Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街)

南京路步行街

PopularUpdated 2026-02-14

📋Overview

Overview

南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) is located in Huangpu District, Shanghai, connecting People's Square (人民广场) in the west to The Bund (外滩) in the east. It is one of Shanghai's most iconic commercial streets, renowned as the "Number One Commercial Street in China." Strictly speaking, the commonly referred "Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street" is the section of East Nanjing Road from People's Square to The Bund, stretching about 1,528 meters long, with a road width of 18–28 meters. The central "golden belt" most frequently walked on by pedestrians is about 4.2 meters wide. This area has no fences or gates, is open 24 hours a day and completely free, making it a truly open urban public space and a "city living room."

History and Urban Memory

Nanjing Road was originally a small lane called "Parker Lane" (派克弄). After Shanghai opened as a treaty port in the mid-19th century, with the British Concession expanding westward and the rise of Huangpu River shipping trade, this area quickly developed into one of modern Shanghai's earliest core commercial streets. It was officially named "Nanjing Road" in 1865. By the early 20th century, it had formed the famous "Four Major Companies" — Yongan Company, Daxin Company, Xinxin Company, and Xianshi Company, corresponding to today's Yongan Department Store, First Department Store, First Food Store, and Shanghai Fashion Store, laying the foundation for Nanjing Road's status as the "Number One Commercial Street in the Far East."

Today, standing on Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, on one side you see century-old department stores like First Department Store, Yongan Department Store, First Food Store, and Shanghai Fashion Store, while on the other side are modern shopping centers such as New World City, Shanghai Shimao Plaza, New World Daimaru Department Store, Hengji Celebrity Shopping Center, and Hongyi International Plaza. The street is lined with early 20th-century European-style facades and Art Deco exterior walls, alongside contemporary glass curtain wall buildings. Even the manhole covers underfoot are engraved with iconic Shanghai buildings from different eras, ranging from the Bund's international architecture cluster to the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Grand Theatre. Detail lovers and urban culture enthusiasts can enjoy a "head-down archaeology" walk.

Nanjing Road has witnessed Shanghai's transformation from the concession-era "ten-mile foreign settlement" to the state-owned department store era after the founding of the People's Republic of China, and then to the commercial prosperity and consumption upgrade following the reform and opening-up. After the popular TV drama "繁花 (Blossoms)" aired, key scenes featuring locations like Shanghai Fashion Store, Yongan Department Store, and Peace Hotel—all centered around East Nanjing Road and The Bund—attracted many fans to visit, making this historic street a nationwide focus once again.

Business Types and Atmosphere

In recent years, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street has completed an eastward expansion and upgrade toward The Bund, shifting from traditional department stores to a comprehensive district of "time-honored brands + trendy IPs + ACG (anime, comics, games) culture + family entertainment." According to multiple local guides filmed in 2025–2026, the area now features:

Theme snack and toy stores such as the LEGO flagship store, M&M’s Chocolate World (Asia’s largest M&M’s flagship), and HBAF Bee Nut Paradise;
Trendy toy and blind box hubs including the TOP TOY global flagship store, MINISO LAND (Miniso’s global No.1 store, about 2,000 sqm over three floors), Bailian ZX Creative Park (a full 6 floors of ACG paradise), POP MART global flagship store, Sanrio’s new store, and Kitty House;
Time-honored food and souvenir shops like First Food Store, Shen Dacheng, Zhen Lao Da Fang, Sanyang Southern Goods Store, Taikang Food, Shanghai Harbin Food Factory, and the White Rabbit Milk Candy flagship store.

During the day, Nanjing Road is perfect for shopping, treasure hunting, and buying snacks. The street is served by tourist trams, ideal for families with children or visitors who prefer not to walk too much. From dusk till night, the entire pedestrian street lights up with neon signs, LED screens, and window displays. Looking eastward, you can see the skyline featuring the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Lujiazui "three-piece set", perfectly matching the classic image of "Night Shanghai" and the "ten-mile foreign settlement." Many travel guides recommend the "East Nanjing Road → The Bund night view" route as a must-do classic when visiting Shanghai.

Whether you are visiting Shanghai for the first time and want to complete the ritualistic check-in of "not visiting Nanjing Road means not coming to Shanghai," or a local wanting to relive old Shanghai memories, shop for trendy toys and ACG culture, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street will keep you coming back with new discoveries every time.

🌸Best Season

Best Travel Seasons

A City Pedestrian Street Suitable All Year Round

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街) is suitable for all seasons, but the experience highlights vary depending on the season. You can choose the best time based on climate, lighting, and crowd levels.

Spring and Autumn: The Most Comfortable Citywalk Seasons

Time Frame: March to May, September to November
Weather Characteristics: Moderate temperatures and comfortable humidity, ideal for long walks and photography.
Experience Highlights:
- In spring, the soft sunlight is perfect for capturing architectural details and street portraits;
- In autumn, the plane tree leaves along the streets of Huangpu District gradually turn yellow, complementing the old buildings and neon lights, giving the entire street an “Old Shanghai movie vibe”;
- Many tourists plan a one-day tour around October combining "Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street + The Bund (外滩) + North Bund (北外滩)," walking during the day and photographing night scenes in the evening, creating a strong atmospheric experience.

Summer: More Enjoyable in the Evening and Night

Time Frame: June to August
Weather Characteristics: High daytime temperatures and strong heat reflection from the ground can make it feel stuffy during peak crowd times.
Travel Tips:
- Try to visit after dusk to avoid the midday heat;
- Use the rhythm of “shopping inside malls for a while, then stepping out to take photos” to avoid the heat, with malls like Shimao Plaza, New World City, New World Daimaru, Hongyi International Plaza along the street;
- Prepare for sun protection and heat prevention: bring umbrellas, hats, sunscreen, and stay hydrated;
- Since walking from People’s Square (人民广场) to The Bund easily exceeds 10,000 steps, be sure to wear very comfortable shoes.

Winter: Clear Night Views Despite Damp Cold

Time Frame: December to February
Weather Characteristics: Shanghai winters are often damp and cold, with the perceived temperature usually lower than the actual temperature, but the air is clear, making night views especially crisp.
Festive Atmosphere:
- Around Christmas, New Year, and the Spring Festival, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and old brands like First Food Store (第一食品商店), Taikang Food (泰康食品), Shenda Cheng (沈大成) decorate with New Year goods, lights, and festive window displays, attracting large crowds;
- It’s a great time to buy New Year goods and souvenirs while experiencing the “New Year version of Nanjing Road.”
The Bund Lighting Times Reference (closely related to Nanjing Road night tours):
- October to April: approximately 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with locals noting that in 2026 lights sometimes turn on as early as 6:57 PM, possibly slightly earlier;
- May to September: approximately 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM;
- Lights usually turn off around 10:00 PM, with possible extensions by an hour during holidays.

Crowd and Timing Choices

For the Most Spectacular Night Views and Festive Atmosphere:
- Recommended around National Day, Christmas, New Year, and Spring Festival when lights, window displays, and crowds create the liveliest “Night Shanghai”;
- Be prepared for queues, crowds, and waiting to take photos.
To Avoid Crowds:
- Choose weekdays and non-holidays whenever possible;
- Avoid afternoon and evening peak hours, with fewer people before 10:00 AM or after 10:00 PM.
Reservation Info:
- Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is an open public area, no reservations are needed year-round, so you can come anytime to feel the pulse of this “China’s No.1 Commercial Street.”

🚇Getting There

Transportation and Arrival Methods

南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) is located between 人民广场 (People's Square) and 外滩 (The Bund) in Huangpu District, with extremely developed public transportation. For most tourists, "metro + walking" is the most economical and hassle-free choice.

