Shanghai City Walk: French Concession Guide (2026)
The ultimate walking tour through Shanghai's French Concession—Wukang Road, Anfu Road, and Xintiandi, with cafe stops and photo spots.
The Shanghai City Walk
City walking—exploring a neighborhood on foot, soaking in architecture, history, and local life—has become a phenomenon in Shanghai. The former French Concession is ground zero: 1920s European buildings, plane tree canopies, and a thriving cafe scene that rivals any global city.
📅 Last Updated: January 2026 (verified on location)
| Route Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Distance | ~4 km |
| Time | 4-5 hours (including cafes) |
| Difficulty | Easy (flat terrain) |
| Best Time | 9 AM or 3 PM |
Route Overview
Shanghai Library Station → Wukang Road → Wukang Mansion → Anfu Road → Huaihai Road → Xintiandi| Section | Distance | Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Wukang Road | 1.2 km | 1 hour | Wukang Mansion, historic buildings |
| 2. Anfu Road | 850 m | 1.5 hours | Boutiques, trendy cafes |
| 3. Huaihai Road | 1 km | 1 hour | Shopping, galleries |
| 4. Xintiandi | 500 m | 1 hour | Bars, restaurants |
Section 1: Wukang Road (武康路)
Starting Point
Shanghai Library Station (上海图书馆站) Line 10, Exit 3
Key Stops
| Stop | What to See |
|---|---|
| Wukang Road entrance | Plane tree canopy begins |
| No. 113 Wukang Road | 1920s British villa |
| No. 155 Wukang Road | Photogenic lane entrance |
| Ferguson Lane | Courtyard complex with cafes |
| Wukang Mansion | Landmark—must photograph! |
Wukang Mansion (武康大楼)
The iconic landmark of Wukang Road. Built in 1924 by Hungarian architect László Hudec, its distinctive prow-shaped design resembles a ship cutting through the intersection.
Photo Tips:
- Best angle: From the crosswalk directly in front
- Best time: Before 7 AM for empty shots
- After photos: Coffee at nearby Captain George
💡 Time: About 1 hour for this section
Section 2: Anfu Road (安福路)
Getting There
From Wukang Mansion, walk 10 minutes toward Huaihai Road, then turn right.
What is Anfu Road?
An 850-meter trendy street with the vibe of a creative district—independent boutiques, concept stores, and excellent cafes.
Key Spots
| Place | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Concept stores | Fashion | Independent designers |
| Wiggle | Lifestyle | Colorful 4-floor space |
| Brandy Melville | Fashion | California vibes |
| Harmay | Beauty | Cosmetics concept store |
| Beast Shop | Flowers/Decor | Aesthetic interiors |
Recommended Cafes
| Cafe | Price Range | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| % Arabica | ¥45-65 | Japanese chain, beautiful interior |
| Manner Coffee | ¥25-35 | Value specialty coffee |
| Local milk tea shops | ¥30-45 | Various trendy options |
💡 Time: About 1.5 hours for this section
Section 3: Huaihai Road (淮海中路)
Getting There
From Anfu Road’s end, walk 5 minutes south.
What is Huaihai Road?
One of Shanghai’s premier shopping streets—more upscale and less chaotic than Nanjing Road.
Key Spots
| Place | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| IAPM Mall | High-end mall | Luxury brands |
| K11 | Art mall | Gallery + shopping |
| Farine | Bakery | French bread destination |
💡 Time: About 1 hour for this section
Section 4: Xintiandi (新天地)
Getting There
From K11, walk 10 minutes east.
What is Xintiandi?
Restored shikumen (stone-gate) buildings from the 1920s, now housing upscale restaurants, bars, and shops. Different vibe during day versus night.
Key Spots
| Place | Type | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Starbucks Reserve | Cafe | Daytime |
| North Block | Historic buildings | Daytime |
| South Block | Bars/restaurants | Evening |
| Korean Provisional Government Site | History | Morning (until 11:30) |
💡 Time: About 1 hour for this section
Suggested Schedules
Morning Route (9:00 AM - 2:00 PM)
| Time | Location | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Shanghai Library Station | Start |
| 9:10 AM | Wukang Road | Walk + photos |
| 10:00 AM | Wukang Mansion | Photo session |
| 10:30 AM | Captain George | Coffee break |
| 11:00 AM | Walk to Anfu Road | 10 minutes |
| 11:10 AM | Anfu Road | Shopping + cafes |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch | Anfu Road area |
| 1:30 PM | Huaihai Road | Shopping |
| 2:00 PM | Xintiandi | Arrival + cafe |
Afternoon Route (3:00 - 8:00 PM)
| Time | Location | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| 3:00 PM | Shanghai Library Station | Start |
| 3:10 PM | Wukang Road | Walk |
| 4:00 PM | Wukang Mansion | Golden hour photos |
| 4:30 PM | % Arabica | Coffee |
| 5:00 PM | Anfu Road | Shopping |
| 6:30 PM | Huaihai Road | Light stroll |
| 7:00 PM | Xintiandi | Dinner |
| 8:00 PM | Xintiandi bar | Drinks |
What to Wear
The French Concession’s European vibe invites a certain aesthetic:
| Season | Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Spring/Fall | Trench coat, scarf |
| Summer | Linen dress, light fabrics |
| Winter | Long coat, beret |
Practical Tips
Essentials to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes (lots of walking)
- Portable charger (many photos)
- Small bag (potential shopping)
- Some cash (a few shops are cash-only)
Weather Considerations
This is mostly an outdoor walk. Best in clear weather. If rain threatens, shift toward indoor shopping at IAPM and K11.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this good for rainy days?
Not ideal—it’s mostly outdoor walking. Rainy days are better spent in museums or malls.
Can I do this solo?
Absolutely. Many solo travelers enjoy this route, taking their time at cafes.
Is it good with kids?
Stroller-friendly, but cafes and boutiques aren’t particularly kid-focused. Older children might get bored.
What month is most beautiful?
October-November when plane tree leaves turn golden.
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This guide was last updated in January 2026. Shop hours may vary.
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