8 Shanghai Streets Worth Exploring

The city’s true magic is hidden in its streets and alleys, and the best way to unlock it is on foot. Wander through avenues where history is etched in the bricks and tiles, discovering unique boutiques, chic cafes, and serene gardens around every corner—each turn promising serendipitous delights. Lace up your most comfortable shoes, charge your camera, and bring a curious heart. The real Shanghai—charming, complex, and endlessly captivating—is waiting just around the bend.

1、Yuyuan Road

Deservedly one of Shanghai’s top-tier side streets, Yuyuan Road is packed with trendy shops perfect for shopping and photos, plus beautifully preserved old villas open to the public—making it an endlessly enjoyable stroll.

Route: Yuyuan Road → Zhang Yuan → Jing’an Sculpture Park
Recommended stops: Money Shop, Ribone Cafe, Artist La Pie, Common Rare

2、Wukang Road

At the heart of the Hengfu Historical Conservation Area, this 1,000-meter-long street features 14 stunning international-style architectural gems. Every corner is photo-worthy, making it an unmissable Shanghai highlight.

Route: Wukang Road – Wuyuan Road – Fuxing West Road – Yongfu Road – Shanghai Library
Must-see spots: Wukang Building, Dayin Bookstore, Former Residence of Soong Ching Ling, Romeo’s Balcony

3、Anfu Road

Stretching less than a kilometer, Anfu Road has earned its title as Shanghai’s “cosmic center of trendiness.” Every store along the way offers something uniquely appealing.

Route: Huaihai Road – Anfu Road – Wukang Road
Highlights: Wiggle Wiggle, 13DE MARZO, D.Desirable, NU SHOP

4、 Yongjia Road

Known as “Shanghai’s Most Expensive Little Street,” Yongjia Road is lined with countless historic villas with jaw-dropping price tags.

Route: Yongjia Road – Jianguo West Road – Taiyuan Road – Yongkang Road Recommendations: Coffee, Bread, Good Weather, GOOSE ISLAND TAPROOM, Money Shop

5、 Fumin Road

A chic emblem of Shanghai’s wutong-lined avenues, Fumin Road perfectly blends French-inspired ambiance with an effortlessly stylish lifestyle.

Route: Julu Road – Fumin Road – Changle Road
 Don’t miss: No. 38 Fumin Road, MELBOURNE, Bistro11, Cuidadon Benshop TAPROOM, Money Shop

6、 Hengshan Road

Dubbed the “Champs-Élysées of the East,” Hengshan Road exudes old-Shanghai charm and is one of the city’s must-visit wutong-lined neighborhoods.

Route: No. 8 Hengshan Road – Yongping Lane – Libo Garden
Highlights: Hengshan Road No. 8, Yongping Lane, Hengshan Fang, Xujiahui Park

7、 Sinan Road

Known as a “living textbook of urban history,” Sinan Road is one of Shanghai’s most culturally rich streets. With over 50 historic villas lining the avenue, it’s like stepping into a century-old time tunnel.

Route: Fuxing Middle Road – Sinan Road – Nanchang Road
Key sites: No. 53 Sinan Mansions, Zhou Enlai’s Former Residence, Sun Yat-sen’s Former Residence, Sinan Bookstore

8、Xinhua Road

Renowned as Shanghai’s “No. 1 Garden Street,” Xinhua Road offers year-round beauty and endless charm.

Route: Kaixuan Road – Xinhua Road
Recommended visits: Xinhua Villas, A Chi Garden, Villa Le Bec 321

Grab Your Free China Travel Essentials List

Everything you need for a smooth adventure across China.

You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again.

HOME

ABOUT

CHINA

START HERE

© 2025 TripExpectJouney All Rights Reserved