French Concession Historic District (法租界历史街区)

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Overview

The historic district of Shanghai’s former French Concession roughly lies at the junction of today’s Huangpu District and Xuhui District, centered around the “Hengshan Road–Fuxing Road Historical and Cultural Style Area”, extending outward into a whole neighborhood of small streets affectionately nicknamed the “Wutong Area” by locals: Wukang Road, Anfu Road, Yongjia Road, Fumin Road, Julu Road, Sinan Road, Nanchang Road, Middle Fuxing Road, Gao’an Road, Hunan Road, Yongfu Road, Wuyuan Road, and more. This is not a single attraction but a large open urban neighborhood without walls, resembling a huge open-air art gallery and city living room. It is a favorite spot for foreign tourists and a place locals love to stroll through again and again — Shanghai’s “soulful neighborhood.”

History and Urban Transformation

After Shanghai opened as a treaty port in the mid-19th century, the French carved out their own concession separate from the British and American concessions, forming the French Concession. In the early 20th century, the French Municipal Council began large-scale “land reclamation and road construction”, transforming river networks and farmland into modern urban blocks. After the third expansion in 1914, the layout was basically finalized: extending east to the area around South Shaanxi Road, west to Huashan Road and Gao’an Road, south to Zhaojiabang Road, and north to Middle Huaihai Road and Julu Road. This area was the first in China to introduce modern urban facilities such as running water, electric lighting, telephones, sewage systems, apartment living, garden villas, cinemas, and record companies. It became one of the earliest regions in modern China where a “modern lifestyle” appeared in large scale.

By the 1930s, this area had become one of Shanghai’s most upscale residential districts: garden houses, apartment buildings, new-style lilong lanes, and Shikumen houses densely populated the area. Residents ranged from expatriates from France, Britain, Italy, and the U.S. to Chinese political figures, industrialists, and cultural elites — encompassing nearly all the power and cultural elites of modern China. The architectural styles were extremely diverse, earning it the nickname “Architectural World Expo” by many scholars:

• Around Wukang Road: Spanish-style and French Renaissance old mansions, Art Deco Cape Town Apartments and Guofu Gate Apartments, Mediterranean-style Italian consulate residences;
• Middle Fuxing Road: Nanchang Building and Elizabeth Apartments designed by Russian architects, Baroque and “Black Stone” mixed-style Black Stone Apartments;
• Along Sinan Road: British-style garden residences, Wallace Residence with Islamic domes, Spanish-style villas, Jiangnan garden-style courtyards;
• No. 150 Fenyang Road “White Residence”: An early work by architect László Hudec, a French Renaissance style garden house with pearl-white brushed stone exterior, once the official residence of Bai Chongxi, now home to the Shanghai Huju Opera Theatre;
• Middle Fuxing Road “Little White House”: Former French Concession Municipal Council director’s residence, now the Shanghai Arts and Crafts Museum, featuring pure white curved staircases and floor-to-ceiling windows with elegant French style.

Walking here feels like browsing a three-dimensional encyclopedia of Shanghai-style architecture in an open-air architectural museum.

Famous Figures and Modern History Stage

The French Concession was not only an architectural showcase but also an important stage for modern Chinese political and cultural history:

• Wukang Road, just 1.17 kilometers long, has 37 existing historic buildings and is called “Shanghai’s Modern Architecture Museum”:
  • Soong Ching-ling spent her later years at 1843 Middle Huaihai Road (淮海中路1843号);
  • Ba Jin wrote Random Thoughts at 113 Wukang Road (武康路113号);
  • Huang Xing planned anti-Yuan struggles at 393 Wukang Road Huang Residence (武康路393号黄公馆);
  • The Hunan Villa served as a temporary residence for leaders like Deng Xiaoping and Chen Yi;
  • The March of the Volunteers was recorded at Baidi Little Red House near Hengshan Road.
• Sinan Road and Xiangshan Road:
  • No. 36 Sinan Road was the former residence of anti-Japanese general Yang Sen;
  • No. 41 Wallace Residence features Islamic domes and spiral columns;
  • No. 73 Zhou Residence is the memorial hall of the CCP delegation office in Shanghai;
  • No. 7 Xiangshan Road is Sun Yat-sen’s former residence, witnessing six years of life with Soong Ching-ling in Shanghai.
• Middle Fuxing Road:
  • The former site of Tongji German Medical and Engineering School, the origin of Tongji University;
  • Black Stone Apartments once claimed to be “China’s best apartments,” now part of the Black Stone M+ cultural complex.

Every building and every window carries stories of people and events, serving as “living archives” of the city’s history.

Today’s Atmosphere: The Daily Soul Under the Wutong Trees

Compared to grand narratives, what moves people most about today’s French Concession is its lively everyday atmosphere. Wukang Road, Anfu Road, Yongjia Road, Fumin Road, Julu Road, Hengshan Road, Xinhua Road, and others are collectively known by locals and tourists as the “Wutong Area”:

• French plane trees (wutong) arch overhead, forming natural canopies;
• Approximately 3.5-meter-wide sidewalks are extremely “pedestrian-friendly”;
• Sidewalk cafes, boutique shops, and sudden lilong alley entrances intertwine along the streets.

As someone said, “Where there are wutong trees overhead, that is Shanghai.” The Wutong Area is most comfortable from October to December, when streets like Wukang Road and Sinan Road keep their fallen leaves. Golden leaves contrast beautifully with red brick walls and old mansions, creating a “French film vibe” perfect for casual photos.

Hengshan Road was once known as the “Oriental Champs-Élysées” and was famous in the 1990s as a “bar street.” Today, bars have declined, and old mansions, churches, cinemas coexist with cafes and boutiques, blending Shanghai’s cosmopolitan charm with everyday life. Anfu Road, driven by venues like the Shanghai Dramatic Arts Centre, HARMAY, Duozhuayu (a secondhand bookstore), Wiggle Wiggle, and ANFU MARKET, has become a hub for “theatre + trendy lifestyle.”

Here, you can citywalk along different themed routes: the “Famous Residences Route” linking Soong Ching-ling’s, Ba Jin’s, Huang Xing’s, Zhou’s, and Sun Yat-sen’s former homes; the “Trendy Lifestyle Route” from Anfu Road’s hip shops to Wukang Court, LOOKNOW, Bear Coffee, and 2046 Coffee & Tea; or the “Architecture Enthusiast Route” along Middle Fuxing Road to check in at Nanchang Building, Tongji German Medical and Engineering School site, Elizabeth Apartments, Black Stone Apartments, Little White House, then on to Sinan Residences, Lilac Garden, and Fenyang Road’s White Residence. Whether you are a history buff, architecture lover, coffee fan, or photography enthusiast, the French Concession offers a rhythm all your own.

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Best Travel Seasons

The historic French Concession district is suitable to visit year-round, but the atmosphere varies significantly with the seasons, so you can choose the timing based on your preferences.

Autumn (October–December): The "Golden Sycamore Ceiling" Season

• Widely regarded as the peak beauty period for the sycamore tree area;
• Sycamore leaves change from green to yellow, and scenic streets like Wukang Road (武康路), Sinan Road (思南路), and Hengshan Road (衡山路) deliberately retain fallen leaves;
• Golden fallen leaves cover the sidewalks, creating a strong contrast with red brick walls and gray old Western-style houses, making every snapshot look like a "French movie scene";
• Many bloggers recommend planning ahead before the leaves fully turn yellow, then visiting in early December when the entire Wukang Road is covered in golden sycamores—perfect for photos and family strolls;
• The sunlight is soft, and 3:00–5:00 PM is the best time to capture the light and shadow of the sycamores, especially around Anfu Road (安福路), Wukang Road, and Yongjia Road (永嘉路), where backlit portraits look fantastic.

Ideal for: Photography enthusiasts, couples, families with children, and first-time visitors to Shanghai wanting to capture stunning shots.

Winter (December–February): The Season of Quiet and Light

• Fewer tourists, and the district regains more of its "local daily life" feel;
• Streets like Hengshan Road, Gao’an Road (高安路), Hunan Road (湖南路), Yongfu Road (永福路), and Wuyuan Road (五原路) are less crowded and beautiful, perfect for leisurely walks;
• After the sycamore leaves fall, architectural details become fully visible—red tiles, gray walls, and wrought iron railings gain texture in the cold air;
• Low-angle winter sunlight filters through branches, creating dappled light and shadow, ideal for street and architectural photography;
• Shanghai winters are damp and cold, so prepare warm coats, scarves, and gloves, and be mindful of indoor-outdoor temperature differences.