1. Metro: The Preferred Option

1. 人民广场站 (People's Square Station) — Recommended Starting Point

Lines: Metro Line 1 / Line 2 / Line 8 intersect here.
Recommended Exit: Exit 19.
Exit Landmarks:
- After exiting Exit 19, look up to see the western starting point of 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street):
  - On the left is 市百一店 (First Department Store Commercial Center);
  - On the right is 上海世茂广场 (Shanghai Shimao Plaza).
- A local tip for easy navigation: if you see "市百一店 on the left and 世茂广场 on the right," you are standing at the beginning of 南京东路步行街 (East Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street).
Suitable For:
- First-time visitors to Shanghai who want to walk the entire pedestrian street from west to east;
- Planning a city walk following the route "南京路 (Nanjing Road) → 外滩 (The Bund)".

2. 南京东路站 (East Nanjing Road Station) — Mid-East Section of the Pedestrian Street

Lines: Metro Line 2 / Line 10 intersect here.
Common Exits:
- Exit 2 is often mentioned in guides; after exiting, follow signs for "南京东路 / 河南中路 (Nanjing East Road / Henan Middle Road)";
- Other exits can also be chosen based on station signs pointing towards "南京东路".
Suitable For:
- Visitors who want to explore the mid-east section near 外滩 (The Bund);
- Boarding point when returning from 外滩 to the city center;
- Transfers combined with attractions like 豫园 (Yuyuan Garden) and 陆家嘴 (Lujiazui).

3. Metro Connections to Nearby Attractions

豫园站 (Yuyuan Garden Station, Line 10): Can be combined with 南京东路站 to form the classic route "豫园老城厢 (Yuyuan Old Town) → 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) → 外滩 (The Bund)".
陆家嘴站 (Lujiazui Station, Line 2): Accessible via transfer at 南京东路站 on Line 2, creating a loop route "南京路 → 外滩 → Ferry → 陆家嘴".
Extension to 北外滩 (North Bund):
- From 南京东路站 → Line 10 to 天潼路站 (Tiantong Road Station) → transfer to Line 12 to 国际客运中心站 (International Passenger Transport Center Station);
- Exit at Exit 3, cross 白玉兰广场 (Magnolia Plaza) to reach 北外滩滨江绿地 (North Bund Riverside Green Space), ideal for those wanting a less crowded view of 陆家嘴 and 外滩.

2. Sightseeing Tram and Bus Connections

1. 南京路观光铛铛车 (Nanjing Road Sightseeing Tram)

Route Features: Runs along 南京路步行街, with vintage-style carriages and slow speed, perfect for enjoying street views while seated.
Boarding Points: Usually near the middle section of the pedestrian street, clearly marked on site; you can queue directly to board.
Ticket Purchase: Buy tickets on site; fares are generally around a dozen yuan per trip (~¥10-20, ~$1.5-3 USD), suitable for families with children or visitors who prefer less walking.

2. Bus Combinations with Ferry and Other Attractions

Bus routes 926 and 911 are often mentioned for connecting other attractions with the Huangpu River ferry (金陵东路渡口, Jinling East Road Ferry Terminal). A common itinerary is:
- 南京路步行街 → 外滩 → 金陵东路渡口 → Ferry to 浦东东昌路渡口 → Walk or take metro to 陆家嘴.
If coming from other popular streets like 武康路 (Wukang Road) or 淮海中路 (Huaihai Middle Road), you can take a bus to the Huangpu River area (e.g., 新北门 station), then walk to 金陵东路渡口 and connect via ferry and metro back to 南京东路站.

3. Huangpu River Ferry: The ¥2 “Budget Cruise Alternative”

Route: 金陵东路渡口 (Jinling East Road Ferry Terminal) ↔ 东昌路渡口 (Dongchang Road Ferry Terminal).
Fare: Single trip ¥2, widely praised in guides as the "best value" and "¥2 ferry budget cruise alternative".
Operating Hours: Approximately 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM, with departures every 10 minutes; queues may form during peak times.
Suggested Itinerary:
1. Walk from 南京路步行街 all the way to 外滩 (Zhongshan East 1st Road);
2. Walk south along the river to 金陵东路渡口;
3. Take the ferry to 浦东东昌路渡口;
4. Walk or take the metro to Lujiazui pedestrian bridge, Jinmao Tower, and other spots.
Viewing Tip: After boarding, go directly to the upper deck for better views of the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Bund’s historic buildings, and the Huangpu River sunset.

4. Driving and Parking

南京路步行街 is a pedestrian street, no private vehicles allowed. If driving, park at nearby parking lots and walk in:

Shimao Plaza Underground Parking
New World City and New World Daimaru Department Store Underground Parking
Hengji Celebrity Shopping Center and Hongyi International Plaza Underground Parking
People's Square Underground Garage

Notes:

Parking spaces are tight during holidays and weekend evenings;
Huangpu District has many road restrictions and one-way streets; unfamiliar drivers may get lost;
Considering time and cost, it’s usually more convenient to park at metro hubs like Hongqiao Railway Station or Longyang Road, then take the metro directly to 人民广场 or 南京东路.

5. Departing from Major Transport Hubs

1. 虹桥火车站 / 虹桥机场 (Hongqiao Railway Station / Hongqiao Airport)

Take Metro Line 2 directly to 人民广场站 (People's Square Station) or 南京东路站 (East Nanjing Road Station); journey takes about 30–40 minutes.
Some guides mention luggage storage at Hongqiao Railway Station Line 2 platform: small lockers cost ¥2/hour, max 12 hours, ideal for transit passengers to store luggage and explore 南京路 and 外滩 unburdened.

2. 浦东国际机场 (Pudong International Airport)

Option A: Maglev + Metro
- Take the Maglev to 龙阳路站 (Longyang Road Station) → transfer to Metro Line 2 → People's Square / East Nanjing Road;
Option B: Metro Line 2 Only
- Take Metro Line 2 directly from Pudong Airport to People's Square / East Nanjing Road; slightly longer but cheaper.

6. Recommended In/Out Routes

First-time Visitors Recommended:
- Arrival: Exit Metro at 人民广场站 Exit 19, walk from west to east all the way to 外滩;
- Departure: Take Metro Line 2 / Line 10 from 南京东路站, or continue via ferry and metro to connect to 陆家嘴, 北外滩, and other areas.
Easy Memory Tip:
- "Left side 市百一店, right side 世茂广场, walk straight to the river and you reach 外滩" — you can complete the entire pedestrian street city walk almost without looking at a map.

🎫Tickets & Hours

Tickets and Opening Hours

1. The Pedestrian Street Itself

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街) is an open urban street area, classified as public urban road space:
- Open all day for free, no tickets required;
- Accessible 24 hours, with no barriers or gates;
- No reservation or real-name registration needed, visitors can come and go freely.
Multiple 2025–2026 citywalk guides clearly state "open all day for free, no tickets required," and visitors can enter directly from the metro station exit.

2. Shopping Malls and Sightseeing Transportation Along the Street

1. Shopping Mall Opening Hours (Reference)

Major shopping malls along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street include:

New World City (新世界城)
New World Daimaru Department Store (新世界大丸百货)
Shanghai Shimao Plaza (上海世茂广场)
Hengji Celebrity Shopping Center (恒基名人购物中心)
Hongyi International Plaza (宏伊国际广场)

Typical opening hours are:

Around 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM;
Hours may be extended during holidays and weekends, subject to on-site announcements.

