This "Famous Historical and Cultural Street in China" boasts 37 historical buildings and is known as one of the most European-style neighborhoods in downtown Shanghai.
This is also a veritable "Celebrity Road", where literary giants such as Ba Jin, Huang Xing, and Soong Ching Ling once lived.
In addition to the former residences of celebrities, the characteristic western-style house with a pointed roof at No. 99 is the Zhengguanghe Old House, where the movie "Lust, Caution" was filmed.
The Spanish and French Renaissance-style buildings are very distinctive, and the ancient trees on both sides are lush and green, making it a great place for strolling and taking photos.
Attractions Location: Wukang Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai
Tickets: free
Opening hours:
All day (Monday to Sunday, January 1st to December 31st)
Contact Details: 021-54014235
Transportation:
Take bus No. 26/911/926 to Huaihai Middle Road Wukang Road bus stop and walk to the destination.
Time reference: 1-3 hours
Discover the historic charm of Wukang Road, lined with beautiful old mansions, followed by a leisurely stroll through the nearby French Concession with its tree-lined streets and trendy cafes.
Accommodation/Food: Stay in the French Concession area for easy access; food options range from quaint cafés to upscale bistros offering both local and Western cuisine.
Souvenirs: Handmade crafts and art pieces from Tianzifang, local teas, vintage-style postcards of Wukang Road, and French Concession-themed souvenirs.
Combine the peaceful historic streets of Wukang Road with the vibrant shopping and nightlife scenes of Xintiandi.
Accommodation/Food: Stay near Wukang Road or Xintiandi for convenient transport and vibrant dining options.
Souvenirs: Artisanal crafts from Tianzifang, Shanghai-themed fashion, tea sets, and locally made jewelry.
Explore Wukang Road’s history, Shanghai’s cultural hub at People’s Square, and the trendy Jing’an district.
Accommodation/Food: Jing’an or French Concession area hotels are recommended for comfort and easy access.
Souvenirs: Religious artifacts from Jing’an Temple area, designer boutiques items, Shanghai-themed gifts.
Experience the blend of history, nature, and modern art around Wukang Road and beyond.
Accommodation/Food: Stay in French Concession; food includes international bistros and traditional Shanghainese dishes.
Souvenirs: Posters and vintage art prints, botanical-themed items from parks, traditional snacks.
Mix city charm with a day trip to the picturesque water town of Zhujiajiao.
Accommodation/Food: French Concession for city comfort; try local flavors in Zhujiajiao.
Souvenirs: Traditional crafts, tea sets, local snacks, silk products.
Explore historic Wukang Road with modern art and shopping districts nearby.
Accommodation/Food: Stay in French Concession or Xintiandi; a wide range of dining from street food to fine dining.
Souvenirs: Contemporary art, boutique fashion, Shanghai souvenirs.
A comprehensive tour of historic Wukang Road, cultural landmarks, shopping areas, parks, and a water town excursion.
Accommodation/Food: Stay in French Concession or Jing’an district for convenience and variety.
Souvenirs: Religious and cultural artifacts, local teas, Shanghai-themed gifts, arts and crafts from French Concession.
Sunny afternoons in winter are so wonderful! I was so excited to explore Wukang Road alone for the first time. I had no idea there were so many old houses of varying styles hidden beneath the dappled shadows of the plane trees. I had no idea the flowers and trees still looked like late autumn even in early winter. And I had no idea there were so many people, especially young people, checking out Wukang Road on a weekend afternoon. Oh! I joined in the fun, too. From south to north, then back again, a three-hour round trip, walking, observing, and photographing, even as the sun set, I was still immersed in the historic streets, experiencing the authentic culture and history, and admiring Shanghai's most famous architecture.
The Wukang Building, a symbol of the changing times, stands at the Wukang Road intersection, bearing witness to the history of Shanghai. Today, its value may no longer lie in its role as a residence, but rather as a mark of history.
The internet-famous road often mentioned in this petty-bourgeois guide is not as simple as people see.
It not only has nearly 30 former residences of celebrities, but is also one of the most European-style neighborhoods in Shanghai's central urban area. Back then, it was the center of the French Concession.
Fortunately, we got a map at the Red House Art Center (Tourism Service Center), and it happened to be the time for free tours. The tour guide took us around for an hour and learned about the past and present of many buildings. Although we had heard of many celebrities' names, we didn't know much of the history and causes and consequences. The architectural styles are different, including Baroque, Spanish, Indian, and Renaissance... People who don't understand may just think they are beautiful and can't tell the difference. I really need to read more when I go back. There is also a lecture in the art center in the afternoon on "The Past and Present of Wukang Road", but it is in Shanghainese.
