Shanghai French Concession Walking Tour With Local Bites
Discover the charm of Old Shanghai on foot with this curated walking route through the historic streets of the former French Concession. This half-day tour blends local culture, hidden alleys, and iconic architecture, taking you through quiet, leafy lanes and vibrant local neighborhoods.
Tour Highlights:
- Zhangyuan Shikumen Lane Houses
- Xinle Road & Wukang Road Architecture
- Dongzhengjiao Orthodox Church
- Former Residence of Soong Ching-ling
- Wukang Mansion
- Celebrity Street of Wukang Road
- Chinese Welfare Institute
- Quaint residential streets: Fuxing Road, Yongfu Road, and more
Options
Shanghai French Concession Walking Tour With Local Bites
What's included in Shanghai French Concession Walking Tour With Local Bites
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Zhangyuan Shikumen Gable Shanghai
Located in the bustling Jing'an District, Zhangyuan (张园) is one of Shanghai’s most iconic and best-preserved examples of shikumen architecture — a unique blend of Western and Chinese styles that once defined the city’s residential neighborhoods. First established in the late 19th century, Zhangyuan was not just a private residential area; it quickly became a vibrant cultural hub. It hosted everything from art exhibitions and public speeches to one of China’s earliest public film screenings. Many of Shanghai’s early social and political movements found a stage here. Today, Zhangyuan has been carefully restored, blending historic brick alleyways with modern shops, cafés, and galleries. As you wander through its narrow lanes, you can admire the intricate stone gatehouses (shikumen), ornate balconies, and a fascinating mix of old and new life. It's a place where the memory of "Old Shanghai" is not just preserved — it is still very much alive.
Former French Concession
- Xinle Road & Wukang Road Architecture - Dongzhengjiao Orthodox Church - Former Residence of Soong Ching-ling - Wukang Mansion - Celebrity Street of Wukang Road - Chinese Welfare Institute - Quaint residential streets: Fuxing Road, Yongfu Road, and more
Wukang MansionPass-by Only
Standing gracefully at the intersection of Wukang Road and Huaihai Road, Wukang Mansion is one of Shanghai’s most beloved historic landmarks. Built in 1924 by Hungarian-Slovak architect László Hudec, the building was originally known as the Normandie Apartments. Designed in the French Renaissance style, Wukang Mansion features elegant red brick façades, ornate balconies, and a striking triangular structure that resembles the prow of a ship. This unique silhouette has made it a popular spot for photographers, especially at sunset when the building glows warmly against the sky. Over the decades, the mansion housed many of Shanghai's most famous figures — from movie stars to writers — giving it a legendary status in the city's cultural history. Today, it remains a vivid symbol of Shanghai’s golden age, blending European architectural charm with the vibrant spirit of the city.
Inclusions
- Admission fee
- Snacks
- Coffee and/or Tea
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- Outside of West Nanjing Road Station Exit 4 （南京西路地铁站4号口地面） Ask for Mr Chen
End Points
- Former Residence of Soong Ching-ling （上海宋庆龄故居）
