Promote Chinese culture, tell stories of development, and witness the remarkable evolution of Neighborhood 228. Friends from afar, including Panama and Uruguay, recently journeyed to Neighborhood 228 to witness its remarkable transformation. They delved into Yangpu's urban renewal and community governance, uncovering the secrets behind this inspiring change.

Here, the historical layers of the workers' community come alive

As the foreign friends entered the Shanghai Workers' Community Exhibition Hall, they were transported back over 70 years. The old photos and objects, rich with history, quickly sparked a universal feeling of community connection, transcending language barriers. The visitors paused often, using their cameras to preserve these cherished historical imprints. Neighborhood 228 has tackled the urban renewal challenge of balancing demolition and preservation with a solution that harmonizes history and modernity, reflecting distinctive "Chinese wisdom". The Uruguayan friends, in particular, posed for photos in front of the retro-style old photo studio backdrop, immortalizing this timeless beauty.

Here, the unique charm of traditional culture unfolds

In Neighborhood 228, where the past and present weave together, the foreign visitors had a delightful, unexpected encounter with traditional Chinese culture. Just before the Dragon Boat Festival, the friends from Panama came across a community sachet making class given by craftsmen from Rongqingtang, a time-honored TCM enterprise in Shanghai. The vibrant threads dance and the nimble fingers work their magic, as sachets embodying wishes for health and well-being come to life, revealing the captivating allure of this intangible cultural heritage craft. Meanwhile, the Uruguayan friends joined the community qigong group with relish. To the tune of soothing music, they diligently learned the traditional Chinese wellness practice "Baduanjin", immersing themselves in the wisdom of Eastern health culture.

Here, the secrets of the happiness of a people's city are discovered

Walking through Neighborhood 228, where red walls and colorful flowers meet, the foreign visitors felt the ease and comfort of a "15-minute community life circle".

Easy-to-reach activity areas, affordable eateries, grocery stores, and supermarkets, neighborhood kitchens for seniors, and vibrant central lawns...These thoughtful amenities speak volumes about the heart and warmth of a people's city. How can residents more fully embrace public services? It is a concern close to the hearts of the Panamanian friends. Upon hearing that Neighborhood 228 gathered over 1,500 resident input forms during its early planning, enabling deep resident involvement and pooling diverse insights, they raised their thumbs in approval, applauding this truly people-focused approach.

Beyond mountains and across oceans, the friendship persists, ever profound. Since its transformation in 2023, Neighborhood 228 has become a vibrant hub for international visitors from over a dozen countries. It has built a bridge that links countries via cultures. Looking ahead, Neighborhood 228 will extend a warm welcome to guests from every corner with an even more open and embracing spirit, sharing more captivating stories of China with the world.