Sinan Mansions (思南公馆)

思南公馆

ClassicUpdated 2026-02-14

📋Overview

Overview of Sinan Mansions (思南公馆)

Sinan Mansions is located in Huangpu District, Shanghai, south of Fuxing Middle Road (复兴中路), on both sides of Sinan Road (思南路), and west of Chongqing South Road (重庆南路). The core addresses are concentrated around 505–523 Fuxing Middle Road and 51–61 Sinan Road. It is the only historic protected architectural complex in downtown Shanghai that preserves and renovates a whole cluster of garden-style mansions. According to public data and multiple travelogues, there are 51 historic protected buildings covering about 50,529㎡, with approximately 30,310㎡ of old buildings preserved. Most were built in the 1920s and 1930s, originally part of the French Concession’s upscale residential area, then known as the “Masnan Road Garden Residential Area” (now Sinan Road). It was home to military and political leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and artists, earning the reputation as an “open-air architectural museum” and a “living museum of modern residential architecture.”

Architecture and Style

Sinan Mansions encompass almost all mainstream types of Shanghai’s modern residential architecture within this small neighborhood, including:

Detached garden villas
Semi-detached garden villas
Detached garden villas with inner courtyards
Row houses
Buildings with exterior corridors
New-style lilongs (lane houses)
Garden lilongs
Modern apartments

The styles blend Spanish, British, French, and other European architectural vocabularies, infused with the distinctive Shanghai eclecticism in details: red brick bare walls, semicircular arch corridors, sloped roofs with dormer windows, carved balconies, stained glass windows are everywhere. Combined with walls covered in ivy and rows of French plane trees, this creates a highly recognizable “Old Shanghai” scene.

The most legendary building is the exterior corridor building inside Dongyuan (东苑) — now the “Sinan Mansions Banquet Hall / Jing Mansion (晶公馆)”, often called the “Nunnery” in many guides. It is a typical late Victorian Queen Anne Revival style building, with a series of semicircular arches forming the exterior corridor. It was once the Catholic St. Peter’s Xiaoxing Primary School, later the Chongqing South Road No.1 Primary School. During renovation in 1999, to avoid a nearby elevated highway, the entire building was rotated 90 degrees on its original site—from an east-west to a north-south orientation. During construction, bricks and tiles were carefully removed, numbered, and reinstalled in their original positions. This project is considered a classic case in China’s historic building preservation. Today, it serves as a high-end banquet hall with reception areas, tea rooms, main banquet halls, and dressing rooms spread across the first to third floors. Catering is provided by the Michelin-starred restaurant Jing Pu Hui (晶浦会), making it a popular venue for weddings and business events.

History and Culture

What moves visitors most about Sinan Mansions is its rich historical and cultural atmosphere. It was once home to many revolutionaries, politicians, writers, and artists such as Zhou Enlai, Dong Biwu, Feng Yuxiang, Liu Yazi, Zeng Pu, and Mei Lanfang. Lu Xun also visited here. Today, several celebrity residences and cultural spaces remain in the neighborhood:

73 Sinan Road: Zhou Residence (Memorial Hall of the CCP Delegation Office in Shanghai), the site of the CCP delegation office during the 1946 Kuomintang-Communist negotiations;
87 Sinan Road: Former Residence of Mei Lanfang, a garden villa preserving the theatrical charm of the Republican era;
517 Fuxing Middle Road: Former Residence of Feng Yuxiang and Liu Yazi, now the “Sinan Bookstore”;
16 Gaolan Road: St. Nicholas Church, now transformed into “Sinan Bookstore · Poetry Shop / Poetry Tower,” originally a Russian Orthodox church.

Many buildings in the district have QR codes or display boards at their entrances, introducing stories of famous residents and architectural history. At the entrance, the “Sinan Open-Air Museum · Time Alley” uses images, videos, and mirror installations to trace the century-long changes of the area, allowing visitors to “collide” with history as they stroll. Here, “architecture can be read” is not just a slogan but a city memory you can truly walk through.

Lifestyle and Contemporary Renewal

Unlike many single-purpose historic sites, the renovation of Sinan Mansions emphasizes a balance of “authentic appearance, elegant environment, open spaces, and fashionable functions”:

Large public spaces in the neighborhood are open free all day, with stone pavements, fountains, small plazas, and French plane trees creating a lively urban living room;
Inside the old villas, diverse businesses have been introduced, including boutique hotels, art galleries, designer brand stores, bookstores, cafes, bars, and high-quality restaurants.

For example:

The Starbucks Reserve Store occupies an entire three-story garden villa and is often called “the most vintage and beautiful Starbucks”;
The Antique Garden Café / Tavern is famous for its collection of old items and as a filming location for multiple TV dramas;
Cultural spaces like Sinan Bookstore, Sinan Bookstore · Poetry Shop, Full Moon Study Exhibition, and Ruyuan Intangible Cultural Heritage Space make it a favorite spot for both young artists and families.

The official management and brands regularly organize events such as the “Sinan Natural Life Festival,” “Full Moon Life Festival,” “Spring Flower Market,” “Mid-Autumn Market,” “Harry Potter Pop-up,” “The Wonderful Journey of Books and Prints,” “Small Home Corner Exhibition,” and “Full Moon Study’s 100 Editors’ Annual Book”, keeping this century-old neighborhood fresh and vibrant. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, history buff, bookstore lover, or just looking for a place to enjoy a coffee and take atmospheric photos, Sinan Mansions is worth setting aside half a day or even a whole day to experience being an “Old Shanghai local” under the plane trees.

🌸Best Season

Best Travel Seasons and Atmosphere

Sinan Mansions (思南公馆) is suitable to visit year-round, but each season offers a different experience, so you can choose the timing based on your preferences.

Spring (March–May): Flower Exhibitions, Markets, and Lifestyle Festivals

Spring is one of the most recommended seasons:

The temperature is pleasant, with sycamore and camphor trees sprouting new leaves, and flower beds and courtyard plants blooming in succession along the streets;
Often linked with the Shanghai International Flower Show, Sinan Mansions and the opposite Fuxing Park (复兴公园) frequently serve as sub-venues, decorated with various greenery, floral art installations, and themed markets;
Official events like the “Sinan Naturally Lifestyle Festival” and “Full Moon Lifestyle Festival” are organized, featuring garden installations, stalls, and interactive photo spots, mostly free to enter;
Ideal for family outings, couples, or friends traveling together. Recommended attire: trench coat or light knitwear + long skirt, which is both warm and photogenic.

Summer (June–September): Citywalk Under the Sycamore Shade

Summer is when Sinan Mansions shines as the “Sycamore District”:

Layers of sycamore tree shade create a cool canopy; soft light in the early morning and evening is perfect for city walks and street photography;
Midday sun is strong and humid, so it’s best to retreat indoors to places like Sinan Bookstore, Starbucks Reserve, or the Antique Garden for coffee, reading, or a leisurely afternoon drink;
Occasional summer showers mean carrying a foldable umbrella is advisable. After rain, the reflective stone pavements and dripping sycamore leaves create a cinematic atmosphere, great for photos;
Dress in lightweight, pale-colored clothing, and remember sun protection and hydration.

Autumn (October–November): The Photographer’s “Golden Season”

Autumn is widely recognized by photographers and photo bloggers as the golden season:

Sycamore leaves turn golden, climbing ivy shifts from green to red, and sunlight casts a golden filter over the neighborhood;
Many notes mention the 3–4 PM side backlight as the most enchanting, with sunlight filtering through sycamore leaves and ivy, creating mottled shadows on walls and ground—every shot looks like a scene from In the Mood for Love or a French film;
Recommended outfits include light-colored tulle skirts, Chanel-style suits, off-white knits, gray off-shoulder sweaters + matching slouchy socks, contrasting beautifully with red bricks and golden leaves;
Comfortable temperatures make it perfect for long walks, with opportunities to explore nearby cultural sites like Sun Yat-sen’s Former Residence, Zhou Mansion, and Fuxing Park.

