Relive Shanghai’s History Through 5 Iconic Heritage Buildings, Including Sinan Mansions and Blackstone Apartments
Shanghai’s Concession Legacy: A Unique Historical Blend
Shanghai was one of the first cities in China to have foreign concessions. Its century of ups and downs reflects the country’s modern history. Unlike other cities, however, the concessions here brought more than just memories of invasion—they also introduced diverse cultures and open ideas that shaped the city’s character.
A Window into Haipai Culture
Today, the French Concession is known for its shady plane trees and European-style villas. These charming old buildings have become a signature of Shanghai. More than just relics of the past, they represent the city’s unique Haipai culture—a mix of Chinese and Western influences, tradition and modern living. In this guide, we’ll explore five iconic heritage buildings that tell the story of old Shanghai.
Tip: If you 're photographing private residences, it’s best to ask for permission first.
Sinan Mansions: A Favorite Retreat for Shanghai’s Elite
Before we dive into Sinan Mansions, let’s start with the road they’re on—Sinan Road. Located in the former French Concession, this road was built in 1912 without a name. Two years later, it was named “Rue Massenet” by the French authorities to honor the famous French composer Jules Massenet, who passed away in 1912. By the 1920s, elegant Western-style villas had sprung up on both sides of the street. These would later become known as Sinan Mansions.
Sinan Mansions features over 20 historic homes in a mix of architectural styles—detached garden villas, row houses, buildings with outdoor corridors, and both traditional and modern lane-style residences. Despite their variety, all the buildings share a common look: pebble-covered exterior walls paired with warm red brick roofs and window frames, giving them a refined and textured appearance. Thanks to the area’s prime location and charm, many cultural and political figures once lived here, including Peking opera master Mei Lanfang, general Zhang Xueliang, premier Zhou Enlai, and literary couple Xu Zhimo and Lu Xiaoman. In addition to the architecture itself, the former residences of these famous names are well worth a visit.
Literary Vibes: From Historic Villa to Bookstore
Just steps away from Sinan Mansions, you’ll find even more charming old houses. One highlight is the villa at 517 Fuxing Middle Road, once home to patriotic poet Liu Yazi. In 2018, this three-story house with an attic was transformed into a bookstore and officially opened to the public on World Book Day. It’s now known as Sinan Books. After touring the Mansions, consider stopping by this cozy literary spot for a rest and a glimpse into the cultural life of the French Concession.
Address: No. 23 Fuxing Middle Road, Huangpu District
Blackstone Apartments: A Century-Old Luxury Residence
If there’s an apartment in Shanghai that rivals the famous Wukang Mansion, it’s Blackstone Apartments. In 1924, American missionary James Harry Blackstone set out to build the most luxurious apartment in China. The result was Blackstone Apartments, located right at the heart of the French Concession.
Even before its completion, the building’s luxury features attracted widespread media attention. The apartment offered 20 large suites, 3 medium suites, and 8 small suites. Every bedroom had both hot and cold running water. The kitchens came equipped with refrigerators, gas stoves, and washing machines. The building also featured a heated swimming pool, tennis courts, and a ballroom. From the rooftop garden, residents could enjoy panoramic views over much of the French Concession.
Today, even after a century, Blackstone Apartments still houses many residents. To ensure their privacy and safety, the building is not open for public tours. However, Xingfu Jihui Bookstore , located on the ground floor, preserves much of the original layout. Its arched corridors and exquisite mosaic tiles are part of the apartment’s historic charm. Visitors interested in Blackstone’s interior can explore the bookstore to get a glimpse of its past.
Address: No. 1331 Fuxing Middle Road, Xuhui District
Moller Villa: A Fairytale Castle from a Dream
At the end of the high-rise-lined South Shaanxi Road stands a castle that looks like it came straight out of a fairytale. This is Moller Villa, a building full of Nordic charm. The villa’s whimsical design actually came from a dream. In 1926, a British girl living in Shanghai dreamed of a castle inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s tales. Her father, Eric Moller, a wealthy British businessman, decided to make that dream come true. In 1936, the villa was completed, featuring a mix of Nordic-style roofs and traditional Chinese glazed tiles.
Unfortunately, shortly after it was built, the Japanese invaded the concession. The Moller family was sent to a concentration camp, and the villa was turned into a club for Japanese troops.
Today, this stunning villa has been converted into the Hengshan Moller Villa Hotel. Inside, you’ll find a grand three-tiered wooden staircase, ornate carvings on the pointed roof, and huge crystal chandeliers—like a magnificent palace. The hotel walls still display many photos of the original owner, Eric Moller, and his staff. If you have the budget, the hotel’s authentic English afternoon tea is well worth trying.
Address: No. 30 South Shaanxi Road, Jing’an District
Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts: The French Romantic “Little White House” of the Magic City
Built in 1905, this historic building is over a century old. It was originally the residence of a director of the French Concession’s Municipal Council. This three-story symmetrical garden villa showcases a strong French Neo-Renaissance style. It has two full floors above ground and a semi-basement below. Visitors can climb the staircases that embrace both sides of the villa to reach the viewing terrace, which offers a broad view of the lawn and garden in front. The villa is affectionately known as the "Little White House" of Shanghai, or the Magic City.
The interior decoration is exquisite as well. Highlights include a spiral staircase connecting the three floors, pink relief sculptures on the dome, and arched verandas on the second floor—details that perfectly complement the overall design.
A Place Rich in History and Traditional Crafts
In the early years after liberation, Chen Yi, then mayor of Shanghai, once lived here. Later, the Shanghai Arts and Crafts Research Institute moved into the building. In 2002, the villa was converted into a museum open to the public.
This museum gathers many traditional Shanghai craft masters. Visitors can watch artisans create handcrafted items such as lanterns, Gu embroidery, and dough figurines, offering a deeper understanding of Shanghai’s intangible cultural heritage.
Address: No. 79 Fenyang Road, Xuhui District
Opening Hours: 9:00–11:00, 13:00–16:00
Admission: 8 RMB
1933 Old Millfun: From Slaughterhouse to Creative Park
Unlike the previous French Concession buildings, this old structure in the former British Concession has a distinct style. It used to be the Shanghai Municipal Slaughterhouse. Covering over 30,000 square meters with five floors, it was designed by renowned British architect Balfour and was once the largest and most modern slaughterhouse in East Asia. The building blends Eastern and Western elements—its square exterior with a rounded interior reflects traditional Chinese Feng Shui principles, while the overall style is inspired by ancient Roman architecture. Numerous umbrella-shaped columns and intersecting corridors form pedestrian staircases and cattle walkways called “cattle paths.”
A Stunning Venue for Creativity and Culture
Today, this grand and beautiful slaughterhouse has transformed into a creative park. Many unique shops and restaurants now call it home. Made primarily of concrete, the building’s dark gray walls are both sturdy and textured, making it a favored venue for fashion shows, theater performances, and other cultural events. It has also served as a filming location for popular films and shows like Tiny Times and Keep Running.
Address: No. 611 Liyang Road, Hongkou District
Shanghai’s Old Villas: A Treasure Trove of History
Shanghai is truly home to countless famous old villas worth exploring. Besides the five classic buildings mentioned earlier, places like Clement Apartments on Fuxing Middle Road, Verdun Garden on Shaanxi South Road, and Zhenliu Apartments on Huashan Road are also well worth a visit. Most of these villas remain private residences, so when you visit, please be respectful by keeping quiet and asking for permission before taking photos whenever possible.