2. Sightseeing Tram ("Dangdang Car")

Nature: A paid sightseeing transport on Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, featuring vintage-style carriages that travel slowly along the street.
Ticket price: Varies slightly by operator and route, generally around a dozen yuan per trip.
Ticket purchase: Buy on-site, no advance booking required.
Operating hours: Usually cover daytime and evening peak periods, specific times depend on on-site notices.

3. Nearby Paid Attractions for Reference (Commonly Combined Visits)

While Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street itself is free, many visitors combine it with nearby paid attractions. Common combinations include:

Jin Mao Tower 88th Floor Observation Deck (金茂大厦 88 层观光厅)
- Location: Lujiazui Financial District, accessible via “Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street → The Bund (外滩) → Ferry/Metro” connection;
- Ticket price: A 2026 note references a price of about ¥120 per person (~$17 USD);
- Highlights: Offers panoramic views of Lujiazui and The Bund at night, making it a great extension for the route “Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street → The Bund → Ferry → Lujiazui.”
Other Nearby Attractions (such as Oriental Pearl Tower, Pudong Art Museum, etc.)
- Ticket prices and reservation methods may change over time;
- It is recommended to check the latest information via official mini-programs or OTA platforms like Ctrip, Fliggy, Lvmama, etc.

4. Reservations and Crowd Control

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street itself:
- Currently no reservation requirements or daily crowd control measures.
The Bund area (外滩):
- During holidays and major events, crowd control, one-way traffic, or temporary closure of some entrances/exits may be implemented;
- When heading from Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street to The Bund, follow instructions from on-site traffic police and staff, and detours may be necessary.
Nearby museums (such as Shanghai Postal Museum, China Securities Museum, etc.):
- Mostly free or low-cost entry, some time slots may require reservations via official websites or platforms like “Wenlv Shanghai”;
- A 2025 blogger test noted “no ID checks at the time,” but it is recommended to carry an ID for verification.

5. Discounts and City Passes

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street:
- As a public road space, there is no ticket fee, so no student, senior, or other discounts apply.
Nearby paid attractions:
- Attractions like Jin Mao Tower Observation Deck, Oriental Pearl Tower, Pudong Art Museum, etc., usually offer discounts for students, seniors, children, etc.;
- Specific policies are subject to official announcements by each attraction.
Combo tickets and city passes:
- Some Shanghai attractions are bundled in city sightseeing bus tickets or city passes, such as “The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel + Oriental Pearl Tower + Jin Mao Tower”;
- These combo tickets do not directly include Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (since it is free), but can be combined with Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and The Bund to form a complete itinerary, improving overall value.

6. Summary of Cost Structure

Visiting Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street itself involves almost no mandatory ticket costs:

¥0 ticket fee: The pedestrian street is free all day;
Main expenses focus on:
- Dining (local noodles, snacks, coffee, riverside restaurants);
- Shopping (trendy toys, blind boxes, clothing, souvenirs);
- Sightseeing extras (sightseeing tram, ferry rides, Lujiazui high-altitude viewing, etc.).

⏱️Recommended Duration

Suggested Visit Duration

The time spent exploring 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) can be flexibly arranged based on your interests and energy levels, ranging from a quick "stop-by check-in" to an in-depth full-day tour.

1. Quick Check-in: About 2–3 Hours

Suitable for: Visitors with limited time who just want to say "I've been here."

Suggested pace:

Exit from Metro Line 1 or 2, People's Square Station (人民广场站), Exit 19, and enter 南京东路步行街 (East Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street);
Walk east along the street, taking photos of street scenes and architecture;
Visit 1–2 iconic shops briefly, such as:
- The colorful M&M's Chocolate World;
- The time-honored Shanghai First Food Store (上海第一食品商店);
- Classic dim sum shop Shen Da Cheng (沈大成);
Finish by taking a set of photos of the Huangpu River night view or portraits at 外滩 (The Bund) viewing promenade;
Keep the whole trip within 2–3 hours, ideal as part of a half-day itinerary.

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

Suitable for: First-time visitors to Shanghai who want to "eat well, shop well, and take great photos."

Recommended time:

Start around 3:00–4:00 PM, continuing until the night scene.

Rough itinerary:

First half (People's Square → Mid-section of the pedestrian street):
- Explore trendy and anime-themed shops: WM fashion store, City Department Store C Building floors 4–6, LEGO flagship store, HBAF Bee Nut Paradise, M&M's Chocolate World, MINISO LAND, TOP TOY, Bailian ZX Creative Space, POP MART global flagship store, Sanrio’s new store, Kitty House, etc.;
Mid-section:
- Sample snacks and pick souvenirs at Shanghai First Food Store, Shen Da Cheng, Zhen Lao Da Fang, Sanyang South Goods Store, Taikang Foods, White Rabbit Milk Candy flagship store, Shanghai Harbin Food Factory, and more;
Second half (near The Bund):
- Check out the "turning escalator" and spiral elevator at New World Daimaru Department Store;
- Photograph old buildings around Lihe Foreign Firm area;
- Capture vintage street scenes at Peace Hotel and its back alley;
- Finally, walk to 外滩 (The Bund) to wait for the lights on both sides of the Huangpu River and shoot night scenes;
Total visit time about 4–6 hours, a relaxed pace combining shopping, sightseeing, and photography.

3. In-Depth Exploration: Full Day

Suitable for: Those interested in old Shanghai history, architecture, trendy culture, and urban landscapes who want a comprehensive experience of this area.

Full-day plan example:

Morning:
- Use 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) as the main axis to systematically visit the "Four Major Department Stores" — the historic shopping centers: First Department Store, Wing On Department Store, First Food Store, Shanghai Fashion Store;
- Observe architectural patterns on manhole covers on the street, appreciating urban design details;
- Dive deep into anime and pop culture spaces like City Department Store C Building floors 4–6 and Bailian ZX Creative Space;
Afternoon:
- Follow a cultural route "Nanjing Road → The Bund → Suzhou River," linking landmarks such as People's Heroes Monument, Waibaidu Bridge, China Securities Museum, Zhapu Road Bridge, Shanghai Postal Museum, Riverside Building, Shanghai General Chamber of Commerce, and Sihang Warehouse Memorial;
Evening:
- Return to 南京东路 (East Nanjing Road) or The Bund area for dinner and another round of night photography;
- Or take the ¥2 ferry (~$0.30 USD) to Lujiazui Pedestrian Bridge and Jin Mao Tower Observation Deck for a bird’s-eye view of the entire 南京路 (Nanjing Road) and The Bund lights.

4. Sample Combined Itineraries

Classic Half-Day Route:
南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) → Peace Hotel → The Bund Viewing Promenade → (optional) Jinling East Road Ferry → Dongchang Road → Lujiazui Pedestrian Bridge Night View.
Trendy + Classic Full-Day Route:
- Morning: Wukang Building area;
- Noon: City God Temple/Yu Garden and Old City;
- Afternoon: Dinner around The Bund SOHO or nearby;
- Evening to night: 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) → North Bund Riverside Green Space (a less crowded alternative Bund night view).
Family-Friendly Full-Day Route:
南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) → Double-decker Sightseeing Bus → The Bund Viewing Promenade → Huangpu River Ferry → Oriental Pearl Tower → Pudong Art Museum.

5. Time Planning Tips

Just passing by: Reserve at least 2–3 hours for basic check-in;
Want to shop, snack, and shoot night scenes: Allocate half a day (4–6 hours);
Strong interest in historic buildings and urban culture: You can easily spend a full day or multiple visits exploring 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) and its extended areas with themed tours.

