Spring Stroll | Unlock the Limited-Time Romance of a Shanghai City Walk
| Unlock the limited-time romance of a Shanghai City Walk.
If you also enjoy strolling through a city and encountering unexpected beauty, then I must share this hidden Shanghai City Walk route with you! It's like a key, unlocking the wondrous door to Shanghai's interwoven history, culture, and cuisine. This route takes about 4 hours, starting from Exit 2 of Yan'an West Road Subway Station. The scenery along the way unfolds like a spring scroll, each spot holding a unique charm.
Stepping out of the subway station, the fresh air rushes into your nostrils, and the excitement of embarking on a wonderful journey instantly fills you. The first stop is Tianshan Park. Built in 1959, this park is like an oasis in the city. Enter through the south gate and stroll along Hulu Lake. The shimmering lake seems to hold countless little secrets. If you visit in spring, it's even more unbelievably beautiful. When I went, the peonies had lost some of their color due to a spring rain, but their elegance remained undiminished. The Sakura Pavilion in early April should have been a cloud of pink blossoms, but unfortunately, the flowers were already somewhat withered when I visited. However, the remaining blossoms still held a unique charm. Imagine the romantic scene during peak bloom, strolling amidst the flowers covering the trees.
Leaving Tianshan Park, you step onto Wuyi Road, a century-old street. Built in 1925, the garden houses and historical buildings along the street are scattered in an orderly fashion. The former residences of Pao Yue-kong and the Belgian Consulate stand quietly, as if telling stories of the past. The red brick buildings of Renyi New Village also have a unique style, revealing the traces of time. The old street is extremely quiet, with occasional breezes rustling the leaves of the roadside trees. Walking along Wuyi Road, turn left onto Yan'an West Road, and you'll find Changfa Restaurant. There's quite a queue for their skewers. As someone from Chengdu, accustomed to strong flavors, I found the taste just average, but perhaps locals might enjoy it more. Those interested can give it a try.
Next, arrive at Jiangsu Road, where the aroma of Master Bao's pastry shop (Jiangsu Road branch) wafts enticingly. Stepping inside, the cozy atmosphere lifts your spirits. I casually bought a few pastries and enjoyed them as I walked, which was quite pleasant. The sweet pastries instantly dispelled the fatigue of walking, each bite filled with happiness.
Further on is Yuyuan Road, steeped in history and culture. With its old-style houses and new-style lilongs (lane neighborhoods), walking down the street feels like traveling back to old Shanghai. Hearing that Sun Li and Deng Chao once lived here, I couldn't help but look around curiously, trying to find traces of their celebrity home. The houses along the street are exquisite and elegant, with shikumen (stone-gate houses) and tiger windows. Every detail carries the historical memory of Shanghai, truly giving the illusion of stepping into a historical drama.
When you're tired of walking, take a break at Zhongshan Park. Built in 1914, the park's entrance is flanked by two rows of towering ancient trees, like loyal guardians silently protecting this tranquil space. In March, Zhongshan Park is a riot of color. Strolling among the flowers, surrounded by their fragrance, is intoxicating. Find a bench to sit on, close your eyes, feel the breeze on your face, and listen to the birdsong. All your worries will melt away.
The last stop is Raffles City Changning. Here, you can not only see the "Four Halls and One Tower" of the former St. Mary's Hall, including Sibo Hall, Gezhi Hall, Shantang Hall, Sisun Hall, and the clock tower. These buildings are solemn and elegant, exuding a rich historical atmosphere. As night falls and the lights come on, the entire square becomes dreamlike, with breathtaking night views. Moreover, you can directly access Zhongshan Park Station on lines 3 and 4 from the second floor of the square, making it very convenient to go home after your journey.
This route is easily accessible by public transport and can be completed entirely on foot. It's perfect for a spring outing or during the flower season. Remember to wear comfortable shoes. Starting in the morning means fewer crowds and easier photo-taking. There are many delicious food options along the way, and you might even encounter small shops that only accept cash, so it's a good idea to bring some cash to better experience local life. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, enjoy leisurely strolls, or are traveling with a partner or friends, this route offers an unforgettable experience. This spring, come to Shanghai and embark on this romantic City Walk!