18 Hidden Alleys in Shanghai You Must Explore for a Taste of Urban Romance and History

When you think of Shanghai, what's the first thing that comes to mind? The skyscrapers in Lujiazui, or the iconic Bund? Sure, those places are classic, but if you really want to soak in the romance and charm of this city, you need to stroll through its alleys and lanes. In Shanghai, the little streets shaded by sycamore trees hold countless untold stories and rich history.

Not long ago, I spent an entire day walking through the 18 best hidden streets in Shanghai, and each one was stunning and unique. If you enjoy city walks, taking photos, or simply want to unwind and enjoy the vibe of history and life, follow my lead, you won't be disappointed!

Stroll Around: Wukang Road

First up is Wukang Road, which is pretty much a must-see spot in Shanghai. The Wukang Building, a classic “Instagrammable” structure, is iconic. Just snap a pic and you’ve got yourself a retro masterpiece. And then there's the "Romeo Balcony"—you'll often see people hanging around here with their cameras on the weekends. Beyond these landmarks, just walking along the street is a delight, full of old Shanghai vibes. I’d suggest starting your stroll in the morning when the sun isn't too harsh; the little cafes along the way are hidden gems, any one of them is a safe bet.

French Flair: Fumin Road

Next, let’s talk about Fumin Road, part of the “super rich alley.” The French-style villas on both sides give this street its soul. Many call it the “French Waterfront Promenade,” with little boutique shops adding to the stylish atmosphere. Walking here feels super comfortable and enjoyable, and if you're into selfies or portrait photography, this place is like a natural backdrop just waiting for you!

Chic and Local Flavor: South Shaanxi Road

If you like a mix of chic and local flavors, you have to check out South Shaanxi Road. It’s packed with cafes, plus lots of local eateries and independent designer shops tucked away in unobtrusive alleyways. Here, you can sip specially brewed coffee while hunting for quirky little treasures, and you might just stumble upon some nice surprises.

Fairytale Charm: Fenyang Road

Fenyang Road has a fairytale vibe. Thanks to the "castle" at the intersection—Shanghai Conservatory of Music's iconic building. In winter, the sunlight softly bathes the old architecture, with the vintage stone walls reflecting light perfectly, creating a backdrop that’s just dreamy and instantly calming.

Celebrity Residences and Art: North Shaanxi Road

I’ve always thought North Shaanxi Road is one of the more culturally rich hidden streets. It hides many former residences of famous personalities. In recent years, these old buildings have been transformed into art spaces and garden apartments. If you’re interested in art and photography, this place is practically a "museum-style" market, perfect for a leisurely browse.

Golden Sycamores: Hunan Road

Don’t forget about Hunan Road, known as the “Golden Sycamore Avenue.” When the sunlight filters through the leaves, the vibe is not only healing but also perfect for photos. Wherever you wander, the interplay of sunlight and shadows makes you feel like you just stepped out of a movie scene.

Hot Spot in the Magic City: Yuyuan Road

Right now, Yuyuan Road has become one of the hottest hidden streets in the city. It’s home to countless popular shops, independent restaurants, and bookstores. As you walk, try out the local recommended snacks or pop into a shop for some Insta-worthy photos—time seems to fly here.

Elegant French Architecture: Yongjia Road

If you had to define Shanghai’s streets with one word, "elegant" would be perfect, especially for Yongjia Road. The mix of French villas and stone-gate houses creates a unique charm, and there’s a beautiful blue-and-white villa that makes for a stunning photo op, giving off a cool but romantic vibe.

Tranquil City Walk: Nanchang Road and Fuxing West Road

If you’re just looking to quietly enjoy the vibe of the little streets, I highly recommend Nanchang Road and Fuxing West Road. Nanchang Road is packed with cafes, each shop seems to be selling a specific lifestyle. Fuxing West Road tells another story, nestled among the sycamore trees, perfect for photos with less crowding, letting you capture the moment without fighting for space in the frame.

Chill Vibes: Dongping Road and Yongfu Road

Chill girls shouldn’t miss Dongping Road and Yongfu Road. The former isn’t too spacious but is lined with creative shops and trendy stores, perfect for a slow, leisurely shopping day. The latter is a “neighbor” to Wukang Road but is much quieter, making it feel even more pleasant, with artistic old-style houses popping up everywhere.

The Oriental Champs-Élysées: Hengshan Road and Sinan Road

You can't miss the “nobility” of Hengshan Road! It’s called the "Oriental Champs-Élysées," which perfectly captures its essence, blending elegance with the charm of Jiangnan streets. Make sure to snap a pic at No. 8 Hengshan Road, where those classic red and white European styles will have you feeling like you're on holiday in Europe. As for Sinan Road, the sycamores create shades where you can find echoes of the past. Those little villas often bring to mind hazy historical tales.

Hidden and Special: Taian Road and Yanqing Road

Lastly, I want to recommend two “less crowded havens”—Taian Road and Yanqing Road. Besides, these roads hide countless garden villas or unique old houses that haven't been fully discovered by the public, giving off a natural “informal museum” vibe. If you’ve seen the movie “Love Myth,” I'm sure you recognize the emotional warmth captured on Yanqing Road.

So, there you have it—my 18 stunning street recommendations in Shanghai. If you want to find a unique journey within the details of this city like I did, give this list a shot. Just remember to wear comfy shoes because you’ll want to take your time exploring all day!