Former French Concession Shanghai
Historic district with leafy streets, Shikumen architecture, and a vibrant cafe and boutique scene.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quiet streets, beautiful light
Former French Concession Shanghai
Best Time
Quiet streets, beautiful light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic district with leafy streets, Shikumen architecture, and a vibrant cafe and boutique scene.
"A charming blend of history and modern life, perfect for leisurely strolls and cafe hopping."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the charming streets and hidden gems.
☕️ Cafe Hopping Galore
Shanghai has tons of cafes here! Try seasonal treats or enjoy a lazy afternoon.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wukang Road Charm
Wukang Road
Iconic street with stunning architecture, boutiques, and cafes. A must-see for city walks.
Shikumen Architecture
Xintiandi & surrounding streets
Admire the unique blend of traditional Shanghai and Western styles in these historic buildings.
Anfu Road Boutiques & Cafes
Anfu Road
Discover trendy boutiques, artisanal bakeries, and cozy cafes perfect for a lazy afternoon.
Wukang Building
Wukang Road
A historic gem showcasing French Renaissance and Shanghai style, built in 1924.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Stroll
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the charming streets and hidden gems.
☕️ Cafe Hopping Galore
Shanghai has tons of cafes here! Try seasonal treats or enjoy a lazy afternoon.
📸 Early Bird Gets the Shot
Visit in the morning for quiet streets and beautiful light, perfect for photos.
🗺️ Explore Beyond Main Streets
Venture off the main paths to find unique architecture and local spots.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the charming streets and hidden gems.
☕️ Cafe Hopping Galore
Shanghai has tons of cafes here! Try seasonal treats or enjoy a lazy afternoon.
📸 Early Bird Gets the Shot
Visit in the morning for quiet streets and beautiful light, perfect for photos.
🗺️ Explore Beyond Main Streets
Venture off the main paths to find unique architecture and local spots.
🚲 Consider a Bike Tour
Cycling offers a unique perspective and covers more ground.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Former French Concession's beautiful architecture, charming streets, and vibrant cafe scene. It's a highly walkable area offering a delightful blend of history and modern lifestyle. However, some areas, especially on weekends, can become quite crowded.
"Located in Xintiandi, Shanghai, the French Concession is a nice area to walk on by. Key information about Xintiandi includes:
It is a tourist attraction that blends historical and cultural styles.
The area showcases "Shikumen" architecture, a popular building style from the 1800s in Shanghai.
Xintiandi is a modern entertainment and lifestyle precinct.
The French Concession, where Xintiandi is located, dates back to 1849 and became the largest and most prosperous French concession in China.
In the 1920s, it was considered the best residential area in Shanghai."
harby nanad
"Very cute area. Great architecture, small shops everywhere. Cafes and restaurants! Also fairly shaded place when it gets hot.
Heads up, it gets crowded"
Lasha Modebadze
"Great area for admiring the architecture"
Yeo's Say
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Former French Concession is accessible via multiple Metro lines. Stations like South Shaanxi Road (Lines 1, 10, 12), Changshu Road (Lines 7, 12), and Shanghai Library (Line 10) are good entry points. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. 
Yes, the area is very walkable and well-connected by Metro. Many visitors enjoy strolling or cycling to explore its charming streets.
Walking is highly recommended to soak in the atmosphere. Cycling is also a popular option, with many streets being pedestrian-friendly or less congested.
Parking can be challenging and expensive in this central area. It's generally advisable to use public transport or ride-sharing services.
Yes, ride-sharing apps like Didi are widely used and convenient for getting to and from the concession.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Former French Concession is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely explore its streets and public spaces.
While the concession itself is free to enter, individual museums, galleries, or specific historical sites within the area might have their own admission fees.
Most shops and cafes operate from around 10 AM to 10 PM, though some may open earlier or close later. It's best to check specific establishments if you have a particular place in mind.