Winter (December–February): Painterly Light and Festive Installations

Winter temperatures are low (around 0–10°C, feeling colder due to dampness), but Sinan Mansions and Fuxing Park offer a charming “winter oil painting” vibe:

Bare branches, remaining golden leaves, red bricks, and gray tiles create a striking warm-cold contrast;
Bloggers suggest: on sunny winter days around 3 PM, shoot soft, painterly light in Fuxing Park; after 5 PM, return to Sinan Mansions to capture the blue hour and warmly lit street scenes;
Around the Chinese New Year, there are flower markets, light installations, and the Year of the Horse themed event “Fortune Fills Sinan · Dream as a Horse”: a carousel at the small square on Chongqing South Road and “breathing” horse-shaped lights along Fuxing Middle Road fill the area with festive spirit;
Dress warmly with down jackets, scarves, gloves, and hats; you can briefly remove outerwear for photos.

Crowd and Off-Peak Tips

For flowers and markets: prioritize spring and follow the official Sinan Mansions WeChat account for current event info;
For shade and coolness: early mornings and evenings in summer are best;
For golden sycamores and cultural photo shoots: sunny autumn afternoons in October–November;
For festive atmosphere and winter light: Chinese New Year period and clear winter days from December to February;
During major holidays like National Day, Labor Day, and Spring Festival, crowds increase significantly. It’s recommended to visit on weekdays or weekend mornings for a better touring and photography experience.

🚇Getting There

Transportation and How to Get There

Sinan Mansions (思南公馆) is located in the heart of Huangpu District, nestled between Huaihai Middle Road (淮海中路) and Fuxing Middle Road (复兴中路), close to Xintiandi (新天地) and Fuxing Park (复兴公园). It is very convenient to reach by metro, bus, car, or on foot.

Metro

1) Line 10 / Line 13 – Yidahui Site · Xintiandi Station (一大会址·新天地站) (Preferred)

Many travel guides recommend walking from this station, making it the most popular way to arrive.

Recommended Exits:
- Exit 3: After exiting, walk west along Fuxing Middle Road for about 620 meters; the east entrance of Sinan Mansions will be on the north side of the road.
- Exit 5: Walk west along Fuxing Middle Road for about 5–10 minutes to reach Zhou Mansion (周公馆) and Sinan Mansions.
- Exit 6: Ideal as a starting point for a “half-day tour of Sinan Road.” After exiting, walk straight west along Fuxing Middle Road to reach Time Alley (时光弄堂) and the core area of Sinan Mansions.
Example Walking Route:
1. Exit the station and reach street level, confirming you are on Fuxing Middle Road.
2. Walk west along Fuxing Middle Road (away from Huangpi South Road).
3. On your right, you will see the walls and gates of Fuxing Park; on your left, a cluster of red brick Western-style houses begins to appear.
4. Around 505–523 Fuxing Middle Road, you will see signs for “Sinan Mansions” and the entrance to “Sinan Open-Air Museum · Time Alley.”

2) Line 13 – Huaihai Middle Road Station (淮海中路站)

Suitable for a combined route of “shopping on Huaihai Road first, then returning to Sinan Mansions.”

Exit from Exit 2, walk about 500 meters along Huaihai Middle Road to reach No.16 Gaolan Road St. Nicholas Church (Sinan Bookstore · Poetry Shop).
After visiting the poetry shop, walk south along Gaolan Road, Xiangshan Road, or Nanchang Road for about 10 minutes to enter the Sinan Mansions area.

3) Line 1 – Shaanxi South Road Station (陕西南路站) / Huangpi South Road Station (黄陂南路站)

If you plan to visit Huaihai Middle Road shopping street along the way, these two stations are convenient:

From Shaanxi South Road Station, walk east along Huaihai Middle Road, then head south via small streets like Nanchang Road or Gaolan Road; it takes about 20–25 minutes on foot to reach Sinan Mansions.
From Huangpi South Road Station, you can first visit Xintiandi, then walk west along Fuxing Middle Road as described above.

Bus

There are several bus stops around Sinan Mansions, allowing flexible choices depending on your accommodation location:

“Fuxing Middle Road & Ruijin Second Road” Stop:
- After getting off, walk a few minutes along Fuxing Middle Road to reach the east entrance of Sinan Mansions.
- This stop is served by multiple central city bus lines, which may change over time; it’s best to check the bus stop signs or map apps for current routes.
“Sinan Road & Fuxing Middle Road” Stop:
- Some lines stop here; it’s at the edge of the area, and you can walk directly into the neighborhood.
“Chongqing South Road & Fuxing Middle Road” Stop:
- After getting off, walk north or east for a few minutes to enter Sinan Mansions from the south or west side.

Driving and Parking

Sinan Mansions is in an old city area with narrow roads and limited parking spaces.
Some guides mention that street parking on Sinan Road costs about ¥20/hour (~$3 USD), which is relatively expensive and even harder to find during holidays.
There is an underground parking garage inside the neighborhood, but it mainly serves hotel guests, office workers, and some restaurant customers. Ordinary visitors needing parking are advised to check with the dining or event venue in advance to see if they can help reserve a spot.
A better option is to park at large commercial parking lots along Huaihai Middle Road, or at the underground parking in Xintiandi, then walk 10–15 minutes to Sinan Mansions to avoid circling on narrow side streets.

From Major Transport Hubs

Shanghai Hongqiao Station / Hongqiao Airport:
- Take Metro Line 10 directly to Yidahui Site · Xintiandi Station, about 30–40 minutes without transfers.
- Follow the walking route above to enter Sinan Mansions.
Shanghai Railway Station:
- Option 1: Take Line 1 to Shaanxi South Road Station, transfer to Line 10 for one stop to Xintiandi, then walk.
- Option 2: Exit at Shaanxi South Road Station and walk about 20–25 minutes along Huaihai Middle Road to Sinan Mansions.
Pudong Airport:
- Take Line 2 to East Nanjing Road or People’s Square Station (南京东路站 or 人民广场站), transfer to Line 10 to Xintiandi Station; the trip takes about 60–70 minutes.
- Alternatively, take the airport shuttle bus to downtown, then transfer to metro or taxi.

Citywalk Combined Walking Route Examples

Sinan Mansions is perfect for linking with nearby cultural spots to form a Citywalk route:

Route A (Cultural Line):
- Sinan Mansions → Stroll along Sinan Road → Sun Yat-sen Former Residence Memorial Hall (No.7 Xiangshan Road) → Zhou Mansion → Fuxing Park.
Route B (Starting from Xintiandi):
- Yidahui Site · Xintiandi Station → Walk along Fuxing Middle Road → Time Alley → Sinan Bookstore → Sinan Time Zone Gallery → Sinan Mansions Commercial Street → Zhou Mansion → Fuxing Park.
Route C (Starting from Huaihai Road):
- Huaihai Middle Road → St. Nicholas Church on Gaolan Road (Sinan Bookstore · Poetry Shop) → Nanchang Road, Ruijin Hotel, Garden Hotel area → Sinan Mansions → Fuxing Park.
Route D (Evening Return to Xintiandi):
- Sinan Mansions → Fuxing Middle Road → Huangpi South Road → Xintiandi, ideal for walking back to Xintiandi for dinner and shopping in the evening.

Practical Transportation Tips

Sinan Mansions is an open neighborhood accessible 24/7 on foot, with no walls or ticket gates. You can navigate directly by searching for “Sinan Mansions,” “523 Fuxing Middle Road,” or “73 Sinan Road (Zhou Mansion).”
Some older Shanghai metro stations have long transfer corridors and few elevators; travelers with large luggage may consider combining metro with short taxi rides.
The area around Sinan Mansions is very walk-friendly, making it ideal to explore by “metro + Citywalk.”
Taking a taxi from The Bund (外滩) area to Sinan Mansions usually takes about 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic.

