Nanjing Road
Shanghai's iconic shopping street, a dazzling 5km stretch blending historic charm with modern retail and vibrant nightlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant stroll
Nanjing Road
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant stroll
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Shanghai's iconic shopping street, a dazzling 5km stretch blending historic charm with modern retail and vibrant nightlife.
"Nanjing Road is where tradition meets modernity, a vibrant energy in every corner."
🚶♀️ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
Eastern Nanjing Road
Admire the colonial-era buildings that stand as a testament to Shanghai's rich past.
Local Delicacies
Various side streets and food stalls
Sample a wide array of Shanghai's famous street food and local snacks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds on Nanjing Road
Navigating Nanjing Road's Length
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ 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.
📱 Download a Map App
Essential for navigating the bustling streets and finding specific shops or restaurants.
🛍️ Explore Beyond the Main Street
Venture into side streets for unique finds and local eateries.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ 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.
📱 Download a Map App
Essential for navigating the bustling streets and finding specific shops or restaurants.
🛍️ Explore Beyond the Main Street
Venture into side streets for unique finds and local eateries.
💰 Budget for Shopping
Nanjing Road offers everything from luxury brands to affordable souvenirs.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Yes, Nanjing Road is very well-connected by Shanghai's extensive metro system, with multiple stations serving different sections of the road.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
While the street itself is free to access, some department stores or attractions within the vicinity might have their own entry requirements or costs.
Yes, many tour operators offer guided walking tours of Nanjing Road, which can provide historical context and highlight key areas.
You can visit during holidays, but be prepared for extremely large crowds.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Nanjing Road offers a vast range of shopping, from international luxury brands and department stores to local boutiques and souvenir shops.
You'll find everything from upscale restaurants and cafes to street food stalls selling local delicacies like xiaolongbao and pan-fried buns.
Look for traditional Chinese crafts, silk products, tea sets, and local snacks as unique souvenirs.
Don't miss out on trying xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried pork buns), and various sweet treats.
While it has high-end stores, you can also find more affordable options and local markets if you explore the side streets.
📸 📸 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.
Definitely! The street comes alive at night with dazzling lights and a dynamic atmosphere, making it a prime spot for photography.
For architectural shots, daytime is best. For vibrant, illuminated scenes, visit after sunset.
Generally, photography is allowed, but be mindful of private property and avoid intrusive photography of individuals.
Yes, the historic buildings are a key feature and are great subjects for photography, showcasing Shanghai's past.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🛍️ Shoppers & Fashionistas
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Nanjing Road: A Tale of Two Streets
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.
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.
Culinary Adventures on Nanjing Road
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.
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!
Shopping Extravaganza: From Luxury to Souvenirs
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit