Shanghai Old Street Must-Visit Guide

Complete Guide to Wukang Road, Shanghai: Encounter French Romance, Check in at Trendy Landmarks, and Savor the Shanghai-Style Slow Life. Wukang Road, a “trendy” street that condenses a century of Shanghai’s history, is a must-visit place to experience the charm of Shanghai-style culture and the true elegance and romance of Shanghai.

🔥 Highlights: Known as the “Celebrity Road” that “condenses nearly a hundred years of modern Shanghai history,” it features numerous excellent historic buildings, trendy restaurants, and niche boutiques. The iconic Wukang Mansion is one of Shanghai’s most representative landmarks.

🚶‍♀️ Itinerary Planning: Classic Half-Day/Full-Day Tour Route

Recommended Route: Metro Station -> Wukang Mansion -> Stroll along Wukang Road -> Anfu Road -> Return

Starting Point: Shanghai Library Station (Metro Line 10) or Jiaotong University Station (Metro Lines 10 and 11)

Exit from either station and walk to the intersection of Wukang Road and Middle Huaihai Road. The journey begins with the stunning Wukang Mansion.

💥 Must-Visit Spot: Wukang Mansion (1850 Middle Huaihai Road)

What to Do: This ship-like building is the soul of Wukang Road. The best photo spot is at the intersection directly opposite the building, where you can capture its complete triangular structure. The Dayin Bookstore and Old Mai Café on the first floor are also great places to soak in the atmosphere.

Essential Walk: Wukang Road (Middle Huaihai Road -> Wuyuan Road Section)

Starting from Wukang Mansion, slowly walk north along Wukang Road. Along the way, you will pass:

Romeo Balcony (210 Wukang Road): A symbolic romantic balcony and a popular photo spot.

Wukang Court (376 Wukang Road): A courtyard-style commercial area transformed from old Western-style houses, gathering many high-quality Western restaurants, cafés, and art galleries—an excellent place to rest.

Many Celebrity Residences: Such as the former homes of Huang Xing and Ba Jin (check opening information in advance). There are usually information plaques at the entrances to learn about their stories.

Route Extensions (Optional):

Artistic Direction: At the end of Wukang Road, turn into Anfu Road to watch plays (Shanghai Dramatic Arts Centre), browse trendy brands like BM, and feel the youthful energy.

Tranquil Direction: Turn into Wuyuan Road, a quieter street with a more local vibe.

📸 Trendy Check-in & Classic Landmarks

Wukang Mansion: A must-photograph landmark with different charm by day and night.

Romeo Balcony: Satisfies your girlish and artistic feelings.

Wukang Court: A perfect spot for photos, afternoon tea, and enjoying a bourgeois atmosphere.

🎈 Shopping & Leisure

Dayin Bookstore (Ground floor of Wukang Mansion): A themed specialty bookstore where you can buy cultural and creative products related to Wukang Mansion.

LOOKNOW & Other Boutiques (Anfu Road): Home to many designer brands and trendy shops, a paradise for fashion lovers.

💡 Practical Tips (Useful Information)

🚗 Transportation Guide:

Metro: Preferably Jiaotong University Station (Lines 10/11) or Shanghai Library Station (Line 10).

Bus: You can take buses to Middle Huaihai Road Wukang Road or Huashan Road Wukang Road stops.

Best Way to Explore: Walking or cycling. Shared bikes are the best tool to explore this area.

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays, when the crowds are relatively smaller. Weekends and holidays are very crowded.

🌈 Nearby Recommendations

Anfu Road: A hub for trends, theater, and trendy shops.

Wuyuan Road: More local life atmosphere, suitable for a leisurely stroll.

Soong Ching Ling’s Former Residence: Located diagonally opposite Wukang Mansion (1843 Middle Huaihai Road), can be visited together to feel the historical depth.