Ideal for: Travelers who dislike crowds and prefer light and architectural details.

Spring (March–April): Fresh Greenery and Floral Shadows

• Sycamores just sprout new leaves, allowing light to penetrate the canopy, so streets are green but not too shaded;
• Suitable for long city walks without feeling stuffy or hot;
• Parks like Fuxing Park (复兴公园) and Lilac Garden (丁香花园), along with garden villa areas, flourish with blooming lilacs, magnolias, and roses in succession;
• Spring is also a great time for exhibitions and theater: stroll during the day on Wukang Road and Sinan Road, and in the evening visit the Shanghai Dramatic Arts Centre (上海话剧艺术中心) or attend cultural events like the Sinan Book Club (思南读书会) and Sinan Art Appreciation Club (思南赏艺会).

Ideal for: Visitors who want a balance of comfortable weather, walking, and cultural activities.

Summer (May–September): Natural Shade Under the Sycamores

• Although hot and humid, the fully spread sycamore canopy forms a natural shade, making it a great spot for "summer city walks";
• Many cafes offer outdoor seating, where you can enjoy coffee or beer by the roadside in the evening and experience the slow pace of old Shanghai;
• UV rays are strong in the afternoons of July and August, so avoid midday and choose mornings or evenings for outings;
• Bring sunscreen, sun hats, sunglasses, and lightweight long sleeves, and stay hydrated.

Ideal for: Visitors who enjoy shady green corridors and evening street-side drinks.

Overall Timing Recommendations

• For shooting “golden sycamores + old Western-style houses” masterpieces: Best from October to December;
• For shaded summer walks: May to September, preferably early morning or evening;
• For a balance of comfort and fewer crowds: March to April and weekdays from late December to February;
• On holidays and weekend afternoons (National Day, May Day, Spring Festival, regular weekends), popular spots like Wukang Mansion (武康大楼), Anfu Road, and Sinan Mansions (思南公馆) may have queues for photos. It’s recommended to visit on weekdays or early mornings for a more relaxed experience.

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Arrival and Transportation

The French Concession historic district covers a large area, generally centered around the "Hengfu Historical and Cultural Style Area," and can be roughly divided into two parts:

• Western section (towards Xuhui/Jing’an): Around Wukang Road (武康路), Anfu Road (安福路), Yongjia Road (永嘉路), Fumin Road (富民路), and Julu Road (巨鹿路);
• Eastern section (towards Huangpu): Around Sinan Road (思南路), Fuxing Middle Road (复兴中路), and Nanchang Road (南昌路).

The metro coverage is excellent, and "metro + walking" is highly recommended as the main mode of transport, with citywalk being the best way to explore internally.

1. Key Metro Stations and Recommended Exits

Jiaotong University Station (Lines 10 / 11) — Wukang Road, Wukang Mansion, Soong Ching Ling’s Former Residence

• Suitable for: Wukang Mansion, southern section of Wukang Road, Soong Ching Ling’s Former Residence, Fuxing West Road area;
• Recommended exit: Exit 7 (tested by bloggers: from Exit 7 of Jiaotong University Station on Lines 10/11, it’s about a 10-minute walk to Wukang Mansion);
• Walking directions: After exiting, head north along Huashan Road or west along Middle Huaihai Road to reach Wukang Mansion at the intersection of Middle Huaihai Road and Wukang Road (1850 Middle Huaihai Road).

Changshu Road Station (Lines 1 / 7) — Anfu Road, Wulumuqi Middle Road, Fumin Road

• Suitable for: Anfu Road, Wulumuqi Middle Road, Yanqing Road, Fumin Road, Wuyuan Road area;
• Recommended exit: Exit 8 (multiple notes mention “Exit 8 of Changshu Road Station is about 300 meters walk to Gregorius SHADE at 53 Anfu Road”);
• Walking directions: After exiting, walk a short distance north or south along Changshu Road to connect to Anfu Road, Changle Road, Julu Road, etc.

Shaanxi South Road Station (Lines 1 / 10 / 12) — Fuxing Middle Road, Nanchang Road, West Section of Sinan Road

• Suitable for: Nanchang Road, Fuxing Middle Road, northern section of Sinan Road, Nanchang Mansion, Shanghai Arts and Crafts Museum “Little White House”;
• Walking directions: From any exit, head south to reach Fuxing Middle Road and Nanchang Road, or east to reach the northern section of Sinan Road;
• Architecture bloggers suggest: walk about 5 minutes from Shaanxi South Road Station to the start of Nanchang Road, then head west along Fuxing Middle Road, linking Nanchang Mansion, the former site of Tongji De Wen Medical Engineering School, Elizabeth Apartments, Blackstone Apartments, and more.

Hengshan Road Station (Line 1) — Hengshan Road, Gao’an Road, Dongping Road, Western Section of Yongjia Road

• Suitable for: Hengshan Road, Dongping Road, Gao’an Road, western section of Yongjia Road, Xujiahui Park area;
• Recommended exit: Exit 2 (bloggers have walked from Exit 2 of Hengshan Road Station along Hengshan Road → Gao’an Road → Hunan Road → Yongfu Road → Wuyuan Road → Changshu Road for a citywalk);
• Walking directions: Exit directly onto Hengshan Road; head east to connect to Dongping Road and Yongjia Road, or west to reach Xujiahui Park.

Huaihai Middle Road Station (Line 13) — Eastern Section of Julu Road, Huaihai Middle Road Shopping Street

• Suitable for: Eastern section of Julu Road, Huaihai Middle Road shopping street, west side of Xintiandi;
• Walking directions: About a 5-minute walk from the station to the eastern section of Julu Road; you can also walk south to the Xintiandi Shikumen district (though not in the traditional French Concession core, it shares the same style).

Jing’an Temple Station (Lines 2 / 7 / 14) — Western Section of Julu Road

• Suitable for: Western section of Julu Road, eastern section of Yuyuan Road;
• Walking directions: About a 5-minute walk from Jing’an Temple Station to the western end of Julu Road; then stroll eastwards linking plusone Coffee, Evernaked Naked Cake, Sof Garden, and more.

2. Departing from Major Transport Hubs

Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station / Hongqiao Airport

• Take Metro Line 10 directly to Jiaotong University Station or Shanghai Library Station, about 30–40 minutes without transfers;
• Exit from Exit 7 at Jiaotong University Station to walk into Wukang Road and Middle Huaihai Road areas;
• Exit at Shanghai Library Station to walk to Hengshan Road, Gao’an Road, Dongping Road, etc.

Shanghai Railway Station

• Take Line 1 to Shaanxi South Road Station, then walk to Nanchang Road, Fuxing Middle Road, Sinan Road areas;
• Or transfer at Shaanxi South Road Station to Line 10 for one stop to Jiaotong University Station to reach the Wukang Road—Anfu Road section.

Pudong International Airport

• Take Line 2 to Jing’an Temple Station, transfer to Line 7 for one stop to Changshu Road Station, which leads to Anfu Road, Wulumuqi Middle Road, Wuyuan Road, and northern Wukang Road;
• Or transfer at East Nanjing Road Station (南京东路站) to Line 10 directly to Jiaotong University Station for Wukang Road—Middle Huaihai Road areas.

3. Walking Inside the District and Typical Routes

The French Concession has a dense street network with a scale perfect for walking. Citywalk is the most recommended way. Typical walking routes include:

• Hengshan Road — Yongjia Road Route:

  • Hengshan Road No. 8 → Yongpingli → Libo Garden → Yongjia Road → Taiyuan Road → Yongkang Road (connecting points like Yongjia Road No. 271, Dongping Road, etc.).

• Fumin Road — Donghu Road — Xinle Road — Yongjia Road Route:

  • Fumin Road Paul Garden → Donghu Road × Yanqing Road Mint Green Apartments → Xinle Road Orthodox Church → Yongkang Road No. 88 → Xinxingshunli → Yongjia Road No. 271 → Dongping Road.

• Fuxing Middle Road — Sinan Road — Xiangshan Road Route:

  • 1195 Fuxing Middle Road Tongji De Wen Medical Engineering School former site → 1327 Elizabeth Apartments → 1331 Blackstone Apartments → Shanghai Arts and Crafts Museum “Little White House” → 53 Sinan Road Sinan Mansions → Zhou Mansion → 7 Xiangshan Road Sun Yat-sen’s Former Residence.