🎫Tickets & Hours

Tickets and Opening Hours

Sinan Mansions (思南公馆) is an open historic district with public roads and most outdoor spaces open 24/7 for free, no tickets or reservations required. Below is ticket and opening information for the district itself and nearby key cultural sites.

The District Itself (Sinan Mansions 思南公馆)

Tickets: Free
Opening Hours:
- Outdoor public areas are open 24 hours;
- Some commercial streets have lighting and bars open at night, great for evening visits;
- There are still hotels and residences within the district, so please keep noise levels down when taking photos or gathering at night to avoid disturbing residents.

Zhou Mansion (Memorial Hall of the CCP Delegation Office in Shanghai)

Address: No. 73 Sinan Road, Huangpu District (黄浦区思南路73号)
Tickets: Free, no reservation needed
Opening Hours:
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, last entry at 4:30 PM
- Closed on Mondays
Visiting Areas:
- Main building: 3 out of 4 floors open, with original living scenes displayed;
- Adjacent building: 1st floor houses an audiovisual exhibition hall;
- Garden area open for free visit and photography.

Sinan Bookstore (Former Residence of Feng Yuxiang and Liu Yazi)

Address: No. 517 Fuxing Middle Road, Huangpu District (黄浦区复兴中路517号)
Tickets: Free
Opening Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday, 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays
Reservations: Generally no reservation needed; special exhibitions or events may require on-site or online registration—check current announcements.

Sinan Bookstore · Poetry Shop (St. Nicholas Church / Poetry Tower)

Address: No. 16 Gaolan Road, Huangpu District (黄浦区皋兰路16号)
Tickets: Free
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM, closed on Wednesdays
Reservations: Usually no reservation required; during holidays or busy times, entry may be limited with queues.

Sun Yat-sen Former Residence Memorial Hall

Address: No. 7 Xiangshan Road, Huangpu District (黄浦区香山路7号), about a 5-minute walk from Sinan Mansions
Tickets: Approximately ¥20 (~$3 USD) for combined ticket (former residence + relic museum), subject to on-site announcements
Opening Hours: Usually 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, closed on Mondays
Discounts: Students, seniors, military personnel, and other groups usually enjoy half-price or free admission with valid ID.

Fuxing Park

Tickets: Park itself is free to enter
Opening Hours: Generally from early morning to evening (check park notices)
Paid Attractions Inside the Park:
- Commercial entertainment areas like the “INS Playground” require separate tickets or passes; prices vary by activity and time. Some events offer all-access passes—check on-site or official platforms for details.

Temporary Exhibitions and Pop-up Events

Sinan Mansions frequently hosts various free or partially ticketed exhibitions, markets, and themed events, for example:

Sinan Naturally Lifestyle Festival
- Example dates: April 25–28, 2025, 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Location: Sinan Mansions / Fuxing Park
- Tickets: Free admission, no reservation needed
Full Moon Lifestyle Festival / Mid-Autumn Market / Lunar New Year Flower Market
- Features food, cultural and creative stalls, handmade crafts, and live bands, mostly free entry;
- Some exhibitions like “Full Moon Study Room Exhibition,” “The Wonderful Journey of Books and Prints,” “Small Home Corner Exhibition,” “Harry Potter Pop-up” are either completely free or require simple on-site or online registration.

Reservation and Information Tips

It is recommended to follow the official “Sinan Mansions” WeChat public account or the same-named Xiaohongshu account for up-to-date information on event times, reservation methods, and fees;
Opening hours for Zhou Mansion, Sinan Bookstore, Sun Yat-sen Former Residence, and other venues may change seasonally or due to policies. Confirm via official websites, public accounts, or phone before visiting, especially noting Monday closures to avoid wasted trips.

Cost and Budget Tips

The Sinan Mansions district itself and major cultural spots like Zhou Mansion, Sinan Bookstore, Sinan Bookstore · Poetry Shop, and Fuxing Park are mostly free, making them very budget-friendly for students, seniors, and families;
Paid sites like Sun Yat-sen Former Residence have affordable tickets and usually offer discounts for certain groups;
Some exhibition spaces use a “free + reservation with limited entry” model—arrive 10–15 minutes early to complete registration and avoid missing your visit slot.

⏱️Recommended Duration

Recommended Visit Duration

Sinan Mansions (思南公馆) and its surrounding attractions are perfect for a "slow stroll + lingering" experience. Depending on your time and interests, you can plan a trip ranging from 1.5 hours to a full day.

1. Quick Visit: 1.5–2 Hours

Ideal for visitors who are short on time or just passing by, focusing on soaking in the atmosphere and taking some quick photos.

Suggested pace:

15–20 minutes: Enter from the Fuxing Middle Road entrance, walk through Time Alley (时光弄堂), and get a brief overview of the area's history;
40–60 minutes: Leisurely stroll around the core Sinan Mansions neighborhood, photographing the old Western-style houses under the plane trees;
30–40 minutes: Visit Sinan Bookstore (思南书局) for a quick browse of one or two floors, or relax at nearby cafés like Starbucks Reserve or Antique Garden.

Suitable for: Visitors walking over from Xintiandi or Huaihai Road who just want to “see what Sinan Mansions looks like.”

2. Standard Tour: Half Day (3–5 Hours)

This is the recommended duration for most visitors, balancing architecture, culture, and coffee breaks.

Suggested time allocation:

Stroll around Sinan Mansions neighborhood: about 1 hour, including Time Alley and main streets;
Sinan Bookstore: about 1 hour, with time to order coffee on the second floor and view exhibitions on the third floor;
Zhou Residence (周公馆): about 40–60 minutes, allowing time for volunteer-led tours;
Fuxing Park (复兴公园): about 40 minutes, for a walk and photos in the French-style garden;
Coffee or light meal break: about 1 hour.

Suitable for:

Visitors wanting a comprehensive experience of “old Western-style houses + celebrity residences + bookstore cafés”;
Couples, friends, or families who want to take photos without rushing.

3. In-Depth Exploration: Full Day (6–8 Hours)

Perfect for architecture buffs, history enthusiasts, and photography lovers, making Sinan Mansions the centerpiece of a “Plane Tree District” day tour.

General itinerary:

Morning:
- Start from the First Congress Site · Xintiandi Station (一大会址·新天地站) → walk along Fuxing Middle Road → visit Time Alley → explore all floors and exhibitions at Sinan Bookstore → optionally visit Sinan Time Zone Gallery or current pop-up exhibitions based on interest;
Noon:
- Have lunch at one of the Sinan Mansions restaurants (such as Las Tapas, Oriental Banquet (东方景宴), Yong Jiang Zhen (永·江臻)), or choose a café for light bites;
Afternoon:
- In-depth visit to Zhou Residence → walk to Sun Yat-sen Former Residence Memorial (孙中山故居纪念馆) → stroll and photograph in Fuxing Park;
Evening and Night:
- Return to Sinan Mansions neighborhood to capture dusk and night scenes → if there’s a market or lifestyle festival, explore it → finish with a drink at Antique Garden or another bar.

4. Combination Suggestions with Nearby Attractions

Half-Day Combo 1: Sinan Mansions + Fuxing Park (about 3 hours)
- Great for families and leisurely walks: first stroll and play with kids in Fuxing Park, then cross the street to Sinan Mansions for coffee and reading.
Half-Day Combo 2: Sinan Mansions + Sun Yat-sen Former Residence + Zhou Residence (about 4 hours)
- Ideal for cultural and history lovers: the two modern history landmarks are only a 5–10 minute walk apart, allowing a systematic understanding of the Republic era and revolutionary history, then relax back in Sinan Mansions.
Full-Day Combo: Plane Tree District Tour
- Connect Wukang Road, Anfu Road, Huaihai Middle Road, Sinan Mansions, and Xintiandi. If you don’t want a too intense itinerary, you can shorten other stops and focus on Sinan Mansions and the nearby small streets (Nanchang Road, Gaolan Road, Xiangshan Road) for a slow, photo-friendly stroll.

