Nanjing Road is the arterial avenue stretching from the Bund in the east to Jing'an Temple in the west. This haven of retail is centered on the Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, lined with a mix of century-old department stores and international flagship boutiques. Within a few blocks, you can see architectural styles ranging from 1920s Art Deco and neoclassical facades to ultra-modern glass shopping complexes. Stop for snacks ranging from classic pan-fried pork buns (shengjianbao) to savory fresh-meat mooncakes, delicate butterfly pastries, and modern bubble tea. Saunter down toward the historic Bund for spectacular skyline views, rooftop bars, and international dining. Take a break from the sensory stimulation with a quiet stroll through the leafy, winding paths of nearby People's Park.
Don't Miss
- A ride on the iconic "Dangdang" sightseeing tram that cruises up and down the pedestrian street
- Exploring the heritage department stores like the Shanghai First Department Store, which has been operating for decades
- Enjoying a warm, flaky fresh-meat mooncake from one of the time-honored local bakeries
How to Get There
Nanjing Road's main pedestrian attractions are easily accessible from either end of the walking street.
If you're traveling via the Shanghai Metro system, you can take Line 1, 2, or 8 to People's Square Station to start at the western end of the pedestrian zone, or take Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station to start near the Bund.
Quick Facts
- Nanjing Road is internationally known as China's premier shopping street, often dubbed the "Number One Commercial Street in China"
- The area is divided into two distinct sections: Nanjing Road East (the bustling pedestrian and tourist hub) and Nanjing Road West (the upscale, high-end luxury district)
- Home to Shanghai's most fascinating commercial history, dating back to the mid-19th century
Home to Shanghai's most fascinating commercial history
Since the early 20th century, when Shanghai's retail scene was dominated by the iconic "Four Great Department Stores," Nanjing Road has been an avenue long synonymous with China's rapid modernization and cosmopolitan flair. From the area's classic qipao tailors to some of the most groundbreaking international flagship stores, Nanjing Road's love of commerce sees the district evolve and transform as the city grows with the passing decades.
Nanjing Road's unique East-meets-West style has been featured throughout global media as the quintessential image of bustling Shanghai. And while its recent modern evolution has brought big-name brands like Apple, Nike, and massive fast-fashion outlets, the district hasn't forgotten its local heritage roots.
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street—maybe the most vibrant street in China
The Pedestrian Street is Nanjing Road's main artery. Exiting from the metro, you'll immediately see lines of colorful, towering neon signs illuminating stores selling everything from traditional silk garments and gold jewelry to high-end cosmetics and the latest tech gadgets.
Jam-packed with local shoppers and tourists alike, the Pedestrian Street is a fascinating melting pot of history, modern consumerism, and local life that's sure to give you an interesting new perspective on Shanghai's electric energy.
Satisfy your craving for classic local flavors
On almost every block are Nanjing Road's historic food halls and bakeries pumping out delicious wafting scents. A must-eat for visitors to the area, traditional Shanghainese pastries are masterfully baked by time-honored brands like Zhen Lao Da Fang and the Park Hotel Bakery. Whether you're after the sweet, crispy perfection of a classic butterfly pastry, or a savory, juice-filled fresh meat mooncake, there's something for every palate.
These traditional snacks are essentially historic Shanghai's culinary staple, and you can't leave without grabbing a warm paper bag of treats and strolling the neon-lit street as you eat.
A paradise of heritage brands and modern mega-malls
Nanjing Road is arguably Shanghai's retail capital, and what's shopping without variety? No matter your style, budget, or taste, you can find an incredible selection along this 5.5-kilometer stretch.
Stores that call the area home include massive, multi-level modern names like the M&M's World and Lego flagship stores, but if you're hoping for something more traditionally Chinese, be sure to check out Lao Feng Xiang for intricate gold craftsmanship or the Shanghai Silk Building, which regularly stocks the most sought-after silk garments and fabrics.
Taking to the cross-streets
Thanks to its global impact as a commercial hub, the main pedestrian stretch of East Nanjing Road has become a major tourist hotspot. Though the atmosphere here can be incredibly fun for exploring, if you really want to immerse yourself in the varying layers of Shanghai, don't be afraid to wander away from the main thoroughfare.
If you head west past People's Square to West Nanjing Road, you'll find a network of ultra-luxurious shopping centers like Plaza 66 and historic sites like Jing'an Temple. Crossing the street and heading into the smaller side alleys near the Bund, you'll find yourself in quieter lanes lined with traditional Shikumen (stone-gate) architecture, housing some of the area's trendiest hidden cafes and boutique art galleries.
