Wukang Road
One of the oldest streets in Shanghai with a strong European vibe
Wukang Road is one of the oldest streets in Shanghai with a strong European vibe. It was originally called Fokaisun Road, built by American missionary John Fokaisun in 1907, and renamed Wukang Road in 1943.
This road is home to many cultural landmarks, like the former residences of famous figures such as Soong Ching-ling and Ba Jin, drawing lots of visitors. Plus, Wukang Road has become a hotspot for artsy events, featuring everything from photography and painting exhibitions to pop-up brand activities.
In recent years, more fashion brands and creative businesses have moved in, bringing fresh energy. The shops lining the street are diverse, offering high-end fashion and unique handmade crafts. They beautifully contrast with the historic buildings, creating a unique scene.
Table of Contents
Highlights
Soong Ching-ling's Former Residence (Chinese name: 宋庆龄故居)
Soong Ching-ling was the wife of Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of the Republic of China. Since the establishment of the new China, she has been one of the country’s key leaders. This old villa with red tiles and white walls is located on Huaihai Middle Road, right across from Wukang Building. Built in 1920, the entire courtyard has a strong historical vibe. As one of the main venues for Soong’s state activities, it witnessed countless important moments in history. The furnishings still reflect her careful arrangement, showcasing her elegance and wisdom. While photography isn’t allowed in the main building, you can take pictures in other areas.
Wukang Building (武康大楼)
Wukang Building is one of Shanghai’s iconic landmarks, attracting many visitors with its unique architectural style and historical background. Completed in 1924 and designed by the famous architect Wu Dazhi, it was originally named Normandy Apartments. The building has eight stories and features a colonnade on the ground floor, resembling a massive ship. It’s not only one of the earliest arcade-style apartment buildings in Shanghai but also one of the only three ship-shaped buildings left in the world. Its smooth architectural curves, romantic arched corridors, and nostalgic red bricks exude a timeless charm. While the interior of Wukang Building isn’t open to the public, the ground floor has shops, typically galleries, bookstores, music stores, and cafes with a cultural vibe that are definitely worth exploring.
Old House Art Center (老房子艺术中心)
Once known as “Huang’s Mansion,” this place was built in 1933 and showcases an Art Deco style. It was part of Huang Xing’s former residence. Though he lived here for less than four months, Sun Yat-sen visited him twice to discuss important matters. Today, it serves as the Old House Art Center and the Wukang Road Tourist Information Center.
Walking inside, you’ll see mosaic tiles at the entrance that reflect the charm of old Shanghai. The interior is laid out in a circular design, with a two-level atrium connected by a stunning colored glass dome that still dazzles visitors. Such a scale in Shanghai’s historic buildings is quite rare!
Deli Naji Residence (德利那齐宅)
This building on Wukang Road, besides Wukang Tower, is another gem designed by Wu Da-ke. It used to be called Deli Naji Residence, built in 1929. It’s a standalone garden house with a cool Spanish style.
Popular Restaurants Near Wukang Road
Enjoying authentic Shanghai cuisine during your travel in Shanghai.
Hanxiang Shanghai Noodle House (Wukang Building Branch) 瀚祥本帮面馆(武康大楼店)
Freshly Made Pork Chop Noodles(现烧大排面)
The noodles are super chewy, and the pork chop is thick and huge. One bite brings pure happiness!
Shanghai-Style Smoked Fish(上海本帮熏鱼)
The aroma hits you right away! The fish is smoked to perfection—crispy on the outside and tender inside. Drizzle on some secret sauce, and every bite is a delight!
Stir-Fried Eel Noodles(清炒鳝丝面)
The eel is smooth and boneless, with a rich sauce. It’s a nice mix of sweet and salty, plus some pepper for that extra kick. The noodles have a great bite to them.
Vegetable Three-Slivers Cold Noodles(素三丝冷面)
The soup has bean sprouts, green pepper, and Chinese broccoli. Top it with a spoonful of peanut sauce and mix it up. It’s refreshing and light, perfect for summer!
Address:
1861 Huaihai Middle Road
Hours:
Monday to Sunday, 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Average Spend:
49 CNY (approximately $7) per person
Jesse Restaurant (Tianping Road Branch) 老吉士酒家(天平路店)
Savory Chicken(吉士咸鸡): The skin is super tender, and the meat is juicy. People say this is the best savory chicken in Shanghai. It’s salty but still lets you taste the chicken’s natural flavor.
Dried Vegetable and Spicy Shrimp(梅干菜油爆虾): Crispy fried dried vegetables with small shrimp. This dish is a bit heavy and oily but super flavorful and crunchy. It pairs perfectly with white rice or noodles.
Braised Pork with Fresh Bamboo Shoots(吉士鲜笋烧肉): This is a must-try! It features signature braised pork topped with fresh bamboo shoots, giving you that crunchy texture and the soft, tender pork. It’s on the sweeter side.
Address:
41 Tianping Road (near Huaihai Middle Road)
Hours:
Monday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Average Spend:
CNY 180 per person (about $25)
Hours and Fees
Hours
- Open all day.
Admission
- No admission fee required.
How to Get to the Wukang Road
By Bus
- You can take bus 26, 911, or 926 to Huaihai Middle Road and Wukang Road bus stop, and then walk to your destination. There are also other bus options like 104, 96, 42, 93, and 57 that stop at Wukang Road Station, which will get you there too.
By Subway
- You can take Metro Line 10 or 11 to Jiaotong University Station. After getting off, it’s just a short walk to Wukang Road. You can also switch to Line 1 at People’s Square and get off at Hengshan Road Station, or switch to Line 10 at Nanjing East Road Station and get off at Shanghai Library. Both of these stations are close to Wukang Road; you’ll just need to walk a bit.