Overall Recommendations

Just passing by for photos: reserve 1.5–2 hours;
Want to cover bookstore, celebrity residences, and cafés: at least half a day (3–5 hours) is recommended;
Want a thorough experience of the “Plane Tree District”’s Shanghai-style charm and cultural depth: make Sinan Mansions the core of a full-day itinerary.

✨Highlights

Must-See Highlights and Unique Experiences

1. Architectural and Neighborhood Highlights

1. The Cluster of 51 Garden Villas

Sinan Mansions (思南公馆) is one of Shanghai’s largest protected areas of garden villas, featuring 51 historically preserved buildings that showcase the diversity of modern Shanghai residential architecture:

Detached garden villas
Semi-detached garden villas
Detached garden villas with inner courtyards
Row houses
Buildings with exterior corridors
New-style lilong (lane houses)
Garden lilong
Modern apartments

The architectural styles blend Spanish, British, French, and other European vocabularies, with common elements including:

Red brick bare walls
Semi-circular arch exterior corridors
Sloped roofs with dormer windows
Carved balconies and wrought iron railings
Stained glass windows

Combined with walls covered in ivy and rows of French plane trees, this forms an open-air architectural museum full of Shanghai-style romantic charm.

2. The Nuns’ Building / Sinan Mansions Banquet Hall (Jing Mansion)

Location & Identity: Located in the East Garden of Sinan Mansions, this is an artistically significant building with exterior corridors, now serving as the “Sinan Mansions Banquet Hall / Jing Mansion,” frequently used for weddings, business banquets, press conferences, and meetings.
Architectural Style: Typical late Victorian Queen Anne Revival style, the entire building features a series of semi-circular arches forming the exterior corridor, red brick bare walls paired with tall arcades, creating a strong ceremonial atmosphere.
Historical Evolution:
- Formerly the Catholic St. Peter’s Xiaoxing Primary School, after 1949 it became Chongqing South Road No.1 Primary School;
- During the 1999 renovation, to avoid an elevated highway, the entire building was rotated 90 degrees on its original site, changing its orientation from east-west to north-south;
- During construction, bricks and tiles were carefully removed, numbered, and reinstalled exactly, making it a classic case of historic building preservation in China.
Interior Spaces:
- 1st floor: accommodates about 3–5 tables, suitable for receptions and small banquets;
- 2nd floor: includes a tea break hall, banquet hall, and exterior corridor, ideal for photos and socializing;
- 3rd floor: main banquet hall fits about 8–10 tables, with dressing rooms and other facilities;
- Catering is provided by the Black Pearl restaurant Jing Pu Hui, positioned as high-end and exquisite.

2. Cultural and Humanistic Landmarks

1. Zhou Residence (Memorial Hall of the CCP Delegation Office in Shanghai)

Address: No. 73 Sinan Road, Huangpu District
Architectural Features:
- Spanish-style garden villa, three-story small building;
- Exterior walls almost completely covered by ivy and vines, with arched windows and a small garden;
- In autumn sunlight, the red bricks, green vines, and golden leaves create a strong atmospheric feeling.
Historical Background:
- During the 1946 Kuomintang-Communist negotiations, this was the site of the CCP delegation office in Shanghai;
- Zhou Enlai, Dong Biwu, and others worked and lived here, making it an important witness to modern Chinese political history.
Visiting Highlights:
- The main building’s 4 floors open 3 floors to the public, with life scenes displayed in original condition, no “one-meter line” barriers, allowing close observation of Zhou Enlai’s office/bedroom with wooden bed, desk, and simple toiletries;
- The adjacent building’s 1st floor houses an audiovisual exhibition hall showing many precious historical photos and videos;
- The garden features a sculpture of Zhou Enlai and a fountain, perfect for photos or quiet reflection;
- Volunteer guides provide lively explanations to help visitors systematically understand that period of history;
- The 2nd-floor terrace is a hidden photo spot, backed by plane trees and a green vine wall, with soft light around 3 pm, ideal for portrait photography.

2. Mei Lanfang Former Residence

Address: No. 87 Sinan Road
Highlights:
- One of the residences of Peking Opera master Mei Lanfang in Shanghai, with blue brick arches and a small garden retaining strong Republican-era theatrical charm;
- The exterior is exquisite and elegant, an important clue to understanding Shanghai-style opera culture and celebrity life;
- Currently, most visitors only take photos outside; interior access depends on official announcements.

3. Sinan Bookstore (Former Residences of Feng Yuxiang and Liu Yazi)

Address: No. 517 Fuxing Middle Road, Huangpu District
Architecture & History:
- Built in 1926, a French-style detached garden villa with three floors plus an attic, brick-concrete structure;
- Main entrance on the second floor, accessed via outdoor stone stairs;
- Former residence of patriotic general Feng Yuxiang, donated to the state by his wife Li Dequan in 1951; famous poet Liu Yazi also lived here;
- Renovated in 2018 and opened to the public as “Sinan Bookstore.”
Space Layout:
- 1st floor: reading area and cultural & creative products, many English original books, small tables and half-windows between bookshelves, perfect for quiet reading;
- 2nd floor: coffee bar, literature books, and creative products; you can pick books in the room then enjoy coffee by the window seat with street views;
- 3rd floor: art books and exhibition hall, has hosted themed exhibitions like “Furry Poems,” with two large desks for writing or computer work, plus a piano;
- 4th floor: office area, not open to the public.
Atmosphere: Compact but rich in content, with plane trees and old villas outside the windows, an ideal place to spend a quiet afternoon.

4. Sinan Bookstore · Poetry Shop (St. Nicholas Church / Poetry Tower)

Address: No. 16 Gaolan Road, Huangpu District
Building History:
- Built by Russians in 1932, completed in 1934, in Eastern Orthodox Byzantine style;
- Characterized by “one large and four small” onion-shaped domes and gray-white facade, a highly recognizable landmark near Huaihai Road;
- Has served as office building, factory, warehouse, canteen, clubhouse, restaurant, and was later left unused for a long time.
Renovation Highlights:
- Transformed by German designer Wutopia Lab with the concept of “Church in church”;
- Inside the original church, about 45 tons of steel were used to build perforated steel plates and translucent structures, creating a “steel inner church”;
- Original murals remain visible through the new structure, layering old and new to create a dramatic, poetic spatial experience.
Functional Zones:
- Dome service area, picture book section, creative product area, café, immersive reading space, etc.;
- Houses poetry collections from 11 countries, with a small garden at the entrance where you can read outdoors on sunny days.

5. Sinan Open-Air Museum · Time Alley

Location: Near the Fuxing Middle Road entrance, serving as the “prelude space” to Sinan Mansions.
Content:
- A roughly 30-meter-long “time tunnel” that uses images, text, and video to trace the century-long changes of Sinan Mansions;
- At the end is a “mirror array” installation that captures visitors and the reflections of historic buildings together in the frame;
- Displays architectural styles, lilong alleyway atmosphere, and the relationship between celebrities and Sinan Mansions, making it the best starting point to understand the area’s history.

6. Sinan Time Zone Gallery and Themed Exhibitions

Sinan Time Zone Gallery: Located within the Sinan Mansions commercial street, hosting irregular art exhibitions such as autumn floral art installations; features boutique creative products and art installations, ideal for niche art lovers.
Little Home Corner Exhibition: A multi-brand home lifestyle themed exhibition divided into camping, balcony coffee, living room, kitchen, etc., across three floors; great for photos and home inspiration.
Life’s Pages · Doris Travel Sketch Exhibition: Showcases paintings of cities and festivals from travels, with related merchandise for sale.
Full Moon Study Exhibition / Annual Books by 100 Editors of Full Moon Study: Occupies three floors, displaying manuscripts, proofreading drafts, and stories behind editors and books, including a special Zhang Ailing exhibit; simple reservation at the entrance allows entry.
Ruyuan Intangible Cultural Heritage Space: Looks like a clothing store from outside but is an intangible cultural heritage space inside, selling various heritage textiles and accessories, with hands-on workshops and charity activities.
The Wonderful Journey of Books and Printing: Large popular science exhibition introducing bookbinding and printing techniques, comfortable displays, with a stamp-collecting activity; stamps are scattered in four corners, allowing visitors to collect stamps while touring.