4. Driving and Parking Suggestions

• Streets in the French Concession are generally narrow, mostly one-way or two-lane roads, with limited and expensive roadside parking; driving deep into the small lanes is not recommended;
• Parking options include:
  • Hotels or public garages along Hengshan Road;
  • Public garages around Anfu Road;
  • Underground parking at Sinan Mansions, Lilac Garden parking lot, etc.;
• Bloggers remind: Shared bikes are not allowed to be ridden along Wukang Road; walking is the best way;
• On holidays, parking lots at major spots tend to be full, so allow extra time to find parking.

5. Combining with a Huangpu River Waterfront Itinerary

If you want to combine The Bund (外滩) — Pudong and the French Concession into a one-day tour, consider:

• Morning: The Bund’s historic buildings and Pudong Lujiazui;
• Noon: Take Metro Line 9 from the Lujia Bang Road area, transfer to Line 1 to Hengshan Road or Shaanxi South Road Station;
• Afternoon: Connect to a citywalk along Hengshan Road—Wukang Road—Anfu Road or Fuxing Middle Road—Sinan Road.

Overall, the French Concession is best “read on foot,” which suits the scale of the district and allows you to fully experience its atmosphere.

Tickets and Opening Hours

The French Concession historic district itself is an open urban area, with the vast majority of streets and building exteriors accessible for free, no tickets or reservations required, including:

• Main streets such as Wukang Road (武康路), Anfu Road (安福路), Yongjia Road (永嘉路), Fumin Road (富民路), Julu Road (巨鹿路), Hengshan Road (衡山路), Sinan Road (思南路), Nanchang Road (南昌路), and Middle Fuxing Road (复兴中路);
• The exterior facades and street views of most historic buildings.

You can stroll, take photos, and enter public shops and cafes anytime. However, some celebrity residences, museums, and cultural venues inside the district are indoor attractions with specific opening hours and ticket/reservation requirements.

1. Celebrity Residences and Red Memorial Halls

Soong Ching Ling Former Residence Memorial Hall (1843 Middle Huaihai Road 淮海中路1843号)

• A French-style villa with red tiles and white walls opposite Wukang Mansion, known as the “Mother of the Nation’s Home”;
• Currently follows a free admission but mandatory inspection policy (subject to official confirmation), requiring reservations through the official “Shanghai Celebrity Residences Memorial” or “Soong Ching Ling Former Residence Memorial” channels;
• Holiday reservations are tight; booking 1–2 days in advance is recommended;
• Opening hours are generally 9:00 AM–4:30 PM, with last entry at 4:30 PM; usually closed on Mondays (subject to official announcements).

Ba Jin Former Residence (113 Wukang Road 武康路113号)

• Free admission, usually requires advance online real-name reservation;
• Opening hours mostly 9:00 AM–4:30 PM, closed on Mondays;
• The residence preserves Ba Jin’s late-life study, bedroom, and living scenes, ideal for literature enthusiasts seeking an in-depth visit.

Zhou Mansion (73 Sinan Road 思南路73号)

• Memorial hall of the Communist Party delegation office in Shanghai, a red historical site;
• Generally free to visit, some time slots may require reservations, depending on current policies;
• It is recommended to check official channels like “Shanghai Red Memorial Halls” or “Huangpu Cultural Tourism” for the latest rules.

Sun Yat-sen Former Residence Memorial Hall (7 Xiangshan Road 香山路7号)

• Free admission, requires real-name reservation via the official mini-program;
• Limited slots during holidays, booking 1–3 days in advance is advised;
• Usually open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, closed on Mondays (subject to on-site notices).

2. Museums and Cultural Venues

Shanghai Arts and Crafts Museum (Middle Fuxing Road “Little White House” 复兴中路“小白宫”)

• Former French Concession Public Board director’s residence, now a museum specializing in arts and crafts;
• Generally charges a low admission fee of about ¥20 per person (~$3 USD) (subject to on-site confirmation);
• Exhibits include embroidery, jade carving, paper-cutting, and other intangible cultural heritage treasures; some temporary exhibitions may have additional fees;
• Students, seniors, military personnel, etc., can enjoy half-price or free admission with valid ID.

Shanghai Hu Opera Theater (150 Fenyang Road “White Mansion” 汾阳路150号“白公馆”)

• The building exterior is free to photograph;
• The interior is a theater and office space; tickets are required to watch performances;
• Ticket prices vary by show, ranging from tens to hundreds of yuan, purchasable via official ticket platforms or the theater’s website.

Shanghai Old House Art Center (393 Wukang Road Huang Mansion 武康路393号黄公馆)

• An art space converted from Huang Xing’s former residence;
• Some exhibitions charge admission, generally in the tens of yuan range, while some public areas are free;
• Specific ticket prices and opening hours vary with exhibition themes; follow the “Shanghai Old House Art Center” WeChat official account for the latest info.

Sinan Mansions District (思南公馆街区)

• Sinan Mansions itself is an open commercial and cultural district, free to enter;
• Some exhibitions or pop-up shops inside may charge separately, usually priced in the tens of yuan range;
• It’s recommended to check on-site notices at shops and exhibitions.

Sinan Bookstore · Poetry Shop (16 Gaolan Road, former Orthodox Church site 皋兰路16号东正教教堂旧址)

• The bookstore is free to enter, no ticket required;
• Closed on Wednesdays and usually closes around 5:00 PM;
• Ideal for quiet reading and photography; please respect the reading atmosphere.

3. Reservation and Discount Tips

• Most celebrity residences and red memorial halls (such as Soong Ching Ling Former Residence, Sun Yat-sen Former Residence, Zhou Mansion, etc.) are free to the public but require real-name reservations;
• Slots are tight on holidays and weekends; it’s recommended to book at least 1–2 days in advance via official mini-programs or websites;
• Students, seniors, military personnel, etc., can enjoy half-price or free admission at some paid museums (like Shanghai Arts and Crafts Museum) with valid ID;
• Many museums are closed on Mondays; before planning your visit, be sure to check official WeChat accounts like “Xuhui Cultural Tourism” or “Huangpu Cultural Tourism” or the venues’ websites for the latest opening hours and reservation rules.

Overall, the French Concession district itself has no ticket pressure, with most expenses focused on dining, coffee, and shopping. Cultural venues are mostly free or low-cost, making it perfect for a leisurely, in-depth exploration.

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Suggested Visit Duration

The French Concession historic district is extensive and layered, offering different time plans from quick visits to deep lifestyle experiences. Based on actual experience, you can refer to the following time plans:

1. Quick Check-in: 2–3 Hours

Suitable for: Visitors short on time, first-timers in Shanghai who don’t want to miss the highlights of the French Concession (法租界).

• Focus on Wukang Road (武康路) — Anfu Road (安福路):
  • Start: Metro Line 10/11, Jiaotong University Station (交通大学站), Exit 7 → walk to Wukang Building (武康大楼) at 1850 Huaihai Middle Road (淮海中路1850号) to photograph the iconic “Paper-thin Building”;
  • Depending on reservation, view the exterior of Soong Ching Ling’s Former Residence nearby;
  • Head north along Wukang Road to enjoy the plane tree shadows and old Western-style houses;
  • End by turning into Anfu Road, casually browse some trendy shops and cafes, then leave from Changshu Road Station (常熟路站).

Estimated time: About 2–3 hours to complete basic check-ins with a few stops.

2. Standard Tour: Half Day (4–6 Hours)

Suitable for: Most visitors who want to balance architecture, history, and coffee shops.

Choose any of the following routes or combine them:

• Route A: Wukang Road — Fuxing West Road — Anfu Road — Yanqing Road — Changle Road — Jing’an Temple
  Start from Wukang Building, stroll along Wukang Road’s “Golden Tunnel,” then walk along Fuxing West Road to see yellow historic buildings, browse shops on Anfu Road, and finally walk via Yanqing Road and Changle Road to Jing’an Temple Metro Station. You can dine at cafes or brunch spots along Wukang Road. Takes about 4–5 hours.

• Route B: Hengshan Road — Gao’an Road — Hunan Road — Yongfu Road — Wuyuan Road — Changshu Road
  Start at Hengshan Road Station (衡山路站), Exit 2, admire Sasha Garden, Shanghai International Chapel, Hengshan Hotel, Baidai Little Red House, Hengshan Cinema, then head north through Gao’an Road, Hunan Road, Yongfu Road, Wuyuan Road, ending at Changshu Road Station. Suitable for those who enjoy quiet and architectural details, about 4 hours.

