Xujiahui, one of Shanghai’s most vibrant districts, offers a unique blend of historical landmarks, cultural venues, and modern attractions. Whether you’re an art lover, history enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys exploring the city’s diverse architecture and peaceful green spaces, Xujiahui has something to offer. In this guide, we’ll take you through five different walking routes in Xujiahui, each highlighting the district’s rich heritage and dynamic atmosphere. From museums and memorials to art centers and bustling shopping areas, these walks will immerse you in the heart of one of Shanghai’s most iconic neighborhoods.
1. Xujiahui Historical City Walk
This walking route takes you through some of the most significant historical and cultural landmarks in Xujiahui, offering a glimpse into the past of this bustling district. Here are the must-visit spots along the way:
Shanghai Film Museum (上海电影博物馆)
- Opening Hours: 9:30-16:30 (Tuesday to Friday); 9:30-17:30 (weekends)
- Ticket Price: ¥60 for adults, ¥50 for discounts, ¥30 for students
- Transportation: Metro Line 1/4, Shanghai Stadium Station, Exit 4
- The Shanghai Film Museum offers an immersive experience into China’s cinematic history. With a range of exhibits showcasing film artifacts, interactive displays, and screenings, it’s an ideal stop for film buffs.
Tushanwan Museum (土山湾博物馆)
- Opening Hours: 9:00-16:30 (Tuesday to Sunday)
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 1/4, Shanghai Stadium Station, Exit 8
- This museum focuses on Shanghai’s industrial history, particularly in the area of porcelain production. It’s an excellent spot for history lovers interested in understanding the development of the region’s craftsmanship and manufacturing legacy.
Xu Guangqi Memorial Hall (徐光启纪念馆)
- Opening Hours: 9:00-16:30 (Tuesday to Sunday)
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 1/9/11, Xujiahui Station, Exit 1
- Xu Guangqi was a prominent scholar, scientist, and statesman of the Ming Dynasty. This memorial hall pays tribute to his life and achievements, making it an important cultural landmark in Xujiahui.
Xujiahui Academy (徐家汇书院)
- Opening Hours: 9:00-21:00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 1/9/11, Xujiahui Station, Exit 3 (10-minute walk)
- The Xujiahui Academy is one of the oldest educational institutions in the area. Today, it’s a peaceful place for visitors to relax and enjoy the blend of traditional architecture and natural beauty.
Xujiahui Shopping District (徐家汇商圈)
- Opening Hours: 10:00-22:00
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 1/9/11, Xujiahui Station
- The Xujiahui shopping district is a modern retail hub. From international fashion brands to local boutiques, this area offers a great place to shop or simply wander around and experience the energy of Shanghai.
Baidai Xiaolou (百代小楼)
- Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 1/9/11, Xujiahui Station, Exit 14
- Baidai Xiaolou is a historical building where the iconic “March of the Volunteers” anthem was recorded. Today, it stands as a testament to Shanghai’s contribution to Chinese music and culture.
2. Wukang Road – Anfu Road Area City Walk
This walk will take you through one of Shanghai’s most historic and charming neighborhoods, known for its beautiful old buildings and tranquil atmosphere.
Song Qingling Memorial Residence (宋庆龄故居纪念馆)
- Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
- Ticket Price: ¥20 for adults, ¥10 for students and seniors
- Transportation: Metro Line 10/11, Jiaotong University Station, Exit 1
- The Song Qingling Memorial Residence is dedicated to one of China’s most beloved figures, the wife of Sun Yat-sen. This museum showcases her life and work, with a focus on her contributions to Chinese society and culture.
Wukang Building (武康大楼)
- Opening Hours: All day
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 10/11, Jiaotong University Station, Exit 1
- Wukang Building is an iconic architectural landmark. Known for its European-style design, it has stood the test of time and remains a popular photo spot in Shanghai.
