Narrow streets and alleys, traditional Chinese stores, restaurants selling delicious dumplings, this is the original pre war Shanghai.  It is also called Chinatown or Nanshi.  During the pre World War II times of the International Settlements, and the French Concession when Shanghai was inhabited and dominated by many foreign businesses and companies this is where most Chinese lived who were not employed as live in help by wealthy foreigners.  Chinese law was observed in this area of Shanghai.

Prior to 1911 Shanghai, Old Town, was a walled city made up mainly of fishermen, but the walls of the city were torn down to allow freerer movement and easier trade.  The center then, as now, was the Yu Garden and the Huxingting Tea House.  Both are not to be missed.

In recent years redevelopment has seen the construction of newer buildings in the Chinese style which house many stores and restaurants, but a small part of Old Shanghai still exists-don't miss it.  Go exploring, every lane inside leads back to the the tea house or the Yu Garden area.

The Old City is located to the west of the Bund and Huangpu River and south of Nanjing Road. Don't miss it.