✨Highlights

Highlights and Must-See Spots

南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) is not just a shopping street; it’s a “urban cultural corridor” combining time-honored brands, gourmet food, trendy toys, architecture, and cityscapes. Below is a categorized summary of key highlights and recommended routes.

1. Core Malls and Established Department Stores

1. 市百一店 / First Department Store Commercial Center

Location: Exit 19 of Metro People’s Square Station (人民广场站), on the left side; one of the iconic buildings at the west end of 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street).
Highlights:
- A long-established department store with many sections;
- Building C, floors 4–6 is a concentrated area for 2D culture and anime-related products, including figures, peripherals, and models—a “treasure floor” for anime fans.

2. New World City & New World Daimaru Department Store

Location: Middle section of 南京东路 (East Nanjing Road), near People’s Square.
New World City: A comprehensive shopping center with a full range of brands and dining options, a great mid-route stop.
New World Daimaru Department Store:
- Japanese-style department store with strong interior design;
- Key photo spots include:
  - The widely photographed “12 million-rotation escalator”;
  - The “turning escalator”;
  - Entertainment facilities like a 55-meter indoor climbing wall and ice skating rink;
- Home to many luxury brands with convenient tax refund services, perfect for shopping and photography.

3. Hengji Celebrity Shopping Center & Hongyi International Plaza

Location: Middle-east section of the pedestrian street.
Hongyi International Plaza:
- Location of the POP MART Global Flagship Store (F1, 299 南京东路), spanning two floors, featuring city-exclusive items and themed exhibition areas—a must-visit for trendy toy lovers;
- The mall itself hosts diverse brands, suitable for casual shopping.

4. 永安百货 / Shanghai Fashion Store

Location: Along 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street), continuing the legacy of one of the historic “Four Major Companies.”
Highlights:
- An important filming location for the TV drama 繁花 (Blossoms);
- The facade retains a strong old Shanghai commercial vibe, ideal for “Blossoms” scene photo ops.

2. Trendy Toy IPs and 2D Culture Paradise

1. W.M / W.management Trendy Women’s Clothing Store

Location: Exit 19 of People’s Square Station (人民广场站), enter First Department Store, take the small door on the left on the 1st floor down to B1, the pink storefront is very eye-catching.
Highlights:
- Focuses on affordable spicy girl and Korean-style girly fashion;
- Colorful clothing, bags, hats, and accessories;
- Includes a coffee area, a “spicy girl gathering spot” and a perfect place for bestie selfies.

2. LEGO Flagship Store / LEGO Q Store

Location: 1st floor of Shanghai Shimao Plaza, in the same row as POP MART and HBAF Nut Paradise, right next to the Shimao Plaza entrance opposite People’s Square Station.
Highlights:
- Two floors, full range of styles with fast new arrivals;
- Great for LEGO fans and family experiences;
- Some bloggers noted the storefront is sometimes partially covered by pop-up installations, showing the store’s lively atmosphere with temporary exhibitions.

3. HBAF Nut Paradise

Location: Inside Shimao Plaza, adjacent to M&M’s World and the LEGO flagship store.
Highlights:
- Korean nut brand themed store, two floors;
- Uses dopamine-inducing colors, called “the cutest snack store on 南京路 (Nanjing Road)”;
- Offers tastings and a full range of flavors, great for photos and buying snack gift boxes.

4. M&M’s World (M 豆巧克力世界)

Location: 1st floor of Shanghai Shimao Plaza, near People’s Square Station, across the street from the department store housing WM.
Highlights:
- Called “Asia’s largest M&M’s flagship store” in multiple travel notes;
- Two floors, with the 2nd floor allowing you to “pick your own beans” by weight and offering customization services;
- Extremely colorful interior with many installations, a popular spot for photos and family interaction.

5. MINISO LAND Global Flagship Store

Location: Mid-section along 南京东路步行街 (East Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street), about 2000 sqm over three floors.
Highlights:
- Described as “like an amusement park” large flagship store;
- Full range of cute IP products, plush toys, and daily goods;
- Zones arranged by color featuring Hello Kitty, Kuromi, Strawberry Bear, Minions, anime themes, etc.;
- Large plush toys mostly priced under 100 yuan (~$14 USD), high cost-performance ratio, great for families and fans of cute things.

6. TOP TOY Global Flagship Store

Location: Mid-section of 南京东路步行街 (East Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street), with a huge “fortune” installation at the entrance, very eye-catching.
Highlights:
- The world’s first flagship store, three floors;
- Features a comprehensive collection of IPs, blind boxes, and peripherals;
- Includes a coffee area for resting after shopping, combining “shopping + photo ops + relaxation” in one space.

7. Bailian ZX Creative Fun Space

Location: A six-floor building along 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street).
Highlights:
- Known as “a paradise for 2D culture and anime”;
- Six floors full of gacha toys, figures, models, and peripherals;
- Frequently hosts pop-up events and limited exhibitions, a key offline gathering spot for 2D culture fans.

8. POP MART Global Flagship Store

Location: Hongyi International Plaza F1 (299 南京东路), with another store along the pedestrian street.
Highlights:
- Two floors, extensive and complete product range, rich in city-exclusive items;
- Strong design sense in exhibition areas and installations, great for photos;
- So popular that notes mention a new store opening in 2026, showing its high demand.

9. Sanrio New Store & Kitty House

Location: Along 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) and nearby malls (e.g., near Bailian ZX Creative Fun Space).
Highlights:
- Sanrio IP collection store featuring Hello Kitty, Kuromi, and other popular characters;
- The “Kitty House” is a hidden photo spot, “easy to miss,” but with cute interior decoration, a must-visit for Sanrio fans.

10. 2D Culture District & Star Space Theater

Location: Centered around the upgraded First Department Store and other established malls.
Highlights:
- Old department stores transformed into trendy toy landmarks;
- Features a 2D culture district and Star Space Theater, where you can watch performances and buy limited edition figures;
- A new citywalk photo spot popular with young people.

3. Historic Buildings and Blossoms Filming Locations

1. Peace Hotel (和平饭店)

Location: East end of 南京东路 (East Nanjing Road) at the junction with The Bund, at Zhongshan East 1st Road and 南京东路 intersection.
Highlights:
- Classic green-roofed building with strong Art Deco style;
- One of the key filming locations for 繁花 (Blossoms), representing the “Night Shanghai” atmosphere;
- Front entrance is crowded, great for capturing lively street scenes;
- The back alley is quieter, with warm yellow lighting and a narrow street, perfect for including the Oriental Pearl Tower in the background—a “secret spot” favored by photographers and bloggers.

2. Lihe Foreign Firm (礼和洋行)

Location: Along 南京东路 near The Bund side.
Highlights:
- Typical early Bund foreign firm architecture with exquisite facade decoration;
- Marked as a “Lihe Foreign Firm photo spot” in many videos, ideal for vintage street and architectural detail shots;
- Together with Peace Hotel and 永安百货 (Yongan Department Store), forms the “Old Shanghai Architecture Belt.”

3. Shanghai Fashion Store & Yongan Department Store

Location: Along 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street), remnants of the “Four Major Companies.”
Highlights:
- Important scenes in 繁花 (Blossoms), with characters passing through, recreating the 1990s Shanghai commercial vibe;
- Facades and window displays retain strong old Shanghai commercial charm, perfect for drama fans’ photo ops.

4. Rock Bund Source & Lower Back Girl Exhibition

Location: The Bund Source area, near the east end of 南京东路 (East Nanjing Road).
Highlights:
- A city renewal case combining historic buildings and modern art exhibitions;
- Hosted the “Rock Bund Source ✖️ Lower Back Girl Exhibition,” blending contemporary art with old architecture, great for a detour visit and photos.

