Walking along Wukang Road in Shanghai feels like stepping back into the golden age of old Shanghai. This 1.2-kilometer long tree-lined avenue is celebrated as one of the most beautiful streets in Shanghai, not only for its unique French architectural ensemble but also for its profound cultural heritage.

Dialogue Between Architecture and History

Wukang Mansion (formerly known as Normandie Apartments) is akin to Shanghai's Notre-Dame, designed by Hungarian architect László Hudec. Completed in 1924, this ship-shaped building perfectly blends European modernism with Eastern aesthetics, much like the Gothic architecture along the Seine in Paris. During World War II, Hudec chose to stay in Shanghai, treating the city as his second home, leaving behind masterpieces like the Sassoon House and the Grand Theatre. As you stroll along the street, you'll encounter numerous protected buildings, each telling its own story.

Perfect Walking Route

We recommend starting at the Huaihai Middle Road entrance and walking north. The entire route can be divided into three segments:

• South Segment (20 minutes): Focus on visiting Wukang Mansion, experiencing the Art Deco architectural style
• Middle Segment (30 minutes): Explore historic celebrities' former residences, feeling the cultural richness
• North Segment (25 minutes): Experience the modern artistic atmosphere and visit unique cafes

A Photographer's Paradise

Best times for photography:

• Morning 6:30-8:30: Soft light, fewer crowds
• Late afternoon 16:30-18:00: Golden hour, clear architectural contours

Recommended spots:

1. Corner of Wukang Mansion (iconic building perspective)
2. Opposite No. 155 Wukang Road (sense of the street's extension)
3. Intersection with Sinan Road (group view of architectural ensemble)

Modern Artistic Life

Wukang Road's coffee culture is a blend of East and West. Recommended spots:

• Gathering: A century-old house transformed, the environment rivals Paris's Left Bank cafe Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Average cost ¥80-120, offers English service, with a French afternoon tea cultural experience every Sunday afternoon.
• Captain George: Run by an Australian barista, average cost ¥60-90, offers specialty coffee from regions like Kenya and Colombia, with staff fluent in English.
• Wukang Road Bookstore: Rich collection of Chinese and English books, regularly hosts cross-cultural exchange activities.

Practical Tips

Best visiting times:

• Weekdays: Less crowded, suitable for photography
• Weekends: Rich artistic atmosphere, ideal for experiencing coffee culture

Transportation advice:

• Metro: Take lines 1 or 7 to Changshu Road Station
• Bus: Accessible via multiple bus routes within Xuhui District

Points to note:

• Like Paris's Montmartre, this is an artist community. Join the cultural activities and events to truly experience the neighborhood's artistic spirit. Please respect residents' privacy and maintain quietness. We suggest attending the 'Artist Neighborhood Open Day' event every Saturday morning to interact with local artists. You can listen to long-time residents narrate the neighborhood's changes during guided tours every Saturday morning.
• Avoid visiting from 12:00-14:00, as the lighting is not ideal for photography.
• Supports international credit cards and mobile payments
• Free architectural history tours are available every Saturday morning

Wukang Road is not just a street but a time museum. Here, you can feel the perfect blend of old Shanghai's elegance and the vitality of the new era. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a photography aficionado, or a coffee-loving art youth, you can find your own exciting story here.