Xintiandi, a modern entertainment precinct within the concession, is free to enter. You only pay for purchases within the shops and restaurants.
The Wukang Building is an architectural landmark that can be admired from the outside. While it's a residential building, its exterior is a popular spot for photos.
📸 📸 Photography
Wukang Road, Anfu Road, and the streets around Xintiandi offer beautiful architecture and charming scenes. The Wukang Building is a standout.
Early mornings offer quiet streets and soft, beautiful light, ideal for capturing the ambiance without crowds.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, be respectful of private residences and businesses, and avoid intrusive photography.
A versatile lens like a 35mm or 50mm prime is great for street photography. A wide-angle lens can capture the grand architecture.
It's polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside private establishments. Many cafes are happy for you to snap a quick picture of your food or drink.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a diverse culinary scene, from modern Chinese bistros and international cuisine to charming cafes serving seasonal desserts and pastries.
Absolutely! The area is renowned for its abundance of cafes, many offering unique seasonal cakes, tarts, and artisanal coffee.
Xintiandi offers upscale dining, while streets like Yongkang Road and Anfu Road have a variety of trendy eateries and bistros. Bastard is a modern Chinese bistro.
While Xintiandi is upscale, exploring smaller side streets can reveal more affordable local eateries and casual cafes.
Many cafes and restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during quieter morning hours to avoid overwhelming crowds. Parks and open spaces are limited, so focus on enjoying the visual appeal of the streets and perhaps finding a playground if available. The Xintiandi area offers a more modern, albeit sometimes crowded, experience with various dining options that might cater to picky eaters.
💰 Budget Travelers
Walking or cycling are the most economical ways to get around. Look for bakeries or smaller shops for snacks rather than sit-down restaurants for every meal. Visiting during weekday mornings can also mean fewer crowds and potentially more relaxed pricing at some establishments.
couples
Consider an evening stroll when the area is beautifully lit, or a morning bike ride to explore the quieter streets. The area offers a perfect backdrop for memorable photos and intimate conversations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Heritage: Shikumen and Beyond
Beyond Shikumen, you'll find a fascinating mix of architectural influences, including Art Deco, Neoclassical, and French Renaissance styles. Streets like Wukang Road are lined with elegant villas and apartment buildings that reflect Shanghai's cosmopolitan past. Walking through these leafy avenues feels like stepping back in time, with each building telling a story of the city's colonial era and its subsequent evolution. The juxtaposition of historic facades with modern life is a key part of the concession's charm.
+1For those interested in architecture, a self-guided walking tour is highly recommended. Look out for landmarks like the Wukang Building, a striking circular structure that exemplifies the area's diverse architectural heritage. The preservation efforts in the concession ensure that these historical gems remain a vibrant part of Shanghai's urban landscape.
The Cafe Culture of the Concession
Creators often highlight the unique character of these cafes, noting that each has its own distinct vibe and offerings. Whether you're seeking a perfectly brewed flat white, a delicate matcha tart, or a non-caffeinated herbal tea, there's a spot for you. Some cafes are known for their Instagrammable interiors and photogenic treats, making them popular stops for visitors.
When exploring, don't be afraid to wander off the main thoroughfares. Some of the most delightful cafe experiences are found in unexpected corners. This is where you can truly appreciate the leisurely pace and the blend of local and international influences that define the concession's cafe scene.
+1Exploring on Two Wheels: Cycling in the Concession
+1Several social media posts showcase people cycling through the leafy avenues, highlighting the freedom and joy of exploring at your own pace. It's a fantastic way to discover the area's beautiful architecture, stumble upon local boutiques, and find those perfect photo opportunities. The sense of discovery is amplified when you can easily navigate between different neighborhoods.
While you can rent bikes, some visitors mention that guided bike tours are also a great option, especially if you want to learn more about the history and culture of the concession from a local perspective. Regardless of how you choose to cycle, it's an experience that truly captures the essence of this historic Shanghai district.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit