Shanghai Shopping:  Fumin Lu

Anyone who knows me knows I’m terrible at directions. Not in a “I think I’m on the right track,” way, but a “I’m a block away and still get lost,” way. The New York subways always had the power to elude me and north, south, east, west are the names of Oz witches…..not coordinates to a destination.

So, needless to say, I am having quite the time getting around in Shanghai. The taxi drivers do not speak English so to get to any destination I must show them the location written in Chinese characters – thank-you iPad! Two weeks in and I only know one street but from what I can tell it’s a true gem. Not only does it have my favorite spa with $20 massages, it has loads of restaurants, bars and the most amazing shops! I’ll be honest; I didn’t “discover” this street. After doing a bit of research I find many people enjoy this stretch of Fumin Lu; centrally located on the edge of Jing An (mid-town Manhattan) and the beginning of the French Concession (West Village/Soho). To my credit many of the shops recently opened in the past few months so I still consider myself “in the know.”

Here are some of my favorites specifically located on Fumin, between JuLu and Changle.

Photo 3: Cha Mi Living – Adorable tea shop. Stop for tea and a small bite or simply browse their extensive collection of teas for purchase. They also have amazing modern tea sets; a perfect Chinese gift

Photo 4: Helen Lee – A local favorite and mix between American designers Tibi and Tracey Reese with prices to match

Photo 5: Madame Mao’s Dowry – From what I can tell, this is the shop that started the street buzzing and also my personal love for Fumin Lu. Featured in the Wallpaper guide, I first paid this store a visit in August. The shop deals in Mao vintage relics and one-of-a-kind clothing items. I have my eye on some things for the new apartment!

Photo 6: Dong Liang - Newest shop on the street with gorgeous designs by local designers. Prices are not cheap, but from what I can tell, well worth the money for quality and originality

The Hive – Another shop featuring local designers, more casual clothing and a bit more wallet-friendly than Dong Liang (not pictured)

Food: Dr. Beer, Dr. Wine, Pho Real and local eateries. Also a great gelato shop, Le Crème Milano, featuring American favorites as well as the more obscure Wasabi Milk or Bamboo

Photo 8: Subconscious Day Spa – Perfect way to end any day. The décor is serine, the women are not pushy and the prices are great….compared to the US anyway!