Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

What are the most recommended things to do in Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street?

Walk along the bustling Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, explore the diverse shopping options, visit historical landmarks, and enjoy the street food. It’s also a great spot for taking in the local architecture and neon lights at night.


Introducing Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street starts from Xizang Middle Road in the west and ends at Henan Middle Road in the east, with a total length of 1,033 meters. It adopts an asymmetrical layout with a 4.2-meter-wide "golden belt" as the main line, running through the entire pedestrian street. Urban public facilities such as benches, shopping kiosks, information booths, billboards, sculptures, street lights, waste bins, telephone booths, etc. are concentrated on the "golden belt", and there are 34 flower beds of various shapes.

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, similar to Beijing's Wangfujing, isn't a prime shopping destination, but it's a must-see for any tourist. Day or night, Nanjing Road is a landmark and a must-see in Shanghai. Walking from the Bund along Nanjing East Road to Nanjing West Road, you'll be captivated by the bustling streets, vibrant lights, and vibrant neon signs.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate makes travel suitable all year round.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1-2 hours

Tickets

No tickets required

Attraction opening hours

All day


Most Popular FAQs for Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is one of the most famous shopping streets in the world, with a history that dates back to the 19th century. It has played a significant role in Shanghai's commercial development and continues to be a symbol of the city’s modernity and economic growth.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in the Huangpu District of Shanghai, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street can be easily accessed by Metro (Lines 2 and 10, Nanjing East Road Station), taxi, or walking from nearby landmarks like The Bund.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is open 24 hours, but the best times to visit are in the late afternoon and evening when the street is lit up with neon lights, and the shops are open. Avoid weekends and public holidays if you want to avoid the crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street. It is a public street, and you can explore it freely without purchasing any tickets.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No tickets are required to visit the street. However, if you plan to visit attractions or shows nearby, such as the Shanghai Museum or the Oriental Pearl Tower, it’s advisable to book tickets in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You’ll need about 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the main pedestrian areas, visit some shops, and enjoy a meal or snack. If you plan to explore side streets or visit specific attractions, you might want to allocate more time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlight is the pedestrian street itself, with its shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Don’t miss the nearby Bund area, which offers stunning views of the river and city skyline.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, mainly in Mandarin and English, and can be arranged through local tour operators. Audio guides are not commonly provided for the pedestrian street but may be available for nearby attractions.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Photography enthusiasts will love the view from The Bund, which provides a stunning backdrop of both colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers. The street itself, lit up with neon signs, is a perfect spot for night photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the eastern end of Nanjing Road and explore the shops, cafes, and landmarks. Then, head towards the Bund for a scenic walk along the waterfront. If you have time, stop at the nearby People's Square and check out the Shanghai Museum or the Urban Planning Exhibition Center.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are highly recommended as Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is especially beautiful when lit up at night. While there are no light shows directly on the street, you can experience light displays at The Bund and nearby buildings, such as the Shanghai Tower.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The street can get quite crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. The best time to visit is early mornings or weekdays to avoid the heaviest foot traffic.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are numerous facilities, including public toilets, rest areas, and a wide variety of food options ranging from street food to high-end restaurants. Many shops are located along the street for a shopping experience.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is easily accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with flat walkways and ramps. However, the area can get crowded, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (e.g., Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted at shops, restaurants, and cafes along Nanjing Road. Cash is not necessary but is still accepted in some places.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby options include upscale restaurants in luxury hotels like the Fairmont Peace Hotel, as well as casual eateries and street food stalls offering local specialties such as dumplings and xiaolongbao.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in various restaurants along Nanjing Road, including vegetarian Chinese and international cuisine. Halal food can be found in certain restaurants serving Middle Eastern and Chinese Muslim cuisine.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several high-end hotels are located near Nanjing Road, including the Waldorf Astoria, the Peace Hotel, and the Hyatt on the Bund. Budget options and boutique hotels can also be found in the surrounding area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include The Bund, People’s Square, Shanghai Museum, and Yuyuan Garden. These can easily be explored in a day trip along with Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are plenty of souvenir shops along Nanjing Road selling items such as silk products, Chinese tea, jade, traditional Chinese art, and branded goods.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best way to continue your trip is by taking the Shanghai Metro (Lines 2 or 10), taxis, or walking to nearby attractions like The Bund or People's Square. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Didi for convenience.