• Route C: Fuxing Middle Road — Sinan Road — Xiangshan Road — Gaolan Road
  Start from Shaanxi South Road Station (陕西南路站), check in at Nanchang Building, former site of Tongji German Medical School, Elizabeth Apartments, Blackstone Apartments, Little White House, then turn into Sinan Road to visit Sinan Mansions, Zhou Mansion, Yang Sen’s Former Residence, Wallace Residence, and finally Sun Yat-sen’s Former Residence at No. 7 Xiangshan Road and Sinan Bookstore & Poetry Shop at No. 16 Gaolan Road. About 4–6 hours, ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts.

3. In-depth Exploration: A Full Day

Suitable for: Architecture lovers, photographers, and travelers who have visited Shanghai multiple times.

• Morning: Choose the Fuxing Middle Road — Sinan Road — Xiangshan Road line, focusing on architecture and celebrity residences;
• Afternoon: Shift to Wukang Road — Anfu Road — Wuyuan Road — Urumqi Middle Road, experience cafes and trendy shops;
• Evening: Head to Julu Road — Fumin Road area for dinner and drinks, soaking in the night atmosphere of the plane tree district.

Walking distance can easily exceed 10 km in a full day. Comfortable shoes are recommended, with 2–3 coffee or meal breaks planned.

4. Multi-day Leisure Tour: 2–3 Days by Sections

Suitable for: Deep travelers who want to truly “live in the French Concession” and experience the daily rhythm.

Divide the French Concession into several sections and explore slowly over multiple days:

• Section 1: Wukang Road — Anfu Road — Wuyuan Road — Urumqi Middle Road — Yongjia Road — Yongkang Road — Dongping Road;
• Section 2: Hengshan Road — Gao’an Road — Dongping Road — Yongjia Road — Xujiahui Park area;
• Section 3: Sinan Road — Fuxing Middle Road — Nanchang Road — Shaanxi South Road — Fenyang Road (Bai Gongguan / Shanghai Opera House) — Lilac Garden;
• Section 4: Julu Road — Fumin Road — Changle Road — Huaihai Middle Road — Xintiandi Shikumen District.

Each section can be arranged for half a day to a full day, interspersed with cafes, restaurants, bookstores, and exhibitions to truly experience the daily life in the plane tree district.

5. One-day Itinerary Combined with Other Attractions

• Plan 1: The Bund (外滩) + French Concession (法租界)
  Morning: The Bund’s international architecture cluster, Postal Museum, Zhapu Road Bridge; after lunch, take Metro Line 2 or 10, transfer to Line 1, get off at Hengshan Road or Shaanxi South Road; afternoon stroll along Hengshan Road — Wukang Road — Anfu Road; dinner and drinks in the evening at Anfu Road or Julu Road.

• Plan 2: Jing’an Temple (静安寺) — Yuyuan Road (愚园路) — Anfu Road — Wukang Road
  Morning: Jing’an Temple and Jing’an Park; afternoon: old Western-style houses and cafes on Yuyuan Road; evening: Anfu Road — Urumqi Middle Road — Wuyuan Road — Wukang Road — Wukang Building, photographing the “Paper-thin Building” lit up at night.

Summary:

• Just want to take photos and check in: 2–3 hours is enough;
• Want to “walk into” the French Concession: at least half a day recommended;
• Want to truly understand the history and life of this district: a 2–3 day segmented city walk is ideal.

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Must-See Highlights and Representative Neighborhoods

1. Wukang Road and Wukang Mansion

Wukang Road (approximately 1.17 km long)

• Built during the 1907 expansion of the French Concession, originally named Fukaisen Road, renamed Wukang Road in 1943 after the old county name "Wukang" in Zhejiang;
• Home to 37 historic buildings nestled under sycamore trees, known as the "Shanghai Museum of Modern Architecture";
• Features a variety of old Western-style houses including Spanish, French Renaissance, and Art Deco styles, forming one of the core sections of the "Sycamore District."

Wukang Mansion / Normandy Apartments (1850 Huaihai Middle Road)

• Designed by Hungarian architect László Hudec in 1924, it was Shanghai’s first exterior corridor-style apartment building;
• Its wedge-shaped floor plan resembles a giant ship and is also called the "Paper Clip Building," making it one of Shanghai’s most recognizable city landmarks;
• Former residents include film celebrities Zheng Junli and Wang Renmei;
• Photo spots:
  • On the sidewalk opposite the intersection of Xingguo Road and Wukang Road, use the sycamore trees as foreground and lean on the roadside railing for an old Shanghai magazine cover vibe;
  • The post office’s second floor across the street offers a classic overhead shot and a chance to get a commemorative postmark;
  • On rainy days, capture reflections on the wet pavement; on sunny days, shoot the street and building façade;
• The plaza outside the building prohibits long stays; please vacate immediately after shooting and pay attention to safety and order.

Other Wukang Road Highlights

• Soong Ching-ling’s Former Residence (1843 Huaihai Middle Road): A French-style villa with red tiles and white walls, known as the "Mother of the Nation’s Home," preserving Soong Ching-ling’s later life scenes inside;
• Ba Jin’s Former Residence (113 Wukang Road): A tranquil and elegant garden house where the book Random Thoughts was written;
• Huang Mansion / Shanghai Old House Art Center (393 Wukang Road): European countryside-style villa where Huang Xing planned anti-Yuan struggles in 1915, now an art exhibition space;
• Romeo Balcony (210 Wukang Road): Spanish-style balcony named for its resemblance to scenes from Romeo and Juliet, a romantic photo spot;
• Wukang Court (374–378 Wukang Road): An artistic enclave grown from Shikumen alleys, with red brick arches perfect for photos, housing a café and design shops inside;
• Former Cape Town Apartments & Guofu Gate Apartments: Typical Art Deco style buildings with geometric lines and ship-shaped forms, favored by architecture enthusiasts;
• Former Italian Consulate: Built in 1932 in Italian garden style, rich Mediterranean atmosphere with iron gates and façade ideal for photography;
• Hunan Villa and Ke Ling’s Former Residence: Homes of important historical figures, understated exteriors but rich stories.

2. Hengshan Road and Surrounding Buildings

• Hengshan Road was established in 1922, originally named Petain Road, once as famous as Rongle East Road and East Nanjing Road;
• Lined with over two thousand Western-style houses, including Shanghai International Chapel, Baidai Little Red House, Hengshan Hotel, Hengshan Cinema, etc.;
• In the 1990s, it was known as "Shanghai’s Bar Street," now a quiet avenue where old Western houses coexist with cafés.

Representative Buildings and Photo Spots:

• Sasha Garden: Red building, former residence of Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Mei-ling in Shanghai;
• Shanghai International Chapel: Ivy-covered exterior walls, church spire and sycamore shadows create a classic scene;
• Hengshan Hotel (525 Hengshan Road): European-style façade retaining the old Shanghai hotel charm inside;
• Hengshan Cinema & Baidai Little Red House: Baidai Little Red House was an important base for China’s early record industry, where famous songs like March of the Volunteers and The Fragrance of the Night were recorded.

3. Sinan Road and Sinan Mansions

Sinan Road

• Originally named Masne Road, built in 1914 to commemorate French composer Jules Massenet;
• About 1.4 km long, shaded by sycamores, called a "living history book of the city";
• Along the road are British garden residences, Islamic-style domed buildings, Spanish villas, and Jiangnan garden-style courtyards.

Typical Buildings:

• No. 36 Yang Sen’s Former Residence: Built in 1921, British-style garden house with Baroque porch and Ionic columns, Jiangnan garden courtyard on the south side;
• No. 41 Wallace Residence: 1920s Spanish-style garden house with Islamic domes, spires, spiral columns, stone lattice windows, black-and-white stripes, glazed tile inlays; now houses Shanghai Institute of Literature and History and Century magazine editorial office, not open to the public, exterior photos only;
• No. 73 Zhou Mansion: Memorial hall for the CCP delegation office in Shanghai, the only four-story building on the street with rich interior exhibits;
• No. 7 Xiangshan Road, Sun Yat-sen’s Former Residence: Two-story garden house surrounded by trees including holly, camphor, and magnolia, creating a tranquil atmosphere; Sun Yat-sen and Soong Ching-ling lived here from 1918 to 1924;
• No. 22/20/18 Jianguo Middle Road, Former Police Office Site: Consecutive addresses with exquisite interior architecture, good for exterior photography.

Sinan Mansions and Sinan Bookstore · Poetry Shop

• Sinan Mansions (around 53 Sinan Road):

  • A commercial and cultural complex composed of 37 outstanding historic buildings;
  • Architectural styles include British, French, Spanish, with pleasant courtyard and street scales;
  • Hosts events like Sinan Reading Club (nearly 500 sessions with several Nobel laureates as guests), Sinan Art Appreciation, Sinan Night Parties, attracting over 5 million visitors annually.

