Xuhui named '2025 Happiest District'
Xuhui district in Shanghai made the 2025 list of China's happiest districts at the Happy Cities Forum 2025, hosted by Xinhua News Agency's Oriental Outlook magazine in Chengdu.
The recognition highlights Xuhui's unique blend of traditional culture and modern innovation.

A bird's-eye view of Xuhui's urban landscape. [Photo/WeChat ID: xuhuifabu]
Xuhui is a cultural crossroads where Eastern and Western influences converge. The district is renowned for its rich cultural tapestry, featuring historic sites like the Wukang Mansion and the Zikawei Library, which attract millions of visitors annually.
The district's transformation is evident along the Xuhui Riverside, which has evolved from an industrial zone into a vibrant cultural hub housing notable art museums and cultural centers. The area has become a new landmark for art and culture in Asia.
Economically, Xuhui is a powerhouse, fostering major industries like digital economy and life sciences. Despite its small size, it leads central Shanghai in economic growth, which has led to improved public services and quality of life for residents.
Xuhui is also at the forefront of AI innovation, hosting hundreds of AI companies and research institutions. This technological advancement is seamlessly integrated into urban governance, making public services more efficient and accessible.
The district prioritizes both community well-being and innovation. It has developed community service centers that provide comprehensive care for the elderly and support for young entrepreneurs with affordable housing options.
Xuhui's commitment to blending tradition with modernity, economic strength with social welfare, and innovation with community care has created an environment in which residents can thrive. Here, happiness is not just an ideal but a tangible part of everyday life, promising a bright future for all who call the area home.

Zikawei Library. [Photo/WeChat ID: xuhuifabu]

A community cafeteria in Xuhui. [Photo/WeChat ID: xuhuifabu]





