Xizhi B&B & Private Garden

Some stays are just places to sleep. This one is an experience. The compound itself is a historic protected building, and the walk to the door feels like wandering through a garden—trees, quiet, a sense of time slowing down. Inside, the homestay wears its history proudly: century-old steel windows and original flooring, both protected heritage features, and antique light fixtures that cast a warm, aged glow. Yet nothing feels frozen in time—modern mid-century furniture has been woven in so naturally that the old and new seem to belong to each other. The air conditioning was remarkably effective, a small mercy in Shanghai's heat, and the bedding was genuinely comfortable—the kind you sink into. Outside, the location achieves something rare: quiet, yet central. Step through the door and you're on a plane-tree-lined avenue, with coffee shops and photo-worthy corners all within walking distance. And the host—warm, gentle, and easy to communicate with—made the whole stay feel effortless. We left happy.

Больше всего мне понравилось расположение. До метро всего пара минут, но особую ценность этому месту придаёт сама дорога от станции до апартаментов. За эти несколько коротких минут ты проходишь через настоящий шанхайский квартал — местные жители беседуют у порогов, маленькие семейные магазинчики, бельё, развешанное за окнами. Это та самая аутентичная атмосфера, которой просто не найдёшь в районах, переполненных туристами. Несмотря на такое удобное расположение, здесь на удивление тихо, и я чувствовал себя в полной безопасности даже возвращаясь поздно ночью. Это дало мне настоящее ощущение повседневной жизни Шанхая — именно то, что я искал.

There are two things I always look for in a stay:character and convenience—and this place delivers on both. The location is right in the beating heart of the city, just minutes from the metro, which made every outing effortless. Right outside the door, the street is full of life—lined with an eclectic mix of charming little shops, inviting restaurants, and cosy coffee spots, each with its own character. I arrived ahead of schedule and happened to see the housekeeper at work—she was methodical and thorough, leaving every surface spotless. As for the house itself, it's a beautifully styled space that balances aesthetics with practicality; the layout is clever and every square metre is put to good use. Settling in was immediate and comfortable.

The building itself carries so much history — a classic French Concession mansion with original character. But inside, it's beautifully renovated with vintage furniture and thoughtful touches. The courtyard is a peaceful escape from the city buzz, and the bathtub was a lovely way to end the day. Despite being so central, the room was completely silent at night. The host also checked in on us to make sure everything was fine — genuine hospitality. Highly recommended for travelers who appreciate design, history, and comfort.