3. Cafés and Bookstore Atmosphere Spots

1. Starbucks Reserve (Sinan Mansions Store)

Location: A three-story detached garden villa at the intersection of Sinan Road and Fuxing Middle Road
Space Layout:
- 1st floor: vintage sofa seating, old wooden floors creak underfoot;
- 2nd floor: long tables and semi-private small rooms with sofa seats for two, windows overlook camphor trees and street views;
- 3rd floor: Nordic wooden loft style, strong atmosphere for reading, studying, and working.
Facilities & Atmosphere:
- Both 2nd and 3rd floors have long tables with power outlets; restroom available; hot water provided;
- Old villa wooden roof, oil painting green vintage small sofas paired with light jazz music, praised by many bloggers as “the best old villa Starbucks for studying” and “the most vintage and beautiful one.”

2. Reading Spaces at Sinan Bookstore

The 1st floor reading area and creative corner, 2nd floor coffee bar and window seats, and 3rd floor art book room and exhibition hall together form a culturally rich layered space;
Outside the windows, plane trees and old villas create a natural “background,” making it many people’s ideal real-life version of a “dream study.”

4. Events and Markets

1. Sinan Naturally Life Festival

Example Dates: April 25–28, 2025, daily 13:00–19:00
Location: Sinan Mansions / Fuxing Park
Content:
- Sinan Time TV check-in points, collaboration with Sinan Bookstore, floral arrangements at Jing Mansion, etc.;
- The venue is decorated as a natural garden, surrounded by greenery and blooming flowers;
- Free admission, no reservation needed, has attracted influencers and celebrities for check-ins.

2. Mid-Autumn Market / Full Moon Life Festival

Content:
- Food, trendy toys, creative products, handmade stalls, with a gashapon (capsule toy) activity at the entrance;
- Multiple live band performances and small live shows on site, perfect for evening strolls with music;
- Often linked with Harry Potter pop-ups, The Wonderful Journey of Books and Printing, Little Home Corner Exhibition, Full Moon Study Exhibition, mostly free or simple reservation required.

3. Lunar New Year Flower Market and New Year Installations

Flower Market: Very popular on weekends before the Spring Festival, easy to experience festive atmosphere in the city center;
Year of the Horse Theme “Fortune Fills Sinan · Dream as Horse” Installation (2026):
- A small square on Chongqing South Road features a carousel and art installations, gentle and healing by day, dazzling lights at night;
- Along Fuxing Middle Road, three “breathing” little horse lanterns symbolize hope, protection, and beauty;
- Plane tree-lined old villas with red brick arches and New Year decorations create a fully Shanghai-style romantic atmosphere.

5. Niche Experiences and Special Activities

Sunset Cocktail Gathering: Join the “Sunset Cocktail Gathering” at Sinan Mansions, holding a Year of the Horse special cocktail before sunset, clinking glasses with friends on terraces or courtyards, enjoying a relaxed “sunset bar” vibe;
Half-Day Resident Experience: Start from Xintiandi, cross Huaihai Road and nearby residential areas, casually pop into decades-old grocery stores, chat with aunties and uncles, experiencing authentic Shanghai daily life and local flavor;
Scalp Care SPA: The neighborhood has scalp care shops like “A Ban New Japanese Tech Beauty · A Ban Biti,” offering scalp analysis, nano hair washing, scalp tech massages, perfect for relaxing and decompressing after city walking.

These highlights and activities, combined with ever-changing pop-up exhibitions and lifestyle festivals, make Sinan Mansions not just a “check-in spot for old villas,” but a comprehensive experience of architecture, history, reading, coffee, markets, and everyday life.

💡Tips

Practical Tips

1. Time and Lighting Choices

Avoid noon: In spring and summer, the midday sun is strong. Although there are plane tree shadows, photos tend to have harsh shadows. It’s a good time to take a break in bookstores or cafés.
Best photo times:
- Autumn and winter afternoons 2:00–4:00 PM: Soft side backlighting is ideal for gentle portraits and architectural light and shadow.
- Around 4:00 PM in autumn: Golden plane tree leaves against red brick walls create a painterly effect.
- Sunny winter days 3:00–4:30 PM: Perfect for soft, painterly light in Fuxing Park (复兴公园); 5:00–5:30 PM is great for capturing the blue hour and warm lights at Sinan Mansions (思南公馆).
- Second-floor platform at Zhou Mansion (周公馆): Recommended to visit around 3:00 PM for gentle sunset light and beautiful wall and tree shadows.

2. Clothing and What to Bring

Shoes: The area has many cobblestone streets and uneven steps. Comfortable flats or sneakers are recommended for long walks and photo sessions.
Outfit suggestions:
- Spring and summer: Light-colored tulle skirts, French-style little black dresses, Chanel-style suits, and casual Japanese-style outfits all pair well with the old Western-style houses.
- Autumn and winter: Off-white knit sweaters with pleated skirts, gray off-shoulder sweaters with matching socks, long trench coats with berets—great for vintage vibes.
Winter warmth: Shanghai is damp and cold from February to March, with a lower perceived temperature. Prepare down jackets, scarves, gloves, and hats. You can briefly remove your coat for photos.
Rain gear: Shanghai’s weather is changeable, especially in spring and summer. Always carry a folding umbrella. After rain, the reflections on cobblestones and plane trees make for great photos.

3. Etiquette and Avoiding Crowds

Avoid peak times: National Day, Labor Day, and Spring Festival holidays see a significant increase in visitors. It’s best to visit on weekdays or weekend mornings.
Quiet space etiquette:
- Places like Sinan Bookstore (思南书局), Starbucks Reserve (星巴克臻选), and Antique Garden (古董花园) are quiet spaces with many studying or working. Keep noise levels down when taking photos.
- Don’t occupy popular window seats for long just to take pictures. Ordering a drink and staying moderately is more appreciated.
Respect residential privacy:
- Sinan Mansions is not purely a tourist spot; some areas are hotels or private residences. Do not knock on doors, enter courtyards uninvited, or loudly disturb residents.
- If you walk into adjacent old alleys and residential areas, speak quietly and avoid close-up shots of residents to respect their privacy.

4. Photography and Equipment Tips

Lighting use:
- Avoid overhead light; choose side or backlighting so sunlight hits your face from the side for better skin texture.
- Use leaves, railings, window frames, etc., to create foreground elements and light spots, adding depth to your photos.
Posing tips:
- Walking shots, looking back with a smile, resting your chin on a bench, holding coffee, picking up fallen leaves, lightly touching walls or railings—all look more natural than stiff standing poses.
Props:
- A poetry book, vintage newspaper, a cup of coffee, a carved small mirror, or a bouquet of flowers can help with the awkwardness of not knowing where to put your hands.
Phone photography:
- Around 5–6 PM, turn on your phone’s flash to create a film-like portrait effect.
- Use portrait mode and film/soft light filters moderately; avoid over-smoothing the skin.
Camera lenses:
- 35mm or 50mm prime lenses are great for portraits; 16–35mm wide-angle lenses work well for architecture and interiors.
- Try slow shutter speeds on spiral staircases to capture flowing skirt movement.

5. Visiting and Reservation Notes

Zhou Mansion (周公馆):
- Closed on Mondays; last entry at 4:30 PM.
- Arrive 1–1.5 hours early to allow time for volunteer-guided tours.
Sinan Bookstore and Poetry Shop:
- Sinan Bookstore is closed on Mondays; the Poetry Shop is closed on Wednesdays.
- Confirm opening hours before you go to avoid disappointment.
Sun Yat-sen’s Former Residence Memorial (孙中山故居纪念馆):
- Tickets cost about ¥20 (~$3 USD); closed on Mondays; queues possible on holidays.
- Plan visits in the morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds.
Temporary exhibitions and markets:
- Events like the Full Moon Bookroom exhibition, Small Home Corner exhibition, and Harry Potter pop-ups are mostly free or require simple reservations.
- Follow the official Sinan Mansions WeChat account or Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book) official account for the latest info.

