Rise and Shine: Jennie's Life, Fitness and Favorite Corners on Huashan Road

Jennie Chang is a health and fitness instructor and the founder of RISE Shanghai, her boutique strength and conditioning studio, dedicated to no-nonsense, structured and intelligent training. Originally from Kolkata, India, Jennie moved to Shanghai in 2012.

Q: Can you introduce the neighborhood you live in?

I live on Huashan Road in Jing'an District near the border with Changning. This picturesque street is instantly recognizable by its distinctive blue street lamps. I live on a tree-lined stretch that is quiet despite being a street away from some of the trendiest hotspots in Shanghai.

Q: What's the best thing about living in this neighborhood?

It's got just the right rhythm – enough buzz to feel alive but still pockets of quiet where you can disappear with a coffee or take a walk away from the Shanghai hustle. For me, that balance is everything in a big city. Plus, everything that I need for my daily life is within walking or biking distance!

Q: What attractions here should not be missed?

Around Huashan Road, the China Welfare Institute Children's Art Theater (643 Huashan Rd 华山路643号), a 104-year-old heritage site with open-air art walls and greenery, is a nice quick stop. It's at the heart of one of those classic Shanghai weekend strolls that weaves in with Wukang Road's historic architecture and Anfu Road's hip cafes. The combination of wide, tree-lined, picturesque sidewalks and fewer pedestrians also makes this street a great detour to include in your running route. The whole stretch feels like the city at its most lived-in.

Q: What's your favorite cafe near your home?

If there is one thing my neighborhood doesn't lack, it's coffee shops. Every street corner near me seems to be dotted with two to three cafes, each with its own personality. However, my shout-out goes out to ASAP Coffee (86-3 Zhaohua Rd E. 昭化东路86-3号), which is a tiny spot with excellent brews and a wonderfully calm vibe. While weekends get really busy, weekday mornings are perfect for enjoying some quiet time with your coffee.

Q: Where should someone eat around here?

Start your morning with freshly-baked bread and viennoiserie at MBD bakery (785-3 Huashan Rd 华山路785-3号). For authentic local flavors, my go-to is 1门食肆 (73 Zhaohua Rd E. 昭化东路73号) – their homemade dumplings give you that comforting "eating at your auntie's" feeling. Papito Pancakes (1035 Changle Rd 长乐路1035号) serves delicious Serbian-style crepes that'll keep you full all afternoon.

And finally, Overdose (785-2 Huashan Rd 华山路785-2号) is probably my top pick for dinner. It's a super casual yakitori spot with incredible value and even better flavors. And if I am in the mood for a proper dining experience, I'll head down to Efes (620 Huashan Rd 华山路620号). The steady crowd of Turkish regulars speaks volumes about its authenticity.

Q: Where do you shop in your neighborhood?

All my fresh produce needs are fulfilled by the legendary Avocado Lady (274 Wulumuqi Rd M. 乌鲁木齐中路274号). Her tiny 10-square-meter shop stocks an incredible variety of items, and you can bring your own bags to buy exactly what you need; this helps reduce food and packaging waste while also supporting local businesses.

The only other reason I probably shop is usually to pick up a gift item, and my go-tos are both on Anfu Road: OKRA Jewelry (Rm 101, 211 Anfu Rd 安福路211号101室) for handmade, beautifully crafted jewelry, and SEN Lab (253 Anfu Rd 安福路253号) for their diverse selection of scented candles. Both are perfect for finding something special without the mall crowds.

Q: Is there a local spot you would recommend for a night out or just for drinks after work?

I don't usually drink, but if I do, it's social, and when the weather's warm, Anfu Road's vibrant outdoor scene is a classic. The entire street comes alive with sidewalk seating – perfect for people-watching with a drink in hand – though you'll want to come early to beat the crowds and grab a good spot.