Taikang Lu is a crowded, bustling street that melds together little neighborhood grocery stores and art galleries in a fascinating fashion. To discover one of Shanghai's art gems requires a knowing walk down what looks to the uninitiated like just another residential lane.

Thanks to Mason Wu, an ex-restaurateur, who initiated the project in 1998 and gathered various creative people around the area, Taikang Lu # 210/220 is now a vital part of the Shanghai scene with its numerous small arty boutiques, design studios and cafes. All the venues lure you in with their unique store design, creative gift ideas and willingness to promote the unexpected. .

Here City Weekend introduces a few of the venues, we hope to inspire you to take a trip to the still largely unexplored Taikang Lu and discover the little known arty side of Shanghai.

Shanghai Harvest Studio
This studio features the art of Miao embroidery, one of the finest embroidery techniques in China. Not only does the store offer beautifully embroidered jackets (Y900) and skirts; bags, notebooks and even Miao-style mobile phone cases are also available starting from Y48. The real authentic feel to the place comes from the Miao-minority people sitting in the store, quietly occupied with their embroidery. For people interested in learning more about this sensitive ethnic craft and its technique, classes are offered.
T: 6473-4566

Jooi Design
The combination of pure European chic with Asian fabrics and designs is leading Jooi Design down the road to success with its fashion accessories and lifestyle objects. Many international publications have alluded to Jooi's playful bags (Y500), elegant pillows, vases and many other items. A little room out back lures bargain hunters with sample sales.
T: 6473-6193

Wuyi Chinese Kung Fu Centre
Hidden at the back of Building No. 3, the Centre specializes in the art of Wuyi Kung Fu and Tai Chi. Special lessons in the Southern Fist boxing style as well as occasionally offered workshops on other martial arts attract children and adults alike.
T: 137-0168-5893 (Instructor Zhang)

Sunlight
This store is completely dedicated to scarves and shawls. With an enormous choice of cashmere shawls (Y50-500); silk, chiffon, cotton, organza scarves; batik prints and Chinese motives, this shop should have a suitable cover-up for everyone.
T: 6445-7516

Kommune
With small tables arranged in a small, private courtyard, Kommune invites those exploring the area to take a break and sip a double latte (Y30) or enjoy a summertime cocktail hour and nibble on some freshly prepared bruscetta while watching other customers walk on by.
T: 6473-8092

InSh
Next to its accessories, music and unique collections by up and coming Shanghai designers, various t-shirts proclaiming love for Shanghai (Y118) are the trademark of this store and an innovative gift for either friends or even yourself.
T: 6473-1921

Jo Ma Arts
For all those who have neither the time nor money for that trip to South Asia, Jo Ma Arts offers everything to create that Indian, Tibetan and Nepali inspired lifestyle. Colorful scarves, exclusive Saris, pillowcases, jewelry and captivating music give the impression of having been transported to a mystical land.
T: 5465-2113

What's up?
Selling Levi's jeans, hash pipes and second hand clothing this little store diverges from the pack and offers some fresh and funky street fashion styles.

Hands in Clay
Located in a rose-red building, you can find the first pottery shop in China opened by a foreigner. The American owner does not only sell clay sculptures, he also offers well-received classes for all future potters or everyone interested in the art of clay.
T: 5465-4042