6. Safety and Other Reminders

Ground conditions: Cobblestones can be slippery when wet. Be extra careful if wearing leather-soled shoes or heels.
Children and elderly: Although traffic is relatively light, some vehicles still pass through. Pay attention to road safety when accompanying kids or seniors.
Personal belongings: Watch your camera and phone in crowded places. Avoid leaving them unattended on tables or benches.
After drinking: There are bars and pubs in the area. Avoid cycling or driving after drinking; opt for walking or taking a taxi instead.

7. Saving Money and Enhancing Experience

Ticket costs: Sinan Mansions area, Zhou Mansion, Sinan Bookstore, Poetry Shop, and Fuxing Park are mostly free, making them budget-friendly choices.
Transportation: Prioritize metro + walking to avoid expensive roadside parking near Sinan Road.
Café workspaces: Ordering a drink at Starbucks Reserve or Sinan Bookstore lets you stay and work or study comfortably, offering a better atmosphere than coworking spaces.
Itinerary combos: Combine Sinan Mansions with Xintiandi, Huaihai Middle Road, Tianzifang, and other spots for a multi-experience trip that saves travel time and costs.

🍜Food Nearby

Dining and Coffee Around Sinan Mansions (思南公馆)

The dining options at Sinan Mansions mainly focus on mid-to-high-end experiences, featuring a combination of “old Western-style houses + exquisite dining tables/coffee.” The cuisine ranges from Spanish, Jiangsu-Zhejiang (江浙) dishes to Ningbo cuisine, along with a rich selection of old house cafés and chain specialty coffee shops.

1. Old Western-Style House Cafés and Small Bars

1. Antique Bar (古董花园·咖啡馆 / 酒馆)

Type: Vintage café + small bar
Average cost: Coffee around ¥80–150 (~$11–22 USD), evening drinks priced separately
Address: Building 44, Sinan Road (思南路), about a 3-minute walk from Sinan Mansions
Highlights:
- Located inside an old Western-style house, featured in many TV dramas such as Blossoms Shanghai (繁花), My Best Friend’s Story (流金岁月), and You Are My Glory (你是我的荣耀);
- Interior decorated with a nostalgic vibe: carved wall clocks, velvet sofas, brass lamps, fireplaces, old picture frames, and walls full of vintage items, all preserved without excessive renovation to retain the old Shanghai atmosphere;
- Quiet café during the day, perfect for long chats or photography;
- Upstairs transforms into a small bar at night, with magic interactive shows on weekends, ideal for gatherings and casual drinks with friends;
- Drinks like matcha lattes are served in exquisite cups, creating a very atmospheric environment.

2. Starbucks Reserve Store (Sinan Mansions Branch 星巴克臻选店)

Type: Coffee and light meals
Average cost: About ¥40–80 (~$6–12 USD)
Address: At the intersection of Sinan Road and Middle Fuxing Road, housed in a standalone three-story garden villa
Highlights:
- Praised by many bloggers as the "most vintage and beautiful Starbucks" and the "best Starbucks in an old Western-style house for studying";
- First floor features vintage sofa seating; second and third floors have long tables and semi-private small rooms with sofa seating for two; the third-floor attic is styled like a Nordic wooden cabin;
- Power outlets available on the second and third floors, suitable for long study or work sessions; staff provide hot water on request;
- Background music is soft jazz, perfectly matching the old house ambiance;
- Recommended drink: Sticky Pandan Latte with Almond Milk (糯香斑斓拿铁+巴旦木奶), fragrant and not too sweet.

2. Full-Service Restaurants Inside Sinan Mansions

1. Las Tapas (思南公馆店)

Type: Spanish cuisine
Average cost: About ¥200–300 (~$30–45 USD)
Location: Inside the Sinan Mansions commercial street (specific address can be checked on-site or via maps)
Ambiance: Vintage villa space with warm lighting and wooden furniture, creating a cozy atmosphere, perfect for holiday dinners or dates.
Recommended dishes:
- Valencia Seafood Paella (瓦伦西亚海鲜饭): A must-order at every table, the rice is moist and soaked with broth, loaded with seafood, signature dish;
- Olive Oil Sautéed Shrimp (橄榄油爆虾仁): Slightly spicy, shrimp meat is firm and bouncy;
- Foie Gras Mousse with Berries (鹅肝慕斯配浆果): Delicate foie gras paired with toast and berries to cut the richness;
- Australian Angus Ribeye (澳洲安格斯肉眼): Tender even at medium-well, well-marbled, with tasty side dishes.
Other highlights:
- Birthday celebrations receive a complimentary Basque Cheesecake (巴斯克蛋糕), rich and creamy with a molten center, adding a festive touch;
- Some guides call it “one of the best Spanish restaurants in Shanghai”;
- It’s recommended to book online about a week in advance during peak times.

2. Oriental Banquet (东方景宴) inside Sinan Mansions

Type: Chinese full-service dining + Chinese afternoon tea
Average cost: About ¥150–250 (~$22–37 USD)
Location: Within the Sinan Mansions area (specific address can be checked on-site)
Highlights:
- Renovated old Western-style house, often featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and courtyard views;
- Bloggers have checked in for Chinese afternoon tea around 2 PM, commenting “overall taste is quite good”;
- Suitable for photography and relaxation, with an elegant atmosphere.

3. Yong Jiang Zhen (永·江臻) – Jiangsu-Zhejiang Cuisine

Type: Jiangsu-Zhejiang cuisine
Average cost: About ¥200–300 (~$30–45 USD)
Location: Inside a small courtyard within Sinan Mansions (search “永·江臻思南公馆”)
Ambiance:
- Charming small courtyard with exquisite decor, a favorite Jiangsu-Zhejiang restaurant among locals;
- Perfect for sitting down for a leisurely meal after a Citywalk.
Recommended dishes:
- Black Tea Pudding with Bird’s Nest (红茶奶冻配燕窝): Rich black tea pudding paired with delicate strands of bird’s nest, irresistible for dessert lovers;
- Catfish Lion’s Head Meatballs (鮰鱼狮子头): Delicate texture, perfect with a sip of hot tea, fresh and savory, ideal for those who like sweet and local Shanghai flavors.

3. Specialty Restaurants Around Sinan Road

1. Xiao Niang Niang (小嬢嬢) – Ningbo Cuisine

Type: Ningbo cuisine
Average cost: About ¥150 (~$22 USD)
Location: Old Western-style house restaurant near Sinan Road (search “小嬢嬢思南路” on maps)
Recommended dishes:
- Drunken Crab (酒料膏蟹): Typical Ningbo-style crab roe, great as a cold dish or with drinks;
- Scallion Oil Squid with Rice (葱油带饭鱿鱼): Squid mixed with scallion oil rice, very fragrant, highly praised by bloggers.

4. Casual Meals and Local Noodle Shops Nearby

1. Fuxing Noodle Shop (复兴面馆)

Type: Local Shanghai-style noodle shop
Average cost: About ¥30–50 (~$5–7 USD)
Location: Near Middle Huaihai Road close to Fuxing Park, about a 10-minute walk from Sinan Mansions
Recommendations:
- Large Intestine Noodles (大肠面): Chewy noodles with especially fragrant but slightly salty braised large intestine;
- Fried Pork Chop: Classic old Shanghai noodle shop style, crispy outside and tender inside.
Other info: Open 24 hours, offers free lemon water for check-ins, good for a quick meal before or after a Citywalk.

