Nanjing Road, Shanghai - Image 1
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Nanjing Road

4.6
·491k reviews·, China

Shanghai's iconic shopping street, a dazzling 5km stretch blending historic charm with modern retail and vibrant nightlife.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant stroll

CrowdLow
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Nanjing Road, Shanghai - Image 1

Nanjing Road

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant stroll

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Shanghai's iconic shopping street, a dazzling 5km stretch blending historic charm with modern retail and vibrant nightlife.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Nanjing Road is where tradition meets modernity, a vibrant energy in every corner."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this 5km stretch!

⏰ Visit on Weekdays

Avoid the massive weekend and holiday crowds for a better experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

Central Nanjing Road

Shanghai's iconic pedestrian street, a dazzling mix of neon lights, global brands, and local charm.

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Eastern Nanjing Road

Admire the colonial-era buildings that stand as a testament to Shanghai's rich past.

Local Delicacies

Local Delicacies

Various side streets and food stalls

Sample a wide array of Shanghai's famous street food and local snacks.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds on Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road is Shanghai's premier shopping street, attracting massive crowds, especially during holidays and weekends. For a more relaxed experience, aim for weekdays and early mornings. Consider visiting during off-peak seasons to truly enjoy the vibrant atmosphere without the overwhelming throngs. Instagram+1

Navigating Nanjing Road's Length

This bustling thoroughfare stretches for about 5 kilometers, blending historic architecture with modern skyscrapers. Plan your visit by deciding whether you're focused on high-end shopping, local snacks, or historical sights. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking to explore its diverse offerings. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant stroll
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Vibrant lights, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Avoid National Holidays
Why
Extremely crowded
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Shanghai in 2 Days? Here’s EXACTLY How to Do It! Day 1: Wukang → Anfu Road → Huaihai Shopping → City God Temple → Lujiazui Day 2: Jing’an Temple → Xintiandi → Nanjing Road → The Bund #ShanghaiTravel #ChinaItinerary #ShanghaiVlog #TravelChina
@sunnyabroad
68.5K likes • 807K views

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this 5km stretch! TikTok

⏰ Visit on Weekdays

Avoid the massive weekend and holiday crowds for a better experience. Instagram+1

🥢Restaurant: Xie San Bao (蟹叁宝) 💴Price: 150 CNY p.p 📍Address: No. 74, Nanhui Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai (340 meters walk from Exit 1 of Nanjing West Road Subway Station) . #shanghai #shanghairestaurant #shanghaitravel #shanghaitrip
@chinatravelclub
49.8K likes • 1.6M views
Nanjing Road and Shanghai’s historic buildings & skyscrapers Lying at the heart of China’s financial capital is Nanjing Road, a five-kilometer stretch that serves as a living timeline of Shanghai’s colonial past and electrifying present. #ShareShanghai #ShareChina #ShareAsia https://www.rappler.com/life-and-style/travel/photos-nanjing-road-shanghai-tourism/
rappler
130 likes • 19.2K views

📱 Download a Map App

Essential for navigating the bustling streets and finding specific shops or restaurants. Reddit

🛍️ Explore Beyond the Main Street

Venture into side streets for unique finds and local eateries. Instagram

Shanghai’s Nanjing Road now. China kicks off its eight-day National Day holiday today. If you are planning a trip to China, we advise avoiding peak holiday period.
visuals_china
8.8K likes • 1.1M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this 5km stretch! TikTok

⏰ Visit on Weekdays

Avoid the massive weekend and holiday crowds for a better experience. Instagram+1

📱 Download a Map App

Essential for navigating the bustling streets and finding specific shops or restaurants. Reddit

🛍️ Explore Beyond the Main Street

Venture into side streets for unique finds and local eateries. Instagram

💰 Budget for Shopping

Nanjing Road offers everything from luxury brands to affordable souvenirs. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Nanjing Road is celebrated as Shanghai's premier shopping destination, captivating visitors with its dazzling lights, diverse retail offerings, and vibrant atmosphere, especially at night. While many enjoy the endless shopping and lively energy, some find the overwhelming crowds, particularly during peak times, can detract from the experience.

What People Like

Vibrant atmosphere
Endless shopping
Iconic night views

What People Dislike

Overwhelming crowds
Can be touristy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most convenient way is to take the Metro Line 2 directly from Pudong International Airport to Nanjing Road East Station. The journey takes about an hour. Alternatively, you can take the Maglev train to Longyang Road Station and then transfer to Metro Line 2. Taxis are also available but will be more expensive. Reddit

For Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, alight at Nanjing Road East Station (Metro Line 2 & 10). If you're heading to the western part, Nanjing West Road Station (Metro Line 2 & 12) is more suitable. TikTok

Yes, Nanjing Road is very well-connected by Shanghai's extensive metro system, with multiple stations serving different sections of the road. TikTok

Absolutely! Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is just a short walk (about 10-15 minutes) from The Bund, making it easy to combine these two popular attractions. Instagram

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is designed for walking. For longer distances along the entire 5km stretch, you can utilize the metro or consider a taxi for convenience. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Nanjing Road is a public street and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely explore its shops, restaurants, and atmosphere. TikTok