The tour guide said that many of the internet-famous stores on Wukang Road have moved away, so it is not heavily commercialized and still retains its original historical buildings. Several venues open to the public are free and have explanations, and their main purpose is to spread historical culture. I like the quietness here and every building with a story.
Wukang Road is truly a street of boutiques, lined with French Concession buildings, all stylish and retro. Every few hundred meters, you'll find a celebrity's former residence, giving you a unique sense of history. Because the architecture is so stunning, many fashion bloggers and internet celebrities love to check in and take photos here, making it a truly scenic spot.
Walking along Wukang Road, you will see the most representative building. Many photographers take photos here, and many newlyweds take wedding photos here!
Wukang Road, located in Shanghai's Xuhui District, was originally named Route Ferguson after American missionary John Ferguson. It was constructed by the Shanghai French Concession Municipal Council in 1907 (the 33rd year of the reign of Emperor Guangxu). Known as a "Celebrity Road" that "encapsulates a century of modern Shanghai history," Wukang Road boasts 14 outstanding historical buildings, including 37 preserved historical structures.
Wukang Road has become synonymous with "influencer," but it actually has a rich cultural heritage. I've become quite familiar with this road thanks to my frequent visits to the Shanghai Library over the past two years. Wukang Road, once part of the French Concession, was originally named "Fu Kaisen Road," after an American missionary. This relatively short stretch of road boasts a remarkable number of former residences of celebrities, including Huang Xing, Zhou Zuomin, and Ba Jin. Now, a number of internet-famous shops have opened along the road, attracting many artistic young people to take photos, making it even more fashionable. I joined in the fun and went down on a clear autumn day to take some photos. Only when I got home did I realize I'd missed the Wukang Building. I'll make up for it next time!
My only knowledge of this street came online, through Ang Lee's film "Lust, Caution." Today, it's a popular spot for young artists to take photos and hang out, and it's also home to many popular online shops. If you're just wandering around and taking photos, any historical district will do, but you still won't understand its history. I didn't just want to take photos; I wanted to understand its history, its stories.
The Wukang Road city tour, with a lecturer, lets you learn about its history and stories. I signed up without hesitation, and it was well worth the trip. Wukang Road is bustling and bustling these days, and we spotted many internet-famous shops along the way, including one where we had our tea break. This is information you wouldn't understand if you just wandered around on your own. Teacher Gao explained that there are 4,600 old villas in Shanghai, but only 92 are truly state-owned; the rest belong to the state and the military. This afternoon's lecture not only taught me about the history of Wukang Road, but also gave me a deeper understanding of Shanghai. The triangular architectural style is a common sight on Wukang Road. Some buildings appear very thin from the side, suggesting they wouldn't be very spacious inside, making it hard to imagine how they would have been lived in.
This street is arguably Shanghai's most bourgeois and stylish, and it's also my favorite. The buildings along both sides of this street are almost all listed as outstanding historical structures. As a century-old street, Wukang Road holds unique value. Each building here holds a story, some peaceful, some heroic, some romantic, some poignant... What connects these buildings is this seemingly ordinary, yet in fact extraordinary, street.
At the same time, it is also a real internet celebrity road. Every scene and object on the street is a topic of conversation that people love to talk about. I still remember that what impressed me most was that there was an internet celebrity ice cream shop here. There was always a long queue outside, but one time a friend took me to a courtyard behind his house and I ate the same ice cream ball without queuing, haha.
Wukang Road, located in Xuhui District, Shanghai, runs from Huashan Road in the north to the intersection of Huaihai Middle Road and Xingguo Road in the south. The road is a slightly curved, 1,170-meter-long, one-way road running north to south. The area encompassed by Huashan Road, Urumqi Road, and Huaihai Road forms a network of roads covering nearly one square kilometer. Its central location provides a crucial north-south connection within the area. This kilometer-long street, once a typical example of the garden residential area of Shanghai's French Concession, later became a renowned high-end residential district thanks to the addition of small apartments and modern lane houses. The road boasts a tranquil and elegant atmosphere, making it one of the most European-style neighborhoods in central Shanghai.
After reading the travelogue, everyone said that Wukang Road is worth seeing, so we arranged a trip to Wukang Road on the third day.
After getting off the bus, we found Dayin Bookstore right next to us. The name evokes the feeling of being hidden away in the city. There's plenty of seating inside, so you can enjoy a good read. We spent less than an hour there before leaving. For tourists, spending time reading is a bit of a luxury.
We didn't plan to visit any major attractions that day, and we weren't interested in places like Yu Garden and City God Temple. Instead, we went to Wukang Road.
