Recorded September 5, 2009. Here is a road that needs no introduction. The main street of Shanghai has gone tremendous change over the past century and what you see now is just the beginning of it. Connecting Wai Tan (The Bund) to People’s park and beyond, Nanjing Lu is a tourist trap of high-end and local shops mixed in with eateries and hotels. Underneath the neon lights and ornate facades, the stories are endless. Some may not be as pleasant as others but all contribute to the character of the city. Bobby has lived in this area since he was born and he still lives in the area today. his stories are filled with local knowledge that every Shanghai knows as well as some obscure stories only told by our elders.

Growing up in such a prestigious area gives this walk a point of view that is different from other walks. It has an air of wealth but still has its roots in the local tradition that a true Shanghainese would appreciate. The ‘Shou Yi’ death clothes from Lao Jie Fu, Traditional chinese medicine at Cai Tong De, the May 30 Massacre memorial at the Tai Kang Food Store, the foreign movies at Heping Cinema, and the seemingly unattainable lifestyle that the Park Hotel once symbolized to the old locals.

Although not all statements may not be based on recorded fact, it is a great example of how stories are passed from generation to generation by word of mouth. It is through the memories of its people keep the City alive and close to their hearts.

Bobby sums it up beautifully in his concluding statement:

“If you want to truly feel why this city is beautiful, feel the commercial atmosphere, and to truly enjoy everything you taste, you really have to put your heart into feeling it. To truly feel it you need to use your own senses and you need to see everything for yourself - but most importantly you need to experience it.”

All photos by Weina Li

For more information about the 'Growing Up With Shanghai' project, photos, and translations please visit our website.

http://www.growingupwithshanghai.com/guws/Nan_Jing_Lu.html