Breakfast→Wukang Road→Anfu Road→Lunch→Jing'an Temple→Julu Road→People's Square→Dinner→Nanjing Road→Bund Night View→Bar
No matter where you are staying, you can easily reach our first destination today via subway or taxi—Wukang Building.
With a century of history, Wukang Building is an iconic structure on Wukang Road, designed by the renowned Hungarian architect, Laszlo.Hudec. The building features red brick walls, corner balconies, and triangular classical gables, all reminiscent of the French Renaissance style. Famous film artists like Wu Yin, Zheng Junli, and Zhao Dan have lived here, and Miss Kong, the daughter of Kong Xiangxi, a leading figure from one of China's "Four Great Families" during the Republic of China period, is now its largest owner. This beautiful building is where we’ll have breakfast. Here are a few highly recommended local breakfast spots that you simply must try.
📷 Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours Wukang Road stretches 1,183 meters and varies in width from 12 to 16 meters. The road follows a gentle curve, running approximately north-south, starting at Huashan Road, where you can find the late Qing Dynasty statesman Li Hongzhang's Lilac Garden, and ending at Huaihai Middle Road, intersecting with Tianping Road and Yuqing Road, facing the former residence of Song Qingling. The tree-lined Wukang Road is rich in the former homes of notable figures, with around 30 residences of famous personalities. The area is characterized by distinctive Spanish and French Renaissance-style architecture, making it one of the most European-style districts in Shanghai's central area.The cultural essence embodied by its famous figures is also a unique 'flavor' of Shanghai. Proposed Itinerary：Song Qingling’s Former Residence — Wukang Building — Wukang Court — 3000 Vintage (Pokémon thrift shop) — Romeo Balcony — Jiya Coffee/Grocery Store — Ba Jin’s Former Residence One could say that Wukang Road encapsulates half a century of Republican history. There are numerous homes of influential figures along this road, too many to introduce in detail, so I will briefly mention a few in order. If you're interested in history, you can research more about other notable personalities.
📷 Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours This road is a hotspot for street fashion, frequented by stylish individuals and filled with many trendy, artistic shops. It reportedly generates over 100 million RMB in annual taxes from its 144 stores, showcasing their high quality. Here are some must-visit spots along the way. The following shops are listed in order from west to east, so feel free to explore whichever ones catch your interest. As you explore Anfu Road, you'll experience the vibrant commercial atmosphere that makes Shanghai an international business hub. After exploring this street, it was already noon, and we found some great places to eat nearby.
After a morning of exploration, you must have already gotten a taste of Shanghai's streets, coffee culture, and its trendy vibe. Now, as lunchtime approaches, let's dive into the local flavors and savor the authentic taste of Shanghai cuisine. This is your chance to experience the culinary delights that the locals cherish.
After Lunch, Let's Head to Our Third Stop - Jing'an Temple From your lunch spot, here are the best ways to get to Jing'an Temple.
💰 Ticket price: 50 RMB (may vary on holidays) ⏰ Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM 📷 Recommended visit duration: 1 hour Jing'an Temple Introduction: Located at 1686 West Nanjing Road in Shanghai's Jing'an District, Jing'an Temple is often referred to as the "Buddhist kingdom in the bustling city." Behind closed doors, it offers serene spiritual refuge, while outside, it's surrounded by the lively cityscape. Jing'an Temple sits quietly amidst the bustling skyscrapers, embodying the unique blend of commerce and spirituality that defines Shanghai. This juxtaposition creates a distinctive "flavor" that is uniquely Shanghai. At the entrance of Jing'an Temple stands an ancient Indian Ashoka Pillar, also known as a "Brahma Column," which has become a symbol of the temple. The column is carved from a single piece of granite, with the front inscribed with the four large characters "正法久住" (May the True Dharma Last Forever). The back features the entire text of the Diamond Sutra, written by the Song Dynasty poet Su Shi. At the top of the column are four roaring lion figures, each facing a different direction—east, south, west, and north—gilded in gold. Jing'an Temple’s bell resonates far beyond its walls, heard across Shanghai. This temple, known as one of the most expensive in the country, is reportedly valued at 5.8 billion RMB. The land alone is worth 3 billion RMB, located in one of the most prime, high-value areas of the city. Another reason for its high value is the temple's construction, which includes a 15-ton silver Buddha, numerous 3-ton silver statues of Bodhisattvas, a 2-ton solid gold Buddha, and a vast collection of white jade and rare wooden materials, totaling 