Stretching an impressive 5.5 kilometers through the very heart of Shanghai, Nanjing Road stands as China`s most renowned commercial thoroughfare and pedestrian paradise. This legendary street serves as a vibrant bridge connecting two of Shanghai`s most significant landmarks - the historic Bund waterfront to the east and the expansive People`s Square to the west.
Nanjing Road traces its origins back to the 1860s during the British Concession era, when it began its transformation from a modest shopping lane into what is now hailed as "China`s Number One Shopping Street."
Today, this bustling promenade attracts over one million visitors daily - a testament to its enduring appeal as both a shopping mecca and cultural landmark. With retail volumes that consistently rank it among the world`s busiest shopping streets, Nanjing Road maintains its position as a global commercial powerhouse.
Architecture of Nanjing Road
Near the Bund (Eastern Section)
• Art Deco and Neoclassical buildings (1920s–1930s):
• Peace Hotel – Former Cathay Hotel with its iconic emerald dome
• Shanghai No.1 Department Store (No. 720) – City`s first major shopping mall (1934)
• Vintage European-style signage from the colonial era
Central Pedestrian Zone
• Modern shopping malls with neon screens
• Covered arcades blending Chinese and European architectural styles
• High-tech fountains and rest areas
Shopping: From Luxury to Cutting-Edge Tech
Flagship Stores of Global Brands
• Apple Nanjing East – Asia`s largest store with product testing zones
• Samsung Experience Store – Interactive demo stations
• Huawei Flagship Store – Smart tech and gadget test drives
Shopping Malls & Department Stores
• Plaza 66 – Luxury boutiques (Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Cartier)
• Shanghai No.1 Department Store – Legendary since 1949
• Fashion Trends Mall – Youth brands and local designers
What to Buy?
• Silk and tea – From traditional shops near the Bund
• Electronics – Latest models at competitive prices
• Souvenirs – From cheap magnets to antique fans
Dining on Nanjing Road
Food Courts & Street Food
• Yuyuan Bazaar Food Court – Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), fried dumplings, Peking duck
• Local snack stalls – Jianbing (savory crepes), chou doufu (fermented tofu)
• Teahouses – Oolong and pu-erh tastings
Historic Restaurants
• Lübolang (1928) – Shanghai cuisine in 1930s-themed interiors
• M on the Bund – River views with fusion menus
Getting There & Tips
Metro: Nanjing East Station (Lines 2, 10) or People’s Square (1, 2, 8)
Best time: Evening (6–10 PM) for dazzling lights
Bargain at small shops!
Avoid weekends – Overcrowded
Don’t miss: The vintage sightseeing train (¥5) running through the pedestrian zone
