Hello everyone, I’m Michael Zhang, a passionate traveler with a deep interest in history and culture. My years of traveling across the globe have given me unique insights into immersive travel experiences. In this guide, I’ll lead you on a journey through Nanjing Road, one of Shanghai’s most iconic streets. From architecture and food to shopping and cityscapes, this street captures the pulse of the city, blending Shanghai’s vibrant present with its rich past.

Summary

About Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road Walkway, located in the Huangpu District of Shanghai, is a bustling pedestrian street stretching from Xizang Middle Road in the west to Zhongshan East Road (The Bund) in the east. It spans 1,528 meters in length and covers an area of approximately 30,000 square meters. Known as Shanghai’s premier shopping street, Nanjing Road is also a significant cultural landmark where historical architecture meets modern retail spaces. A stroll down this lively avenue offers a fascinating glimpse into Shanghai’s evolution, letting you experience the city’s century-old charm and bustling energy.

  • Address: 558 East Nanjing Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Attraction Type: Pedestrian shopping street
  • Best Seasons to Visit: All year
  • Recommended Visiting Time: About 2 hours
  • Opening Hours: Open all day
Crowded Nanjing Road in Shanghai, featuring historic architecture and cityscape views.

Key Attractions on Nanjing Road

Yong’an Department Store

Historic Yong’an Department Store on Nanjing Road in Shanghai, featuring classic architecture with tourists and sightseeing buses in front.

Founded in 1918 by the Guo family, Chinese immigrants from Australia, Yong’an Department Store became one of China’s first national department stores. Located at 635 Nanjing Road (near the southwest corner of Zhejiang Road), this iconic structure expanded in 1933 with a new 22-story tower at 627 Nanjing Road. It exemplifies the eclectic architectural style of the early 20th century and was designated as one of Shanghai’s first protected modern buildings. Covering around 32,000 square meters, the store features five levels, crowned by a central tower known as Qiyun Pavilion. In 2004, the building underwent a full restoration, reviving its classical European elegance—a tribute to the city’s heritage. This tower also marks the site where the first red flag was raised on Nanjing Road after Shanghai’s liberation.

Sincere Department Store

Sincere Department Store building with clock tower on Nanjing Road, a classic landmark in Shanghai.

Construction on Sincere Department Store began in 1914, and the store officially opened in 1917 at the intersection of Nanjing Road and Zhejiang Road. Sincere was the first Chinese-owned department store on Nanjing Road, named after a phrase in The Doctrine of the Mean, meaning “Sincerity Comes First.” Established by Chinese immigrant Ma Yingbiao, the seven-story building was funded through three rounds of capital raising, totaling two million yuan. The building features an arcade-style facade along the street and a rooftop garden—a first in Shanghai. Its distinct corner design includes a three-tiered tower supported by Tuscan columns, with Renaissance-style architectural details and hints of Baroque ornamentation.

Century Square

Century Square on Nanjing Road at sunset, with tall buildings and a colorful sky.

Located south of Nanjing Road, Century Square covers 8,404 square meters and is bordered by Hubei Road to the east, Jiujiang Road to the north, and Fujian Road to the west. At the center of the square stands a stage used for performances and large events, while a 400-square-meter green area is situated on the western side. An Oriental treasure cauldron, standing at 3.08 meters, marks the western edge, and a chiming clock gifted by the Swiss people to commemorate 50 years of Sino-Swiss relations is located on the eastern side. Each hour, the clock chimes with melodies of traditional Chinese folk songs. Additional facilities include administrative offices, an LED screen, a dry fountain, and parking areas.

Shimao Plaza

Modern architectural design of Shimao Plaza on Nanjing Road in Shanghai.

Situated at the western end of the Nanjing Road Walkway, Shimao Plaza stands at 819 East Nanjing Road, with views overlooking the Huangpu River to the east, People’s Square to the west, Yu Garden to the south, and Suzhou Creek to the north. Initially designed by Germany’s IOKP design firm and later modified by the East China Architectural Design Institute, Shimao Plaza features a unique right-angled triangular shape and serves as a prominent landmark in the district.

West Nanjing Road

Upscale West Nanjing Road in Shanghai, lined with luxury boutiques and designer stores.

Known for its luxury shopping, West Nanjing Road is home to premium shopping centers like Plaza 66, CITIC Square, and Meilongzhen Square, forming the “Golden Triangle,” along with Wheelock Square, Grand Gateway, and the Kerry Center, creating the “Golden Pentagon.” West Nanjing Road hosts over 1,200 high-end brands, including 750 international labels, with 80% of the world’s top luxury brands opening flagship stores or boutiques here. Today, West Nanjing Road is recognized as one of Shanghai’s most upscale shopping areas, making it a paradise for luxury shopping enthusiasts.

Things to Do on Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road is not only a shopping and dining paradise but also an ideal place to immerse yourself in Shanghai’s vibrant urban culture. Strolling along this bustling street, you can browse modern stores and century-old shops alike, shop for uniquely “Old Shanghai” souvenirs, explore specialty stores, and enjoy authentic local cuisine. For an unforgettable experience, consider a double-decker bus tour to take in the evening views of Nanjing Road and The Bund, adding a touch of romance and lasting memories to your visit.

