Shikumen (shanghai row houses) opposite our apartment
In the late 18 and early 1900's 80% of Shanghai's population lived in Shikumen.
They combined European and Asian design elements. Large stone gates provided access to narrow lanes called Longtangs and the entrances to the residences. There is a Longtang entry in the photo above just to the right of the green and orange sign.
Small businesses, like this motorcycle repair shop, are located on the street level below the residences.
This may not seem clean to a western eye but it is well swept, orderly and the residents take pride in their living areas.
The chalkboards above the bike parking in this Longtang advocate respect for others, cleanliness and civic pride.
Today, most of the Shikumen have been replaced by apartment buildings. Some of the remaining buildings have been gentrified and become high end shopping districts. Others, like the noodle shops above, are eking out their last hours.
It's ironic that the clients above are mostly construction workers who are tearing down the adjacent Shikumen.
