Yuyuan Road

Introducing Yuyuan Road

Yuyuan Road is a famous street in Shanghai's western district. While not wide, it's also not short, stretching from Jing'an Temple in the east to Zhongshan Park in the west. Its 2,000- plus meters boast dozens of architectural styles .

At the beginning of the last century, a Shanghai businessman known as " the richest man in the world " built a private garden residence near Jing'an Temple. He named it " Yu Zhai , " and Yuyuan Road took its name from there. Later, with the emergence of French plane trees, Western-style houses, and coffee bars, Yuyuan Road became a gathering place for Western gentlemen, compradors, and other celebrities in the then-concession.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Qishan Village · Qian Xuesen's Former Residence

Qishan Village, where Qian Xuesen's former residence is located, got its name from the story that King Wen of Zhou was born in Qishan and the phoenix sang in Qishan.

Wang Boqun's Residence ( Children's Palace of Changning District )

Wang Boqun, a prominent Kuomintang official, fell in love with a beautiful woman from Jiaotong University. To keep her safe, he even accepted a gift and offered her a magnificent English manor-style mansion. The Gothic-style building, with its Rococo exterior, is breathtakingly beautiful. Just south of the main building lies a large garden filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, dotted with pavilions, rockery, and flowing water.

Dong Zhujun's Former Residence

Dong Zhujun, a modern entrepreneur, was a pioneer of the Chinese women's rights movement and the founder of the Jin Jiang Hotel in Shanghai. In 1948 , Dong Zhujun, carrying with her the legacy of her life, moved into a small villa at 1320 Yuyuan Road , reminiscent of a British townhouse.

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Yuyuan Road

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

Yuyuan Road in Shanghai is a historically rich street known for its blend of old Shanghai architecture with modern influences. It was once a key area during the city's development in the early 20th century, and today, it showcases both traditional culture and contemporary trends.

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

Yuyuan Road is located in the western part of Shanghai, easily accessible via Metro Line 10 (Yuyuan Garden station) or by taking a taxi or bus. Walking is also an option for those staying nearby, as it is in a central location.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Yuyuan Road is an open public area and can be visited at any time. The best time to visit is during the day, particularly on weekdays to avoid crowds. Evening visits are also enjoyable for the lit-up street atmosphere.

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

There is no entrance fee for visiting Yuyuan Road as it is a public street. However, some individual attractions or shops along the road may charge a fee for entry or purchases.

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

No tickets are needed to visit Yuyuan Road, so booking in advance is unnecessary.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Yuyuan Road typically takes around 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend shopping or visiting local cafes.

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

• The charming, tree-lined streets with a variety of traditional and modern architecture.
• Local art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes offering a taste of Shanghai’s unique urban style.
• Nearby historical sites such as the traditional Shanghai Shikumen houses and colonial-era buildings.

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

While there are no formal guided tours for Yuyuan Road itself, guided tours can be arranged through local agencies to explore the area, available in English, Mandarin, and other languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Along the street itself, capturing the contrast between traditional and modern architecture.
• In front of historical buildings or shops, showcasing the vibrant local culture.
• At local cafes or terraces that offer views of the street and surrounding area.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start from one end of Yuyuan Road and take a leisurely walk, stopping by local shops and cafes along the way.
• Visit nearby art galleries and explore the historical buildings, capturing the essence of old Shanghai.
• End your walk with a visit to a local restaurant or cafe for a break.

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

Yuyuan Road itself does not offer light shows, but it is beautifully lit in the evenings, making for a pleasant night walk. Special tours can be arranged to explore the area during the evening hours.

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

Yuyuan Road can get quite busy, especially on weekends and holidays. For a more peaceful experience, visit early in the morning on weekdays or during the off-peak seasons.

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

There are public restrooms available nearby, as well as plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants along Yuyuan Road offering food, drinks, and rest areas.

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

Yuyuan Road is accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with mostly flat terrain. However, some areas may have uneven pavement, so caution is advised for those with mobility challenges.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Most shops, cafes, and restaurants along Yuyuan Road accept cards and mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay. Cash is generally not necessary but is still accepted in some smaller shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Café de la Poste – a French-style café for coffee and pastries.
• Yuyuan Tea House – a traditional tea house serving various Chinese teas and snacks.
• Shanghai Grandmother Restaurant – offering local Shanghainese cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options available in the nearby restaurants and cafes, including options at the Yuyuan Tea House and local eateries.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Peninsula Shanghai – luxury hotel located nearby.
• Grand Central Hotel Shanghai – an upscale hotel with easy access to Yuyuan Road.
• Hotel Massenet Shanghai – an affordable option within walking distance.

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

• The Bund – a historic waterfront area showcasing colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers.
• Yu Garden – a famous classical Chinese garden located near Yuyuan Road.
• People’s Square – a large public space with cultural landmarks like museums and theaters.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are plenty of souvenir shops selling traditional Chinese items such as silk, tea, jade, and handcrafted goods. Popular souvenirs include Chinese calligraphy, tea sets, and fans.

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

After visiting Yuyuan Road, you can easily continue your trip by taking Metro Line 10 or Line 8, which provide easy access to other attractions. Taxis and buses are also convenient options for further travel.