2. Yuxingji Crab Roe Noodles (裕兴记蟹黄面) near Huaihai Road

Type: Local Shanghai-style noodle shop
Average cost: About ¥60–100 (~$9–15 USD)
Location: Around Huaihai Road, within walking distance to Sinan Mansions
Highlights:
- Famous for Crab Roe Noodles (蟹黄面) with rich crab roe, considered a “power station” by many tourists and locals;
- Some bloggers recommend a Citywalk route: “Yuxingji Crab Roe Noodles – Maleb Villa – Sinan Road,” starting with a filling meal here before walking to Sinan Mansions.

5. Other Coffee Shops and Dessert Places

Sinan Mansions and its surroundings also have many niche cafés and dessert shops (such as Hushui Roastery (沪水焙煎室), Xixing Coffee (禧兴咖啡), mentioned in some Putonghua District guides), some located within the broader French Concession area;
It’s recommended to stroll slowly around the intersection of Sinan Road and Middle Fuxing Road, and pop into any old Western-style house café that catches your eye. Many have courtyards or attic seating, perfect for photos and relaxing.

6. Dining Tips

Popular restaurants inside Sinan Mansions (like Las Tapas and Yong Jiang Zhen) often have queues on weekends and holidays. It’s advisable to check the latest opening hours and queue status by searching the restaurant name + “Sinan Mansions (思南公馆)” on Dianping or Xiaohongshu in advance;
Some restaurants or banquet halls may be fully booked for weddings or large events, so it’s best to confirm by phone ahead of time;
If on a budget, consider having your main meals at nearby noodle shops or casual eateries, and save more of your budget for coffee and dessert experiences.

🏨Accommodation

Accommodation Options Nearby

Sinan Mansions (思南公馆) itself mainly features historic preservation buildings and commercial spaces, with a small number of high-end hotels and long-term rental old Western-style houses (such as entire Spanish-style villas with about 500㎡ gardens renting for millions of yuan annually). Prices are very high, making it more suitable for business travelers or long-term residents. For regular tourists, it is recommended to choose accommodations in several nearby areas that are within walking distance or a short metro ride.

1. Sinan Mansions and Adjacent Area (High-End Atmosphere)

Features:
- Within a 5–10 minute walk to Sinan Mansions and Fuxing Park (复兴公园);
- Quiet environment with good greenery, rich in the atmosphere of old French Concession Western-style houses;
- Suitable for travelers seeking lifestyle and privacy.
Accommodation Types:
- High-end boutique hotels and old Western-style house hotels (mostly around Sinan Road, Ruijin Second Road, and Nanchang Road);
- Entire old Western-style houses for rent inside and around Sinan Mansions, some serving as upscale clubs or long-term residences, with expensive prices.
Suitable For: Travelers or families with a sufficient budget who want to stay a few nights under the plane trees and experience “living in an old Western-style house.”

2. Huaihai Middle Road (淮海中路) – Xintiandi Area (Mid-to-High Price, Most Recommended)

Distance and Transportation:
- About an 8–10 minute walk from Metro Lines 10/13, Yidahui Site·Xintiandi Station (一大会址·新天地站) to Sinan Mansions;
- About a 15–20 minute walk from Huaihai Middle Road along Gaolan Road and Nanchang Road to Sinan Mansions.
Advantages:
- Extremely convenient transportation with dense metro lines, easy access to The Bund (外滩), Nanjing Road (南京路), Lujiazui (陆家嘴), Wukang Road (武康路), etc.;
- Rich dining and shopping options, with Xintiandi and Huaihai Road business districts hosting numerous restaurants, cafes, bars, and shopping centers;
- Within walking distance to connect Sinan Mansions, Fuxing Park, Sun Yat-sen’s Former Residence, St. Nicholas Cathedral, and other cultural sites.
Accommodation Types:
- International chain high-star hotels (suitable for business and families);
- Design boutique hotels and serviced apartments (ideal for couples and friends traveling together).
Suitable For: First-time visitors to Shanghai who want to balance multiple city attractions while focusing on experiencing Sinan Mansions and the plane tree district.

3. Ruijin Hotel – Garden Hotel Area (Old Western-Style House Hotel Experience)

Location: Around Nanchang Road, Ruijin Second Road, and Maoming South Road north of Sinan Mansions, about a 15–20 minute walk to Sinan Mansions.
Representative Hotels:
- Ruijin Hotel (瑞金宾馆): Composed of multiple garden villas and gardens, rich in history and quiet environment;
- Garden Hotel (花园饭店): Classic old high-star hotel located in a large garden, full of French Concession charm.
Advantages:
- The hotels themselves are attractions, perfect for guests who love old Western-style houses and garden environments;
- Walking distance to Huaihai Middle Road and Sinan Mansions, excellent for morning and evening strolls.
Suitable For: Travelers with a higher budget who value accommodation atmosphere and historical feel.

4. South Shaanxi Road (陕西南路) – South of Jing’an Temple Area (Mid-Range Price)

Distance:
- Take the metro one stop from Shaanxi South Road Station or Jing’an Temple area to Xintiandi, then walk to Sinan Mansions;
- Or walk about 20–30 minutes along Huaihai Middle Road to Sinan Mansions.
Advantages:
- Many hotel options, usually priced slightly lower than The Bund or People’s Square areas;
- Experience different styles by staying near Jing’an Temple, Nanjing West Road business district, Huaihai Road, and Sinan Mansions.
Suitable For: Travelers who want to stay in the city center but have a limited budget and don’t mind walking or taking a short metro ride.

5. People’s Square (人民广场) – East Nanjing Road (南京东路) Area (Transportation Hub)

Features:
- One of Shanghai’s classic accommodation areas with dense metro lines, convenient for visiting major attractions;
- Requires taking the metro or taxi to Sinan Mansions, about 15–25 minutes travel time.
Suitable Scenarios:
- Travelers focusing on The Bund, museums, Nanjing Road, etc., who only plan to spend half a day at Sinan Mansions;
- Can take Metro Line 10 to Xintiandi Station, then walk to Sinan Mansions.

6. Cost-Performance and Location Suggestions

If “Sinan Mansions + Plane Tree District Citywalk” is the focus of your trip:
- Prioritize hotels around Huaihai Middle Road – Xintiandi – Ruijin Second Road, all within walking distance, allowing easy morning and evening strolls or photo sessions.
If budget is sufficient and atmosphere is a priority:
- Consider booking old Western-style house hotels like Ruijin Hotel, Garden Hotel, or high-end boutique hotels around Sinan Mansions to experience “living in a garden home.”
If cost-performance is more important:
- Look for chain hotels or apartments a stop or two away along Metro Lines 1 and 10 (such as Shaanxi South Road, Xujiahui), using metro plus walking to reach Sinan Mansions.

7. Practical Accommodation Tips

When booking, prioritize hotels near Metro Lines 10 or 13 for quicker and easier access to Sinan Mansions;
If you plan to photograph Sinan Mansions at different times of day (morning, afternoon, dusk, night), it’s recommended to stay within the Xintiandi – Huaihai Middle Road – Ruijin Second Road area, about a 10–20 minute walk for easy multiple visits;
Old Western-style house hotels have limited rooms, and prices fluctuate significantly during holidays and exhibitions, so book early and pay attention to cancellation policies.

🗺️Itinerary

Recommended Itinerary (Including Walking and Photo Spots)

Here is a half-day to nearly full-day itinerary perfect for first-time visitors to Sinan Mansions (思南公馆), balancing architecture, culture, bookstores, coffee, and park strolls. You can flexibly adjust it according to your available time.

Morning: From Xintiandi into the “Time Alley”

08:45–09:00 Arrive at Site of the First National Congress · Xintiandi Station

Take Metro Line 10 or 13 and get off at Site of the First National Congress · Xintiandi Station (一大会址·新天地站);
It’s recommended to exit from Exit 5 or 6, then confirm you are on Fuxing Middle Road (复兴中路) at street level.

09:00–09:20 Walk along Fuxing Middle Road to Sinan Mansions Entrance

Walk west along Fuxing Middle Road, with the wall and gate of Fuxing Park (复兴公园) on your right and gradually a cluster of red brick Western-style houses appearing on your left;
After about 600 meters, near No. 505–523 Fuxing Middle Road, you will see the “Sinan Mansions (思南公馆)” sign and entrance.