Nanjing Road is always open as it's a public street. However, individual shops and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically from around 10 AM to 10 PM. Instagram

While the street itself is free to access, some department stores or attractions within the vicinity might have their own entry requirements or costs. Instagram

Yes, many tour operators offer guided walking tours of Nanjing Road, which can provide historical context and highlight key areas. Instagram

You can visit during holidays, but be prepared for extremely large crowds. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Nanjing Road offers a vast range of shopping, from international luxury brands and department stores to local boutiques and souvenir shops. Instagram

You'll find everything from upscale restaurants and cafes to street food stalls selling local delicacies like xiaolongbao and pan-fried buns. TikTokInstagram

Look for traditional Chinese crafts, silk products, tea sets, and local snacks as unique souvenirs. Instagram

Don't miss out on trying xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried pork buns), and various sweet treats. Instagram

While it has high-end stores, you can also find more affordable options and local markets if you explore the side streets. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant neon signs at night, the blend of old and new architecture, and the bustling street life. The pedestrian street offers many picturesque scenes. Instagram+1

Definitely! The street comes alive at night with dazzling lights and a dynamic atmosphere, making it a prime spot for photography. Instagram+1

For architectural shots, daytime is best. For vibrant, illuminated scenes, visit after sunset. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed, but be mindful of private property and avoid intrusive photography of individuals. Instagram

Yes, the historic buildings are a key feature and are great subjects for photography, showcasing Shanghai's past. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Nanjing Road offers a lively environment that can be exciting for families. The Pedestrian Street is relatively safe for walking, and the sheer variety of shops can keep older children entertained. Look for toy stores and sweet shops that might appeal to younger ones. TikTok

Consider visiting during the day to avoid the peak evening crowds, which can be overwhelming with children. Many department stores have food courts offering a range of options that can satisfy picky eaters. Instagram+1

🛍️ Shoppers & Fashionistas

Nanjing Road is a shopper's paradise. Nanjing Road East offers a mix of popular brands and department stores, perfect for finding souvenirs and everyday items. For high-fashion enthusiasts, Nanjing Road West boasts luxury boutiques and designer flagship stores, making it a prime destination for upscale shopping. Instagram+1

Don't forget to explore the side streets for unique finds and local designers. The sheer volume of retail options means you can easily spend a full day here indulging your shopping desires. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Nanjing Road provides a fantastic backdrop for photography, especially at night when the street is illuminated by vibrant neon signs and dazzling lights. Capture the dynamic energy of the city and the striking contrast between historic architecture and modern skyscrapers. Instagram+1

Early mornings on weekdays offer a quieter atmosphere for capturing architectural details and street scenes without the crowds. The blend of old and new architecture along the street also presents unique photographic opportunities. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Nanjing Road: A Tale of Two Streets

Nanjing Road is often divided into two main sections: Nanjing Road East and Nanjing Road West. Nanjing Road East is the famous pedestrian street, a vibrant hub of shopping malls, department stores, and neon lights, especially captivating at night. It's where you'll find the iconic Shanghai No. 1 Department Store and the historic Peace Hotel nearby. Instagram+1

Nanjing Road West, on the other hand, leans more towards luxury and high-end fashion, featuring designer boutiques and upscale shopping centers like Plaza 66 and IFC Mall. This section offers a more sophisticated shopping experience, blending modern architecture with a touch of elegance. Instagram

Understanding this distinction helps visitors tailor their experience, whether they're seeking bustling energy and souvenirs or a more refined shopping spree. Both sections are easily accessible via the Shanghai Metro, with Nanjing Road East Station serving the pedestrian zone and Nanjing West Road Station catering to the western end. TikTok

Culinary Adventures on Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road is a paradise for food lovers, offering a diverse culinary landscape that caters to every palate. From traditional Shanghainese snacks to international cuisine, the options are endless. Don't miss the chance to try local favorites like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and shengjianbao (pan-fried pork buns) from street vendors or specialized eateries. TikTokInstagram

For a more immersive experience, explore the smaller alleyways branching off the main road, where you can discover hidden gems and authentic local flavors. Many restaurants offer set menus or tasting platters, allowing you to sample a variety of dishes. Instagram

While the main pedestrian street is packed with options, venturing slightly off the beaten path can lead to more authentic and less crowded dining experiences. Keep an eye out for restaurants recommended by locals or those with long queues of patrons – often a sign of good food! TikTok

Shopping Extravaganza: From Luxury to Souvenirs

Nanjing Road is synonymous with shopping, offering an unparalleled retail experience in Shanghai. The Pedestrian Street (Nanjing Road East) is a dazzling spectacle of department stores, international brands, and souvenir shops. It's a place where you can find everything from the latest fashion trends to traditional Chinese handicrafts. Instagram+1

For those seeking high-end luxury, Nanjing Road West is the destination. This section is home to designer boutiques, flagship stores of global luxury brands, and sophisticated shopping malls like Plaza 66. It’s an area where you can indulge in premium shopping and experience Shanghai's modern, cosmopolitan side. Instagram

Beyond the major stores, keep an eye out for smaller shops selling unique items like silk products, intricate tea sets, and local snacks, perfect for bringing a piece of Shanghai home with you. Instagram