Julu Road in Shanghai is famous for its vibrant, eclectic atmosphere. Take a stroll through its charming lanes filled with cafes, art galleries, boutique shops, and vintage stores. Enjoy the old Shanghai architecture and explore hidden gems like the M on the Bund restaurant with spectacular views. It’s also a great place for photography and immersing yourself in Shanghai’s modern yet historical vibe.

Julu Road, a 2,290-meter-long road located between Shanghai's Huangpu and Jing'an districts, was built in 1907 and originally named Rue Ratard. It was renamed Julu Road in 1966. Shanghai has many quiet streets, but few are truly memorable, and Julu Road is one of them.
There are various old buildings with different styles, including classical garden houses, British-style villas, Shanghai-style new lanes, etc. Most of these old buildings are listed as historical buildings, and they are precious treasures and important witnesses of the development history of modern Shanghai.
Even in the bustling early spring, she still walks leisurely amid the bustling city like a noble lady from old Shanghai. Such calmness and composure make this a street perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
free
All day
Julu Road has long been one of Shanghai’s most important streets, reflecting the city's unique fusion of modernity and tradition. It is home to historic shikumen houses and some of the city’s earliest Western-style buildings. The road remains significant for its blend of old Shanghai charm with contemporary art and culture.
Julu Road is located in the Huangpu District of Shanghai. The nearest metro station is “Jing'an Temple” (Line 2 and Line 7), which is a short walk away. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi to reach the street easily.
Julu Road is open to the public at all times, as it’s a public street. However, the best times to visit are during the day, especially in the afternoon, when cafes and boutiques are open. The evening also offers a lively atmosphere with lights and activities.
There is no entrance fee to visit Julu Road as it is a public street. Enjoy the area for free, with costs incurred only for shopping, dining, or enjoying activities in the area.
No booking is necessary for Julu Road. It is a public area, and no tickets are required for entry.
A visit to Julu Road can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours depending on your pace and interests. You may want to explore the shops, enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes, and take some time to photograph the street.
The must-see highlights of Julu Road include the street’s historic architecture, local art galleries, boutique shops, and trendy cafes. Be sure to visit the nearby Tianzifang, an art district that is just a short walk away.
Guided tours are not typically available for Julu Road itself, but you can find walking tours of the nearby areas. Audio guides or tours may be available for historical context at nearby attractions like Tianzifang or the French Concession area.
For photography, the best spots on Julu Road are around the old shikumen architecture and the colorful street art murals. Also, spots like M on the Bund offer panoramic views of the city skyline and the surrounding area.
Start at the western end of Julu Road and stroll eastward towards the Bund. Along the way, visit galleries, enjoy coffee at a café, and explore small shops. If you have time, visit Tianzifang and the nearby French Concession for additional exploration.
Julu Road is lively at night with many cafes, restaurants, and shops open, making it an excellent destination for a nighttime stroll. However, there are no specific light shows or night tours dedicated to Julu Road itself.
Julu Road can get busy, especially during weekends and evenings. The best times to visit are on weekdays, particularly in the morning or early afternoon, when the street is less crowded.
There are numerous cafes, boutiques, and small shops along Julu Road. Public restrooms may be available in the nearby malls or cafés. Water is available for purchase in the cafes or stores.
Julu Road is accessible to all visitors, though the street may have some uneven surfaces. Some shops and cafes may be difficult to access for those with mobility issues due to the old architecture.
Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted in shops, cafes, and restaurants along Julu Road. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller shops or street vendors.
There are several trendy cafes, restaurants, and bars along Julu Road, offering everything from international cuisines to local favorites. Popular spots include café M and the French restaurant “Le Café de la Presse.”
Many restaurants along Julu Road offer vegetarian and vegan options. However, halal food options may be limited in this area, though there are a few halal restaurants nearby in the city.
Nearby accommodations include the Jing An Shangri-La Hotel, The Langham, and various boutique hotels in the French Concession area. These hotels are within walking distance from Julu Road.
Nearby attractions include Tianzifang, the Shanghai Museum, and the Bund. A visit to the French Concession area, with its quaint streets and shops, can also be easily combined in a day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops along Julu Road selling local crafts, art prints, clothing, and vintage items. Typical souvenirs include Chinese tea, calligraphy materials, and local artisan goods.
After visiting Julu Road, the best way to continue your trip is by metro, with the nearest stations being “Jing’an Temple” and “South Shaanxi Road.” Taxis and buses are also readily available.