Bestie kept praising all the way! I’m officially crowning this Shanghai Citywalk route

Sisters, if you want to see all the bustling, artistic, and historical sides of Shanghai in one day, trust me, just follow this route! I took my bestie here last weekend, and she couldn’t stop complimenting how well planned it was. We took so many photos that my phone storage was almost full!

Jing’an Temple → Wukang Mansion → Soong Ching Ling’s Former Residence → Xujiahui Academy → Xujiahui Catholic Church → Metro City

📍 Stop 1: Jing’an Temple | A Golden Buddhist Kingdom Amidst the Worldly Hustle
Honestly, every time I pass by, I’m still amazed. Next to the busy Yan’an Elevated Road, a magnificent golden temple stands peacefully—this contrast is so “Shanghai.”

· My secret spot: Don’t rush inside. The best viewing platform is the pedestrian bridge at Exit 15 of Jing’an Temple Metro Station. At dusk when the lights come on, zoom in with your phone’s telephoto lens—the golden pagoda and the modern glass curtain wall behind it in one frame create a magical Shanghai vibe.

📍 Stop 2: Wukang Mansion | Encountering a “Giant Ship” Around the Corner
Take Line 2 from Jing’an Temple to Jiangsu Road, transfer to Line 11 to Jiaotong University Station, then walk a few steps. That legendary “ship-shaped” building appears right at the street corner.

· Avoid the crowds: The intersection is always packed with people taking photos. Here’s a trick: step back to the sidewalk across Huaihai Middle Road, turn sideways with the building as your background, or shoot upward through the archway under the building’s main entrance. Both ways perfectly avoid crowds and get you exclusive shots.

📍 Stop 3: Soong Ching Ling’s Former Residence | Step Into an Old Movie
Just a turn from Wukang Mansion, you instantly switch from noise to tranquility. This was Soong Ching Ling’s home, preserved exactly as it was.

· Don’t just look at the main building: I love the big lawn and the century-old camphor trees in the backyard. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled light. Sitting on the bench here, time seems to slow down—so healing.

📍 Stop 4: Xujiahui Academy | A Transformed Artistic Universe
Take a bus two stops from the residence to Xujiahui. This newly popular academy is truly more than just a “trendy spot.”

· For photos and strolling: Head straight to the balcony on the second floor—it’s the perfect spot to capture the academy with the neighboring Catholic church in the background. Don’t forget to visit “East-West Park” in B1, where you’ll find many Shanghai-themed creative souvenirs. It’s a great place to browse.

📍 Stop 5: Xujiahui Catholic Church | The “Notre Dame” of Puxi
Right across a small square from the academy. This Gothic church’s solemnity and exquisite details impress from every angle.

· Note: The church interior is free to visit, but dress modestly—shoulder- and knee-baring clothes will politely be turned away by staff.

📍 Final Stop: Metro City | Cure Your Walking Fatigue with Food
The last stop is, of course, to fill your stomach! Metro City is a food paradise, offering everything from Japanese ramen to local Shanghai snacks, from trendy milk tea to exquisite desserts. After a full day of walking, eating and drinking here is the perfect way to end your Citywalk!