2.8 billion RMB in worth. Historical development-- Jing'an Temple is said to have been built during the Three Kingdoms period (247 AD) under Emperor Sun Quan. Originally called the Hudu Chongxuan Temple, it was situated on the northern bank of the Suzhou River. During the Tang Dynasty, it was renamed Yongtai Chan Temple, and in 1008, Emperor of the Song Dynasty- Zhao Heng gave it its current name, Jing'an Temple. In 1216, the temple was moved to its present location due to concerns about its proximity to the riverbank. In April 1953, Abbot Chisong revived the long-lost Esoteric Buddhism (Shingon Buddhism) in China, which had not been practiced since the Five Dynasties period. There’s a local legend that the original plan for Metro Line 2 was to pass under the temple. However, during construction, workers discovered an ancient well under the temple, inscribed with Buddhist scriptures. An expert advised that the well, referred to as the "Yellow Springs," could only be subdued by the temple's esoteric practices and should not be disturbed. Consequently, the metro line was rerouted. It’s said that the temple’s location remains unchanged to suppress the Yellow Springs well, although this is just local folklore. Further Reading: The Yellow Springs In ancient Chinese belief, the Yellow Springs are part of the earth, a concept linked to death and the afterlife, similar to the Western notion of the underworld. The well under Jing'an Temple is believed to be one of the nine springs, a resting place for souls. Discover the Four Treasures of Jing'an Temple Generally speaking, due to the relatively high entrance fee, it is not recommended for non-Buddhists to enter Jing'an Temple for worship or to make wishes. However, if you are curious and decide to visit, make sure to check out the "Four Treasures of Jing'an Temple." 1. Buddhist Relics: The temple houses two priceless Buddhist relics, one of which was brought back from Japan by the temple’s former abbot Chisong in the early 1920s. 2. The World’s Tallest Incense Burner: The incense burner at Jing’an Temple is the tallest in the world, standing over 10 meters tall. Known as the "Fuhui Baoding," it is made from 15 tons of bronze, and people throw money into it daily for good fortune. Perhaps you'll notice many people tossing coins into this large cauldron. This is a spontaneous local practice for making wishes, much like how people toss coins into the Trevi Fountain in Rome. Due to the cauldron's shape and meaning, which resemble a "wealth pot" symbolizing the accumulation and growth of wealth, many visitors throw money into it in hopes of bringing themselves good fortune and prosperity. If you're interested in this tradition, feel free to give it a try! While there’s no formal ritual, it’s generally believed that the higher the opening from which you toss your coin into the cauldron, the more happiness and wealth you’ll receive. There’s a coin exchange machine at the entrance of Jing'an Temple, where you can use WeChat to exchange for coins. 3. Silver Buddha: In the main hall, there is a silver statue of Shakyamuni Buddha standing 8.8 meters tall, made from 15 tons of pure silver. Silver is one of the seven treasures in Buddhism, crafted using traditional techniques. 4. Jing’an Fountain: Beneath the Peace Bell lies the famed "Jing’an Spring," considered the sixth greatest spring in China. During the construction of Metro Line 2, this hot spring was discovered, with its water reportedly boiling hot. This discovery led to the metro line being rerouted.
Nestled amidst the bustling skyscrapers, Jing'an Temple is a fascinating blend of commerce and faith, a unique flavor of Shanghai. Once you've finished, it should be around 3:00 PM. Let's head to a relaxed and pleasant place to experience a fun Citywalk and enjoy some afternoon tea — Julu Road.
💰 Ticket price: Free, No Reservation Required 📷 Recommended visit duration: 2 hours Located in the heart of Shanghai, Julu Road is one of the city’s most beautiful streets, stretching 2,290 meters. Once part of the French Concession, the road still retains much of its French architecture, making it a hidden gem for walking tour. As one of Shanghai’s 64 “never-to-be-widened” streets, Julu Road boasts a unique mix of historic buildings and modern boutiques, blending the old-world charm of Shanghai with contemporary fashion and dining establishments. Julu Road is divided into two sections by Xiangyang North Road. We will first explore the western section, where designer brands and boutique stores are abundant. This area is a hotspot for fashion, with pop-up stores from brands like LV and CASETiFY, thanks to the influence of plusone. The fashion quotient here is exceptionally high. In contrast, the eastern section is characterized by charming, small-scale "neighborhood shops." This area is bustling with coffee shops and bars, making it an ideal spot for an afternoon tea break. As we stroll along, you'll encounter numerous historical and cultural landmarks, as well as a variety of trendy, exquisite, and soothing shops.
