FOR the next month, tourists can enjoy free shuttle bus rides to see scenic spots featuring Shikumen-style architecture and Shanghai "longtang" culture in downtown Shanghai.

The bus tours, aimed at promotion in Luwan District, will run until June 12.

The buses, sponsored by the district government, will take passengers to six tourism and entertainment venues, including Xintiandi and Tianzifang.

Other sites, such as a former residence of Dr Sun Yat-sen, are also included.

"The Shikumen-style architectures on the route are strongly recommended as they cover a symbolic batch of Shikumen-style buildings," said Liu Xueqin, an official with Luwan Cultural Affairs Bureau.

Three buses will travel the route each day from 10am to 5pm. They will set off from the back of the Garden Hotel, on Shaanxi Road, every 30 minutes.

Signs have been posted at a dozen bus stops along the tour route, usually near the scenic spots, to help sightseers.

Foreign visitors can call Luwan Cultural Relics Protection Management Office at 53823370 to arrange for English narrations. The service is also free of charge.