• Sinan Bookstore · Poetry Shop (16 Gaolan Road):

  • Converted from a 1932 Orthodox church;
  • Shanghai’s largest specialized poetry bookstore, offering about 1,000 multilingual poetry collections;
  • The church dome, bookshelves, and benches create a charming and ritualistic cultural experience.

4. Fuxing Middle Road Building Cluster (“Hudec Code” Route Core)

• Nanchang Building (151 Maoming South Road):

  • Built in 1933, originally named Asquith Apartments, designed by Russian architect Levin;
  • Wedge-shaped floor plan like a giant ship, cream and pale green bricks, geometric iron windows, stepped cornices with strong Art Deco style.

• Former Site of Tongji German Medical and Engineering School (1195 Fuxing Middle Road):

  • Founded in 1907 by German doctor Paul Unschuld, origin of Tongji University;
  • German-style red brick walls, curved balconies, arched porches, and Tuscan column details.

• Elizabeth Apartments (1327 Fuxing Middle Road):

  • Designed by Russian architect Li Wei in 1930, named after the Queen of Belgium;
  • I-shaped symmetrical layout, gray-white walls with red brick window frames, master-servant dual staircases reflecting the era.

• Blackstone Apartments (1331 Fuxing Middle Road):

  • Built in 1924 by American missionary Song He, once called "China’s best apartment";
  • Corinthian double-column porch and curved gable are imposing; now the Blackstone M+ cultural complex with bookstore and café, open for rest inside.

• Clement Apartments:

  • Built in 1928 by Belgian businessmen, 25 buildings with uniform red tile gables;
  • Corridors and courtyards evoke nostalgia; monthly rent was 125 silver dollars, equivalent to a regular employee’s annual salary;
  • Now houses the Xunyi Society Gallery continuing the artistic legacy.

• Shanghai Arts and Crafts Museum “Little White House”:

  • Built in 1905 as the French Concession Public Board director’s residence;
  • Pure white curved steps, floor-to-ceiling windows, garden lawn, and fountain exude French elegance;
  • Exhibits embroidery, jade carving, paper cutting, and other intangible cultural heritage crafts, a great place to learn about Jiangnan handicrafts.

5. Fenyang Road “White Mansion” (Shanghai Hu Opera Theater)

• Address: 150 Fenyang Road;
• An early work by Hudec, built in 1919, French Renaissance-style garden residence;
• Identity evolution:
  • Manager Pan Teng’s private residence of the Universal Savings Bank → Bai Chongxi’s official residence (exterior pearl white, hence the name "White Mansion," where writer Bai Xianyong lived as a youth) → Shanghai Chinese Painting Academy (Feng Zikai was director) → Shanghai Yue Opera Theater → Now Shanghai Hu Opera Theater;
• Architectural features:
  • Three-part symmetrical façade with brushed stone exterior walls;
  • Two-story main entrance with Ionic columns and semicircular porch, arched windows, curved windows, and rich lintel decorations;
  • Top floor curved large balcony with hollow iron railings, south lawn and oval pond echo the building’s curves.

6. Anfu Road and Theaters — Trendy Cluster

• Anfu Road is 862 meters long and one of Shanghai’s 64 “never to be widened” streets;
• Combines drama, art, and trendy lifestyle, known as the “Cosmic Internet Celebrity Center.”

Theater Buildings:

• Shanghai Dramatic Arts Center (288 Anfu Road): Formed by merging Shanghai People’s Art Theater and Youth Drama Troupe, the heart of Shanghai drama;
• 201 Anfu Road: Former Shanghai Youth Drama Troupe, English villa style;
• 284 Anfu Road: Former Shanghai People’s Art Theater, rumored to have housed writer Ding Ling, now a private residence, view and photograph from afar only.

Trendy Spaces:

• HARMAY: Industrial-style beauty warehouse with strong spatial sense;
• Duozhuayu Recycling Store: Secondhand books and vintage clothing collection, emphasizing environmental protection;
• Wiggle Wiggle Shanghai Flagship Store: Korean dopamine-style four floors, colorful windows are a must-shoot, top floor has a teddy bear café, family-friendly;
• ANFU MARKET: Gathering place for niche designer brands;
• Movie Time Bookstore: Perfect for a quiet end after shopping trendy stores.

7. Fumin Road & Julu Road Living District

• Fumin Road: Built in 1913, originally named Guba Road, renamed in 1943, a typical old French Concession residential street, low-key and quiet, old buildings mixed with new-style lilong in the Paul Garden section;
• Julu Road: Built in 1907, originally named Julai Da Road, one of the 64 “never to be widened” streets, shaded by sycamores, elegant and tranquil in the west section, bustling with local life in the east.

Representative Spaces and Shops:

• Julu Garden: Western-style villa cluster with multiple restaurants in the courtyard;
• Xiaohua Vintage: Four-story small Western-style vintage shop with one-on-one service, great for hunting retro items;
• Yaci: Song Dynasty Ru kiln-themed space, quiet and restrained;
• plusone Coffee: Roadside café with good views from the second-floor balcony;
• JULU758 & 695JULU: Trendy malls and bars focusing on dining and nightlife;
• Writer’s Bookstore: Next to Shanghai Writers Association, bookstore + café combo;
• DASH LAND, I AM and other bars: Strong atmosphere, with the shop dog “Security Captain Earl.”

8. Niche Experiences and Hidden Gems

• 2046 Coffee & Tea: Tea and coffee shop in an old Western-style house on a sycamore-lined street, decorated with a Wong Kar-wai movie vibe, perfect for those who love story-rich spaces;
• Sinan Bookstore · Poetry Shop: Reading poetry inside a restored Orthodox church, a highly ritualistic niche cultural experience;
• Huashan Road Pedestrian Bridge: Offers a bird’s-eye view of the Wukang Road area, a little-known city photo spot;
• Xinxing Shunli and New-style Lilong Clusters: Scattered around Yongjia Road, Yongkang Road, and Fumin Road, ideal for capturing Shanghai’s daily life and lilong textures.

These highlights can be freely combined to create your own “French Concession Urban Reading Route.”

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Practical Tips and Precautions

1. Time Selection and Pace Planning

• The best time to enjoy the beautiful light and shadows of the phoenix trees is 3:00–5:00 PM, especially on Anfu Road (安福路), Wukang Road (武康路), Yongjia Road (永嘉路), Sinan Road (思南路), etc. Backlighting works great for portrait photography;
• Wukang Mansion (武康大楼) has fewer people in the morning, but queues for photos increase noticeably after noon. To capture empty scenes, try to go early;
• In summer, avoid the midday heat by choosing morning or evening; in winter, be mindful of damp cold, shorten outdoor stays, and take advantage of cafes for breaks.

2. Clothing and Gear Suggestions

• Shoes must be comfortable flats or low heels, as walking around the French Concession (法租界) means covering several kilometers;
• Clothing: French-style shirts, floral dresses, trench coats, and biker jackets all pair well with the old Western-style houses;
• If planning to shoot “Republic of China era style” in Xintiandi (新天地) or Sinan Mansions (思南公馆), prepare qipaos or vintage dresses;
• For autumn and winter, scarves and hats are recommended for warmth and added style layers;
• Bring a lightweight camera or smartphone gimbal for convenient long shooting sessions.

3. Avoiding Crowds and Photography Etiquette

• Wukang Road, Anfu Road, Sinan Mansions, and Julu Road (巨鹿路) get very crowded on weekend afternoons. It’s best to visit on weekdays or early mornings, or schedule popular spots at the start or end of your day;
• The plaza outside Wukang Mansion prohibits long stays—take your photos quickly and move on. Never stand in the middle of the vehicle lane for photos; safety first;
• Most historic buildings are residential or office buildings (e.g., Nanchang Mansion, Elizabeth Apartments, Claremont Apartments, Wallace Residence). Do not trespass or make loud noises; photos should be taken from public sidewalks only;
• Trendy street shops on Anfu Road and Julu Road often have photo queues—keep your shooting time short and avoid blocking entrances or disturbing other customers.

4. Visiting Celebrity Former Residences and Museums

• Former residences of Soong Ching Ling (宋庆龄故居), Ba Jin (巴金故居), Sun Yat-sen (孙中山故居), Zhou Mansion (周公馆), etc., are free but require reservations, and most stop admitting visitors by 4:30 PM. It’s recommended to “visit former residences in the morning and stroll freely in the afternoon”;
• Many museums are closed on Mondays, so always check official WeChat accounts or mini-programs for opening hours before your trip;
• Sinan Bookstore & Poetry Shop (思南书局·诗歌店) is closed on Wednesdays and closes around 5:00 PM, so plan accordingly if you want to visit.

