Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is a prime destination for visitors looking to purchase Shanghai’s most authentic souvenirs. Located conveniently close to The Bund and the Oriental Pearl Tower, this bustling street is filled with local specialty shops offering genuine Shanghai treats that are beloved by locals and highly recommended for tourists. From traditional sweets to savory pastries, Nanjing Road has everything to bring a taste of Shanghai back home.
Local Specialty Shops on Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street
1. Shanghai No. 1 Food Store (上海第一食品商店)
Shanghai No. 1 Food Store is a true treasure trove of local specialties, featuring over 80% of the city’s popular souvenirs and snacks. It offers a vast selection that includes fresh produce, pastries, candies, and cured meats. Besides the iconic brands like White Rabbit and Guangming, you’ll also find time-honored labels such as Lao Xiang Zhai (老香斋), Heping Shili (和平食礼), Huadian Foods (华点食品), Laodafang (老大房), and Hongfangzi (红房子). This store is popular among locals, especially around the Chinese New Year, when residents stock up on traditional gifts and treats for family gatherings. Here, visitors can find nearly all classic Shanghai specialties in one place.
2. Shen Dacheng (沈大成)
Famous for its traditional “Eight Treasures Rice” (八宝饭) dessert, Shen Dacheng is a haven for fans of glutinous rice delicacies. This shop also features treats like Tiaotou Cakes (条头糕), Double-Stuffed Dumplings (双酿团), Green Dumplings (青团), and Golden Dumplings (金团). On any given day, expect to see long lines at every counter, as locals eagerly wait for these sweet and sticky delicacies. The bustling queues are a testament to the shop’s reputation for quality and authenticity.
3. Sanyang Grocery Store (三阳南货店)
Located right next to Shen Dacheng, Sanyang Grocery Store is a smaller yet well-stocked specialty shop. Similar to Shanghai No. 1 Food Store but on a more compact scale, it’s an excellent place to find regional treats. A highlight here is the famous Butterfly Pastry (蝴蝶酥) from the International Hotel (国际饭店) – a crispy, flaky pastry that’s a Shanghai classic. While availability may vary, especially around the Chinese New Year, the store is worth checking if you’re hoping to bring home this celebrated delicacy.
4. Shao Wansheng (邵万生)
For those seeking smaller specialty shops, Shao Wansheng offers a delightful selection of locally made pastries and prepared foods. Their “Zao Xiang Mooncakes” (糟香月饼) are particularly famous and are a must-buy for the Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋节). The shop also sells freshly baked cakes and snacks, providing a unique and tasty experience for visitors looking to sample Shanghai’s distinctive flavors.
A Convenient Shopping Option
If you’re short on time or prefer a one-stop shopping experience, Shanghai No. 1 Food Store (上海第一食品商店) is highly recommended. This shop offers the widest variety of Shanghai’s famous snacks and souvenirs, with freshly baked pastries and buns prepared right in-store for unbeatable freshness.
Getting There
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is easily accessible by public transportation. Take subway lines 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square Station (人民广场站) and exit to reach the bustling shopping area. With its close proximity to major landmarks and extensive range of stores, Nanjing Road is an ideal destination to explore Shanghai’s culinary delights and pick up unique, authentic souvenirs for friends and family.