The history of this French quarter in Shanghai can be
traced back to 1849. It was the earliest, and gradually
developed into the largest and most prospersous,
French concession in China. In the 1920s, it was the
best and richest residential area in Shanghai. In 1943,
the Chinese government took it over and after nearly
100 years ended its history as a French concession.
Exquisite houses and tall plane trees edge both sides
of the road. In addition to the common road features
in the Former French Concession, Sinan Road has
more than 20 various old Shanghai style garden
houses which makes it a unique attraction. Besides,
Sinan Road does not have buses nor neon signboards.
The street lights are old-fashioned. All of these make
Sinan Road one of the best and most beautiful old
streets in Shanghai.