5. Photography Tips and Angles

• Use phoenix tree branches and leaves as foreground; have your subject stand at the boundary of shade and light spots to create a “French cinema feel”;
• For Wukang Mansion shots, try:
  • Low-angle shots to emphasize the “paper-thin building” shape;
  • Overhead shots from the second floor of the post office opposite;
  • Reflections on wet pavement on rainy days;
• The second-floor windowsill of the Shanghai Theatre Art Center on Anfu Road offers a relatively lesser-known vantage point for street views;
• Other great photo spots include the colorful window display at Wiggle Wiggle, the second-floor balcony of Plusone on Julu Road, the red brick archway at Sinan Mansions, and the twin-column porch of the Collins Building at Blackstone Apartments.

6. Safety and Respect

• The French Concession is an open neighborhood with mixed traffic and pedestrians. Always watch out for vehicles and non-motorized traffic, especially near intersections and crosswalks;
• Many old Western-style houses are still residences or official buildings (e.g., Shanghai Municipal Museum of Literature and History, Shanghai Huju Opera Theatre). Do not shoot facing residents’ windows for long periods or peek inside; respect privacy;
• There are many outdoor photo teams around Sinan Road and Wukang Road—avoid accidentally entering their shots. If you need to share a spot, communicate politely.

7. Transportation and Money-Saving Tips

• It’s recommended to download the “Metro Dadu Hui” App for QR code metro rides. Lines 1–13 basically cover all stations around the French Concession;
• The French Concession itself is free to explore. The biggest expenses are food and coffee, with average coffee/drink prices around ¥30–45 (~$4–7 USD). Boutiques and designer brands tend to be pricey, so browse a few times before deciding to buy;
• Follow official WeChat accounts or Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book) accounts like “Xuhui Cultural Tourism” (徐汇文旅), “Huangpu Cultural Tourism” (黄浦文旅), and “Wudake Password” (邬达克密码) for free or low-cost in-depth guided tours and architectural talks.

8. Other Reminders

• During phoenix tree season (autumn and winter), fallen leaves cover the ground and wet surfaces can be slippery—wear waterproof shoes and watch your step;
• Public restrooms in the French Concession are limited. The Wukang Road Tourist Information Center is one of the few public spots with toilets and a second-floor rest area, especially important for families with children;
• Popular areas like Sinan Mansions and Tianzifang (田子坊) get crowded on weekends. For “empty street” photos, choose overcast or light rainy days, which add to the old Shanghai atmosphere;
• Mosquitoes are more common in summer. Bring mosquito repellent spray or anti-itch cream, especially if you plan to stay in parks or garden villas.

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Food and Coffee Recommendations Around the French Concession

All the following shops are located in or near the French Concession area, suitable for pairing with routes like Wukang Road (武康路), Anfu Road (安福路), Sinan Road (思南路), Hengshan Road (衡山路), and Julu Road (巨鹿路). Prices are approximate per person and subject to change in-store.

1. Wukang Road—Anfu Road—Yongjia Road Area

1. Lao Mai Coffee (武康路)

• Type: Vintage-style café;
• Why Visit: Signature "Lao Mai Coffee," window seats overlooking Wukang Road street view, a classic resting spot on Wukang Road;
• Price: About ¥50–70 (~$7–10 USD);
• Best Time: Mid-morning or afternoon city walk break.

2. Baker & Spice (BS) Wukang Road Branch

• Type: Brunch & coffee;
• Recommended Dishes:
  • Burrata cheese Italian-style cured ham salad (large portion, good for sharing);
  • Blueberry cheesecake, matcha cookie croissant;
  • "Whole Orange C Americano": freshly squeezed from a whole orange, with black oolong and aromatic liqueur tea base, refreshing and cleansing;
  • "Sea Salt Light Cheese Latte": light cheese milk, about 1/3 the calories of regular cheese;
• Price: About ¥80–120 (~$11–17 USD);
• Highlight: Window seats with views of Wukang Mansion, great for both photos and dining.

3. Wiggle Wiggle Shanghai Flagship Store (安福路)

• Type: Korean-style dopamine boutique + bear-themed café;
• Features: Four floors of colorful space, bear-shaped coffee and desserts, very photogenic window displays and staircases;
• Price: About ¥40–80 (~$6–11 USD);
• Suitable For: Families with kids, visitors who love vibrant colors and photo spots.

4. Tieshou Coffee Manufacturing Bureau (永嘉路)

• Type: Specialty coffee;
• Highlight: Selected as one of the world's top 50 coffees, co-branded bookstore space with LV;
• Recommended Drinks:
  • Pistachio Dirty: natural flavor, no artificial essence, smooth and rich, "worth it from the first sip";
  • Yirgacheffe single origin: clean taste, mild flavor, good for daily drinking;
• Price: About ¥40–60 (~$6–9 USD);
• Tip: Very crowded on holidays, better for photo check-ins than long stays or work.

5. GATHERING Coffee (武康路137号)

• Type: New Chinese aesthetic café;
• Focus: Coffee and desserts, strong design sense, great for photos;
• Price: About ¥40–70 (~$6–10 USD);
• Good For: Short stops during a mid-section walk on Wukang Road.

6. Gregorius SHADE (安福路53号)

• Type: Café;
• Location: About 300 meters walk from Metro Line 1, Changshu Road Station Exit 8 (常熟路站8号口);
• Price: About ¥40–60 (~$6–9 USD);
• Atmosphere: Quiet and comfortable, perfect for a rest before or after strolling Anfu Road.

7. In Dough We Trust (永福路47-7号)

• Type: Bakery + coffee;
• Price: About ¥40–70 (~$6–10 USD);
• Route Tip: Convenient stop when walking Yongfu Road to Wuyuan Road, grab a coffee with freshly baked bread.

8. Coffee Bread Good Weather (永嘉路 area)

• Type: Coffee + bakery;
• Price: About ¥40–70 (~$6–10 USD);
• Highlight: Located on Yongjia Road, known as "Shanghai's most expensive little street," great street view and cozy interior for photos.

9. GOOSE ISLAND TAPROOM (around 永嘉路)

• Type: Craft beer gastropub;
• Price: About ¥120–200 (~$17–29 USD);
• Best For: Evening drinks paired with burgers, fried chicken, and other American-style snacks.

10. Jiang Zhanggui · Old Shanghai Benbang Cuisine (武康路—淮海中路 area)

• Type: Local Shanghai cuisine restaurant;
• Feature: Rich oily red sauce, classic Old Shanghai flavors;
• Price: About ¥80–150 (~$11–22 USD);
• Good For: Authentic local cuisine during or after a city walk on Wukang Road.

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2. Sinan Road—Middle Fuxing Road—Nanchang Road Area

1. Shenyuexuan Restaurant (inside Lilac Garden)

• Type: Traditional Chinese restaurant specializing in classic Cantonese cuisine;
• Environment: Located in Lilac Garden, combining old Shanghai garden house atmosphere with Cantonese dishes;
• Price: About ¥150–300 (~$22–43 USD);
• Best For: Large gatherings, business banquets, or family meals; reservation recommended.

2. Gluglu Popular Bakery (near Sinan Road "Sinan 30")

• Type: Bakery;
• Signature: Tiramisu egg tart and other desserts;
• Price: About ¥30–60 (~$4–9 USD);
• Good For: Grab a takeaway treat while walking Sinan Road, enjoy on a bench in Fuxing Park or Sinan Mansions.

3. Puer Dangjia Korean Restaurant (around Sinan Road)

• Type: Korean cuisine;
• Price: About ¥80–120 (~$11–17 USD);
• Good For: Changing up flavors with a hearty lunch or dinner near Sinan Mansions.

4. Zuixinghe Benbang Cuisine (Sinan Road area)

• Type: Local Shanghai cuisine;
• Feature: Rich oily red sauce, heavy-flavored Shanghai dishes;
• Price: About ¥80–150 (~$11–22 USD);
• Good For: Visitors wanting authentic Shanghai flavors in the Sinan Road area.

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3. Julu Road—Fumin Road Area

1. Evernaked Naked Cake (巨鹿路)

• Type: Dessert shop;
• Signature: Yangmei (Chinese bayberry), watermelon, rose cakes, and cookie bakes;
• Price: About ¥40–80 (~$6–11 USD);
• Highlight: Beautiful and tasty, perfect for photos and afternoon tea.