09:20–09:40 Sinan Open-Air Museum · Time Alley

Enter from the Fuxing Middle Road entrance and first explore the “Sinan Open-Air Museum · Time Alley”;
Spend about 20 minutes learning through images, texts, and videos about the century-long transformation of this neighborhood from “Masnan Road Garden Residential Area” to “Sinan Mansions”;
Take a photo at the “Mirror Array” installation at the end, capturing the reflection of the old Western-style houses as a timestamp for your day.

09:40–10:20 Neighborhood Walk and Exterior of the Nun’s Building

Follow the stone-paved path deeper into the neighborhood, wandering freely through alleys and squares to experience different styles of garden villas;
Find the colonnaded building — Sinan Mansions Banquet Hall / Jing Mansion (Nun’s Building, 修女楼) — and admire its continuous semicircular arches and red brick fair-faced walls from the outside;
Along the way, scan QR codes or read display boards at building entrances to learn about celebrity stories and architectural history.

Mid-Morning: Reading at Feng Yuxiang’s Former Residence

10:20–10:30 Walk to Sinan Bookstore

Walk from inside the neighborhood or from Fuxing Middle Road to No. 517 Fuxing Middle Road, about 5–10 minutes;
Look up for the French-style garden villa with an outdoor stone staircase and entrance on the second floor.

10:30–11:30 Sinan Bookstore (Former Residences of Feng Yuxiang and Liu Yazi)

Climb the outdoor stone staircase to the second floor and enter the bookstore through the main entrance;
First browse English original books and creative cultural products on the 1st floor, enjoying the quiet atmosphere of the old villa’s ground floor;
Then go up to the 2nd floor, order a drink at the coffee bar, pick some literature books, and sit by the window booth to watch the street scene;
Finally, visit the 3rd floor to see art books and current small exhibitions, experiencing the mixed vibe of a “private study + gallery.”

If you’re a “bookstore lover,” feel free to extend your stay at Sinan Bookstore and make it your main morning base.

Noon: Lunch in an Old Western-Style House

11:30–12:00 Return to Sinan Mansions Core Area

Exit Sinan Bookstore and return to Sinan Mansions commercial street via Fuxing Middle Road or internal neighborhood paths;
Take the opportunity to admire more façades of different styles of Western-style houses for post-lunch photo spots.

12:00–13:30 Lunch in Old Western-Style Houses (Choose One)

Las Tapas Sinan Mansions Branch (Spanish Cuisine)

Suitable for: Western food lovers, celebrations, or dates;
Recommended to reserve in advance and order Valencia Seafood Paella with several small dishes.

Yong Jiang Zhen (江浙菜 Jiangsu and Zhejiang Cuisine)

Suitable for: Those wanting Chinese food and local flavors;
Recommended dishes: Mandarin Fish Lion’s Head Meatballs (鮰鱼狮子头) and Black Tea Milk Pudding with Bird’s Nest (红茶奶冻配燕窝).

Oriental Scenery Banquet (Chinese Formal Dining + Afternoon Tea)

Suitable for: Leisurely dining in an old Western-style house with photo opportunities;
If you prefer a light lunch, save this for afternoon Chinese-style tea.

If on a budget, you can walk about 10 minutes to Fuxing Noodle House (复兴面馆) or Yuxingji Crab Roe Noodles (裕兴记蟹黄面) near Huaihai Road for lunch, then return to Sinan Mansions to continue your itinerary.

Afternoon: Celebrity Residences and Park Stroll

13:30–14:30 Zhou Residence (Memorial Hall of the CCP Delegation Office in Shanghai)

Walk south along Sinan Road from Sinan Mansions core area for a few minutes to No. 73 Sinan Road, Zhou Residence (周公馆);
Upon entering, listen to a volunteer’s introduction on the first floor about the historical background of the CCP delegation office in Shanghai during the 1946 Kuomintang-CCP negotiations;
Visit Zhou Enlai’s office and bedroom, reception room, and other living scenes, noting the simple wooden bed and desk;
Finally, go up to the second-floor terrace, take a portrait photo backed by plane trees and green vine walls, and feel the atmosphere where “history and daily life overlap.”

14:30–15:00 Walk to Sun Yat-sen Former Residence Memorial Hall

Exit Zhou Residence and walk about 5–10 minutes along Sinan Road or Xiangshan Road to No. 7 Xiangshan Road, Sun Yat-sen Former Residence Memorial Hall (孙中山故居纪念馆);
On the way, you can pass by the exterior of Mei Lanfang Former Residence (No. 87 Sinan Road), appreciating the Republican-era blue brick archway and small garden.

15:00–16:00 Sun Yat-sen Former Residence Memorial Hall

Purchase tickets (~¥20, combined ticket for residence + relic museum) and visit exhibits related to Sun Yat-sen’s life and revolutionary activities in Shanghai;
Take a short rest in the courtyard, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the European-style countryside villa and green courtyard.

16:00–16:40 Stroll in Fuxing Park

Cross the street from Sun Yat-sen Former Residence or one side of Sinan Mansions to enter Fuxing Park (复兴公园) opposite;
Walk and take photos around the Rose Garden Ruins Corridor, central fountain, European-style statues, and other spots;
In winter, capture “oil painting-like” light and shadow here; in summer, rest briefly under the shade of trees.

Evening: Return to Sinan, Wrap Up with Coffee and Lights

16:40–17:10 Rest at Starbucks Reserve or Antique Garden Café

Exit Fuxing Park from the north gate and return to Sinan Mansions area via Fuxing Middle Road or Sinan Road;
Choose one:
- Starbucks Reserve (Sinan Mansions Branch): Order a coffee in the three-story old Western-style house, find a seat with a power outlet, and organize your photos from the day;
- Antique Garden Café: Step into a space full of old objects, order a matcha latte or cocktail, and soak in the “movie scene-like” vintage atmosphere.

17:10–18:00 Twilight and Night Photography

Use the “blue hour” from 17:00 to 18:00 to shoot night scenes inside Sinan Mansions neighborhood:
- Choose a plane tree-lined lane, using street lamps and warm light from old house windows as background;
- Try turning on your phone’s flash for portraits to create a film-like effect;
- If there is a Mid-Autumn Market, Lunar New Year Flower Market, or Lifestyle Festival, stroll through stalls and light installations along the way.

Optional Extension: Poetry Bookstore and Huaihai Road Night Stroll

If you have the energy and time, add an evening extension of “Poetry Bookstore + Huaihai Road”:

18:00–18:30 Walk to Sinan Bookstore · Poetry Store (St. Nicholas Church)

Walk about 10–15 minutes north from Sinan Mansions along Nanchang Road or Gaolan Road to No. 16 Gaolan Road, St. Nicholas Church (圣尼古拉斯教堂);
Inside the “Church in church” concept space, look up at the onion dome and steel inner church, and casually browse poetry collections from 11 countries.

After 18:30 Dinner on Huaihai Middle Road or Return to Hotel

Exit the poetry bookstore and you will be on Huaihai Middle Road (淮海中路), where you can choose a restaurant for dinner;
Or take the metro from Huaihai Middle Road Station (淮海中路站) or South Shaanxi Road Station (陕西南路站) back to your hotel, concluding your “Plane Tree District One-Day Tour.”

Itinerary Adjustment Suggestions

Only half a day: Keep “Time Alley + Neighborhood Walk + Sinan Bookstore + Zhou Residence + Coffee Break,” and save Sun Yat-sen Former Residence and Fuxing Park for next time;
With children: Shorten time at celebrity residences, increase time at Fuxing Park and nearby casual dining;
Photography-focused: Focus on autumn and winter afternoons and twilight, switching shooting locations between the neighborhood and Fuxing Park;
Coffee and bookstore lovers: Spend 1–2 hours each at Sinan Bookstore and Starbucks Reserve, and compress celebrity residences to a quick visit.

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