Wukang Road is a particularly good road for traveling. Originally, it was called Fu Kaisen Road. It sounds a lot like "Unhappy Road," haha.
The reason why the name was changed later was because of Mogan Mountain. Mogan Mountain in Wukang County is very famous, and the environment here is very similar to Mogan Mountain, so it was renamed Wukang Road.
Wukang Road is full of small attractions and many old residences of famous people, such as Ba Jin's former residence, Chen Guofu's former residence, Tang Shaoyi's former residence, etc.
If you have time, you can go to the Wukang Road Art Center. There is a lot of information about Wukang Road here, and you can learn about the history of Wukang Road in detail.
The entire art center is not big, and it only takes about half an hour to finish the tour.
After that, we just stopped and looked around. We stopped and went in wherever we wanted to see.
Along the way, we passed Sixian Building, Ba Jin's former residence, Hunan Villa, etc.
There are a lot of snacks around here that you can try. I think all the food in Shanghai tastes really good. As for desserts, I don't really like any of them.
Starting from the Wukang Building and heading north along Wukang Road, you will see sycamore trees planted on both sides. In spring and summer, the trees provide shade, while in autumn and winter, the leaves shed. When the road is covered with golden leaves, it will definitely look another unique sight.
Every old house that is a cultural relic is worth your stop to savor its history.
This has become a literary and artistic residence in Shanghai, showcasing the perfect fusion of oriental charm and western sentiment.
When you come here, you feel like you are in the old Shanghai of the 20th century, with exquisite and elegant European-style houses, romantic streets covered with fallen plane tree leaves, graceful and intellectual beauties, and so much warmth in the process.
Sunshine and breeze, fragrance of flowers and raindrops, listen to me tell the old stories of Shanghai.
It has a rich history and many interesting shops. It feels very suitable for the petty bourgeoisie to check in and spend a day strolling around. We went there too hastily and did not appreciate its beauty at all.
Formerly known as Fu Kaisen Road, it is known as the "Celebrity Road" that "condenses the modern history of Shanghai for a hundred years".
There are 14 outstanding historical buildings along the route, and 37 preserved historical buildings. (From Baidu)
It has now become a popular check-in spot. There are coffee shops and dessert shops along the way, as well as popular ice cream shops. Actually, I prefer the Wukang Building, hehe.
A very unique place with a sense of age. A place suitable for taking a leisurely stroll and savoring.
I never imagined that Wukang Road, the quiet and secluded road of my childhood, would become an internet sensation. Actually, Wukang Road and the surrounding Gaoyou Road and Hunan Road are best viewed on rainy nights and in late autumn. Rainy nights offer a tranquil, nostalgic, hazy, and ethereal atmosphere. Late autumn, on the other hand, offers a profound beauty, with falling petals and a bleak breeze.
During my trip to Shanghai, I planned a day of walking around the French Concession. I visited Ba Jin's former residence and the Wukang Building. I didn't expect that they were also very close to other roads such as Hengshan Road and Sinan Road, so I walked them all together. At Ba Jin's former residence, I slowed down my pace and slowly experienced the place where the old man lived. I was also impressed by the good protection of these cultural relics and historical sites in this area.
The most famous building on Wukang Road is the Wukang Building. Just a short walk from the Line 10 subway station, you'll see it. Walking along the road, you'll find many small villas. Wukang Road is worth a visit. I'll come back in the summer when the sycamore trees are covered in leaves.
A fashionable area a century ago, the Western-style architecture is mostly small villas with gardens. Plantain trees line the five- or six-meter-wide roads. There are many Western-style restaurants along the roadsides and in the alleys. I don't know much about the architectural culture, but the commercialization here is not too excessive. If you like taking pictures, you can come and see it.
The Wukang Building is truly stunning, and I love both the color and black and white versions. I recommend renting a bike and cycling along Wukang Road and its surroundings; the entire concession is truly beautiful.
It was too late when we went, and most of the celebrity residences were closed, but the night view was still pretty good. The coffee at % was really good, with a rich aroma.
Wukang Road has been home to many historical figures. Many of its architectural designs embody historical stories and symbolism. Many internet-famous restaurants boast long lines daily. It's a Shanghai street steeped in history. On the first Saturday of every month, the Wukang Road Tourist Service Center organizes free guided tours. Interested parties are welcome to join.
A representative road of Shanghai's French Concession, it is dotted with former residences of celebrities and numerous internet-famous shops.
Our first stop was Wukang Road. This is a popular street, filled with tall plane trees and a variety of old houses. Although we couldn't tell east from west, we kept walking along the road, stopping and starting, and the photos we took everywhere were very reminiscent of old Shanghai.
