Huaihai Road

Introducing Huaihai Road

Huaihai Road, located in the heart of Shanghai, stretches from Renmin Road in the east to Kaixuan Road in the west. Divided into three sections, east, middle, and west, it winds for over ten miles and is one of Shanghai's most prosperous commercial streets. Huaihai Road embodies a sense of class and style. It is widely recognized as the most beautiful, modern, and stylish street in Shanghai .

The most prosperous of these is Huaihai Middle Road, formerly known as Xiafei Road and renamed in 1949. Already in the 1930s , it enjoyed international renown for its beauty, prosperity, and exotic charm. Huaihai Road, once part of the French ancestral land, is lined with French plane trees, lending it a distinctly European feel.

Today, the buildings along Huaihai Road are more modern and impressive. Shops are elegantly decorated, showcasing a blend of European and American classics, Chinese classics, European modernism, and the architectural styles of a modern metropolis. Both the exteriors and interiors exude a rich, urban, cultural, and leisurely atmosphere.

Huaihai Road is also an elegant cultural street. Famous buildings such as the former residences of Sun Yat-sen and Soong Ching Ling, the residence of Zhou Enlai, and the site of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China are all located on or adjacent to this road. At the end of 1996 , the new Shanghai Library also opened on Huaihai Middle Road.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Huaihai Road

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

Huaihai Road, often called the "Champs-Élysées of Shanghai," is a major commercial street that has evolved from a colonial area into one of the city's top shopping and cultural districts. It has historic significance due to its blend of Western and Chinese architecture and its role in Shanghai’s development in the early 20th century.

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

Huaihai Road stretches from the People’s Square area to Xujiahui. The easiest way to get there is by taking the Shanghai Metro Line 1 to either Huangpi South Road Station or Xujiahui Station, depending on which section of the street you want to explore. Taxis and buses are also readily available.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

As Huaihai Road is an open street, it is accessible 24/7, but the best time to visit for shopping and sightseeing is between 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM. Evening visits are perfect for enjoying the streetlights and vibrant atmosphere.

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

There is no entrance fee for Huaihai Road itself, as it is a public street. Costs apply when shopping or dining at the establishments along the road.

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

No tickets are required for entry. However, for specific events or exhibitions held in nearby galleries, booking in advance may be necessary.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Huaihai Road, including shopping, dining, and sightseeing, plan for about 2-3 hours, though you may want to spend longer if you enjoy shopping or visiting art galleries.

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

Must-see spots include the popular shopping malls like Pacific Department Store and the French Concession for its historic European-style architecture. Explore the art galleries and small boutiques, and stop by the beautiful Fuxing Park for a break.

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

There are no specific guided tours for Huaihai Road, but many of the nearby museums and galleries offer audio guides in multiple languages, including English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Photography spots include the colonial-era buildings along the road, especially in the French Concession area. The best views of the street can be taken from the upper levels of shopping malls or cafes along Huaihai Road.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your journey at People’s Square and walk south towards Xujiahui. Explore the shops, galleries, and cafes along the way. Don’t forget to detour into the French Concession for a glimpse of historic architecture.

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

Night visits are a great option as the street is beautifully lit, and there are often special events or pop-up shops in the evening. While there are no specific light shows, the night ambiance on Huaihai Road is lively and vibrant.

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

Huaihai Road is often crowded, especially on weekends and during public holidays. The best times to visit with fewer crowds are on weekday mornings or late evenings.

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

There are plenty of public toilets in malls and shopping centers along Huaihai Road. Food and drink are widely available, ranging from street vendors to high-end restaurants. Rest areas can be found in parks like Fuxing Park, nearby.

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

Huaihai Road is generally accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with wide sidewalks and accessible entrances to most shops and malls. However, be aware of the crowds during peak times.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted at most stores, restaurants, and cafes. Cash is still accepted but is becoming less common in larger establishments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are many dining options on and around Huaihai Road, from fast food to high-end dining. You can also find cafes offering both Chinese and international menus, such as Starbucks and local tea houses.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options available in some of the cafes and restaurants along Huaihai Road. Many restaurants offer vegan-friendly menus, and halal options are available in specific eateries.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels close to Huaihai Road, such as the Parkview Hotel and the Hongqiao State Guest Hotel, which are within a short distance from the main shopping and dining areas.

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

Nearby attractions include People's Square, the Shanghai Museum, and the Bund. All of these can be easily combined in a day trip, as they are located within a short distance from Huaihai Road.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

You’ll find souvenir shops inside the malls along Huaihai Road, offering traditional Chinese items like silk, tea, and porcelain. Some local shops sell unique handmade crafts and artworks.

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

After visiting Huaihai Road, you can take the metro, bus, or a taxi to continue your journey. The metro is particularly convenient, with Line 1 and Line 10 connecting to nearby attractions.