Night markets, Norwegian photography on display in Panlong Tiandi

Panlong Tiandi, a revitalized old town in Shanghai's suburban Qingpu District, has become an unexpected breakout star of this summer, drawing both residents and tourists with a blend of historic charm and modern nightlife.

Two newly renovated night markets now anchor the area's night economy. Visitors can wander its lantern-lit lanes to relive classic childhood games such as pineapple bowling, goldfish catching and ring toss.

Of them, the nearly 3,000-square-meter Starry Night Market adds a sense of spectacle with open-air film screenings every Saturday, alongside activities like night tennis, community gatherings and summer surfing pop-ups.

A recently opened 300-square-meter water park, painted in vivid, playful colors, adds to the town's appeal for families.

Culture plays a central role in Panlong's revival. The Yuz Museum is currently presenting "Songs for the Sun," the first solo exhibition in China by Norwegian photographer Torbjørn Rødland.

Featuring 20 works created between 2005 and 2023, the show highlights his distinctive use of film cameras and darkroom development in an age dominated by digital photography. Rødland's images transform everyday scenes into what he calls "existential poems," reflecting the emotional climate of contemporary life.

The exhibition runs through October 12.

The transformation of Panlong is regarded as a model of Xujing Town's urban renewal.

Panlong Ancient Town took shape at the end of the Song Dynasty (960-1279), and the stone slabs of Xianghua Bridge still bear the ruts of ancient carriages, according to William Boyd from the United States, who has lived in Xujing for over 20 years.

"The most precious thing about Panlong is that everyone can find their own place. The elderly sit by the bridges to bask in the sun and chat, young people check in at flagship stores and drink coffee, and children play freely. I have also brought many friends from the UK, France and Germany here, and they are all impressed by this 'modern ancient town' full of vitality," he said.