Experience Shanghai: A Cultural Journey with Tom Bray
Exploring Shanghai's Dynamic Cultural Landscape and the Influence of Its Vibrant Scene
Shanghai stands as a major hub for fashion, music, and upscale trends across Asia, making it a potentially overwhelming destination for new visitors. The city attracts numerous fashion houses and creative studios, including Hyperoom, choosing it as a launchpad for their latest collections. Furthermore, some, like the brand Camper, have established a lasting presence with flagship showrooms, cementing Shanghai's status as a global creative center.
Tom Bray's Personal Journey: From Global Nomadic Life to Shanghai's Cultural Maven
Tom Bray, a creative director and DJ, joins Hypebeast's City Guides series to unravel Shanghai's constantly evolving tapestry of cultural hotspots. After spending his formative years in places like Hong Kong and the UK, Bray and his brother relocated to China, where they co-founded Yeti Out, a music platform that has secured residencies on Rinse FM and at various regional clubs. Having immersed himself in the city's nightlife and early morning rhythms, he now considers Shanghai his true home.
A Glimpse into Shanghai's Hidden Gems: Tom Bray's Curated List
Driven by an insatiable curiosity for new venues, unique shops, and the latest Asian design talents, Bray has curated a personal list of his favorite spots for this new installment. He navigates the city from daytime to evening, all while sporting Camper's innovative Karst 2 sneakers, designed with a ReXarge® foam midsole and modern leather upper for urban explorers. Read on to uncover Tom Bray's top picks for experiencing Shanghai.
Spoke Beverage Room: A Cycling Haven and Community Hub
Cycling is gaining immense popularity in major urban centers, and Spoke stands out as an pioneering establishment in this trend. Situated by a serene park in Shanghai, this independent cafe warmly welcomes cyclists, offering a refreshing and relaxed atmosphere with its open layout and communal bench seating. Additionally, it features a well-equipped workshop at the rear, providing essential tools for bicycle maintenance and repairs.
XC273: More Than a Store, a Futuristic Fashion Destination
XC273 transcends the typical retail experience; it's a prime destination for fashion aficionados seeking the newest trends. Housed within a repurposed factory, its unique industrial backdrop perfectly complements the array of avant-garde brands showcased, including menswear labels like Namacheko and LỰU ĐẠN. During Shanghai Fashion Week, the venue transforms into a multidisciplinary design exhibition, spotlighting the most promising emerging talents in the industry.
Baixin Bookstore: A Literary and Musical Sanctuary
One could easily spend an entire day immersed in Baixin Bookstore, which boasts an extensive collection of Hong Kong-centric literature and merchandise on its lower level, complemented by an art gallery upstairs. However, for Bray, the true allure lies in the backroom's record collection, where he meticulously browses through a diverse selection of vintage and new vinyl records, thoughtfully curated by his friend Cheng Endy Chen of Groove Bunny Records.
Liehuo Arcade: Shanghai's Ultimate Gaming Paradise
Known as "China's gaming heartland," Liehuo Arcade offers a perfect escape from the urban hustle for any gaming enthusiast. This expansive, multi-room complex houses rows of classic video games, some dating back to before the country's arcade ban in the early 2000s. Visitors can expect to find timeless combat games like Street Fighter and Tekken, alongside more specialized music-rhythm titles such as EZ2DJ.
Taipei Chun K: Kicking Off the Night with Karaoke Extravaganza
While many might consider karaoke bars a late-night destination, Bray begins his grand evenings at Taipei Chun K. Located within Shanghai's SML Center, this multi-level karaoke hall immediately immerses guests in a lavish experience, featuring polished marble floors, gilded statues, and shimmering disco balls. Moreover, you can refuel your singing sessions with a comforting hot bowl of ramen, ensuring sustained energy throughout the night.
Heim: Shanghai's Pulsating Electronic Music Hub
Nestled in the bustling Jing'An District, Heim is an underground club renowned for its three distinct dancefloors. The venue is a mecca for electronic music, with a diverse range of genres from techno to hard house and trance pulsating through its spaces until the early hours. Bray himself often takes to the decks, joining a lineup of DJs from byyb.radio, embodying the venue's vibrant and unceasing energy.