Huang Xing’s Former Residence (黄兴旧居)
- Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 10/11, Jiaotong University Station, Exit 7
- This residence honors Huang Xing, a revolutionary leader in the early 20th century. It’s an important site for those interested in the history of China’s modern revolution.
Wukang Court (武康庭)
- Opening Hours: All day
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 10/11, Jiaotong University Station, Exit 7
- Wukang Court is a residential complex that retains much of its colonial-era charm. It’s a great place to enjoy the old-world atmosphere and take a stroll through this peaceful neighborhood.
Körling Residence (柯灵故居)
- Opening Hours: 10:00-16:30 (Tuesday, Thursday to Saturday)
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 1, Changshu Road Station, Exit 7 (15-minute walk)
- Körling was a prominent architect in Shanghai, and this residence showcases his design philosophy. It’s a lovely spot for architecture lovers.
Yongle Hui (永乐汇)
- Opening Hours: All day
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 1, Changshu Road Station, Exit 7
- Yongle Hui is a vibrant, modern cultural space, offering a mix of art, fashion, and dining. It’s a great place to unwind after exploring the historic streets of Wukang Road.
3. Hengfu Music District City Walk
This area is known for its rich musical heritage and vibrant arts scene. It’s an excellent place to immerse yourself in Shanghai’s contemporary culture.
Hengshan Road No. 8 (衡山路8号)
- Opening Hours: All day
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 1, Hengshan Road Station, Exit 3
- This location is a cultural landmark, showcasing a fusion of art, history, and architecture. It’s a great starting point for the Hengfu Music District walk.
Zhihe Karfen Garden (之禾卡纷花园)
- Opening Hours: All day
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 1, Hengshan Road Station, Exit 4, or Metro Line 1/7, Changshu Road Station, Exit 7
- This peaceful garden is a perfect place to relax and take in the surrounding artistic vibe. It features beautiful landscaping and is home to several art galleries and cultural spaces.
East Ping Road (东平路)
- Opening Hours: All day
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 1, Hengshan Road Station, Exit 4, or Metro Line 1/7, Changshu Road Station, Exit 7
- East Ping Road offers a quieter side of the Hengfu district, lined with local shops, cafes, and galleries. It’s an ideal place to explore on foot.
Nie Er Square (聂耳广场)
- Opening Hours: All day
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 1/7, Changshu Road Station, Exit 7
- Nie Er Square is named after the composer of the Chinese national anthem, and it’s a fitting tribute to the country’s musical heritage. This square is a peaceful spot to rest during your walk.
Blackstone Apartments (黑石公寓)
- Opening Hours: All day
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 1/7, Changshu Road Station, Exit 4
- Blackstone Apartments is a historic landmark in Shanghai, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s past with its elegant architecture.
Shanghai Arts and Crafts Museum (上海工艺美术博物馆)
- Opening Hours: 9:00-11:30, 13:00-16:00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
- Ticket Price: ¥8 per person
- Transportation: Metro Line 1/7, Changshu Road Station, Exit 4; Metro Line 1/10/12, Shaanxi South Road Station, Exit 7
- The Shanghai Arts and Crafts Museum showcases traditional Chinese arts and crafts, with collections of porcelain, jade, textiles, and woodwork. It’s a great place to learn about Shanghai’s craft heritage.
Music Castle (音乐城堡)
- Opening Hours: Requires reservation via the “Shanghai Music Performance” WeChat Mini Program
- Transportation: Metro Line 1/7, Changshu Road Station, Exit 2
- Music Castle hosts intimate performances in a beautiful, castle-like setting, offering a delightful cultural experience for music lovers. Reservations are required for performances.
4. Xujiahui Riverside Cultural Walk
Explore Shanghai’s cultural landscape along the Xujiahui riverside, where modern art meets historical legacy.
West Bund Dream Center (西岸梦中心)
- Opening Hours: All day
- Transportation: Metro Line 11, Longyao Road Station, Exit 1
- The West Bund Dream Center is a cutting-edge space for contemporary art exhibitions, offering an immersive experience in Shanghai’s ever-evolving arts scene.
