Xujiahui is one of Shanghai’s four major urban sub-centers, covering an area of approximately 1.2 square kilometers. The area is densely populated with computer markets, making it a key destination for Shanghai residents to purchase computers and digital products.
The shopping scene in Xujiahui is diverse, featuring large malls such as Kerry Centre and Oriental Plaza, which offer world-renowned brands. There are also trendy shopping centers like Pacific Department Store and Huijin Department Store that are popular among young people. For middle-aged and older customers, there are mid-range stores like 600 Industrial Company. Additionally, budget and specialty shopping options are available at places like Huilian Department Store and the Metro Shopping Street.
In addition to its shopping offerings, Xujiahui is home to historical landmarks such as Xujiahui Catholic Church, Xujiahui Observatory, Xujiahui Library, and Xuhui Public School, as well as two pleasant parks. This blend of shopping, historical sites, and green spaces makes Xujiahui one of the most popular places in Shanghai.
Travel Information about Xujiahui Area
Ticket and Opening Hours
- Ticket: Free. Visitors can collect a “Xujiahui Scenic Area Tourist Pass” at the tourist center of the scenic area. This pass allows free entry to various attractions or can be reserved for different dates and routes via the official website, mobile app, or by phone.
- Opening Hours: Open all day.
Transportation
- Location: Located in the southwestern part of Shanghai’s city center, bordered by Wanping Road to the east, Yishan Road to the west, Guangyuan Road to the north, and Lingling Road to the south.
- Transport: Take Metro Lines 1, 9, or 11 to Xujiahui Station.
Attraction Rating
- Leisure: ★★★★★
- Beauty: ★★★★
- Romance: ★★★★
- Culture: ★★★★
- Excitement: ★★★
- Specialty: ★★★
Name Origin
The name “Xujiahui” dates back to the Ming Dynasty. During the late Ming period, Xu Guangqi, a scholar and prominent scientist, established a farm and country estate in this area where he conducted agricultural experiments and wrote extensively. After his death, he was buried here, and his descendants continued to live in the area. Originally called “Xujia Ku,” the name evolved over time. The area is located at the confluence of the Zhaojia Stream and Fahua Creek, which led to its name “Xujiahui,” meaning “Xu’s confluence.”
Highlights of Xujiahui Area
Xujiahui Library
The Xujiahui Library, located at 80 Caoxi North Road, is formally known as the Shanghai Xujiahui Catholic Church Library and is also referred to as the Huizhao Stone Room. Established in the 27th year of the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty (1847), it is the oldest modern library still in existence in Shanghai and represents a significant aspect of the exchange of Western and Eastern learning.
The current Xujiahui Library consists of two intersecting buildings. The North Building, or the Great Study Room, was constructed in the 23rd year of the Guangxu reign (1897). It features a two-story, double-pitched roof with the upper floor serving as the Western language library, styled after the Vatican Library’s layout and book shelves. The lower floor, originally the Chinese language library, was designed in the style of the Ming Dynasty’s Ningbo Tianyi Pavilion.
The South Building, originally the Jesuit residence or Father’s Building, was constructed in the 6th year of the Tongzhi reign (1867). After several renovations, it was finalized in 1931 as a four-story, sloping-roof structure with an external corridor. The Xujiahui Library offers free visits to its exhibition hall, reading room, and collection room every Saturday from 14:00 to 16:00, with a limit of 80 visitors. To preserve the environment of the collection room, only 10 people can enter at a time for a 15-minute visit.
Xujiahui Park
Xujiahui Park, located on the east side of Xujiahui Square, is a lush green space featuring a variety of large trees, flowering shrubs, and ground cover plants. The park incorporates several distinctive landscaping elements, including towering bamboo groves, evergreen pine forests, and tropical palm trees. Seasonal highlights include the vibrant rain trees and the fragrant peach and plum trees along the lake, as well as the swaying weeping willows.
The park has three main attractions: first, the tall chimney from the former Great China Rubber Factory, which is illuminated by fiber optics and brightens the night sky; second, the park’s design, which acts as a miniature representation of Shanghai; and third, the observation bridge. Spanning approximately 200 meters, this bridge provides a “time tunnel” experience, offering views of Shanghai’s past, present, and future.