4. Viewing and Photo Spots

1. 南京路步行街 Night Scene

Highlights:
- The entire street is lit with neon signs, LED screens, and window lights, bustling with pedestrians;
- Ideal for ultra-wide-angle shots from the street center to capture deep perspective night scenes;
- Recommended to visit from dusk to night for richer light layers.

2. Peace Hotel Back Alley

Highlights:
- Quiet, warm yellow lighting, narrow street;
- Compose shots including the Oriental Pearl Tower spire in the background to create strong storytelling and film-like vibes;
- Perfect for vintage portraits and urban night scenes.

3. The Bund Viewing Promenade & Zhongshan East 1st Road

Highlights:
- Exit 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) directly onto The Bund viewing promenade;
- Capture night views of both sides of the Huangpu River, the international architecture cluster, and the Lujiazui “Four Giants” skyscrapers;
- Connects with 南京路步行街 to form a classic city axis from commercial street to river view.

4. North Bund Riverside Green Space

Location: Take Metro Line 10 from 南京东路站 (Nanjing East Road Station) to Tiantong Road Station (天潼路站), then transfer to Line 12 to International Passenger Transport Center Station (国际客运中心站), exit 3, cross Magnolia Square to arrive.
Highlights:
- Known as the “less crowded version of The Bund”;
- Offers full panoramic views of The Bund buildings and Lujiazui skyline;
- Ideal for visitors who want large-scale night scenes without the crowds.

5. ¥2 Ferry Viewing

Highlights:
- Jinling East Road Ferry Terminal ↔ Dongchang Road Ferry Terminal route, with excellent views from the upper deck;
- Offers water-level perspectives of the Oriental Pearl Tower, Bund international architecture, and Lujiazui skyline;
- Especially photogenic at dusk and night, considered a “budget-friendly alternative to cruise boats.”

5. Recommended Citywalk Routes (Essentials)

Route A: 南京东路 → The Bund Food & Stroll Line (~2 km)

Exit 19 of Metro People’s Square Station (人民广场站), with First Department Store on the left and Shimao Plaza on the right, enter the pedestrian street start;
Explore First Department Store Building C, floors 4–6 (2D anime area), or WM trendy women’s clothing store on B1;
Cross the street into Shimao Plaza: LEGO Flagship Store → HBAF Nut Paradise → M&M’s World;
Walk east along 南京东路: MINISO LAND → TOP TOY → Bailian ZX Creative Fun Space → POP MART Global Flagship Store → Sanrio new store & Kitty House;
Mid-route, visit New World Daimaru Department Store to check out the “12 million-rotation escalator” and “turning escalator”;
Continue east, stop by Lihe Foreign Firm photo spot to shoot old building facades;
Arrive at Peace Hotel, take photos at the front entrance, then detour to the back alley for film-style street shots;
Exit 南京东路 to reach The Bund viewing promenade, wait for the Huangpu River banks to light up, and capture night scenes.

Route B: Historical & Cultural Deep Dive (Starting at 南京东路 Station)

Exit 南京东路 Metro Station, walk along 南京路步行街 toward The Bund;
Visit the People’s Heroes Monument at the north end of The Bund, overlooking the confluence of Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek;
Walk to Waibaidu Bridge, photograph the Lujiazui “Four Giants” and the century-old iron bridge;
Visit the China Securities Museum to learn about Shanghai’s financial history;
Continue to Zhapu Road Bridge, Shanghai Post Museum, Riverside Building, Shanghai General Chamber of Commerce, and other historic buildings;
Walk along Suzhou Creek to Zhejiang Road Bridge and Tibet Road Bridge, with views of the Sihang Warehouse Memorial;
End at the Sihang Warehouse Memorial, completing a “Nanjing Road—The Bund—Suzhou Creek” historical and cultural loop.

6. Niche Experiences and Hidden Gems

Observe Manhole Covers: Manhole covers on 南京路 (Nanjing Road) feature classic Shanghai buildings from different eras, a “small Easter egg” in urban design, fun to spot while walking.
Deep 2D Culture Store Browsing: At Bailian ZX Creative Fun Space and First Department Store Building C floors 4–6, you can systematically “grind gacha toys,” enough to spend a whole day for 2D culture enthusiasts.
Peace Hotel Back Alley Street Photography: Quiet, good lighting, natural composition; a “secret spot” favored by many photographers and bloggers, great for portraits and urban storytelling photos.
Ferry View of 南京路 Endpoint: Use the ¥2 ferry instead of expensive cruise boats to view the endpoint of 南京路 from the Huangpu River water perspective, including The Bund and Lujiazui—a highly cost-effective hidden experience.

💡Tips

Practical Tips and Precautions

1. Timing and Lighting Schedule

If you plan to walk from 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) all the way to 外滩 (The Bund) to shoot night scenes, it’s recommended to start from 人民广场 (People’s Square) about 1 hour before dusk, strolling along so you arrive at the riverside just before or after the lights turn on.
The lighting times at 外滩 (The Bund) are roughly:
- October to April: around 18:00–22:00;
- May to September: around 19:00–23:00;
- Locals have noted lights come on as early as 18:57, so prepare your camera 5–10 minutes in advance.
Lights usually go off around 22:00 (may be extended by an hour on holidays), so allow enough time if you want to capture the full night view.

2. Clothing and Physical Endurance

Walking from 人民广场 (People’s Square) to 外滩 (The Bund) easily racks up 10,000–20,000 steps; extending to 苏州河 (Suzhou River) or 四行仓库 (Sihang Warehouse) areas can mean walking over 3.5 km in a day.
Comfortable shoes are a must: prioritize sneakers or cushioned shoes; avoid new or hard-soled shoes.
Summer:
- Bring sun umbrellas, hats, sunscreen; stay hydrated and avoid heatstroke;
- Take advantage of shopping malls along the street to “shop a bit, cool off with air conditioning,” avoiding prolonged sun exposure.
Winter:
- Shanghai winters are damp and cold, with a chillier feel especially when the river breeze hits at 外滩 (The Bund) at night—dress in layers;
- Scarves, hats, gloves, and other warm accessories are recommended.

3. Tips to Avoid Crowds

Try to visit on weekdays and non-holidays when crowds are much lighter.
Time-wise:
- Before 10:00 AM or after 10:00 PM, pedestrian streets and 外滩 (The Bund) are relatively less crowded;
- During peak times like National Day, New Year’s Eve, and Spring Festival, popular shops and viewing areas at 外滩 (The Bund) may have queues and crowd control.
If 外滩 (The Bund) is too crowded for photos, consider going to 北外滩滨江绿地 (North Bund Riverside Green Space)—fewer people, beautiful scenery, and wider views.

4. Shopping and Souvenir Strategies

南京路 (Nanjing Road) is full of traditional shops and trendy toy stores, which can make your bags heavier the more you browse. Suggested approach:
- Browse trendy shops and take photos first, then focus on buying souvenirs;
- Before heading back, shop at the cluster of traditional stores near 南京东路站 (East Nanjing Road Station) to consolidate purchases and avoid carrying heavy bags for long.
Popular IP stores (like POP MART, Sanrio, etc.) may have queues or be out of stock during new releases or limited editions. To buy limited items, it’s best to visit on weekdays during the day, avoiding weekends and holidays.