Wukang Road, known as China's famous historical and cultural street, is dotted with old buildings in styles like Spanish and French Renaissance, as well as former residences of famous people.
I especially like these old streets when the weather is good.
Various buildings
Walk to Xintiandi Subway Station and take Line 10
Get off at Shanghai Library Station after two stops
After exiting the station, follow Hunan Road to Wukang Road
Wukang Road
It is a famous Chinese historical and cultural street.
So this is one of the must-visit places
Wukang Road is actually not very long, but this short road is dotted with many celebrity residences and coffee shops. It is a road where you can experience the cultural history and Shanghai style.
On this road are the former residences of Zhao Dan and Soong Ching Ling, and of course the most famous is Ba Jin's former residence.
Nearby are Zhou Xuan's former residence, the former Italian Consulate, etc.
Wukang Road is great, with many houses, and it's a good place to stop and take photos. There are not many people.
The most iconic building should be the Wukang Building. If you take a walk around, you will see many beautiful villas along the street.
Among the 64 roads in Shanghai that will never be widened, Wukang Road is undoubtedly the one with the most unique characteristics. It is quiet in the bustling city, mysterious and elegant. Behind the houses that are the former residences of celebrities are stories that have passed away. For those who pass by there now, the old times have become history, but they seem to be right in front of them.
Wukang Road is located in Xuhui District, Shanghai. It was originally named Fukassen Road, named after the American missionary John Fukassen. It was built by the Shanghai French Concession Municipal Council in 1907 (the 33rd year of the reign of Emperor Guangxu).
Wukang Road is 1,183 meters long and 12 to 16 meters wide. The entire road is curved and runs roughly from north to south. It starts from Huashan Road in the north, where you can see the Lilac Garden of Li Hongzhang, an important official of the late Qing Dynasty. It ends at Huaihai Middle Road in the south, connecting Tianping Road and Yuqing Road, and faces the former residence of Soong Ching Ling.
Wukang Road, lined with swaying plane trees, boasts approximately 30 former residences of prominent figures. The distinctive architecture, ranging from Spanish to French Renaissance, makes it one of the most European-inspired neighborhoods in central Shanghai.
There are various old houses here, the most famous of which is "Ba Jin's Former Residence"
As soon as I got out of the subway station, I was attracted by the old buildings around me. I like it very much.
The sycamore trees planted on both sides of the street have fallen leaves that are blown by the wind in this season, making the street look golden. Coupled with the small houses on both sides, strolling through it gives one a quiet and romantic feeling.
Strolling along Wukang Road, I even ran into a couple taking wedding photos. This road is dotted with unique coffee shops, where it's truly relaxing to grab a cup of coffee, laze on a sofa, and chat about life with your bestie.
As a Cantonese, I stayed in Wukang Road for several days when I first came to Shanghai. The pace of life in Wukang Road is really slow. Although it gets dark early in Shanghai in autumn, you can spend the whole afternoon in a cafe just looking at the surrounding things. So Wukang Road is still a good place to spend an afternoon. There is also a cafe that I especially recommend. It provides lunch coffee and various afternoon tea desserts. If you go a little late, there will be no seats.
A famous historical and cultural street in China with a nostalgic atmosphere, it is known as one of the most European-style streets in Shanghai's central urban area.
I came to Wukang Road today! It was very pleasant on the road! The effect of taking pictures on a good day should be very good! I personally like this feeling.
Take the subway to Jiaotong University Station, and walk a short distance from the subway station to see the landmark building, Wukang Building.
It’s so beautiful. I love the streets lined with sycamore trees.
Wukang Road is very pleasant in autumn. You can take pictures and it is very bourgeois.
This literary and artistic street seems to be very famous in the past two years, but when I went there, I didn't have a particularly good impression. Vehicles were coming and going, and the road was under construction. I would like to remind you not to go too early. The Xuhui Old House Art Center does not open until 9 o'clock, and Ba Jin's former residence can be visited until 10 o'clock.
It is recommended to enter from the Wukang Building intersection, visit the Xuhui Old House Art Center first, and then visit other attractions in turn. Many residences are not open to the public and can only be viewed from the outside. There are many Internet celebrity spots and small shops.
A road with a relatively high concentration of classics, petty bourgeoisie, especially petty bourgeoisie.
Wukang Road, built in 1907, is a "Famous Historical and Cultural Street in China" with 37 historical buildings. It is known as one of the most European-style neighborhoods in Shanghai's central urban area.
The buildings in Spanish and French Renaissance styles are very distinctive, and the ancient trees on both sides are lush and green, making it a great place for walking and taking photos.
