Hengshan Road

What are the most recommended things to do in Hengshan Road?

  • Walk along Hengshan Road to explore its charming tree-lined streets, historical buildings, and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Visit the many local cafes, tea houses, and restaurants that offer a range of traditional Chinese and Western cuisine.
  • Explore the nearby art galleries and cultural spaces that showcase contemporary Chinese art.
  • Shop at the boutiques and small shops that line the street, offering unique fashion and gifts.
  • Enjoy a relaxed evening by visiting a local bar or lounge to experience the nightlife in the area.

Introducing Hengshan Road

Hengshan Road, starting from Taojiang Road in the east, connecting Baoqing Road and reaching Huashan Road in the west, is 2.3 kilometers long and is the most famous leisure and entertainment street in Shanghai. It has a history of more than 80 years.

The road is lined with lush French plane trees, and within their shade stand distinctive, high-end European buildings. European-style sidewalk barriers, reddish-brown sidewalks resembling Taige Road, and street-level tree decking are also featured on both sides. Along the road, the garden villas, with their broken walls and greenery, resemble a long gallery of oil paintings. The most alluring aspect of Hengshan Road is undoubtedly its bars.

At night, the brightly lit bars create a unique, hazy and ambiguous charm on Hengshan Road, attracting tourists from all over the world. The bars here vary in style and size, including the British-style " Longsha " , the American-style " Bobo Street " , the warm and nostalgic " Time Travel " , the Irish-style " O'Malley " , the East-meets-West fusion " Little Red Building " , and the avant-garde and fashionable " True Love ".

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day


Most Popular FAQs for Hengshan Road

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Hengshan Road is one of the most famous roads in Shanghai, known for its blend of colonial-era architecture and modern amenities. The street is historically significant for its role in Shanghai's development during the early 20th century, with numerous foreign-style buildings now housing trendy shops, cafes, and cultural venues.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Hengshan Road is located in the Xuhui District of Shanghai. It can be accessed easily by metro (Line 1, Hengshan Road Station), bus, taxi, or walking from other nearby areas like Xujiahui or the French Concession.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The road is open at all times, but the best times to visit are in the late morning or early afternoon for a leisurely stroll. Evening visits are also popular, especially if you want to enjoy the nightlife and vibrant atmosphere.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee for walking along Hengshan Road. However, some specific attractions, cafes, or galleries might charge an entry fee. Tickets for these can usually be bought at the location.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For general visits to Hengshan Road, no tickets or bookings are required. However, if you plan to visit specific events, galleries, or restaurants, it's a good idea to make a reservation in advance, particularly during weekends and holidays.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Hengshan Road can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on whether you're simply walking through or stopping to visit cafes, shops, or attractions along the way.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • The historical buildings along the road, which reflect the colonial architecture of early 20th-century Shanghai.
  • The range of cafes, teahouses, and small boutiques that give the street its unique charm.
  • Nearby cultural spots like the Shanghai Film Art Center or the Shanghai Jiao Tong University campus.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

There are no official guided tours available for Hengshan Road itself, but you can join walking tours of the Xuhui District, which include this street. Some tours may offer audio guides in English and Chinese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The intersection of Hengshan Road and Fuxing Road offers a great view of the road and surrounding architecture.
  • The tree-lined sidewalks and historical buildings create fantastic photo opportunities, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The best way to explore Hengshan Road is to start at the southern end, near the Xujiahui area, and stroll along the road, stopping to explore the shops, cafes, and galleries. Take your time and enjoy the blend of old and new architecture.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While there are no light shows, the street comes alive in the evening with lights from bars, cafes, and restaurants, offering a lively nightlife atmosphere. It's a great place to visit after dark if you enjoy a vibrant evening scene.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The street is quite popular, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit during weekdays, particularly in the morning before lunchtime.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops along the road. Public restrooms are available in nearby malls and shopping centers. There are also water refill stations and seating areas in certain spots along the street.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes, Hengshan Road is relatively accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with smooth pavements and pedestrian-friendly crossings. However, it can get crowded, especially in the evenings, so be mindful of the busy crowds.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and cafes along Hengshan Road. Cash is not typically needed unless you're buying from small street vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Wagas (Western-style café)
  • Café del Volcan (popular coffee shop)
  • Green & Safe (health-conscious restaurant)
  • Osteria (Italian dining)

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are various vegetarian and vegan-friendly options available, especially at cafes and health-conscious eateries like Green & Safe. Some restaurants also offer halal food.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Hotel Bonaparte by Rhombus
  • The Westin Shanghai Xujiahui
  • Park Hotel Shanghai

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Fuxing Park
  • Shanghai Jiao Tong University
  • Shanghai Film Art Center

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops can be found in nearby malls and shopping areas. Popular souvenirs include traditional Chinese handicrafts, tea, clothing, and local snacks.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Hengshan Road, you can easily take the metro from Hengshan Road Station (Line 1) or use a taxi or bus to visit nearby attractions such as The Bund, People's Square, or Nanjing Road.