5. Safety and Identification

Some intersections along 南京路 (Nanjing Road), 外滩 (The Bund), and 苏州河 (Suzhou River) are mixed pedestrian and vehicle zones:
- Always cross at zebra crossings and obey traffic signals;
- Avoid stopping on vehicle lanes or busy traffic areas for photos, especially at night or during holiday peak times.
When visiting nearby museums (such as 上海邮政博物馆 (Shanghai Postal Museum), 中国证券博物馆 (China Securities Museum), etc.):
- Carry your ID card as some venues require real-name registration or on-site verification;
- Check official platforms like “文旅上海 (Cultural and Tourism Shanghai)” in advance for opening hours and reservation info.

6. Transportation and Money-Saving Tips

The metro is the most convenient way to get to and from 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street):
- 人民广场站 (People’s Square Station) and 南京东路站 (East Nanjing Road Station) are major hubs with easy transfers;
- Try to avoid rush hours to escape overcrowding.
The ¥2 ferry (金陵东路渡口 Jinling East Road Ferry Terminal ↔ 东昌路渡口 Dongchang Road Ferry Terminal):
- Known as the “budget alternative to river cruises,” it runs every 10 minutes;
- Go straight to the upper deck after boarding for the best views of the river and skyline.
Travelers transferring at 虹桥火车站 (Hongqiao Railway Station) can use the luggage storage at Metro Line 2 platforms (small lockers ¥2/hour, max 12 hours), allowing you to explore 南京路 (Nanjing Road) and 外滩 (The Bund) light and free.

7. Crowd Control and On-Site Response

During holidays and major events, 外滩 (The Bund) and surrounding areas may implement:
- Staggered crowd entry;
- One-way pedestrian flow;
- Temporary closure of some entrances/exits.
If you encounter crowd control when walking from 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) to 外滩 (The Bund):
- Follow instructions from traffic police and staff carefully;
- You may need to detour to other entrances to access 外滩 (The Bund);
- Do not climb over barriers or enter closed areas for photos to avoid danger.

8. Phone and Tool Preparation

It’s recommended to install and familiarize yourself with:
- Amap (Gaode Map) / Baidu Map: for walking and metro navigation;
- Shanghai Metro official app or mini-program: for real-time schedules and transfers;
- Alipay / WeChat Pay: for transit QR codes, ferry payments, and shopping/dining.
For night photography:
- Lower exposure slightly to avoid overexposed light signs;
- Use the phone’s wide-angle lens for street scenes and the normal lens for portraits for better results.

9. Other Small Reminders

南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) has a full range of brand stores (sports brands, fast fashion, etc.); expect queues for fitting rooms and checkout during holidays—if time is limited, lock in your target stores in advance.
If you plan multiple trips between 南京路 (Nanjing Road) and other attractions, consider buying a metro day pass or using a transit card to save time on single tickets.
During summer heavy rain or typhoon weather, some parts of the pedestrian street may flood; check weather forecasts before heading out and adjust your itinerary if needed.

🍜Food Nearby

Recommended Nearby Food and Snacks

The area around 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) and the adjacent 外滩 (The Bund) offers a variety of options, from local Shanghai noodle shops and time-honored dim sum places to snack gift shops and riverside restaurants. Whether you want to eat on the go or have a formal meal, you’ll find something to suit your needs.

1. Local Shanghai Noodles and Full Meals

1. Weixiangzhai (味香斋) – Local Noodle Shop

Highlights:
- Famous for Shanghai-style local noodles, with the highly recommended "Super Sesame Sauce Noodles" featured in many guides;
- Rich soy sauce base, thick sesame paste flavor, and chewy noodles make it a classic favorite among locals.
Average cost: About ¥30–50 (~$4–7 USD).
Location: Near 南京东路步行街 (Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street), close to People’s Square side. Search “味香斋南京东路店” on maps.
Best for: Visitors wanting a quick bowl to dive into authentic Shanghai flavors.

2. Time-Honored Dim Sum and Southern Goods (Snacking & Souvenirs)

2. Shanghai First Food Store (上海第一食品商店)

Positioning: A hub of old-established brands in the middle section of 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street), great for tasting on-site or buying souvenirs.
Popular brands and items inside:
- Huadian Butterfly Pastry (华点蝴蝶酥): Crispy with distinct layers and rich butter aroma;
- Xinlaodafang Almond Crisp (新老大房杏仁酥): Fragrant, crispy, with strong almond flavor;
- Various other pastries, candies, and pickled products.
Average cost: Depends on purchase amount, generally ¥30–100 (~$4–14 USD) for a variety of snacks.

3. Shen Dacheng (沈大成)

Highlights:
- Known as the “top sticky rice delicacy in Magic City (Shanghai),” with locals lining up year-round;
- Signature items include Qingtuan (green rice balls), Tiaotou Cake, Double-Filled Rice Balls, all soft, sticky, and sweet.
Average cost: About ¥20–40 (~$3–6 USD).
Location: On 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street), near the People’s Square direction.

4. Zhen Laodafang (真老大房)

Highlights:
- Famous old Shanghai deli, best known for Fresh Meat Mooncakes;
- Mooncakes are freshly baked and sold on the spot, with flaky soft crusts and juicy, full fillings—a classic locals buy during festivals.
Average cost: About ¥20–40 (~$3–6 USD).
Location: Midsection along 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street).

5. Sanyang Southern Goods Store (三阳南货店)

Highlights:
- A century-old Ningbo-style southern goods shop;
- Signature items include Seaweed Mooncakes, Seaweed Crisps, Spicy Crab, Drunken Mud Snails, plus various dried goods, pickles, and specialty pastries;
- Perfect for visitors wanting to experience Jiangnan cold dishes and traditional southern goods.
Average cost: About ¥30–80 (~$4–11 USD), depending on items purchased.
Location: Along 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street), near the middle section.

6. Taikang Food (泰康食品)

Highlights:
- A century-old brand regarded by locals as a representative of “Old Shanghai flavors”;
- Recommended items: Evergreen Biscuits, New Mooncakes, with traditional flavors that are “not as overwhelmingly sweet as rumored.”
Average cost: About ¥30–60 (~$4–9 USD).
Location: Near Exit 19 of People’s Square Station (人民广场站), opposite Shimao Plaza with a large “泰康食品” sign.

7. Shanghai Harbin Food Factory (上海哈尔滨食品厂)

Highlights:
- Specializes in Russian-style pastries, breads, and snacks with Soviet-era flavors;
- A popular spot among locals for souvenir shopping.
Average cost: About ¥30–60 (~$4–9 USD).
Location: On 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street), near the mid-east section.

8. White Rabbit Candy Flagship Store (大白兔奶糖旗舰店)

Highlights:
- Centered on Shanghai’s iconic “White Rabbit Creamy Candy,” selling classic candies and various derivative products (milk tea, ice cream, merchandise, etc.);
- Loose candies can be bought by weight, perfect for “taking childhood memories home by the pound.”
Average cost: About ¥20–50 (~$3–7 USD).
Location: Midsection along 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street).

3. Snacks and Themed Shops

9. HBAF Bafeng Nut Paradise (芭蜂坚果乐园)

Highlights:
- Korean nut snack specialty store with dopamine-inducing bright colors and strong visual impact;
- Offers tastings inside, with various flavored nuts and mixed snack gift boxes ideal as souvenirs.
Average cost: About ¥40–100 (~$6–14 USD).
Location: Inside Shimao Plaza (世茂广场), next to M&M’s World and the LEGO flagship store.

10. M&M’s World (M 豆巧克力世界)

Highlights:
- Choose your own “bean pulling” (拉豆子), with many colors and flavors of chocolate beans sold by weight;
- A blogger recorded a reference price of ¥72.5 per 250g (~$10.50 USD), though prices may vary over time;
- Also sells various M&M’s themed snacks and merchandise.
Average cost: About ¥50–150 (~$7–22 USD).
Location: 1st floor of Shanghai Shimao Plaza, near People’s Square Station.

