Shanghai Wukang Road

The Road of History of Shanghai

Wu Kang Road is a small one-way road in Shanghai's Xuhui district. Like some other small roads in the district, Wu Kang Road offers a view of the old-style Shanghai as well as the modern. It takes about 30 minutes to walk from one end to the other at a leisurely pace.

It starts at Huaihai Rd with the historic V-shape Wukang landmark, and ends at Anfu Rd near the Shanghai Drama Institute.

The road is well known for its beautiful trees and old villas. On both sides you will see 'Wutong' trees which come together to form a sort of arc over the road. The old villas and residential areas are one of the road's main tourist features. They are mostly of Spanish and French style. These unique buildings reflect the foreign influence on the city in its time of prosperity. Occasionally you will find people growing their own vegetables in large gardens.

Strolling along this small road really belies being in a large and modern city like Shanghai.

The road was previously named Route Ferguson, in honor of the American missionary John Calvin Ferguson who was sent to China at the turn of the 20th century.

The area used to be situated within the French Concession and was bordered by western-style buildings. In recent years, many newly built Spanish villas have been built, adding to the road's popularity as a sightseeing spot for tourists.

During the mid 20th century the road was also home to many Chinese celebrities, including the Chinese literary figure Ba Jin, singer/ star Zhou Xuan as well as actor and film director Sun Daolin.

Along the road are other beautiful roads that connect with Wu kang Rd. They have similar striking features and many of which are worth exploring in themselves.

Roads like Wu Kang hold many old memories and reflect the old culture and way of life in the city and offer a glimpse into Shanghai's history.

Wu Kand Road is now recognized as one of China's historical and cultural roads.