Neighborhood Walk: The French Concession

A tour of this neighborhood allows you to combine some historic Communist landmarks with some of the city’s best shopping. The Chinese allowed the French this area until 1949, when foreign governments were expelled; it’s also the site of grand villas from colonial days. Start with a visit to Mao Zedong’s former residence (374 Huangpi South Rd./76–78 Xingye Rd.; 86-21-5383-2171) and the house where the Communist Party was founded, and then explore contemporary Chinese capitalism by touring Xintiandi’s shops and restaurants.