Huaihai Road (淮海路) is one of the most famous streets in Shanghai, China. Located in the heart of the city, it stretches for about 5.5 kilometers from the Xizang Road in the west to the Dongtai Road in the east. The road was named after the Huaihai Battle in 1949 and was previously known as Rue Lafayette during the French concession period.
The road is lined with high-end boutiques, luxury department stores, and upscale shopping malls such as Lane Crawford, K11, and IAPM. It is also home to a number of historic buildings, such as the Xujiahui Cathedral and the former residence of Sun Yat-sen.
Huaihai Road is not just a shopping destination, but also a cultural hub, with several art galleries, theaters, and cinemas located along the street. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a glimpse into the modern and dynamic side of Shanghai.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- History of Huaihai Road
- Highlights of Huaihai Road
- Vlog about Huaihai Road
- Tour Tips
- Attractions Near Huaihai Road
- Other Commercial Centers in Shanghai
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Opening Hours | The road is accessible 24 hours a day, but most shops and shopping malls open from 10.00 to 22.00 |
| Ticket | Free |
Location and Transportation
Huaihai Road is located in the heart of Shanghai, China. It is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The main sections of the road are divided into three parts: East, Middle, and West. The East section is closer to the Huangpu River and the famous Bund, while the West section is closer to the popular Xujiahui shopping area.
Bus:
- Take bus 42, 146, 167, 320, 911, 926, or 986 and get off at Huaihai Zhonglu Sinanlu Stop (淮海中路思南路).
- Take bus 24, 41, 42, 104, 146, 167, 301, 304, 926, or 955 and get off at Huaihai Zhonglu Shanxi Nanlu Stop (淮海中路陕西南路).
Subway:
- Take subway line 13, get off at Huaihai Zhonglu (Huaihai Middle Road 淮海中路), exit from the station from Exit 1, and you will reach the middle section of the road.
- Take subway line 1, 10, or 12, get off at Shaanxi Nanlu (Shaanxi South Road 陕西南路), and you will reach the west section of the road.
- Take subway line 1 or 14, get off at Yida Huizhi Huangpo Nanlu (一大会址·黄陂南路), and you will reach the east section of the road.
History of Huaihai Road
Huaihai Road in Shanghai, China, has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Originally known as Rue Lafayette, it was one of the main streets in the French concession area of Shanghai during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
During this time, the French concession was a prominent foreign settlement in Shanghai, established by the French government in 1849. The area was designed to resemble Paris and featured wide, tree-lined boulevards, grand buildings, and an array of cultural and commercial activities.
Rue Lafayette was one of the most important streets in the French concession, connecting the city’s bustling commercial areas with the residential areas of the concession. Many high-end shops, department stores, and restaurants were established along the street to cater to the wealthy expat community.
In 1949, during the Chinese Civil War, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) fought against the Nationalist forces in the Battle of Huaihai, which took place in the city of Xuzhou, located in eastern China. The PLA emerged victorious, and the battle was a significant turning point in the war.
To commemorate the victory, the Chinese government renamed Rue Lafayette to Huaihai Road, in honor of the battle. Since then, the road has undergone significant changes, with new buildings, businesses, and cultural institutions being established along the street.
Highlights of Huaihai Road
High-End Shopping
Huaihai Road is famous for its high-end shopping scene, offering a variety of luxury brands and high-end department stores. The street is home to several high-end malls, including the K11 Art Mall, IAPM, and Parkson. These malls feature an array of luxury brands, including Chanel, Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton, as well as high-end local designers. In addition to the malls, Huaihai Road also features several standalone boutiques, offering a range of products, from designer clothing and accessories to luxury watches and jewelry.
Cultural Institutions
Huaihai Road is home to several notable cultural institutions. One of the most prominent is the Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts, which features a wide range of exhibits highlighting traditional Chinese art forms such as embroidery, lacquerware, and porcelain. The Shanghai Conservatory of Music is also located in the area, offering a variety of music programs and performances. Additionally, the Shanghai Drama Arts Center hosts a variety of theater productions throughout the year, while the Shanghai Cultural Square is a popular venue for music concerts, dance performances, and other cultural events.
Historic Architecture
Huaihai Road in Shanghai, China, is known for its rich architectural heritage, featuring a blend of traditional Chinese and Western styles. One notable example is the Xintiandi area, which features well-preserved shikumen (stone gate) houses that date back to the early 20th century. Another iconic structure in the area is the Jinjiang Hotel, a grand Art Deco-style building that was once a favorite haunt of foreign dignitaries and celebrities. Other notable buildings along Huaihai Road include the Cathay Theatre, an Art Deco-style cinema that has been restored to its former glory, and the former residence of Sun Yat-sen, the first president of the Republic of China.
Festivals and Events
Huaihai Road in Shanghai, China, is known for its vibrant cultural scene and hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the Shanghai International Arts Festival, which takes place annually in October and features a wide range of performances by artists from around the world. Another major event is the Shanghai Fashion Week, which is held twice a year and showcases the latest designs from top Chinese and international fashion brands. The Shanghai International Film Festival is also held in the area, drawing filmmakers and movie buffs from around the globe.
Vlog about Huaihai Road
Tour Tips
Bring cash and cards: Many shops and restaurants along Huaihai Road accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to bring some cash as well, especially for street vendors and smaller establishments.
Dress appropriately: Shanghai is a relatively conservative city, so it’s best to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or other religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or shorts and opt for more modest attire instead.
Beware of scams: As with any tourist destination, there may be people trying to scam visitors, so be wary of anyone offering suspicious deals or asking for personal information.
Use public transport: Huaihai Road is well-connected by public transport, including buses, taxis, and the subway, so it’s best to use these options to avoid traffic congestion and parking issues.
Try local cuisine: Shanghai is known for its delicious cuisine, so make sure to try some of the local dishes, such as xiaolongbao (steamed soup dumplings) and shengjianbao (pan-fried dumplings).