After exploring Julu Road, we will continue to "People's Square" (人民广场).
📷 Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours People’s Square is a cultural hub surrounded by an array of significant buildings, including the Shanghai Museum, Shanghai History Museum, Shanghai Museum of Contemporary Art, Shanghai Sports Museum, and the Shanghai Book City. We recommend visiting the People's Park Marriage Market and the Shanghai History Museum. At these two locations, you can experience the unique "marriage market" of Shanghai and get a taste of the city’s past, which has shaped the distinct flavor of modern Shanghai.
After spending an afternoon exploring the Shanghai History Museum, you might find yourself feeling hungry. We have prepared some dinner recommendations nearby for you. If you're not quite ready to eat yet, you can continue your adventure by strolling down Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street. We also have some fantastic dining options in that area for you to enjoy later.
After dinner, as the lights come on, let’s walk to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and stroll towards the beautiful Bund.
💰 Ticket price: No entrance fee, no reservation required 📷 Recommended visit duration: 1 hour Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street — "The First Commercial Street of China": Nanjing Road is the earliest established commercial street in Shanghai after the opening of the port, with a rich history and deep commercial heritage. As a landmark shopping area, it embodies the essence of Shanghai’s cosmopolitan culture, merging Eastern and Western elements to showcase unique cultural charm. It represents the "flavor" of shopping in Shanghai. Stretching 1,033 meters, the street features an asymmetric layout with a main line of 4.2 meters wide called the "Golden Belt," adorned with seating, shopping kiosks, sculptures, and other public amenities, radiating an artistic and fashionable vibe. On either side, traditional Chinese elegance intertwines with the romantic luxury of European architecture. You can also experience the charming old Shanghai atmosphere by taking a “dangdang” car through the crowds. Nanjing Road is a commercial street worth exploring slowly, with some fun shops.
💰 Ticket price: No entrance fee, no reservation required 📷 Recommended visit duration: 1 hour As we walk the 1,000-meter-long Nanjing Road, we soon arrive at the famous landmark of Shanghai — The Bund (外滩) Learn About the Bund The Bund stretches 1.5 kilometers, starting from Yan'an East Road in the south to the Waibaidu Bridge in the north, featuring many attractions. The northernmost point is Huangpu Park, home to the Shanghai People's Hero Monument, with the Bund History Museum at its base. Adjacent to the park is the famous Waibaidu Bridge, located at the confluence of the Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek. In the middle of the Bund, you’ll find Chen Yi Square, the "Lover’s Wall," the Waterfall Clock, and the entrances to the sightseeing tunnel connecting Pudong and Puxi. The southern part of the Bund features the historic Shiliupu Dock. The history of the Bund dates back to the mid-19th century when Shanghai was forced to open as a commercial port. The Bund became the site of foreign concessions, with diverse architectural styles springing up, including British classical, French classical, Gothic, and Baroque, collectively known as the "International Architecture Exhibition." These buildings witnessed the dramatic changes in Shanghai's modern history, symbolizing China's journey from isolation to openness and from backwardness to prosperity. These historical buildings are not only masterpieces of architectural art but also symbols of cultural exchange between East and West. Each structure features unique designs and exquisite decorations, reflecting the architectural styles and aesthetic values of various countries of that era. Their existence allows us to directly experience the architectural charm and cultural richness of the time. Historically, the Bund was the financial center of the Far East, hosting numerous banks and financial institutions that witnessed Shanghai's financial achievements. Today, the Bund remains one of Shanghai's core financial districts, housing many renowned domestic and international financial institutions and enterprises. The Bund embodies the essence of East-West cultural fusion, creating a unique Haipai culture. Here, you can appreciate Western art exhibitions and concerts while savoring authentic Shanghai cuisine, immersing yourself in the lifestyle and values of Shanghai residents, and experiencing the city's unique "flavor." Nighttime is one of the most beautiful moments at the Bund, with the modern Pudong Lujiazui Financial District across the river, featuring skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and Jin Mao Tower, towering in contrast to the historical buildings of the Bund, creating a stunning juxtaposition of old and new, tradition and fashion—a breathtaking visual experience.
