Intl visitors wowed by Shanghai's '15-minute community life circle'

International visitors immersed themselves in Shanghai's Hongkou district on Thursday, experiencing the city's inclusive character and witnessing China's grassroots modernization firsthand through a cultural exchange activity.

The event drew over 60 participants from the Italian Chamber of Commerce in China and Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, who explored the North Bund's "15-minute community life circle", an innovative urban planning concept designed to ensure residents can access essential commercial, residential, and recreational facilities within a 15-minute walk from their homes.

Participants toured six core service nodes within the community, including the embankment building, co-working space, panda community canteen, among others. Each venue showcased different aspects of the district's comprehensive approach to community development, from entrepreneurship support and cultural experiences to elderly care and essential community services.

"We hope this exchange will serve as a new starting point to further deepen people-to-people exchanges and practical cooperation, injecting new vitality into China-foreign friendship," said Liao Guangjun, deputy director of the North Bund sub-district.

Lorenzo Riccardi, chairman of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in China, praised the concept for its practical benefits to both residents and visitors. "Living here long-term, my office, hospital, my child's school, and cultural venues are all nearby. In a small circle, we have everything we need," he explained.

Alessandra Cappelletti, an associate professor at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, noted that the trip allowed international relations students to observe cultural diplomacy and public policy implementation at the local level.

"This experience gives students a real-life sense of how things operate in government and nongovernment units," she said, noting how the concept particularly benefits vulnerable residents like the elderly and disabled.

Italian student Alessia Orazz expressed admiration for the neighborhood model's convenience. "Considering Shanghai is such a huge city, having these 15-minute community life circles in the neighborhoods is very convenient. You can go for a walk, do grocery shopping, or visit schools without having to drive," she said.

Orwell Li from the Philippines described the community as close-knit and well-integrated. "I feel the government is very caring for citizens here. There's cooperation from different groups and organizations. This would be a good model for other countries or cities interested in facilitating cultural exchange and helping their communities."