2. Sof Garden (巨鹿路)

• Type: French garden-style Western restaurant;
• Environment: Garden courtyard + villa space, very photogenic;
• Price: About ¥200–300 (~$29–43 USD);
• Best For: Dates, anniversaries, or small group dinners.

3. plusone Coffee (巨鹿路)

• Type: Café;
• Feature: Street-side seats and second-floor balcony, chill atmosphere;
• Price: About ¥40–70 (~$6–10 USD);
• Good For: Sitting down to relax and people-watch during an afternoon walk on Julu Road.

4. LEACH Milk Tea (巨鹿路)

• Type: Milk tea shop;
• Signature: Taiwanese Dong Ding Oolong milk tea;
• Price: About ¥20–35 (~$3–5 USD);
• Good For: Grab-and-go drink during a city walk.

5. PASS RESIDENCE (巨鹿路)

• Type: Boutique Western restaurant with a refined vibe;
• Dishes: Creative Western cuisine with exquisite plating;
• Price: About ¥200–300 (~$29–43 USD);
• Good For: Couples’ dates or small gatherings with friends.

6. DASH LAND, 695JULU, I AM and other bars (巨鹿路)

• Type: Bars and pubs;
• Offerings: Cocktails, beer, and snacks;
• Price: About ¥80–150 (~$11–22 USD);
• Highlight: Strong atmosphere, some have resident dogs like “Security Captain Al,” great for night drinks.

7. Maoerben, bistro11, Zetian Benjia (富民路)

• Type:
  • Maoerben: Coffee/brunch;
  • bistro11: Pub;
  • Zetian Benjia: Japanese cuisine/izakaya;
• Price: About ¥80–200 (~$11–29 USD);
• Good For: Choose one for a sit-down during a walk on Fumin Road to enjoy a boutique lifestyle vibe.

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4. Hengshan Road—Dongping Road Area

1. Hengshan Hotel (衡山路525号)

• Type: Established hotel with Chinese and Western restaurants;
• Price: About ¥150–300 (~$22–43 USD);
• Good For: Formal dining or afternoon tea, experience old Shanghai hotel atmosphere.

2. Dongping Road “Baiqiu” and other small shops

• Type: Cafés and casual dining;
• Price: About ¥60–120 (~$9–17 USD);
• Highlight: Quiet and elegant Dongping Road, perfect for leisurely eating, drinking, and taking photos.

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5. Other Specialty Coffee and Tea Drinks

1. 2046 Coffee & Tea (in an old villa on Wutong Street, French Concession)

• Type: Tea + coffee shop;
• Style: Wong Kar-wai movie vibe, lighting and decor full of stories;
• Price: About ¥50–80 (~$7–11 USD);
• Good For: Visitors who love cinematic atmosphere and want a quiet chat in an old villa.

2. HeyBarista (Hengshan House, 20 meters west of the intersection of Tianping Road and Hengshan Road)

• Type: Café;
• Price: About ¥35–60 (~$5–9 USD);
• Good For: Coffee break during a Hengshan Road city walk.

3. POLLY Coffee (No. 1221 Yan’an West Road, F1, Pantai Building)

• Type: Coffee and desserts;
• Location: Slightly west but still within the extended old French Concession area;
• Price: About ¥40–70 (~$6–10 USD);
• Good For: Travelers staying near Yan’an West Road who want to experience the old French Concession vibe.

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6. Local Shanghai Cuisine and Snacks Around Middle Huaihai Road (can be combined with French Concession itinerary)

• Classic local Shanghai or dim sum shops like Hu Xi Old Alley Noodle Shop, Lanxin Restaurant, Guangming Village Fresh Meat Mooncakes, Weixiangzhai, Ruifuyuan, Xiaoping Restaurant, mostly located near Middle Huaihai Road and the Jing’an/Huangpu border;
• Price: About ¥30–100 (~$4–14 USD);
• Good For: When linking Wukang Road—Anfu Road—Middle Huaihai Road routes, enjoy authentic Shanghai noodles, xiaolongbao, and mooncakes along the way.

Overall, the dining scene in the historic French Concession area mainly features cafés, brunch spots, boutique Western restaurants, local Shanghai cuisine, and creative eateries, with prices ranging from ¥30 for coffee to ¥300 for full meals. It’s recommended to mark a few favorite places on your map in advance and eat as you stroll to avoid long queues during peak hours.

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Accommodation Recommendations and Location Tips

The French Concession historic district spans Xuhui and Huangpu, offering a wide range of accommodations from high-end five-star hotels to stylish boutique guesthouses. When choosing where to stay, it’s best to prioritize: close to the metro + within walking distance of the Wutong (梧桐) area.

1. Core Experience Area: Hengshan Road—Xujiahui—Wukang Road Area

Suitable for: Travelers with a mid-to-high budget who want an in-depth experience of the Wutong area.

• Advantages:

  • Close to major Wutong avenues like Hengshan Road, Dongping Road, Yongjia Road, and Wukang Road;
  • Walking distance to the heart of the French Concession, where you can enjoy the shade of Wutong trees in the early morning and evening;
  • Quiet environment with lush greenery and well-developed living facilities.

• Representative Hotels:

  • Hengshan Hotel (525 Hengshan Road 衡山路525号): One of Shanghai’s six historic hotels, featuring classic European architecture, with Chinese and Western restaurants and a bar inside—perfect for guests who love old Shanghai charm;
  • Hengshan Garden Hotel: Highly recommended by many bloggers; starting your morning or evening stroll along Hengshan Road from here is an ideal way to experience “living in the Wutong area”;
  • Several boutique hotels and serviced apartments nearby, mostly located in the alleys of Gao’an Road, Dongping Road, and Yongjia Road, offering quiet and intimate environments though with fewer rooms.

• Price Range: Approximately ¥700–1500 per night (depending on season and room type).

2. Anfu Road—Changshu Road—South Shaanxi Road Area

Suitable for: Young travelers or couples seeking a lifestyle vibe and great photo spots.

• Advantages:

  • Located at the intersection of Wukang Road, Anfu Road, Julu Road, and Fumin Road;
  • Walking distance to most popular small streets and cafes;
  • Convenient metro access with Lines 1, 7, 10, 12, and 13 intersecting nearby.

• Accommodation Types:

  • Design hotels and high-quality guesthouses converted from old Western-style houses, scattered around Anfu Road, Middle Urumqi Road, Fumin Road, and Julu Road;
  • Small number of rooms with strong design aesthetics, perfect for guests who enjoy taking photos and a slow-paced stay.

• Price Range: Mostly ¥600–1200 per night.

3. Sinan Road—Xintiandi—Middle Huaihai Road Area

Suitable for: Travelers with a comfortable budget who want a mix of business and leisure.

• Advantages:

  • Close to Sinan Mansions, Zhou Mansion, Sun Yat-sen’s Former Residence, Fuxing Park, and the Xintiandi Shikumen district;
  • Combines historical atmosphere with nightlife and shopping;
  • Walking distance to the eastern French Concession areas like Nanchang Road, South Shaanxi Road, and Middle Fuxing Road.

• Representative Accommodations:

  • High-star hotels around Xintiandi (such as Andaz, Langham), with full facilities, suitable for business and vacation stays;
  • A few boutique hotels and serviced apartments near Sinan Road, often tucked away in side streets and garden villas, offering good privacy.

• Price Range: Mid-to-high to high-end, approximately ¥900–2000 per night or more.

4. Convenient for Citywide Travel: Jing’an Temple—West Nanjing Road Area

Suitable for: First-time visitors to Shanghai who want to explore the French Concession while also easily accessing The Bund (外滩) and other central city attractions.

• Advantages:

  • Jing’an Temple is an interchange station for Metro Lines 2, 7, and 14, making travel to The Bund, Lujiazui, and Hongqiao Airport convenient;
  • Numerous shopping centers and dining options nearby;
  • Close by bike or metro to Wukang Road, Anfu Road, and Yuyuan Road.

• Experience:

  • Morning strolls in Jing’an Park, watching locals practice Tai Chi;
  • Shopping at the West Nanjing Road commercial area during the day, then citywalking in the French Concession in the afternoon or evening.

• Price Range: Mostly mid-to-high range, about ¥600–1500 per night.

5. Transportation Hub Convenience: People’s Square—East Nanjing Road Area

Suitable for: Travelers with a moderate budget who want extremely convenient transportation and easy access to the whole city.

