Step into Wukang Road, a 1.2-kilometer stretch in Xuhui District where Shanghai‘s colonial past and modern creativity harmonize beneath a canopy of plane trees.
Named a “China Famous Historical and Cultural Street” in 2011, this leafy boulevard is an open-air museum of 37 preserved buildings spanning French Renaissance, Spanish villas, and Art Deco styles. For travelers seeking both tranquility and cultural depth, Wukang Road offers a timeless journey through Shanghai‘s golden age.
A Walk Through History
Originally called Route Ferguson after American missionary John Calvin Ferguson, the road was built in 1907 as part of the French Concession. Its evolution mirrors Shanghai‘s cosmopolitan identity:
- Architectural Legends: Designed by Hungarian architect László Hudec, the iconic Wukang Building (1924) dominates the intersection with its ship-like silhouette and red-brick Renaissance grandeur. Once known as the “Normandie Apartments,” its balconies and triangular lintels evoke 1920s Parisian elegance.
- Celebrity Legacy: Over 30 luminaries lived here, including writer Ba Jin (No. 113) and actress Zhou Xuan. The Spanish-style villa at No. 393 housed revolutionary Huang Xing, while No. 40 Lane hosted diplomat Tang Shaoyi.
Architectural Gems & Hidden Stories
1.Wukang Building:
Shanghai‘s first veranda-style apartment, this “Flatiron of the East” offers prime photo ops at its acute-angled intersection. Pro tip: Capture it with a Wukang-themed ice cream from nearby shops.
2.Mediterranean Marvel:
The former Italian Consulate (No. 390) blends white walls and red roofs, where China’s first Santana car was born.
3.Tudor Charm:
No. 210’s steep roofs and timber framing reflect English countryside design, built to withstand snowy winters.
4.Art Deco Sophistication:
Geometric patterns and streamlined facades define buildings like the Lai’an Bank-designed apartments.
Cultural Immersion & Modern Flair
- Art & Cafés: Discover indie galleries like 18 Art Space and sip coffee at minimalist cafés tucked into heritage buildings. The road’s shops prioritize aesthetic curation over commercialism—think florists resembling art installations.
- Seasonal Magic: Summer brings dappled shade under plane trees (5°C cooler than the city!), while autumn carpets the road in golden leaves. During Chinese New Year, red lanterns illuminate historic facades.
- Nearby Gems: Connect to Anfu Road for boutique shopping or visit the City God Temple Bazaar for traditional snacks like xiaolongbao.
Visitor Tips
- Best Time: Weekday mornings for quiet exploration; golden hour for photography.
- Transport: Metro Line 10/11 to Jiaotong University Station (5-minute walk).
- Walking Route: Start at Wukang Building, meander south to Huashan Road, and detour into hidden lanes like Yuyuan Road.
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