Guangqi Park
Guangqi Park, oriented north to south, is located with Xujiahui Catholic Church to the north. Originally the burial site of the renowned Ming Dynasty patriot and scientist Xu Guangqi, the park was established in the 14th year of the Chongzhen era (1641). The park is divided into several areas: the northern section is dedicated to the cemetery, the eastern part is a recreational area, and the western area is designated for youth activities.
The park features several landmarks, including Xu Guangqi’s tomb, a statue of Xu Guangqi, a stone stele corridor with his handwritten inscriptions, a group of pavilions, a lotus pond, and a waterside pavilion. The park is designed with winding paths, lush trees, and a clean, serene environment. It is surrounded by resilient evergreen trees such as bald cypress, oleander, privet, and black pine, and seasonal flowers are changed according to the time of year.
Wukang Road
Wukang Road stretches approximately 1,183 meters in length and 12 to 16 meters in width, running roughly from north to south. Originally named Fuxi Road, it was constructed by the Shanghai French Concession Municipal Council in 1907. Known for its dense concentration of former residences of famous individuals, Wukang Road is often called the “Celebrity Street,” reflecting a condensed history of Shanghai over the past century.
The road features a rich array of architectural styles, including Spanish and French Renaissance, making it one of the most European-flavored streets in central Shanghai. Notable buildings along Wukang Road include the Wukang Building, Zhengguanghe Old House, Midan Apartments, and Cape Town Apartments, which are exquisite structures with a strong exotic flair. The blend of celebrity residences and Western-style buildings creates a refined and elegant landscape along Wukang Road.
In the central area of Xujiahui, two five-star cinemas are located—Yonghua Cinemas and Kodak Cinemas. Yonghua Cinemas offers the capability to screen 3D movies. Besides the cinemas, Xujiahui also features two entertainment venues, including Tom’s World. These spots provide a great opportunity to relax and unwind after a day of shopping.
Visitor Guide for Xujiahui Area
Transportation to the Scenic Area
Walking: A network of scenic pedestrian paths connects the historic sites within the area, including the old site of Xuhui Public School, the Library, the Catholic Church, and the Observatory. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll to explore these landmarks.
Bus: There are two bus stops at the tourist bus parking area on the east side of Huashan Road (Guangyuanli Block). Free shuttle buses are available to take visitors around the scenic spots.
Accommodation Options
The Xujiahui area offers a variety of budget chain hotels and luxurious accommodations, providing excellent options for visitors.
Hengshan Hotel: Situated near Xujiahui Green Space and Hengshan Park, this hotel offers an elegant environment with 239 rooms. Guests can enjoy stunning night views of Xujiahui and Huaihai Road through the lush sycamore trees. Address: 534 Hengshan Road, Xuhui District.
Wyting Hotel: Located in one of Shanghai’s most bustling areas, this modern, smart hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms and enthusiastic service. Address: 218 Wending Road, Xuhui District.
Mehood Lestie Hotel: Adjacent to Xujiahui Park, this hotel is surrounded by greenery, providing a tranquil escape from the city. The hotel features Chinese and Western restaurants, a coffee bar, and a reading lounge, allowing guests to enjoy a peaceful and sophisticated environment. Address: 691 Jianguo West Road.
Dining Options
Xujiahui is a food paradise, offering a wide range of dining options from inexpensive fast food to exquisite fine dining, and from Thai cuisine to traditional Chinese dishes. You’ll find countless places to eat throughout the area.
Amo Chilli (一抹椒羞): Located at 290 Tianping Road, this restaurant has a charming atmosphere. Their rabbit legs are highly recommended, and the dishes are known for their spicy flavors.
New Beef Sukiyaki (牛 New 寿喜烧): Situated at 123 Tianyaoqiao Road, this popular Japanese hot pot restaurant requires advance reservations, especially at lunchtime when it’s often packed.
Su Xiaoliu Dim Sum Specialist (蘇小柳点心专门店): Found on the first floor of Tengfei Building, this spot is known for its delicious soup dumplings. Each dish is crafted with care and the environment is very comfortable.
May Crab Feast (五月罗马大闸蟹盛宴): Located on the fifth floor of Brainpower Plaza, their spider crabs are exceptionally fresh. They also offer popular items like Argentine red shrimp and hairy crabs.
Huilian Snack Street (汇联小吃一条街): This bustling snack street is located on Tianyaoqiao Road and is situated on the ground floor of Huilian Shopping Mall. The area is lively and crowded, with popular stalls selling skewers and prepared foods. Among the favorites are takoyaki and mountain sausages.