Exhibition Traces 30 Years of Change in Hongkou

Old photographs and everyday objects offer visitors a glimpse into the neighborhood that stood before today's Ruihong Xintiandi.

An exhibition, "Xinsheng," meaning "new life," at The Hall of the Sun in Shanghai's Hongkou District traces three decades of change in the former Hongzhenlaojie area.

Running through January 3, 2027, the exhibition features images and objects preserved by the Hongkou District Archives and Jiaxing Road Subdistrict, personal memories shared by residents, and documentary photographs.

Three decade-long sections follow the area's transformation. Archive and resident contributions provide different perspectives on the same neighborhood, linking building and street changes to residents' lives.

The story begins in 1996, when redevelopment started in Hongzhenlaojie, then one of central Shanghai's largest concentrations of makeshift and dilapidated housing.

The work progressed in stages over the following decades, reshaping the area into a neighborhood of homes, shops and offices.

The exhibition, which also features interviews, is the centerpiece of Ruihong Xintiandi's anniversary program.

Other celebrations include the first Art for Us community arts festival.

Its lineup features the YOUR CHANCE singing competition and neighborhood performances, with opportunities for residents to take the stage.

Visitors can also join workshops to help create art installations. A New Year's Eve gathering is also planned, with the anniversary program continuing through January 3.

If you go

Date: Through January 3, 2027

Venue: The Hall of the Sun, Ruihong Xintiandi

Address: 181 Ruihong Road, Hongkou District

Getting there: Metro Line 4 to Linping Road Station

Admission: Free