Walking down Wukang Road feels like entering a love story from a hundred years ago. Here, old Shanghai streets blend with whispers of romance under the shade of ancient trees.

Wukang Road is in the heart of Xuhui District. It connects the lively Huaihai Middle Road to the calm Huashan Road.

The road has 37 protected historical buildings. Fourteen of these buildings were homes to famous people from Shanghai. This is why it is called “Celebrity Avenue.”  

A Parisian‑Style Landmark: The Wukang Mansion 

The Wukang Mansion, also known as the Normandy Apartments, was designed by famous Hungarian architect László Hudec. It is a symbol of French Renaissance architecture in Shanghai.

Its warm red brick walls and elegant balconies remind us of a grand ocean liner. It looks ready to sail into the sunset. Imagine leaning into your partner as you admire the building's romantic shape at dusk. It's a perfect photo opportunity for your Shanghai travel gallery.

Literary and Political Legacies 

• No. 113: The serene former home of celebrated novelist Ba Jin, where he spent his final and longest years in Shanghai. 
  
• No. 393: A charming British country‑style villa that once housed revolutionary leader Huang Xing. 
  
• Lane 40, No. 1: Tang Shaoyi’s Spanish-style garden home has tall rooflines and a grand look. It is perfect for those who love architectural history.

Off‑the‑Beaten‑Path Gems 

• No. 390: SAIC has a Mediterranean-style office building. Its red-tiled roof and white walls stand out against the nearby mansions. 
• No. 99: The mysterious Zheng Guanghe residence has a pointed turret that peeks out from behind ivy. It was featured in the film Lust, Caution.

Café Culture and Culinary Delights 

After a morning of following Ba Jin’s path or admiring Hudec’s buildings, take a cozy break at a café on Wukang Road. 

• **Coffee Tree (No. 376)**

- It is in three restored villas.

- This place is a garden hideaway.

- They serve a delicious vegetable panini.

- You can also enjoy a strong espresso. It’s great fuel for an afternoon stroll. 

• Farine (No. 378): This place has a cozy French feel. Its buttery croissants are called “the best in Shanghai.” They are perfect for sharing with someone special under the ginkgo trees. 

Tips for Your Visit 

• Best time to go: Aim for late afternoon, when the golden light filters through the plane trees. 
• How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 to Hengshan Road Station, then stroll west along Huaihai Middle Road. 
• Nearby attractions: Huashan Road’s art galleries, Tianzifang’s alleys, and Xujiahui Park for a full-day itinerary. 

Wukang Road is a great place to visit in Shanghai. You can enjoy it if you love architecture or history. It is also perfect for a romantic getaway. You will have a memorable experience there. Lace up your walking shoes—and prepare to fall in love all over again with the city’s past and present.