, Lane 248; 86.21.5465.3245),
a boutique selling New Zealand-inspired
furniture and accessories.
And when you need a break between shops,
relax with a cup of green tea
at Meshi (Shop 37, Lane 248; 86.21.5465.2450),
a Japanese-style teahouse
that has the feel of an old Kyoto house.