Oil Tank Art Center (油罐艺术中心)
- Opening Hours: 12:00-18:00 (Tuesday to Friday), 10:00-18:00 (weekends)
- Ticket Price: Varies by exhibition
- Transportation: Metro Line 11, Yunjin Road Station, Exit 5
- The Oil Tank Art Center is housed in a repurposed oil tank and hosts avant-garde exhibitions. It’s a great stop for those who appreciate modern and industrial art.
West Bund Museum (西岸美术馆)
- Opening Hours: 10:00-17:00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
- Ticket Price: Varies by exhibition
- Transportation: Metro Line 11, Yunjin Road Station, Exit 5
- The West Bund Museum is one of Shanghai’s premier venues for contemporary art. Featuring rotating exhibitions from international artists, it’s a cultural hub for art enthusiasts.
Long Museum (龙美术馆)
- Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00 (Tuesday to Thursday), 10:00-20:00 (Friday to Sunday)
- Ticket Price: Varies by exhibition
- Transportation: Metro Line 7/12, Longhua Middle Road Station, Exit 5
- Long Museum is a prominent museum dedicated to contemporary Chinese art. The museum offers a wide variety of exhibitions and is a must-visit for art lovers.
Star Art Museum (星美术馆)
- Opening Hours: 10:00-17:30 (Tuesday to Friday), 10:00-18:30 (weekends)
- Ticket Price: Varies by exhibition
- Transportation: Metro Line 4/12, Damuqiao Road Station, Exit 6
- Located near the riverside, Star Art Museum is known for its cutting-edge exhibitions featuring both local and international artists. It’s a place to discover the latest trends in contemporary art.
5. Longhua History and Culture Walk
The Longhua district offers a rich mix of revolutionary history, traditional art, and cultural landmarks. This walking tour takes you through sites that honor Shanghai’s past while also showcasing the city’s artistic contributions.
Longhua Martyrs Memorial Hall (龙华烈士纪念馆)
- Opening Hours: Cemetery: 6:30-17:30, Memorial Hall: 9:00-16:30 (Tuesday to Sunday)
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 11/12, Longhua Station
- The Longhua Martyrs Memorial Hall is dedicated to the martyrs of the Chinese revolution. Visitors can explore the memorial park, learn about the country’s revolutionary history, and pay their respects.
Duoyunxuan Art Center (朵云轩艺术中心)
- Opening Hours: 10:00-17:00 (Exhibition Hall)
- Ticket Price: Varies by exhibition
- Transportation: Metro Line 11/12, Longhua Station
- Duoyunxuan Art Center is a key cultural institution in Longhua, with a focus on Chinese calligraphy, traditional painting, and contemporary Chinese art. It’s a perfect stop for those interested in fine arts.
Shanghai Peking Opera Theatre (周信芳戏剧空间)
- Ticket Price: Varies by performance
- Transportation: Metro Line 11/12, Longhua Station
- Shanghai Peking Opera Theatre is the perfect venue for anyone wanting to experience China’s iconic Peking opera. Offering traditional performances, the theater brings classical Chinese drama to life.
Longhua Plaza / Shadow Tower Space (龙华广场/塔影空间)
- Opening Hours: Longhua Plaza: All day, Shadow Tower Space: 9:00-11:30, 13:30-16:30 (Tuesday to Sunday)
- Ticket Price: Free
- Transportation: Metro Line 11/12, Longhua Station
- Longhua Plaza is a relaxing public space to explore, while Shadow Tower Space hosts interactive exhibitions and cultural events.
Longhua Club (龙华会)
- Opening Hours: All day
- Ticket Price: Varies depending on consumption
- Transportation: Metro Line 11/12, Longhua Station
- Longhua Club is an exclusive venue offering a mix of dining, leisure, and cultural experiences. It’s an elegant place to unwind after your cultural exploration.