After an unusually long winter, people of all ages have been flocking outdoors to enjoy the sunshine and scenes of nature.

The most common trees found along the city's streets are French planes which were first introduced by immigrants from France at the beginning of the previous century. The trees, a particular species from Paris, were planted all over the former French concession as a means for these French to relieve homesickness. These trees gradually became ubiquitous in the city, which is often dubbed the "Paris of the East".

Xinhua Road ranks among the best places to view these trees in Shanghai. Five years ago, this road was listed by the municipal government as one of the city's most beautiful boulevards.

The road is also a storied location. It used to be where government officials would welcome State guests who arrived in Shanghai from Hongqiao International Airport in the 1970s and 80s.

"Only those who were politically reviewed could apply for residence permits on Xinhua Road, and the apartments at the front of the street were allotted to officials," said Huang Minghua, 88, who has lived there since the 1960s.

The road was closed to traffic when the motorcade of State guests passed through. Primary school students stood on both sides of the street, and performers from art troupes and People's Liberation Army soldiers formed the second line. Civilians stood behind them.

The road was chosen because it connected the airport and Jinjiang Hotel on Changle Road and offered charming views of daily Shanghai life. Those traveling down this road can view town houses of different architectural styles, a symbol of the city's diversity. Many of these buildings are still there, covered by creepers and shaded by the plane trees.

Shaoxing Road is another idyllic space that people can relax and view nature in. The plane trees in this area are akin to a giant net that blocks out the hustle and bustle of the downtown area it is located near to.

This road is famous for being home to a number of publishing houses that are more than 80 years old. Generations of writers and editors have passed through this location. Local residents even claim that the air in this area is filled with the scent of books.

Middle Fuxing Road is one of the best places to visit for a glimpse of old Shanghai. The thick canopy created by the old plane trees on this road provide shelter from the sun's rays, making it perfect for people to take a stroll and admire the old Shanghainese buildings and the romantic atmosphere. The road is also filled with elegant cafes, serene alleys between garden houses and scenes of people walking their dogs or having an evening jog.

zhouwenting@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily USA 05/05/2017 page8)