China Travel Guide
China Travel Guide
Culture Insights

Shanghai Art Walk: Hidden Creative Streets & Local Art Studios

04/25/2025

In Shanghai, beyond the bustling Nanjing Road and the dazzling night view of the Bund, there are charming little streets filled with artistic vibes waiting for your exploration. These tree-lined roads not only carry a century-old history but also nurture the new forces of contemporary art. Let us delve into these artistic alleys of the city and experience the perfect blend of Shanghai culture and modern creativity.

Old street under the plane trees

Wukang Road: A Perfect Encounter of Art and History

Strolling down Wukang Road, you will encounter the iconic 'Shanghai Memories' series by American artist Mike, who blends New York graffiti with Shanghai symbols, creating a stunning dialogue between East and West on the century-old Shikumen buildings. Each artwork is accompanied by bilingual interpretation plaques that delve into the creative concepts.

📍 Wukang Road Art District
* Location: Wukang Road (formerly Ferguson Road)
* Best Visit Time: 9 AM - 4 PM
* Transportation: Metro Line 10/12, Jiaotong University Station
* Features: French architecture, street art, creative cafes
* Tips: Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds

Graffiti wall at a corner of Wukang Road

Yongkang Road: A Secret Base for Art Workshops

Yongkang Road gathers over 50 artist studios, including Zhang Ming's 'New Ink Space' studio, which hosts interactive workshops on Wednesday afternoons (198 RMB/person), and Echo Lab's sound installation experience camp (150 RMB/person), which is popular with Western tourists. It is recommended to book through the official WeChat.

🎨 Yongkang Road Art Space
* Location: Yongkang Road Art District
* Open: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-18:00
* Activities: Art workshops, gallery exhibitions
* Booking: Book workshops in advance on the official website
* Tips: Free guided tours are available on weekends

Huaihai Middle Road: Artistic Moments in Coffee Aroma

In the alleys of Huaihai Middle Road, Art Coffee invites different artists to create on-site each month, while Palette Café turns customers' coffee cups into unique canvases, letting you enjoy the fun of art amid the rich aroma.

Interior of an artistic café

🍽️ Recommended Art Cafés
* Location: Huaihai Middle Road Pedestrian Street
* Business Hours: 10:00-22:00
* Features: Art exhibitions + coffee experience
* Price: 80-150 RMB per person
* Recommendations: Hand-brewed coffee, artistic desserts

Tianzifang: Creative Hub for Emerging Artists

This creative park, transformed from 1930s Shikumen lanes, now houses over 30 independent artist studios. There is a free art tour every Saturday at 3 PM, offering an in-depth understanding of the creative journey and concepts of Shanghai's emerging artists.

Characteristic street view of Tianzifang

📍 Tianzifang Art District
* Location: Lane 210, Taikang Road
* Open: All day
* Best Visit Time: Weekday afternoons
* Features: Independent designer stores, art exhibitions
* Tips: Avoid weekends when it's crowded

Practical Tips

  1. Best Visit Time: March-May or September-November, preferably weekday mornings
  2. Language Services: English tours available at main attractions; book in advance
  3. Payment Methods: Most places accept international credit cards and mobile payments
  4. Cultural Experience: Book artist studio visits; contact 2 days in advance
  5. Safety Tips: Keep personal belongings secure and ask artists before taking photos
  6. Interaction Tips: Join the artist open day every Thursday to interact directly with creators

These art-filled streets showcase Shanghai's most authentic cultural charm. Here, every wall could be an artwork, and every corner holds a surprise. Let's slow down, feel the city's unique artistic vibe, and discover your own Shanghai story at the intersection of street art and life.

Share
306

Explorer's Forum (0)

Log in to comment!

No comments yet!

Related content

The best travel stories from around the world

Your Travel Journey Starts Here

Sign up and we'll send the best deals to you