4. Coffee and Rest Spots

11. WM Trendy Women’s Clothing Store Coffee Area

Highlights:
- Combined clothing and coffee shop with a pink-themed space perfect for photos;
- A nice place to grab a coffee or drink and rest while shopping.
Average cost: About ¥20–40 (~$3–6 USD).
Location: Basement 1 of First Department Store (第一百货 B1), down the small left-side door on the 1st floor.

12. TOP TOY In-Store Coffee Area

Highlights:
- Coffee area inside a trendy toy store with a stylish environment;
- Great for sitting down and relaxing after browsing blind boxes or exhibitions.
Average cost: About ¥25–45 (~$4–7 USD).
Location: Inside the TOP TOY global flagship store, midsection area.

13. Chain Coffee and Light Meals

Distribution:
- Numerous chain restaurants are spread throughout 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street) and nearby malls (New World City, New World Daimaru Department Store, Shimao Plaza, Hengji Celebrity Shopping Center, Hongyi International Plaza);
- Includes Starbucks, Luckin Coffee, HeyTea, Nayuki, and various fast food and light meal brands.
Average cost: About ¥30–80 (~$4–11 USD).
Best for: Quick energy boosts or finding a seat to rest anytime.

5. Riverside Restaurants Near The Bund (Within Walking Distance)

14. POP Rooftop Restaurant

Highlights:
- Offers a 270° panoramic view of The Bund, allowing diners to enjoy meals while admiring the Huangpu River and Lujiazui night skyline;
- Ideal for anniversaries, dates, or occasions requiring a special atmosphere.
Average cost: Usually ¥300 and above (~$43+ USD).
Location: In a high-rise building along The Bund, reachable on foot from the east end of 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street).

15. Captain Bar

Highlights:
- A cost-effective riverside bar;
- Enjoy views of the Huangpu River and Lujiazui skyline from the terrace or window seats in a relaxed atmosphere.
Average cost: About ¥150–250 (~$21–36 USD).
Location: Near The Bund area, not far from the end of 南京路 (Nanjing Road).

6. Overall Dining Suggestions

If focusing on "local flavors":
- Center your exploration around the middle section of 南京路步行街 (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street), hitting spots like Weixiangzhai, Shen Dacheng, Zhen Laodafang, Sanyang Southern Goods Store, Taikang Food, Shanghai First Food Store;
If focusing on "snacks and souvenirs":
- Pay special attention to M&M’s World, HBAF Bafeng Nut Paradise, White Rabbit Candy Flagship Store, Shanghai Harbin Food Factory, Shanghai First Food Store;
If wanting to "eat while enjoying the night view":
- After strolling 南京路 (Nanjing Road), walk to The Bund and choose riverside restaurants or bars like POP Rooftop Restaurant, Captain Bar to end the day on a romantic note.

🏨Accommodation

Recommended Accommodation Nearby

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街) is located in the heart of Huangpu District (黄浦区). The surrounding accommodations range from budget chains to high-end luxury hotels. Depending on your budget and travel style, you can focus on the People’s Square (人民广场) – East Nanjing Road (南京东路) – The Bund (外滩) triangular area, where most attractions are within walking distance.

1. Budget and Cost-Effective Accommodations

1. 24K International Chain Hotel (near People’s Square / East Nanjing Road)

Highlights:
- Verified by travelers: the hotel was renovated after a temporary closure, overall cleanliness is good, and rooms are suitable for two guests;
- High cost-performance ratio, ideal for budget-conscious travelers wanting to stay in the city center;
- Local snacks like Xiao Yang Shengjian (小杨生煎) are right downstairs; walking distance to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, The Bund, and People’s Square, so most sightseeing can be done on foot.
Drawbacks:
- Some guests reported average bathroom drainage; those sensitive may want to check recent reviews in advance.
Suitable for:
- Young travelers, students, budget couples, or friends traveling together.

2. Other Economy Chain Hotels

Brand examples: Home Inn (如家), Hanting (汉庭), All Seasons (全季), Jinjiang Inn (锦江之星), etc.
Location tips:
- Prefer stores with “People’s Square Branch (人民广场店)”, “East Nanjing Road Branch (南京东路店)”, or “The Bund Branch (外滩店)” in their names;
- Usually within a 10–15 minute walk to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street or The Bund.
Price range:
- Typically ¥300–500 per night on weekdays, with some increase during holidays.
Suitable for:
- Travelers and families who don’t have high accommodation demands and want to spend more on food, entertainment, and activities.

2. Mid-Range Business and Boutique Hotels

3. Huangpu District Business Circle Hotels

Area: Around People’s Square and East Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s traditional business district.
Features:
- Many 3- to 4-star business and boutique hotels concentrated near New World City (新世界城), Shimao Plaza (世茂广场), and Hengji Celebrity Shopping Center (恒基名人购物中心);
- Walking distance to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and The Bund; intersected by Metro Lines 1/2/8/10, making travel extremely convenient;
- Well-equipped with dining, shopping, and entertainment options; safe and lively at night when returning to the hotel.
Suitable for:
- Families, couples, and business travelers seeking a balance of comfort and budget.

3. High-End and Luxury Hotels

4. Fairmont Peace Hotel (和平饭店)

Location: At the intersection of East Nanjing Road and Zhongshan East 1st Road, at the eastern end of Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, right next to The Bund.
Highlights:
- Iconic green-roofed building with strong Art Deco style;
- Historic and one of the symbols of old Shanghai’s “Ten-Mile Foreign Style”;
- Important filming location for the TV drama Blossoms (繁花) — fans can stay where the story unfolds;
- Rooftop bar offers panoramic views of The Bund at night; some rooms offer direct views of the Huangpu River and Lujiazui skyline.
Suitable for:
- Visitors with a generous budget wanting to experience old Shanghai’s atmosphere;
- Couples on honeymoon, anniversary trips, or families seeking a high-quality stay.

5. Other High-End Hotels Along The Bund

Representative hotels:
- Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund (外滩华尔道夫酒店);
- The Peninsula Shanghai (上海半岛酒店);
- Hyatt on the Bund (外滩茂悦酒店), etc.
Common features:
- Most offer river view rooms with direct views of the Huangpu River and Lujiazui skyline from rooms or terraces;
- High standards of service and facilities, suitable for guests with high accommodation quality requirements;
- Usually just a 10–15 minute walk to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, making nighttime strolls back to the hotel very convenient.

4. Location and Travel Tips

6. Preferred Area: People’s Square – East Nanjing Road – The Bund Triangle

Advantages:
- Walking distance to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, The Bund, People’s Square, and some museums and shopping malls;
- Well-developed metro network with Lines 1/2/8/10 intersecting here, convenient for visiting other popular spots like Wukang Road, Yuyuan Garden, and Lujiazui;
- Wide variety of dining options, from street snacks to upscale restaurants.
Suitable for:
- First-time visitors to Shanghai focusing on central city attractions;
- Families and couples who prefer not to change hotels frequently and want to “stay in the middle of the sights.”

7. Alternative Area: Jing’an Temple – West Nanjing Road Area (Extended Choice)

Notes:
- Although not within direct walking distance to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, it’s only 2–3 metro stops away via Metro Line 2;
- The area is rich in plane trees, cafes, and boutique shops, offering a strong local lifestyle vibe.
Suitable for:
- Travelers who value everyday living atmosphere and coffee culture, and prefer a quieter stay in the city center.