What to Buy on Nanjing Road

Modern Lady

Interior of Modern Lady store on Nanjing Road, displaying Shanghai-style face creams and vintage packaging.

Modern Lady is a traditional Shanghai store offering a wide variety of scented face creams, each with charming “Old Shanghai” packaging, perfect for a nostalgic souvenir.

  • Address: 690 East Nanjing Road, near Guangxi North Road (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

LEGO flagship store, People’s Square

LEGO flagship store, People's Square

A must-visit for LEGO fans, this flagship store offers custom LEGO figurine services and large models of iconic Shanghai landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower and dragons.

  • Address: Shop G02, Floor G, Shanghai Shimao Plaza, No. 829, Nanjing East Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

M&M’s Store (Shimao Plaza)

M&M's Store (Shimao Plaza)

The M&M’s flagship store offers a wide selection of chocolates and exclusive merchandise. While slightly pricey, the experience and variety make it worth a visit.

  • Address: 1F, 829 East Nanjing Road, Bailian Shimao International Plaza (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Nike 001 Flagship Store

Nike 001 Flagship Store

Nike’s first flagship store in China, this location offers the latest in trendy athletic gear and apparel.

  • Address: G01, Shimao Plaza, 829 East Nanjing Road (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Apple Flagship Store

Apple Flagship Store

With its modern architecture and full range of Apple products, this store attracts technology enthusiasts from around the city.

  • Address: 300 East Nanjing Road (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

First Department Store

First Department Store

Known for its luxury shopping experience, this center brings together various international brands and is a top destination for high-end shoppers.

  • Address: 830 East Nanjing Road (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Shanghai New World Daimaru

Shanghai New World Daimaru

A comprehensive shopping mall offering a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it a perfect one-stop shopping experience.

  • Address: 228 East Nanjing Road (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

First Food Store

Exterior of Shanghai First Food Store on Nanjing Road with popular butterfly pastries wrapped in clear packaging.

One of Shanghai’s oldest state-run stores, First Food Store is famous for its variety of traditional foods. The Peace Food Gift series is particularly popular. Their chocolate butterfly pastries and butter cookies, with a delicate texture and rich buttery flavor, are excellent choices as gifts. The large butterfly pastry is also a top choice for photos, making it a popular item to bring home.

  • Address: 720 East Nanjing Road (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Modern Lady

Interior of Modern Lady store on Nanjing Road, displaying Shanghai-style face creams and vintage packaging.

Known for its classic Shanghai face creams with unique floral scents, this shop is an ideal place to find practical yet nostalgic gifts that capture the essence of “Old Shanghai.”

  • Address: 690 East Nanjing Road, near Guangxi North Road (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Sheng Da Cheng (Nanjing East Road Branch)

Sheng Da Cheng (Nanjing East Road Branch)

Established in the Qing Dynasty, Sheng Da Cheng is an old-school pastry shop known for traditional Shanghai treats. The egg yolk and pork floss green dumplings, along with their Tiaotou cakes, are soft, chewy, and lightly sweet, making them a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

  • Address: 636 East Nanjing Road (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Lai Lai Xiao Long

Lai Lai Xiao Long

Tucked in a small alley, Lai Lai Xiao Long specializes in juicy xiao long bao (soup dumplings) filled with crab and pork. This Michelin Bib Gourmand-rated spot serves dumplings with a thin skin, rich broth, and a flavorful filling, best enjoyed with ginger vinegar.

  • Address: 506 Tianjin Road, Huangpu District (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Bee Cheng Hiang

Bee Cheng Hiang

Famous for its delicious pork jerky, Bee Cheng Hiang may be a bit pricier, but the tender, flavorful meat makes it worth every penny. This snack is perfect to bring home as a Shanghai souvenir.

  • Address: B-122A, Basement Level, 299 East Nanjing Road (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Harbin Food Factory

Harbin Food Factory

A traditional Shanghai pastry shop, Harbin Food Factory is known for its sweet snacks. The almond cakes and butterfly pastries are particularly popular, with a crispy texture and balanced sweetness.

  • Address: B2, 228 East Nanjing Road, Shanghai New World Daimaru (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Xianyu Taiyaki

Xianyu Taiyaki

This shop’s taiyaki, or Japanese-style fish-shaped pastry, is irresistible with its crispy exterior and sweet, creamy filling. The aroma fills Nanjing Road, making it a must-try for anyone passing by.

  • Address: 558 East Nanjing Road, within Nanjing Road Walkway (east side) (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Nanjing Road Sightseeing Bus

The double-decker bus on Nanjing Road offers a convenient way to explore the city, especially during the evening when you can enjoy stunning views of The Bund’s illuminated skyline. The entire journey lasts 30-40 minutes and includes multilingual audio guides with complimentary headphones to provide insights into Shanghai’s history and attractions. For the best views, head to the second level of the bus.

