Shanghai offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern comfort in its accommodations. Whether you're drawn to the nostalgic allure of historic lane houses or the sleek convenience of modern compounds, the city provides a diverse range of stays that cater to every traveler's preference.
Shikumen & Lane Houses
1.Unique Experience: Time-Travel in Style
- Architectural Charm: Red-brick facades, carved lintels, and skywell courtyards—Instagram gold.
- Local Life: Join the breakfast queue for fried dough sticks and soy milk with Shanghainese elders.
- Cultural DIY: Optional cheongsam dressing, vinyl listening, or tea ceremonies.
2.Facilities: Vintage Meets Modern
✓ Modernisation & Convenience:
-Upgrades AC, bidets, Wi-Fi 6.
- Some have projectors.
✗ limitations：
-Soundproofing: Thin walls—pack earplugs for light sleepers.
-Stairs: No elevators; opt for ≤24” suitcases.
-Plumbing: Trash bins for tissues—toilets clog easily.
3.Pro Tips
- Luggage streamlining: choose 20-24 inch suitcases and avoid the morning and evening staircase rush (8-9 AM / 6-7 PM).
- Neighbourhood etiquette: whispering after 10pm and returning the communal kitchen to its place after use.
- Book smarter: Search “Jing’an Shikumen” or “French Concession villa” on Airbnb. Priority is given to post-2020 refurbished properties.
Modern Compound Apartments
1.Local Life: Live Like a Shanghainese
- Convenience: 24/7 stores, street breakfast, and and bike-sharing at your doorstep, you can experience ‘Chinese-style neighbourhood life’.
- Smart Layout: Efficient studios or 2-bed units ideal for families.
- Security and privacy: Gated compounds with 24/7 guards.Access control system + property patrol, Max security.
2.Facilities: No-Fuss Functionality
✓ Modern Perks:
-Elevators, soundproof windows, smooth plumbing.
- Some have floor heating.
✗ Generic Style:
-Less character than heritage houses.
3.Pro Tips
- Location Tips: Xujiahui or Century Avenue for transit-access.
- Ask hosts: Confirm in-unit laundry/microwave availability(not standard in all flats).
- Bonus: Some compounds have free gyms/pools!
How to Decide?
Choose based on your travel style, needs, and tolerance for quirks!
🏮 Heritage Shikumen (Lane Houses)
Pick if:
You crave 1920s charm (photo-ready courtyards, vintage vibes).
You’re okay with stairs (no elevators) and ambient noise (early morning street life).
Staying short-term (1-3 nights).
Skip if: You need absolute quiet, heavy luggage, or long-term comfort.
🏢 Modern Apartments
Pick if:
You prioritize elevators, quiet nights , and kid-friendly amenities (laundry, kitchens).
Staying long-term (1+ weeks) or working remotely.
Prefer suburban convenience (near metro/business hubs).
Skip if: You want historic aesthetics.
Quick Tips
For photographers/solo travelers : Shikumen > Apartments (unique backdrops + local interactions).
For families/business : Apartments > Shikumen (space + reliability).
Budget hack : Split your stay! 2 nights in Shikumen + rest in an apartment.
🔍 Book smart:
Shikumen keywords: “French Concession,” “heritage renovation.”
Apartment keywords: “Xujiahui,” “modern compound.”
Whether you choose heritage charm or modern ease, Shanghai’s stays let you live its dual soul—elegant past and efficient present. Hills offers a diverse range of properties to choose from. Save this guide and start your Shanghai experiment!