Hey travelers! If you’re on the hunt for the most charming spots in Shanghai, the Former French Concession is an absolute must. It’s one of those special Shanghai China attractions where history blends with modern cool, and every street feels like it has a story to tell. Whether you’re into vintage shopping, cozy cafes, or stunning old buildings, this neighborhood is packed with things to do in Shanghai that’ll make your trip unforgettable. Let’s explore!

1.Why This Neighborhood Is a Gem

Ever dreamed of wandering streets that feel like a mix of old Europe and lively China? That’s the Former French Concession! Back in 1849, this area became France’s enclave in Shanghai, and today, it’s one of the most beloved Shanghai tourist spots. Here’s why it’s a must for your Shanghai city tour:

History Around Every Corner: Over 1,000 protected buildings showcase European styles (think Renaissance, Art Deco) mixed with Chinese touches. It’s like stepping into a living history book!
Cool Modern Vibes: The “Wutong Zone” (named after its iconic plane trees) and “Hengfu Zone” have transformed into Shanghai’s cultural hub—old villas now house trendy boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. Perfect for a laid-back stroll.

2.Street-by-Street: Where to Explore

a. Iconic Neighborhoods to Know

Wutong Zone: Shaded by huge plane trees, this is where historic villas meet fashion hotspots. Think cute boutiques, cozy cafes, and tree-lined streets—ideal for wandering!
Hengfu Zone: The “heritage core” with the most old buildings. Wander here for that classic colonial-era charm.

b. Must-Visit Streets & Spots

Wukang Road (武康路) 🚶

Wukang Mansion: The most photographed building in Shanghai! This 1924 Renaissance-style beauty at No. 1850 has those iconic curved lines—snap pics at sunrise for golden light (you’ll thank me!).
Ferguson Lane: A restored heritage complex with boutique restaurants and shops—great for grabbing a coffee or hunting for unique gifts.
Huang Xing's Former Residence: A stunning Art Deco villa at No. 393—history + architecture = perfection.

Huaihai Middle Road (淮海中路) 🍜

IAPM Mall: Luxury shopping near South Shaanxi Road Station if you’re in the mood to splurge.
Guangmingcun Restaurant (光明邨大酒家): A historic Shanghainese spot at No. 588—don’t miss their fresh meat mooncakes and braised eel!
Paris Spring Department Store: A fashion destination at No. 1325 for trendy finds.

Anfu Road (安福路) 🛍️

Brandy Melville Shanghai: The world’s largest BM store at No. 308 (3 floors!)—perfect for trendy outfits.
Shanghai Drama Arts Center: A modern cultural venue at No. 288—check if there’s a show during your visit!
Harmay Flagship Store: A cool beauty concept store right opposite BM—great for skincare lovers.
Vintage Shops: Tons of independent boutiques with retro gems—unique souvenirs await!

Changle Road (长乐路) & Julu Road (巨鹿路) 🦋

Changle Road: Home to LOOKNOW Concept Store (trendy fashion at No. 123), vintage boutiques, and traditional silk dress shops with custom tailoring.
Julu Road:
- Julu 758: A creative marketplace in a converted power plant at No. 758—fun for exploring!
- SOF Garden: A European-style garden café at No. 853—ideal for a relaxed coffee.
- AZUL VINTAGE: Curated vintage clothing at No. 685—great for one-of-a-kind pieces.
- Plusone Café: A famous movie filming spot at No. 794—cute vibes + good drinks.

c. Insta-Perfect Photo Spots 📸

Wukang Mansion at sunrise: Golden light makes those curves pop—so worth the early wake-up!
Anfu Road Tree Canopy: The plane trees form a tunnel effect near Wukang Road—magical for strolls.
Ferguson Lane Courtyards: Hidden little nooks with old-world charm—intimate and pretty.
Changle Road Vintage Storefronts: Eclectic shop facades make colorful backdrops.
Five Parasol Trees Intersection (Wuyuan Road): Overhead shots of the tree canopy—Shanghai’s “green lung” in all its glory.

3.Culinary Adventures: What to Eat & Drink

a. Authentic Chinese Restaurants

Fu 1088 (Wukang Road No. 375): Dine in a 1920s villa! Their xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), braised pork belly, and seasonal fish are so good—worth the visit.
Nan Xing Yuan (1728 Middle Huaihai Road): High-end Sichuan cuisine (Michelin-recommended!)—book private rooms in advance, though!
Guangmingcun Restaurant (588 Huaihai Middle Road): Classic Shanghainese eats—their fresh meat mooncakes and soup dumplings are local faves.

b. International Cuisine

Lost Heaven (near Julu Road): Yunnan-Southeast Asian fusion with exotic tribal decor—delicious and fun.
Alimentari (158 Anfu Road): Italian deli-bistro with outdoor seating—try their pasta and fresh salads.
TRB Hutong (500m from Wukang Road): Modern French fine dining in a historic courtyard—splurge-worthy for a special meal.

c. Coffee Culture ☕

Old China Hand (Shaanxi South Road): Vintage 1930s Shanghai vibes—like stepping back in time with a latte.
Seesaw Coffee (Anfu Road): Third-wave coffee with amazing roasts—coffee lovers, this is your spot.
SOF Garden (Julu Road No. 853): European-style garden café—relax with a drink under the trees.

4.Getting There & Around

Metro: Super easy! Take Line 1/7 to South Shaanxi Road Station, or Line 10 to Shanghai Library Station—both a 5-minute walk to the heart of the area.
Ride-Hailing: Use DiDi (English app!)—short rides within the district cost ¥15-30.
Taxis: Find stands outside IAPM Mall or Shanghai Library—handy if your feet get tired.
Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes! Cobblestone streets are cute but tricky in heels.

5.Perfect Itineraries for Your Shanghai Tour

a. Architectural Heritage Route (4-5 hours)

10:00 AM: Start at Wukang Mansion → 10:30 AM: Walk Ferguson Lane → 11:30 AM: Coffee at SOF Garden → 12:30 PM: Explore Zhang Garden → 1:30 PM: Lunch at Fu 1088 → 3:00 PM: Tour Huang Xing's Former Residence → 4:30 PM: End at IAPM Mall

b. Fashion & Food Explorer Route (5-6 hours)

11:00 AM: Breakfast at Alimentari → 12:00 PM: Shop BM and Harmay on Anfu Road → 2:00 PM: Browse vintage stores on Julu Road → 3:30 PM: Coffee at FULLYCAFE → 4:30 PM: LOOKNOW on Changle Road → 6:00 PM: Dinner at Lost Heaven

6.Nearby Attractions to Add On

Xintiandi: trendy Shikumen buildings with shops and nightlife.
Yu Garden & Old City: (Line 10) traditional gardens and historic bazaars.
The Bund: (Line 1) iconic waterfront views to round out your Shanghai sightseeing.

7.Final Tips for a Great Visit

Visit early (8:00-10:00 AM) for empty streets and perfect photo light.
Download a translation app—some vintage shops only have Chinese signs.
Book restaurants ahead, especially weekends—popular spots fill up fast!
Carry cash—small vintage stores might not take cards.

The Former French Concession is more than a neighborhood—it’s one of the best things to see in Shanghai. With its tree-lined streets, mix of old and new, and cozy vibes, it’s a must for any Shanghai trip. So grab your walking shoes and get ready to fall in love with this charming corner of the city. Happy exploring! 💕

2025 Must-Visit in Shanghai China: Shanghai Former French Concession

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