  • Boarding Location: Red signpost outside Exit 7, East Nanjing Road Metro Station (Lines 2/10) (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Operating Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Line 1)
  • Ticket Price: 50 RMB per person (available for purchase on-site)
  • Guide: Multilingual audio guides with free headphones
Route map for Shanghai's city sightseeing buses with multiple lines for exploring popular attractions.

Start your journey at People’s Square Metro Station (Exit 9 on Line 2), and head east along Nanjing Road Walkway. This route lets you experience the city’s fusion of old and new as you pass by some of Shanghai’s busiest commercial spots and historic architecture.

  1. Walk Along Nanjing Road Walkway: Admire iconic structures like Yong’an Department Store and Sincere Department Store, capturing the charm of Shanghai’s century-old commercial street.
  2. Stop at Century Square: Take a short break at Century Square in the middle of the walkway. This square features a stage and a unique chiming clock that plays traditional Chinese folk tunes on the hour.
  3. Continue Eastward to The Bund: At the eastern end of Nanjing Road, you’ll reach The Bund, where you can enjoy views of the Huangpu River and the historic waterfront buildings. The scenery is particularly captivating at night when the lights create a stunning spectacle.
  4. Explore The Bund Waterfront: Walk along The Bund to see landmarks like the Waibaidu Bridge, Peace Hotel, and the Shanghai Customs House. This route offers numerous photo opportunities and showcases the city’s unique blend of history and modernity.

For more detailed information on The Bund and recommended routes, check out our blog post, “Complete Guide to The Bund.”

How to Get to Nanjing Road from Downtown

By Metro

Take Shanghai Metro Line 2 or Line 10 and get off at East Nanjing Road Station. Exit from Exit 7, and you’ll reach Nanjing Road Walkway within a few minutes’ walk. This is the most convenient public transportation option, especially for travelers coming from within Shanghai or directly from Pudong Airport and Hongqiao Airport.

By Bus

Several bus routes, including lines 14, 37, 66, and 123, lead to Nanjing Road. You can get off at East Nanjing Road or nearby People’s Square Station. While buses may take a bit longer, they provide an excellent way to enjoy the city views along the way.

Transportation from the Airport to Nanjing Road

From Shanghai Pudong Airport

  1. Metro: Take Metro Line 2 directly to East Nanjing Road Station. The journey takes about an hour and is ideal for travelers with extra time.
  2. Airport Bus: Board Airport Bus Line 2 and get off at “East Nanjing Road” station. This option is convenient and budget-friendly.
  3. Maglev + Metro: For a faster option, take the Maglev train from Pudong Airport to Longyang Road Station, then transfer to Metro Line 2 to reach East Nanjing Road Station. The Maglev ride takes just 8 minutes and is a great way to experience high-speed rail.

For more details on getting from Pudong Airport to the city center, check out our article, 5 Best Ways to Get from Shanghai Pudong Airport to the City Center.

From Shanghai Hongqiao Airport

  1. Metro: Take either Metro Line 10 or Line 2 to East Nanjing Road Station. This route takes about 45 minutes and is the most convenient choice.
  2. Taxi: A taxi ride from Hongqiao Airport to Nanjing Road takes around 30 minutes, making it ideal for travelers with more luggage or those on a tighter schedule.

Nanjing Road Cheap Hotel Recommendation

The area around Nanjing Road offers numerous affordable and conveniently located hotels, perfect for travelers eager to explore Shanghai. Here are some recommended options, all near metro stations and popular attractions, providing excellent access to the city at reasonable prices.

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.

Atour Hotel X Nanjing West Road Shanghai

Atour Hotel X Nanjing West Road Shanghai
  • Location: 7-minute walk from Nanjing West Road Metro Station, 9-minute walk from Shanghai Natural History Museum Metro Station
  • Price Range: 649 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Laundry, robot room service, triple rooms, family rooms

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.

The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan

The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan
  • Location: 7-minute walk from Nanjing West Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 1639 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.7
  • Special Amenities: Gym, swimming pool

Excellently located in the city center, providing easy access to popular attractions and shopping centers.

A high-end chain, The St. Regis features top-notch facilities and modern luxury. Spacious and beautifully decorated rooms, with meticulous and personalized service. The butler service starts the moment you check in, warmly welcoming and assisting with various needs and recommendations.

FAQ

Where can I store my luggage?

Nanjing Road Walkway and the nearby major shopping malls and metro stations offer luggage storage services. For example, First Department Store and some hotel front desks provide short-term storage options. Additionally, there are dedicated luggage lockers close to East Nanjing Road Metro Station, making it easy for tourists to explore without carrying heavy bags. Reference prices: small bags cost around 20 RMB, while suitcases cost about 40 RMB.

How can I find public restrooms?

Public restrooms are commonly located inside large shopping centers and metro stations along Nanjing Road Walkway, such as East Nanjing Road Metro Station and Century Square. The walkway also has clearly marked restroom signs, helping visitors quickly find the nearest facilities. All public restrooms are free of charge.

Essential Shanghai Travel Resources