The Shanghai scenes tourists don't see

These photos were taken by part-time Shanghai photographer Xi Zi (席子) around the Dongjiadu (董家渡) area, just a 10-minute bus ride south of the Shanghai Bund. They depict a very different scene compared to the well-restored Bund buildings and the Lujiazui skyline across the Huangpu River.

The collection, named “Dongjiadu,” is an on-going effort to document the disappearance of this once-thriving area. The project was initiated by graphic designer Xi Zi -- a name he assumes for his photographic work -- and his friends four years ago.

“The change in the city’s architecture outpaces that of the residents,” said 42-year-old Xi Zi. “[The change] forces me to keep on [taking photos].”

“Forklifts and hammers are always faster than camera lenses,” adds Xi Zi, downing a glass of beer.

More on CNNGo: Gallery: Shanghai street scenes from 1986

Almost a byword for “Shanghai's fabric market,” Dongjiadu was one of Shanghai’s earliest docks -- way before the Bund -- and has remained a bustling trading and residential zone until the last 10 years when it has given way to glossy high-rises and modern infrastructure.

“Within my ability, [I want to] give [the buildings] at least a portrait before they approach their end,” notes Xi Zi.

“It has grown in me and become my mission.”

View the gallery to see the best of Xi Zi’s works throughout the project, handpicked by the photographer himself.

Following Xi Zi on weibo, and flick through Xi Zi and his friends' growing photo stock on www.shanghaimage.com.

Fancy touring around Dongjiadu? Here is your insider walking tour route.