This place is also a veritable "Celebrity Road". Literary giants such as Ba Jin, Huang Xing, and Soong Ching Ling have all lived here.
In addition to the former residences of celebrities, there are other distinctive old houses here. No. 99 is the Zhengguanghe old house. This house has a pointed roof and was the filming location for the movie "Lust, Caution".
The sign for Wukang Road is under renovation, so it is recommended to walk over there as there is no place to park on this type of road.
I found a coffee shop with a Nordic style that I like. There are many shops of this style on Wukang Road, but since I've been to many similar places, I don't really want to record them.
In summary it's worth a visit, a walk around and a coffee for 2 hours.
In "Lust, Caution", Wang Jiazhi, who let Mr. Yi go, pretended nothing had happened and hailed a rickshaw, saying, "Go to Fuxing Road." The story written by Eileen Chang probably took place here.
The old-fashioned buildings here have their own charm, and everything has a retro style. We walked along Wukang Road and Changle Road, which are very stylish. Compared with the bustling business district, it has its own unique charm. Perhaps because it is close to various embassies, many foreigners live here. They eat leisurely in various restaurants in the afternoon. Here, it feels like being on the streets of a foreign country, and I really experienced their lives.
I have to say I absolutely love Wukang Road. Strolling leisurely along this Shanghai road, I see swaying plane trees and unique architecture in styles like Spanish and French Renaissance. It reminds me of Zhang Ailing, Soong Ching Ling, and Hu Lancheng from the Republican era. I used to love reading Zhang Ailing's books, especially those about the early Republican era. It was a real joy to be there. I also passed by Lilac Garden, Li Hongzhang's official residence, which was incredibly beautiful.
Walking down the street, you'll notice countless passersby snapping photos with their cameras, creating a beautiful scene everywhere. You'll also find grandpas on Phoenix bicycles going to buy groceries, strolling through old houses with a distinct sense of age. International friends walking around have a Level 10 Chinese proficiency test, and of course, the streets are filled with fashionistas. Walking at the forefront of fashion. You might stumble upon a Weibo influencer or an interesting shop just around the corner. For example, I happened to stumble across the Xingguo Road 7-Eleven store that day, a place I've been following on Weibo for a while, and I went in for a look.
Wukang Road, located in Shanghai's Xuhui District, was built in 1907. Formerly part of the French Concession, it was formerly known as Fu Kaisen Road and retains many historic buildings. It is a renowned historical and cultural street in China. It stretches approximately 1.2 kilometers, running north-south between Huashan Road to the north and Huaihai Middle Road to the south. It boasts approximately 30 former residences of prominent figures, including the former Italian Consulate General's residence, Huang Xing's former residence, Zhou Fohai's private residence, Ba Jin's former residence, the Wukang Building (formerly home to Zheng Junli, Zhao Dan, Qin Yi, and Sun Daolin), Soong Ching Ling's former residence, the Old Western-style House Museum, and the Romeo Terrace. It also boasts numerous online-famous shops (food, handicrafts, and more). Ang Lee's Lust, Caution was filmed here.
It was a last-minute arrangement, and the journey was indeed poetic and picturesque, romantic and down-to-earth.
This historical road has been home to many celebrities and literati, so if you have the time, you can go into one or two of their former residences to visit and savor them. I came at an unlucky time, after 5 o'clock, which was closing time.
Walking along the way, I was filled with joy and happiness. The small houses on the roadside had a unique exotic atmosphere.
A classic representative of the French Concession, it is home to many celebrity residences and coffee shops and is worth a visit.
I love strolling or cycling along Wukang Road, then popping into a random cafe. I can sometimes spend an entire afternoon just like that. Compared to the bustling main thoroughfares, Shanghai actually has several quieter streets like Wukang Road, like Julu Road, Changshu Road, and Sinan Road. They all have a secluded feel, far from the hustle and bustle. In recent years, these streets have seen the opening of many charmingly stylish restaurants, cafes, and bars. One of the most popular spots lately is the first Chinese branch of Kyoto-based internet-famous cafe "% Arabica," located right in Wukang Court. The coffee is delicious and photogenic!
Wukang Road is probably a place that every literary and artistic young person likes to check in. The "Triangle Building" is the representative building of Wukang Road. The building around Wukang Road is the former residence of Soong Ching Ling. Wukang Road was the old French Concession. In addition to Soong Ching Ling, many celebrities lived on this road, so it is also called "Celebrity Road".
The best time to hike is mid-to-late November, when the ground is covered in fallen leaves. However, Wukang Road has become increasingly popular in the past two years, so if you want to grab a good spot and capture beautiful fallen leaves, it's recommended to avoid peak traffic hours.
