Location & Transportation

Old Shanghai 1930 Style Street sits in the heart of Shanghai’s downtown, inside the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center at 100 Renmin Avenue, Huangpu District. It’s on the B1 floor of the museum, so you’ll need to walk downstairs to enter this nostalgic world. To get there, take Metro Line 1, 2, or 8 and exit at People’s Square Station—it’s just a 5-minute walk away. Buses like 49, 108, and 864 also drop you near the venue. If you’re exploring nearby landmarks like The Bund or Nanjing Road, it’s an easy detour.

What to Expect: A Time Machine to 1930s Shanghai

Stepping into Old Shanghai 1930 Style Street feels like traveling back in time. This recreated street is part of the Urban Planning Exhibition Center’s display, designed to transport visitors to 1930s Shanghai. The moment you walk in, you’ll notice the changing skylight overhead, which mimics different weather and times of day—perfect for photos!

The street is lined with miniature shops and scenes that capture everyday life from that era. You’ll spot a traditional Shanghai teahouse, a “tiger stove” (a vintage water-boiling station), and a retro café. Look closely: even the stone-carved fire hydrants are 1:1 replicas of old designs. But the real stars are the shikumen houses (those iconic Shanghai laneway homes) and the living room setups inside, complete with period furniture.

Highlights: Immersive Details

  • Shikumen Houses: These rowhouses defined Shanghai’s neighborhoods. Here, you can peek inside a recreated living room with wooden furniture and vintage decor.
  • The Tiger Stove: A curious sight! This was how locals boiled water back then—named “tiger” because the flames roared like one.
  • Dynamic Skylight: The ceiling changes colors and simulates day, night, rain, and sunshine. It’s like a mini weather show!
  • Old Fire Hydrants: Spot the red, rusted-look fire hydrants—they’re not just props but exact copies of 1930s models.

Dive Into Local Culture

Old Shanghai 1930 Style Street isn’t just about watching—it’s about experiencing history. In the teahouse, you can sip traditional Shanghai tea (try the green jasmine tea!). The café even serves vintage-style coffee, though it’s more about the atmosphere than the brew. Wander through narrow alleys and listen to 1930s music playing softly in the background. It’s like being in a movie set!

Practical Tips

  • Tickets: Entry to Old Shanghai 1930 Style Street is included in the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center ticket (around ¥30 for adults). Check opening hours online, as they vary.
  • Photo Ops: The shikumen houses, teahouse, and neon signs make great backdrops. Visit early morning or late afternoon for softer light.
  • Facilities: Clean restrooms and free Wi-Fi are available upstairs. There’s also a gift shop with retro postcards and souvenirs.

Why It’s Worth a Visit

Even if you’re short on time, Old Shanghai 1930 Style Street offers a quick but deep dive into Shanghai’s past. It’s perfect for:

  • History buffs curious about pre-war Shanghai.
  • Photography lovers chasing vintage vibes.
  • Families wanting to teach kids about the city’s story.

Combine it with a visit to the Urban Planning Exhibition Center upstairs to see modern Shanghai’s future plans—it’s a fun contrast!

Pro Tip: Pair your visit with nearby People’s Square Park for a relaxing walk afterward. And don’t forget to try xialongbao (soup dumplings) at a local eatery—it’s Shanghai’s soul food!