Beyond landmarks

Over the past five years, Le Guernic has developed more than 30 original walking routes through extensive research. She spends hours digging through century-old archives and speaking with elderly residents to deepen her understanding of local culture.

Once she sketches out a route, she walks it repeatedly, refining the storyline and weaving the pieces into a complete, engaging narrative. To help participants visualize the past, she often brings along vintage photographs and old maps. "Safety and convenience are just as important," she noted. "I always check for safe pathways, nearby restrooms, and rest stops."

Le Guernic also draws inspiration from books, films, and TV series set in Shanghai. For example, one of her most popular tours is based on The Blue Lotus, the fifth volume in the classic comic series The Adventures of Tintin.

"The comic was originally written in French, and it's part of many French speakers' childhood memories," she said.

Set in 1930s Shanghai, the story follows Tintin as he witnesses Japanese troops blowing up a railway and blaming it on the Chinese — a scene inspired by real events during the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45).