Wukang Road (武康路), nestled in the Xuhui District of Shanghai, is a street that invites visitors to step back in time and experience the city’s rich cultural heritage from the early 20th century. Known for its charming colonial-style buildings and the famous Wukang Building, this picturesque street offers more than just scenic views. With an abundance of old villas, cultural landmarks, and hidden cafes, Wukang Road offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and modern-day Shanghai life. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, history lover, or simply seeking a relaxed walk through Shanghai’s historical districts, Wukang Road is the place to be.
Recommended Walking Routes
- Metro: Lines 10 and 11, Jiaotong University Station (交通大学站)
- Route 1: Visit Song Qingling’s Former Residence → Wukang Post Office → Wukang Building (Approx. 500 meters)
- Route 2: Wukang Building → Walk to Anfu Road, stopping by Plusone Café (Approx. 2000 meters)
- Route 3: Wukang Building → Walk to Xuhui Art Museum on Fuxing West Road (Approx. 1000 meters)
Historical Landmarks on Wukang Road
Wukang Road is home to several historical sites, including former residences of prominent figures from the Republican era:
- Song Qingling’s Former Residence – 1843 Huaihai East Road
- Wukang Building – Wukang Road
- Former National Peking Institute of Medical Research – 395 Wukang Road
- Former Italian Consulate in Shanghai – 390 Wukang Road
- Huang Xing’s Former Residence – 393 Wukang Road
- Wukang Court – 376 Wukang Road
- Cape Town Apartments – 240 Wukang Road
- Guofu Men Apartments – 252 Wukang Road
- Hunan Villa – 262 Wukang Road
- Ba Jin’s Former Residence – 113 Wukang Road
- Romeo Balcony – 210 Wukang Road
- Ke Ling’s Former Residence – 147 Fuxing West Road
- Hengfu Style Museum – 62 Fuxing West Road
- Former British Business Residence – 55 Wukang Road
Food Recommendations Around Wukang Road
RACBAR: Famous for Shanghai’s best brunch, try their Avocado Toast with Eggs & Mushroom and Bacon Crepes
LOKAL: Enjoy blueberry cheesecake while soaking in the sunshine
SOMETHING DINING BAR: A stunning glasshouse café with beautiful natural lighting
Old Mai Café (老麦咖啡): A nostalgic favorite for longtime Shanghai residents
Ji Ya (集雅): A wooden-themed café with a cozy, atmospheric vibe
Coffee Tree: A lovely café set inside a small European-style house, perfect for coffee lovers
Shopping Around Wukang Road
For those interested in shopping, Wukang Road and the nearby areas offer a variety of unique boutiques and designer stores:
LOOKNOW: A must-visit for fashionistas, offering a curated collection of clothing, accessories, and vintage items. The Wukang Road store is housed in a charming red-brick building.
Guangxia (观夏): Located nearby on Hunan Road, this minimalist store specializes in Eastern plant-based scents and essential oils.
Brandy Melville: A popular stop for trendy American-style clothing.
Short Sentence: A boutique offering understated yet stylish designs from emerging fashion brands.
Duo Zhua Yu Recycling Store (多抓鱼循环商店): A second-hand store perfect for vintage finds.