I also looked at other people's travel guides and they recommended Wukang Road because there are many old houses there, so I was itching to pull Brother Zhan to ride my bike there~ Ba Jin's former residence is also on Wukang Road, it's free, but people are not allowed to enter after 4:30.
Wukang Road is a popular destination for arty young people. Its iconic landmark, the "Triangle Building," is said to have been designed by a Jewish architect. Wukang Road was once part of the French Concession, and many celebrities, besides Soong Ching Ling, have lived on it, earning it the nickname "Celebrity Road."
Wukang Road is less than two kilometers away.
A popular landmark that hides half of the Magic City.
and the century-long story of old Shanghai;
Old European style and modern trend design,
Transcending time, we jointly interpret the unique beauty of the Magic City.
——Walking along Wukang Road with City Walk
#Know a city, start from a street#
A city, a road, a history.
I didn’t go up to the Oriental Pearl Tower or stroll along the Bund, but only loved Wukang Road.
I have been in Shanghai for a few months, but I have never been interested in visiting the Magic City. I occasionally go out on weekends, but I also go to Jiangsu and Zhejiang areas. This is because I always feel that there is nothing to see or do in first-tier cities. There are only hustle and bustle, crowded people, and crowded cars everywhere. I don’t want to experience that at all.
Until one day, a friend who came to Shanghai with me said to me: You should try to rediscover Shanghai's other beauty. Don't be trapped by your limited cognition. Every city has its beautiful and gentle side. Try to go out and learn more about it. You may like it a little more...
So, there was my meeting on Wukang Road.
Choosing Wukang Road was simple, as I don't like to join the crowds. And, as everyone says, one of the best ways to experience a city is to visit its old streets. So, on a beautiful afternoon, I hopped on the bus, camera in hand, to explore this historic street, once home to many famous people.
Perhaps Wukang Road has become a popular street in Shanghai. Walking along, I noticed quite a few tourists, most of them carrying cameras and snapping photos. I was alone, immersed in this street steeped in history, walking, stopping, snapping photos, admiring the red walls, mansions, former residences, and dormer windows, feeling the culture and history. Many of the small shops were quite interesting, with unique decor and layouts, and quite a few people lingered. I even came across a flower shop on a corner – it was love!
The scenery and culture along the way warmed me. I think I have fallen in love with this place. Next time, I hope someone will come and take photos with me!
Shanghai's Wukang Road, originally named "Fu Kaisen Road," was built in 1907. In 1914, during the third expansion of the French Concession, it extended to Huashan Road, and Fu Kaisen Road was incorporated into the French Concession. Initially, it was a simple dirt road, flanked by rice paddies, vegetable gardens, and farmhouses, dotted with rivers and ponds, and dotted with cemeteries. Following the expansion of the French Concession, the French implemented a comprehensive planning plan for Wukang Road, adhering to the most modern Western urban development concepts of the time. With Wukang Road as the center, this plan was gradually extended to the surrounding areas, making it a key thoroughfare in the French Concession. From the former residence of Tang Shaoyi, the first Prime Minister of the Republic of China, to the former residence of Chinese literary giant Ba Jin, this quiet path holds many mysterious stories; this winding path leads deep into history...
If you like to see the various styles of houses in Shanghai, Wukang Road is a good choice.
In addition to the former residences of celebrities, there are other distinctive old houses here. No. 99 is the Zhengguanghe old house. This house has a pointed roof and was the filming location for the movie "Lust, Caution".
You can take Metro Line 10 to Jiaotong University Station. From Jiaotong University Station, it's about a 3-minute walk to the station. Exit 1, walk along Huaihe Middle Road, turn right, and you'll reach a small intersection. Diagonally across from the Wukang Building, a landmark building, is the triangle (go back to the train station in the opposite direction).
It's a place where people can't help but lower their voices, and a rich cultural atmosphere permeates the air.
Many famous people's former residences are here. I remember my last visit to Shanghai was winter, and it was drizzling. Staff at Ba Jin's former residence, wearing black wool coats, stood at the entrance, gently reminding visitors to place their umbrellas on the rack outside and handing out small flyers to everyone who entered. I didn't sense any of the impatience or irritability of "staff" in them; instead, their gentle demeanor perfectly complemented the aura of the "Ba Jin Former Residence." The Wukang Building, the love nest of Mr. Yi and Wang Jiazhi in "Lust, Caution," is where Wang Jiazhi told the rickshaw driver, "Go to Fukaisen Road," after letting Mr. Yi go. It's a road steeped in humanistic spirit.
