Join Tim Chambers, our guide from the Empire of the Sun tour, as we explore the fascinating history of Xujiahui, one of Shanghai’s most culturally rich neighborhoods. 

Named after Xu Guangqi, the renowned Ming Dynasty scholar, scientist, and Catholic convert, Xujiahui grew from a rural settlement into an important center of education, religion, science, and culture. Jesuit missionaries played a significant role in its development, establishing schools, libraries, an observatory, and other institutions that connected Shanghai with Western knowledge. 

Our walk takes us to landmarks including the magnificent St. Ignatius Cathedral, the historic Xujiahui Library, and the former Jesuit Observatory. We’ll also discover the former Pathé recording location, where China’s national anthem was recorded, along with other sites that reveal different layers of the neighborhood’s past.