228 Neighborhood of Changbai Xincun Sub-district is a vibrant hub for both local residents and international visitors. In an effort to foster multicultural exchanges and strengthen the cooperation between the sub-district and the university, a group of 30 international students from over ten countries, including Germany, Italy, and Australia, recently visited the neighborhood. Led by Chen Yili, Director of the International Student Office of Tongji University; and Zhong Xiaohua, an associate professor at the Department of Sociology, School of Political Science & International Relations, Tongji University, the students explored Shanghai's cutting-edge practices in sustainable urban development and cultural heritage preservation. Xie Jing, Deputy Director of the Changbai Xincun Sub-district Office; and Wang Hongyu, Director of the Social Work Office, showed the visitors around the neighborhood.

Rebirth of Old Neighborhood: Where Greenery Meets Humanity

As Shanghai's only 20,000-household historical residential complex in existence, 228 Neighborhood has witnessed Yangpu's century-long industrial legacy and a repository of significant urban development memories. Now a model of urban renewal, this former industrial zone has been revitalized, seamlessly blending historical charm with contemporary living. Guided by the eloquent English narration of the "228 Neighborhood Youth Volunteer Lecture Group", the international students wandered through the neighborhood, immersing themselves in its distinctive architecture and vibrant community spirit.

228 Neighborhood has successfully retained its historical character, including the iconic red-brick factories from the 1950s, while embracing modern green building technologies and sustainable living practices. The international students toured the energy-efficient homes and community gardens, learning how Shanghai leverages urban renewal to tackle housing challenges while reducing its carbon footprint. In the demonstrative residential area, they witnessed the practical application of green building technologies. Innovative features, including solar panels, rainwater recycling systems, and vertical greenery generated intense discussions. The students listened attentively and meticulously documented the architectural details, noting that these replicable energy-efficient solutions could serve as valuable models for other developing countries.

Cultural Memory: Tracing the Urban Context through Historical Sites

Nestled within the neighborhood, the Shanghai Workers' Community Exhibition Hall brings to life the housing journey of Shanghai's working class through archival photographs, physical models, and oral history videos. Luca, an Italian architecture exchange student, marveled, "Turning old houses into museums and cafes is just creative! It keeps the history alive and makes these old buildings a part of everyday life again."

Community Governance: Youth Engagement Arouses Vitality

Then, the international students had a discussion with the sub-district social work office to explore Yangpu's innovative social governance model. Initiatives like the "Community Deliberation Hall" and the "Youth Maker Program" actively engage residents, particularly young people, in public affairs, fostering an inclusive community. This bottom-up approach, where residents co-design policies rather than just receive them, left a lasting impression on the international students. Additionally, the innovative preservation of cultural heritage sites not only honors the past but also adds a unique cultural allure to 228 Neighborhood and the entire city.

The visit offered the international students a profound insight into Shanghai's pioneering efforts in urban renewal, cultural heritage preservation, and community governance, while also highlighting China's wisdom and commitment to sustainable urban development. They said that the experience revealed a Shanghai that harmoniously blends historical legacy with innovative dynamism. It also enriched their academic research in China with compelling real-world examples.