Finally, I'd like to recommend Ba Jin's former residence. You must visit! Photography is not allowed inside, so there are no photos here... In autumn, Wukang Road is covered with fallen leaves, and no matter how you take a photo, it's a painting.
Walking along Wukang Road, the sultry weather seems to be much cooler under the shade of the tall plane trees on both sides. If it were autumn, the golden leaves would definitely be even more beautiful.
The alleys are quiet amidst the hustle and bustle, filled with exotic buildings. Every photo you take will give you the feeling of being abroad. Many of the buildings here are over a century old, and they have witnessed the vicissitudes of Shanghai.
On the street, there are passers-by in twos and threes. The sound of cars passing by can be heard occasionally on the quiet street, and the other sound is the chirping of cicadas.
The telephone booths that filled the streets in the 1990s have now disappeared in many cities, but this place has retained this red landscape.
There are many unique shops along the road. If you feel tired, you can choose a shop you like, sit down, have a cup of coffee, and enjoy the peaceful time. 376-378 is where the art shops are concentrated.
The Wukang Building is quite unique, and you can also explore the other sights along the way. I don't recommend visiting in 2018, as the Soong Ching Ling Former Residence is under renovation and closed for the second half of the year. The Wukang Building is also a commercial building, so it's not cheap. Taking photos at the entrance isn't easy, as there are power lines and the best vantage point is on the street, making it unsafe. If you're walking along the route, it's still a great place to take photos. I'll definitely go again next year.
In early spring, you can no longer see Wukang Road covered with plane trees. Now, due to the Internet effect, Wukang Road has become a representative of literary and artistic style, with many Internet celebrity stores. Of course, the prices are also rising rapidly.
I heard that the road was beautiful, so I planned to take some photos. But when I got there, I found that the road was under construction. There were many young ladies posing for photos opposite the Wukang Building. There were sycamore trees on both sides of the road, which was really beautiful.
Online travelogues say that Wukang Road is a place where you can see architecture, celebrities, and history. However, I have a mediocre literary background and can only appreciate the charm of architecture.
The old street is full of literary and artistic atmosphere and carries historical heritage. There are many historical buildings and former residences of celebrities. The street is not long and you can walk around it if you have time. At the end is the filming location of the movie "I Like You" - Wukang Building, which has a unique style.
After reading many posts, I found this place to be a check-in destination for girls. Not long after walking forward, I saw the most iconic building here. I sighed at the changes in history and was grateful for the beauty of today.
Wukang Road is located in the old French Concession. Rows of French plane trees are planted on both sides of the road, and old houses with unique characteristics dot the entire street. The former residences of many celebrities and scholars are located here, adding more literary and artistic atmosphere to this place.
There are many cheap eats here. Wherever you pass by a long line, just search and you will find that it is an Internet celebrity restaurant. The food here is generally expensive and popular, but there is a lack of leisure and quietness, which adds to the noise. It seems that people are more focused on rushing to check in and take pictures, but less on tasting and enjoying the food.
If you can only visit one street in Shanghai, make it Wukang Road. With Spanish and French Renaissance-style buildings and swaying plane trees on either side, the street exudes a European charm while adding a touch of tranquility.
I visited various buildings in order, and they all had a European style. However, except for Ba Jin's former residence, I could not enter the others and could only look at the exterior.
Unlike Huaihai Road, also part of the French Concession, which boasts a strong commercial atmosphere, or Hengshan Road, with its vibrant nightlife, Wukang Road exudes the unique elegance of 1920s Shanghai. Its architectural styles are primarily Spanish and French Renaissance, and swaying plane trees flank the road, creating a European charm while adding a sense of tranquility. Known as a celebrity road that "encapsulates Shanghai's modern history for a century," many influential politicians, military strategists, industrialists, and literati have resided here, leaving behind 37 historic buildings or former residences. The entire stretch of Wukang Road is a collection of undisturbed historical relics, immaculately preserved through the centuries. Today, it's also dotted with internet-famous shops, cafes, and boutiques.
Wukang Road is home to many historic buildings and is considered a celebrity road that epitomizes Shanghai's century-long modern history. The plane trees line the road, along with many distinctive buildings. There are also numerous coffee shops and flower shops along the way, giving it a strong artistic atmosphere. I found % Arabica Coffee here, tucked away in the innermost corner of Wukang Court. The shop isn't big, but it attracts many people. What really caught my eye was the Wukang Building, formerly known as the Normandy Apartments. This triangular Renaissance-style building is easily visible from the Jiaotong University subway station, so it's worth a walk if you have the time.
