Hello travelers, my name is Michael Zhang. I’m a seasoned Chinese traveler with over a decade of international travel experience across the world’s great cities and cultural landmarks. For me, travel is more than sightseeing—it’s an exploration of history, design, and deeper meaning. Through my writing, I share the stories behind destinations and reveal unique experiences that go beyond the surface.

Today, I want to introduce you to one of Shanghai’s newest icons: the Louis Vuitton ship “Louis号”, a spectacular architectural landmark blending luxury, art, and culture. Whether you are a fashion enthusiast, a design lover, or simply looking for a one-of-a-kind attraction during your trip, this place will surprise you at every turn.

Summary

Introduction to the Louis Vuitton Ship in Shanghai

The Louis Vuitton ship, known as “Louis号,” is located in the Jing’an district on Nanjing West Road, one of Shanghai’s most vibrant commercial areas. This stunning building resembles a massive cruise ship and houses a three-level immersive experience.

Inspired by the legendary 19th-century Louis Vuitton travel trunks, the 30-meter-high metallic Monogram hull and stacked trunk design create an impressive visual spectacle day and night. At 1600 square meters, 114.5 meters long, and 30 meters tall, the Louis Vuitton ship has quickly become a must-see attraction in Shanghai since its grand opening on June 28, 2025.

  • Address: 789 Nanjing West Road, HKRI Taikoo Hui, Jing’an District, Shanghai (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM
  • Recommended Visit Time: 2–3 hours; best in the morning at opening or in the evening for great lighting and fewer crowds
  • Best Season to Visit: All year round
  • Tickets: Free entry, but reservations are required
Louis Vuitton ship

Top Things to Do in the Louis Vuitton Ship

First Floor: Exhibition Spaces

Step inside and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a kaleidoscope. The mirrored ceiling and stacked Louis Vuitton trunks create a surreal atmosphere perfect for photography. Here you’ll find:

  • A perfume wall and LV travel book collection
  • A robotic arm demonstrating live trunk opening
  • Artisans showcasing traditional craftsmanship behind luxury items
  • A sports-themed section featuring trophy trunks, golf collections, sneakers, and more
  • A fashion zone with screens and mannequins recreating LV runway moments

This floor perfectly captures the brand’s heritage while offering an immersive cultural experience.

Louis Vuitton ship 1F exhibition hall

Second Floor: Exclusive LV Store

The second level is home to a Louis Vuitton boutique unlike any other in Shanghai. Although compact, it carries exclusive and unusual items you won’t see in regular LV stores:

  • Mahjong sets, fine teacups, and luxury tableware
  • Shanghai-exclusive limited editions
  • Designer bicycles, collectible books, handbags, hats, shoes, sunglasses, scarves, belts, pillows, and perfumes

For shoppers, this floor is a treasure trove of unique finds.

Louis Vuitton ship 2F exhibition hall

Third Floor: High-End Restaurant

The third level is perhaps the crown jewel. The Louis Vuitton restaurant is one of the hardest-to-book dining spots in Shanghai. Reservations require a 300 CNY deposit, and tables are usually booked well in advance.

Here, you’ll enjoy:

  • Coffee, cakes, and main dishes all served with the LV logo
  • Luxury offerings such as steak and caviar
  • Desserts crafted by renowned chef Maxime Frédéric, often described as “edible art”
  • Price Reference: Afternoon tea sets start from 598 CNY per person plus 10% service charge
  • Reservations: Available through the official WeChat account, under the same system as exhibition bookings
Louis Vuitton ship 3F restaurant

Ticket Reservation Guide for the Louis Vuitton Ship

To visit the exhibition or dine at the Louis Vuitton restaurant, you need to book in advance. Reservations can be made by scanning the official QR code with WeChat.

  • Important Notes:
    • Each account can only reserve for one person.
    • Children under 14 do not require a reservation.
    • ID checks are not required on-site, but you must show your valid reservation in the app. Screenshots are not accepted.
Louis Vuitton ship WeChat QR code

The Louis Vuitton ship sits in the heart of Nanjing West Road, one of Shanghai’s most central and convenient areas. Staying nearby makes it easy to visit the attraction and explore other top sights in the city.

From here, you can quickly reach iconic destinations such as The Bund, Yu Garden, Jing’an Temple, People’s Square, Tianzifang, and even the historic Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea site. Transportation is extremely convenient as well:

  • Airports & Train Stations: Both Pudong and Hongqiao airports, as well as Hongqiao Railway Station and Shanghai Railway Station, are easily accessible.
  • Subway Access: Nanjing West Road Station on Line 2 connects you directly to most major attractions and transport hubs.
  • Dining & Shopping: The area offers countless restaurants, cafés, and luxury shopping options.

👉 For a more complete list of hotels and recommendations, check out my detailed Shanghai Hotel Guide.

CitiGO Hotel Jingan Shanghai

CitiGO Hotel Jingan Shanghai

Very convenient, close to Nanjing West Road shopping district, easily accessible to other attractions. Be aware, there is another hotel with the same name nearby; double-check the address when taking a taxi.

Clean and well-equipped. Breakfast offers a wide variety, including fresh vegetables, fruits, delicious mousse, Swiss rolls, and freshly ground coffee. Free night snacks including dumplings available after 10 PM.

Ji Hotel (Shanghai People’s Square Nanjing Road)

Ji Hotel (Shanghai People's Square Nanjing Road)
  • Location: 9-minute walk from Huangpi South Road Metro Station, 10-minute walk from Nanjing West Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 487 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Laundry, robot room service, triple rooms

Located near People’s Square inside an old building, quiet, with easy access to transportation. Close to the Old Shanghai Museum, City God Temple, and local parks. Great value for money.

Excellent facilities, friendly and attentive staff. Rooms are clean, odor-free, and quiet. Varied breakfast options.

Atour Hotel X Nanjing West Road Shanghai

Atour Hotel X Nanjing West Road Shanghai

Prime location near Shanghai’s central business district, just below Wujiang Road, convenient for dining and close to a subway entrance.

Well-equipped, clean, and quiet. Features soft-bristled toothbrushes, excellent Wi-Fi, and high-pressure showers in the bathrooms with upscale fixtures.

How to Get to the Louis Vuitton Ship from Downtown Shanghai

The Louis Vuitton ship is centrally located in Shanghai, but traffic can be heavy, so the subway is the most efficient way to get there.

By Metro

Take Line 13 and exit at Exit 6. From there, it’s just a 200-meter walk to the striking red-and-silver ship-shaped building.

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing

A ride from central Shanghai costs about 30 CNY (around $4 USD) and usually takes 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

FAQ

Is the Louis Vuitton ship stroller-friendly?

Strollers are not allowed inside the exhibition hall. However, you can store them at the entrance. Staff will give you a claim tag, which you can use to pick up your stroller when leaving.

Where can I store luggage near the Louis Vuitton ship?

Luggage storage is not available inside the Louis Vuitton ship. Instead, you can use nearby lockers: If arriving by subway, exit at Nanjing West Road Station Exit 3. Walk toward the Louis Vuitton ship, and you’ll pass the Zhongchuang Building, which has luggage lockers available.

Essential Shanghai Travel Resources