5. Booking and Check-In Tips

Check recent guest reviews on major platforms in advance, especially regarding cleanliness, noise, and air conditioning/heating;
Hotel prices in Huangpu District and The Bund area rise significantly during holidays and major exhibitions, so early booking is recommended;
If relying on public transport, prioritize hotels within a 5–10 minute walk to a metro station for more efficient travel;
For special night view needs, request “high-floor river view room” or “room with views of The Bund/Lujiazui” when booking and confirm the room type with the hotel.

🗺️Itinerary

Sample Itinerary: Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street Half-Day to Full-Day Tour

Here is a classic half-day walking route for the afternoon + evening, along with suggestions on how to extend it into a full-day tour, so you can choose according to your needs.

1. Classic Half-Day Citywalk (About 5–6 Hours)

Recommended Time: Start around 3:00 PM and explore until 9:00–10:00 PM.

15:00–15:20 | Arrival and Start

Take the metro to People’s Square Station Exit 19 (人民广场站 19 号口);
At the exit, confirm the classic scene of “Shibai Department Store on the left, Shimao Plaza on the right,” officially stepping onto Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street (南京东路步行街).

15:20–16:10 | Shibai Department Store & WM Trendy Women’s Clothing Store

Enter Shibai Department Store (第一百货商业中心):
- If you’re interested in anime culture, head upstairs to Building C, floors 4–6 for a quick browse of anime merchandise and figurines;
- For photo opportunities, go down to B1 level to check in at the pink-themed WM Trendy Women’s Clothing Store, and relax for a bit at the in-store café area.

16:10–17:00 | Shimao Plaza Triple Visit: LEGO + HBAF + M&M’s World

Exit Shibai Department Store and cross the street to enter Shanghai Shimao Plaza (上海世茂广场):
1. LEGO Flagship Store: Two floors, great for families and LEGO fans to quickly check out;
2. HBAF Bafeng Nut Paradise: A dopamine-colored snack shop where you can sample nuts and pick a few packs to take away;
3. M&M’s World:
  - Take photos and browse merchandise on the first floor;
  - On the second floor, experience “pulling beans” by selecting chocolate beans by weight (prices around ¥72.5 per 250g (~$11 USD)).

17:00–18:00 | Traditional Snack Stops: Taikang → Shen Dacheng → Sanyang → Zhen Lao Da Fang

After leaving Shimao Plaza, look up to see the big sign of Taikang Food (泰康食品) across the street:
- Buy Wànniánqīng biscuits or mooncakes to taste old Shanghai flavors;
Continue east along Nanjing East Road:
- At Shen Dacheng (沈大成), buy qingtuan (green rice balls), tiaotougao (striped rice cake), or double-stuffed rice balls, and try one or two on the spot;
- Walk to Sanyang Southern Goods Store (三阳南货店) to check out seaweed mooncakes, seaweed crisps, spicy crab, drunken mud snails, and other southern delicacies;
- At Zhen Lao Da Fang (真老大房), buy 1–2 fresh meat mooncakes and eat them while warm to recharge.

18:00–19:00 | Trendy Toy Cluster & New World Daimaru Department Store

Continue east into the dense area of trendy toys and anime culture:
- Visit in order: MINISO LAND (Miniso’s Global Flagship Store), TOP TOY Global Flagship Store, Bailian ZX Creative Space, POP MART Global Flagship Store, Sanrio’s new store, Kitty House, etc.;
- Choose 2–3 stores to focus on based on your interests to avoid spending too long in any single shop;
Spend about 20–30 minutes entering New World Daimaru Department Store:
- Check out the “12 million-rotation escalator” and the “turning escalator”;
- If time permits, have a simple meal or coffee inside the mall.

19:00–19:40 | Lihe Trading Company & Peace Hotel Street Photography

As evening falls and street lights come on, continue east:
- Stop in front of Lihe Trading Company (礼和洋行) to photograph the old building façade and street scene;
- Arrive at the main entrance of the Peace Hotel (和平饭店) to soak in the “Night Shanghai” atmosphere from the novel Blossoms (繁花) and take a souvenir photo;
- Then circle around to the back alley behind Peace Hotel:
  - Use the warm yellow street lamps and narrow street to take some film-style portraits;
  - Try to include the Oriental Pearl Tower’s spire in the background to create a city story vibe.

19:40–21:00 | The Bund Night View Finale

Walk out from Nanjing East Road to officially arrive at the Bund Viewing Promenade (外滩观景大道):
- Find a spot with an open view and wait for the lights on both sides of the Huangpu River to come on;
- Photograph the historic buildings of the Bund and the “Four Treasures” of Lujiazui’s skyline at night;
If you still have energy, take a leisurely walk north along the river to enjoy the river breeze and city lights;
When finished, take Metro Line 2 or Line 10 from East Nanjing Road Station (南京东路站) back to your accommodation.

2. Upgraded Full-Day Tour Suggestions

If you have a whole day, you can extend the above half-day itinerary with the following:

Morning: History and Urban Details (About 3–4 Hours)

09:30–10:30 | Tour of the Four Major Department Stores
- Start from Nanjing East Road Station or People’s Square Station, and visit or briefly browse:
  - First Department Store, Yong’an Department Store, First Food Store, Shanghai Fashion Store;
- Compare with historical records to feel the changes of the “Four Major Companies” from the concession era to today.
10:30–11:30 | Manhole Covers and Street Details
- Walk slowly along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, deliberately paying attention to the manhole covers underfoot:
  - Observe the engraved patterns of Bund buildings, the Oriental Pearl Tower, and other motifs;
  - Great for photographing the theme of “city memories underfoot.”
11:30–12:30 | Local Shanghai-Style Noodle Lunch
- Head to Weixiangzhai or other local noodle shops, order a bowl of sesame paste noodles or other local flavors for lunch;
- After dining, rest briefly at a nearby café to recharge for the afternoon citywalk.

Afternoon to Evening: Follow the Classic Half-Day Route

Around 13:30, return to People’s Square Station Exit 19 and start again from Shibai Department Store and Shimao Plaza, following the half-day citywalk route described above;
If you have the energy after the Bund night view, continue:
- Walk to Jinling East Road Ferry Terminal (金陵东路渡口) and take the ¥2 ferry (~$0.30 USD) to Pudong Dongchang Road Ferry Terminal;
- Then walk to the Lujiazui pedestrian bridge to admire the night view of the Oriental Pearl Tower and Jin Mao Tower;
- Or go up to the 88th-floor observation deck of Jin Mao Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the entire Nanjing Road and Bund lights.

3. Itinerary Adjustment Suggestions

For Families with Children:
- Shorten time spent in trendy toy stores, focusing on interactive shops like the LEGO Flagship Store, M&M’s World, HBAF Bafeng Nut Paradise, and MINISO LAND;
- Arrange a sightseeing tram ride to reduce walking burden for kids.
For Photography Enthusiasts:
- Add more time in the afternoon to shoot details of old buildings such as Lihe Trading Company, Yong’an Department Store, and Shanghai Fashion Store;
- Extend evening stops at the back alley behind Peace Hotel and the Bund Viewing Promenade to try different angles and compositions.
For Shopping-Focused Visitors:
- Allocate more time to Bailian ZX Creative Space, TOP TOY, POP MART, MINISO LAND, and similar stores;
- Consolidate souvenir shopping around early evening to avoid carrying heavy bags throughout the walk.

With this itinerary, whether for a half-day or a full day, you can fully experience the multiple charms of Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street: “Old Shanghai memories + trendy commerce + city nightscape.”

Based on 24 articlesModel: gpt-5.1