Starting from Wukang Road, walking inside, all are old buildings
I couldn't stand it anymore when I got to the back because it was all covered with plane tree fluff, which was much worse than the poplar and willow catkins in Beijing. I started to have a runny nose and my eyes were itchy.
This "Famous Historical and Cultural Street in China" boasts 37 historical buildings and is known as one of the most European-style neighborhoods in downtown Shanghai.
This is also a veritable "Celebrity Road", where literary giants such as Ba Jin, Huang Xing, and Soong Ching Ling once lived.
In addition to the former residences of celebrities, the characteristic western-style house with a pointed roof at No. 99 is the Zhengguanghe Old House, where the movie "Lust, Caution" was filmed.
The Spanish and French Renaissance-style buildings are very distinctive, and the ancient trees on both sides are lush and green, making it a great place for strolling and taking photos.
Transportation to Wukang Road: Take Metro Line 10 or 11 to Jiaotong University Station; or take Bus No. 26, 911, 920, or 926 to Huaihai Middle Road, Wukang Road; or Bus No. 113, 328, or 48 to Huashan Road, Wukang Road.
Strolling Wukang Road requires nothing more than spontaneous wandering... A chance encounter with a courtyard, a small, winding path... an exquisite scene, or a dazzling golden hue of falling yellow leaves in late autumn or early winter—these can all be reasons for surprise...
Wukang Road is at its most beautiful in late autumn. Starting in November each year, it transforms into a long, scenic path of fallen leaves. Strolling along the golden path, you'll find historical buildings and charming shops intertwined, radiating an inherent elegance and tranquility...
The fallen leaves of autumn are a riot of color, some still green, some gradually turning pale yellow, and some already golden... Sunlight filters through the leaves onto the road... Wukang Road, littered with fallen leaves, has attracted many photography enthusiasts. The golden ginkgo leaves, the fallen plane tree leaves strewn across the ground, the old houses flanking the road, even the backdrop—all capture the scenery in these photographers' lenses... The plane trees cast an unmistakable artistic ambiance...
Wukang Road is peaceful... Strolling aimlessly... beautiful scenery and surprises always pop into your view... It's a wonderful way to spend some downtime...
This street is both refreshingly chic and truly makes you sneeze. It's lined with excellent historical buildings, each with a distinctly French feel. My boyfriend and I were particularly drawn to this style! We were completely captivated by it the entire way.
On this road, I recommend visiting Ba Jin's Former Residence, which is free to visit! Wukang Road is dotted with garden houses, but they're all ordinary homes or studios. Ba Jin's Former Residence, on the other hand, allows visitors to enter and tour the interior, showcasing the realities of Ba Jin and his wife's life. The writing created in this beautiful setting is truly incomparable (sorry for the lack of words, but it's truly amazing). The love story between Ba Jin and his wife, Xiao Shan, is unforgettable...
This street also boasts a popular online cafe, % Arabica. Its modern, minimalist decor is a trendy touch, making it a popular spot. However, the taste was just average for me. Perhaps it's because I've been drinking black coffee for a while now, so I'm not a fan of coffee with added sugar and creamer. For those who love taking photos, check out the shop; anyway, the main purpose of this place is not to drink coffee, but to take photos!
Wukang Road, once part of the French Concession, boasts a century of history. Unlike the more commercial Huaihai Road, Wukang Road exudes the unique elegance of 1920s Shanghai.
Regarding Wukang Road, the following is a historical account: In 1897, Sheng Xuanhuai took a liking to John F. Rothschild, then the president of Nanjing Huiwen College (the predecessor of Jinling University and the predecessor of Nanjing University), and offered him a generous monthly salary of 350 taels of silver (the principal's salary at the time was only 100 taels) to serve as the first president of Nanyang Public School. Ten years later, F. Rothschild used his salary to build a road to facilitate access for faculty, students, and staff. Later, as a token of gratitude, local residents named this road F. Rothschild Road. In 1914, the western district where Wukang Road is located was officially incorporated into the French Concession. With the outbreak of the Pacific War in 1941, Wukang Road fell. In 1943, France announced its abandonment of the French Concession centered on Wukang Road. Wang Jingwei seized the opportunity to declare his "acceptance" of the French Concession and renamed the area surrounding Wukang Road the Eighth Special District of Shanghai. Later, someone suggested that Wang Jingwei change the names of the over 200 roads in the concession he had "accepted" that were named after foreigners to those of Chinese provinces, cities, and some county-level administrative regions. Because Wang had "passed through Wukang many times and had a favorable impression of it," Fu Kaisen Road was renamed "Wukang Road." Wukang is the name of an old county in Zhejiang Province, now part of Deqing County.