The culinary characteristics of Shanghai are notably defined by their fusion of flavors. For tonight's dinner, we have curated a selection of dishes that are beloved by locals, featuring both regional flavors from other parts of China and fusion cuisine. We hope you enjoy this unique gastronomic experience.
After exploring the Bund, if you feel tired, head back to your hotel to rest. If you want to extend your day, you can visit a bar for a drink —
As night falls, the lights of the Bund sparkle like jewels, showcasing the full charm of the Huangpu River. Sitting on a riverside terrace, reflecting on the day's journey, you'll realize that every corner is imbued with layers of civilization. The folding fans of the dancers at People's Square carry the rhythm of the Song Dynasty's "Tage Tu" (踏歌图). The baguettes at the trendy bakeries on Julu Road embody the pioneering spirit of Xu Guangqi, who introduced wheat to China. The chimes of the Customs House on the Bund still echo the debates and reconciliations between Chinese and British engineers when they jointly adjusted the clock mechanism in 1927. Perhaps the cocktail in your hand will inspire you to understand the "soul" of this city: it never clings to "authenticity" but instead incorporates the most beautiful, fashionable, and convenient elements into itself. Through this continuous creation, life becomes more vibrant and colorful. Maybe this is the taste and essence of Shanghai. Maybe this is the depth and confidence of its civilization. Good night. If you enjoyed today's itinerary, please consider giving us a positive review. It would be helpful for others planning a trip to China. If there were any issues, please let us know so we can continue to improve our services. Thank you very much!
1. The Shanghai History Museum is closed on Mondays. If you wish to visit, please choose another day.
2. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there will be a lot of walking today.
3. Try to carry a power bank to ensure your phone stays charged.
4. Do not bring too many items, especially knives or fragile objects.
5. Make sure to bring at least one bottle of drinking water, and replenish as needed.
6. Drink in moderation; excessive drinking may lead to safety issues.
7. Don’t forget to bring your passport.
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Admission and reservations may be separate. Check the official attraction information before travel.
★ 4.8 / 5 · 15 reviews from app travelers
Der fotogenste Tag in Shanghai: die schiffsbugartige Ecke des Wukang-Gebäudes, die Platanen der Wukang Road, die kleinen Theater und Cafés der Anfu Road. Nachmittags der Jing'an-Tempel — Gesänge unter dem goldenen Dach — dann der Bund, als das Licht weich wurde. Ich bin das meiste gelaufen und habe jeden Schritt geliebt.
쇼핑과 풍경의 완벽한 조합. 우캉 로드는 사진 성지, 안푸 로드는 최고의 카페들, 그리고 난징 로드와 와이탄이 클래식한 상하이의 저녁을 보여줬어요 — 네온, 강, 루자쭈이 스카이라인. 중간에 징안 사원이 잠시의 평온을 더해주고요. 계획보다 더 샀네요. 후회 없습니다.
Wukang Road and Anfu Road are as beautiful as the photos promise — plane trees, French-style balconies, tiny cafes everywhere. Jing'an Temple's gold dome against the skyline is a sight. Four stars because the Bund at the end was packed even on a weekday, and our favourite restaurant was fully booked — book ahead. Still, a gorgeous Shanghai day.
武康路のフランス・ルネサンス風バルコニーと蘇州庭園の格子窓が同じ建物の中で対話し、安福路の小劇場では昆曲の水袖がサイバーなネオンを通り抜ける——上海の「何でも混ざっているのに独自の風格を持つ」空気は、実際に歩いて初めて理解できる。
While walking through People's Square, the app pointed out the "Marriage Market." I was fascinated! Seeing parents and grandparents gathered with posters advertising their children for marriage was a unique cultural insight I would have completely missed otherwise. It’s these unexpected, authentic experiences that make a trip memorable. This app doesn't just show you the sights; it helps you understand the culture on a deeper level. Highly recommended.
That corner at Wukang Mansion — I waited ten minutes just for a taxi to drive past. Worth it. The little theatre on Anfu Road, the old houses on Julu Road, light so good it feels illegal. Shanghai is a candy shop for photographers.
More ideas for a day you’ll remember.
Self-guided tour