The commercial districts in downtown Shanghai have long been synonymous with fashion and trends. These areas not only bring together a wide range of renowned domestic and international fashion brands, but also feature ever-evolving pop-up stores launched by trendy labels, as well as giant installations themed around popular IPs, perfect for photo opportunities.

Lately, these commercial districts resemble a massive showroom, with constant updates and new, eye-catching experiences for visitors. Towering stacks of shoeboxes as tall as buildings; rows of Doraemon figures lined up across the road; and the popular Butterbear set to debut in the city. Even Aranya, the art landmark that made waves in Qinhuangdao, is gearing up to make its mark on the North Bund.

The old buildings within these commercial districts aren't museum pieces – they've been dressed in fashionable new styles, evolving alongside the city. Let's check out some of the most iconic commercial districts in downtown Shanghai, and some thrilling new trendy landmarks.

Yongyuan Road Commercial District 永源路商业街区

Yongyuan Road Commercial District in Jing'an District is a city park-style commercial area that combines green spaces, office buildings, and trendy shopping. The street is known for its "Shell-Toe" themed street, which attracts many international fashion brands to host pop-up events. For example, Adidas created a "Shell-Toe Building" at the site, featuringgiant, classic blue shoeboxes.

The area also offers sports experiences like skateboarding, street dance, and basketball, along with art installations to create a youthful and trendy vibe.

There are plans to bring in the first stores and concept shops of cutting-edge fashion brands such as SMFK, Baxter, and Onitsuka Tiger. The area has also brought diverse shopping delights to residents and visitors by hosting various limited-time pedestrian street events, including pop-up stores with comic themes, carnival markets, and amusements. Yongyuan Road Commercial District has become one of Shanghai's newest hotspots for fashion, culture, and lifestyle.

Location: The intersection of Yongyuan Rd and Nanjing Rd W. 永源路与南京西路交叉口‌‌

Lee Gardens Shanghai 上海利园

Ti Gong

A semi-open block-style layout, modern shikumen-inspired design, and a variety of dining and social experiences – Jing'an District's central business area welcomes a brand-new urban complex: Lee Gardens Shanghai.

The destination not only boasts rich history but also pulses with modern commercial vitality. It feels like a journey through time, making you fall in love at first sight.

The design of Lee Gardens is full of creativity. Embracing a semi-open block style, it features outdoor seating and lush greenery, creating a seamless blend between indoor and outdoor spaces. The ambiance is immersive and thoughtfully crafted. Design details incorporate classic elements of old Shanghai – shikumen architecture, alleyways, and red brick facades – striking a perfect balance between vintage charm and contemporary flair.

The commercial space is equally impressive, with three floors above ground and two below, offering a wide range of experiences. From curated dining and leisure entertainment to fitness and art exhibitions, everything is thoughtfully included. Recently, they've launched a "Free Thursdays" campaign, with themed gatherings featuring food, music, and interactive games to help you unwind.

More than just a spot for shopping and leisure, Lee Gardens has become a "third space" for urban professionals – an ideal place to relax and enjoy life outside of work.

Location: 668 Xinzha Rd 新闸路668号

Keppel PAC 吉宝PAC购物中心

In the heart of Jing'an District, one of Shanghai's most coveted central locations, there's a vibrant hidden gem – Keppel PAC. Packed with fun, food, and trendy shops, it's quickly becoming the new favorite.

Keppel PAC's architecture is striking and unique, designed with a "box + block" layout. Its red-brick façade blends retro charm with modern style, paying tribute to Shanghai's rich historical and cultural heritage. As you stroll through the space, you'll find green walkways, multi-level sky corridors, and creative open areas that make it feel like a lively urban park.

The center also hosts tons of fun events. One standout was the "Nordic Journey" Free Market, featuring over 20 Nordic-style stalls – with coffee, bread, and even an aurora-inspired light show that whisked you away to a Nordic fairytale world. Plus, there were frequent music performances, street dance shows, and theatrical acts that kept the atmosphere buzzing with joy.

The offerings at Keppel PAC are diverse and exciting, covering everything from dining and fitness to lifestyle aesthetics. It's home to a range of first stores and concept shops, making it a go-to spot whether you're looking for a delicious meal or a relaxing escape. Locals and tourists alike will definitely find something to love here.

Location: 688 Changde Rd 常德路688号

Shanghai A.F.A 上海A.F.A

Shanghai A.F.A is a dazzling new landmark in the heart of the metropolis. Once home to Shanghai's No. 10 Steel Plant, a site where many of China's "firsts" were born, it later transformed into a cultural and artistic hotspot. Today, A.F.A carries that legacy forward, blending industrial heritage with vibrant new artistic and commercial energy – a true model of old-meets-new.

At the heart of A.F.A is the ROJO Art & Culture Space, which was originally a factory workshop at the steel plant. It has been reimagined as a cultural hub that hosts art exhibitions, trendsetting events, and stylish performances. The space features a central garden, a multifunctional hall, and an art center – perfect for a wide range of cutting-edge, creative happenings.

Next to it is the A.F.A Shopping Center, which spans approximately 50,000 square meters and offers a rich mix of lifestyle concepts – from mountain-inspired living and extreme outdoor gear to art bookstores and gourmet dining. The office buildings here are also built to international Grade A standards, with a greenery rate of 22 percent, making it feel like you're working in a garden.

And perhaps the biggest surprise? A.F.A also features a large, multifunctional outdoor green space that will host themed events in the future, bringing together nature and art in the heart of the city.

Location: 570 Huaihai Rd W. 淮海西路570号

Shanghai Aranya 上海阿那亚

Aranya has landed in Shanghai. This highly anticipated cultural tourism brand is joining forces with H!TIME North Bund to create a hidden gem for "urban micro-vacations" in the city's North Bund area in Hongkou District.

Originally founded in the Beidaihe District of Qinhuangdao, Aranya has evolved from a seaside community into a pioneering lifestyle brand with a global and future-forward vision. Now, it's bringing its signature style to Shanghai to build a high-quality community-centered commercial zone infused with the concept of "everyday art."

The project is packed with highlights, including an art space designed by renowned artists with a exquisitely designed façade, which will host avant-garde exhibitions, film screenings, and more. There will also be a one-way space bookstore, an art museum, and two boutique hotels. One of the hotels will transform the historic Hongkou Grand Hotel, originally built in 1927, into a "Writer's Study"-themed destination.

Aranya's arrival in Shanghai continues its tradition of blending quality commerce with culture and the arts to create a high-caliber platform for everyday life. The project aims to offer city dwellers a sense of escape and beauty into the heart of busy urban life.

Location: North Bund in Hongkou District 虹口北外滩