• Advantages:

  • People’s Square is a transfer station for Metro Lines 1, 2, and 8, making it easy to get anywhere;
  • About a 10-minute walk to East Nanjing Road (南京东路), with many convenience stores and late-night snack options nearby;
  • Just a few stops on Line 1 to South Shaanxi Road or Hengshan Road, or transfer via Lines 2 or 13 to Jing’an Temple, Middle Huaihai Road, and Xintiandi.

• Price Range: From budget to high-end hotels, approximately ¥300–1200 per night.

6. Cost-Effective Options: Chain Hotels and Apartments Along Metro Lines

If your budget is limited but you want to stay close to the French Concession, consider:

• Along Line 1: Chain hotels or apartment hotels near Xujiahui and Dapuqiao;
• Along Line 10: Mid-range hotels and serviced apartments near Shanghai Library Station.

These areas are just 2–3 metro stops away from core areas like Wukang Road and Sinan Road, with prices mostly around ¥300–600 per night, offering great value.

7. Location Tips

• If your main focus is the French Concession:
  • Prioritize hotels or guesthouses around Hengshan Road—Wukang Road—Anfu Road—Sinan Road, so you can citywalk on foot without frequent metro rides;
• If it’s your first time in Shanghai and your itinerary includes The Bund, Lujiazui, museums, etc.:
  • Stay near Jing’an Temple or People’s Square, use the metro to reach the whole city, and dedicate half a day or a full day to explore the French Concession;
• When booking, check the walking distance on the map to the nearest metro stations (such as Jiaotong University, Hengshan Road, Changshu Road, South Shaanxi Road, Middle Huaihai Road, Jing’an Temple), aiming for within 10 minutes on foot to ensure comfort during rainy or nighttime travel.

Overall, as long as you prioritize "close to the metro + walking distance to the Wutong area," you can easily and deeply enjoy this soulful old Shanghai neighborhood.

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Sample One-Day Itinerary: From Architecture to Coffee in the French Concession Citywalk

The following is a walking route perfect for first-time visitors to Shanghai who want to deeply experience the French Concession in a full day. It can be flexibly shortened or split into morning and afternoon sessions depending on the season and your energy level.

Morning: Wukang Road — Anfu Road Classic Route (Architecture + Celebrity Residences)

08:30–09:00 Arrive at Wukang Mansion

• Take Metro Lines 10 or 11 to Jiaotong University Station (交通大学站), exit from Exit 7;
• Walk west along Huaihai Middle Road for about 10 minutes to reach Wukang Mansion at the intersection of Huaihai Middle Road and Wukang Road (淮海中路1850号);
• Take a set of photos of the iconic "paper-thin building" from the diagonal corner:
  • Spot 1: On the sidewalk opposite the intersection of Xingguo Road and Wukang Road, with sycamore trees in the foreground;
  • Spot 2: From the second floor of the post office across the street, shoot from above (you can also get a commemorative postmark here).

09:00–10:30 Soong Ching Ling’s Former Residence + Stroll Along the Southern Section of Wukang Road

• Walk to Soong Ching Ling’s Former Residence (淮海中路1843号). If you have a prior reservation, you can enter and tour for about 40–60 minutes to learn about her later life;
• After the visit, head north along Wukang Road, slowly passing by:
  • The old post office at the corner with shadows of sycamore trees;
  • If time allows, find a café along Wukang Road (such as Old McCafé or GATHERING 集雅) to sit for 20–30 minutes and soak in the street scene and foot traffic.

10:30–12:00 Ba Jin’s Former Residence — Romeo Balcony — Huang Mansion — Wukang Court

• Continue north along Wukang Road, viewing in order:

  • Ba Jin’s Former Residence (武康路113号): enter if you have a reservation; otherwise, quietly take photos outside;
  • Romeo Balcony (武康路210号): find a good angle on the opposite sidewalk to photograph the Spanish-style balcony;
  • Huang Mansion / Shanghai Old House Art Center (武康路393号): decide whether to enter based on current exhibitions;
  • Wukang Court (武康路374–378号): walk through the red brick archway to experience the blend of Shikumen alleys and modern commerce; you can briefly stay inside the courtyard.

• Around 12:00, turn from the northern end of Wukang Road onto Anfu Road to prepare for lunch and the afternoon itinerary.

Midday: Lunch and Trendy Shops on Anfu Road

12:00–13:30 Lunch on Anfu Road

• Choose a restaurant or café on or near Anfu Road for lunch, for example:
  • For brunch: Baker & Spice Wukang Road branch nearby;
  • For a light meal: there are many light food and coffee shops on Anfu Road;
• After eating, casually stroll along Anfu Road:
  • Visit HARMAY 話梅 to experience the industrial-style beauty space;
  • Browse secondhand books and vintage clothing at DuoZhuaYu Circular Shop (多抓鱼循环商店);
  • Check out the colorful window displays and teddy bear café at Wiggle Wiggle Shanghai Flagship Store;
  • Explore niche designer brands at ANFU MARKET.

13:30–14:00 Coffee Break

• If tired from walking, rest at Gregorius SHADE (安福路53号) with a coffee or tea to recharge;
• On hot days, choose a window seat or a cool indoor spot and organize the photos taken in the morning.

Afternoon: Fuxing Middle Road — Sinan Road — Xiangshan Road (Architecture + Revolutionary History)

14:00–14:30 Head to Shaanxi South Road Station

• Walk from Anfu Road to Changshu Road Station (常熟路站), take Metro Line 1 or 10 to Shaanxi South Road Station (陕西南路站);
• After exiting, walk along Nanchang Road or Fuxing Middle Road to officially enter the eastern section of the French Concession.

14:30–16:00 Fuxing Middle Road Architectural Complex

• Check in at these spots in order:
  • Nanchang Building (茂名南路151号): find a good angle at the corner to photograph its wedge-shaped layout and Art Deco details;
  • Walk west along Fuxing Middle Road, viewing externally:
    • Former Site of Tongji German Medical and Engineering School (复兴中路1195号);
    • Elizabeth Apartments (复兴中路1327号);
    • Black Stone Apartments (复兴中路1331号): you can enter the bookstore and café inside the Black Stone M+ cultural complex and sit for 20–30 minutes;
  • If time and interest permit, visit the Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts “Little White House” for about 40–60 minutes to learn about Jiangnan crafts and intangible cultural heritage.

16:00–17:30 Sinan Road — Zhou Mansion — Sun Yat-sen’s Former Residence

• Turn from Fuxing Middle Road onto Sinan Road, viewing in sequence:
  • No. 36 Yang Sen’s Former Residence;
  • No. 41 Wallace Residence (exterior photos only);
• Arrive at Sinan Mansions area (around Sinan Road 53), find a café or dessert shop in the neighborhood for a short break;
• Depending on reservations and opening hours, visit:
  • Zhou Mansion (Sinan Road 73) to learn about the history of the CCP delegation’s activities in Shanghai;
  • Walk to No. 7 Xiangshan Road, Sun Yat-sen’s Former Residence, tour for about 40–60 minutes to feel the political atmosphere of modern China.

17:30–18:00 Wrap up at Sinan Bookstore · Poetry Shop (if time allows)

• If not yet closed, walk to Sinan Bookstore · Poetry Shop at 16 Gaolan Road (皋兰路16号);
• Browse poetry collections inside the restored Orthodox church, quietly concluding your day’s journey.

Evening: Dinner and the Nighttime Charm of the Sycamore District

18:00–19:30 Dinner Options

• If still around Sinan Road, you can choose:

  • Zui Xing He for rich, hearty Shanghai-style home cooking;
  • Or return to Shen Yue Xuan Restaurant inside Lilac Garden for classic Cantonese cuisine (reservation recommended).

• If you want to experience nightlife, take the metro or a taxi to Julu Road — Fumin Road:

  • Have dinner at Sof Garden or PASS RESIDENCE;
  • After dinner, enjoy a drink at chill bars like DASH LAND, 695JULU, I AM, soaking in the French Concession’s night vibe.

Pace and Tips

• The entire route involves a long walk; wear comfortable shoes and plan 2–3 coffee or meal breaks;
• On rainy days, shorten outdoor sections and spend more time in museums, cafés, and bookstores;
• For a half-day trip, choose either:
  • Morning only: Wukang Road — Anfu Road;
  • Or afternoon only: Fuxing Middle Road — Sinan Road — Xiangshan Road, based on your interests.

With this one-day route, you can read through Shanghai’s modern history under the sycamore trees and feel the city’s everyday soul amid the aroma of coffee and the rustle of book pages.