An old villa in the plane tree district that keeps me reading and writing

Midsummer has arrived, and the hours spent reading and writing each day are the most delightful moments. · A hundred years ago, George Bernard Shaw and Lu Xun met on Wukang Road. Shaw said, "Walking along Wukang Road, those who can't write poetry feel inspired to write, those who can't paint want to paint, and those who can't sing long to sing—it feels absolutely wonderful." · During my week-long retreat in this 1918 villa, I rarely ventured far. Only in the cool mornings and evenings did I stroll along nearby Wukang Road, Huaihai Road, and Anfu Road. The plane tree district is filled with artful exhibitions and boutique shops, charming cafés and bars—all just a 10-minute walk away. When the heat got too much, I’d retreat to my room to catch my breath before losing myself again in timeless reading and writing. Downstairs is the Wukang Garden restaurant, where enjoying a brunch blending Eastern and Western flavors is pure indulgence. · Passing through the red-brick arched corridor, the room’s velvet sofa, vintage pull-cord desk lamp, and brass faucet each frame feels like a scene from a literary film. I especially love the lattice door between the room and the terrace—closing it seems to shut out all noise, while opening it lets in the lively hum of Wukang Road, the humid summer heat of Shanghai, and the faint chirping of cicadas. · Rather than staying in towering skyscrapers, I’d much prefer a staycation hidden in the bustling charm of Wukang Road, dreaming a dream from 1918. Seclusion in Splendor · Wukang Road Mansion Lane 100, Wukang Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai