Location & How to Get There

Yan Fuqing’s Former Residence sits quietly on No.4 Lane 40, Wukang Road in Xuhui District, Shanghai. This charming street is part of the historic Wukang Road Cultural Street, a hidden gem in the former French Concession. To reach it, take Shanghai Metro Line 10 or 11 to Jiaozhou Lu Station, then walk about 10 minutes. Buses 42, 48, and 113 also stop nearby. If driving, park at Wukang Road Parking Lot and explore the area on foot—this neighborhood rewards slow wandering!

Natural Charm: A Walk Through History

Though Yan Fuqing’s Former Residence is a human-made treasure, its surroundings boast gentle beauty. The street is lined with towering plane trees (a symbol of old Shanghai), which turn golden in autumn. Small gardens with traditional stone bridges and flowering shrubs add tranquility. Visit early morning or late afternoon to catch soft sunlight filtering through the trees—perfect for photos!

Human Stories: A Medical Pioneer’s Home

Yan Fuqing’s Former Residence isn’t just a house—it’s a window into early 20th-century Shanghai. Yan Fuqing was a trailblazing doctor who co-found China’s first modern medical school. The residence itself blends Shikumen architecture (a mix of Chinese and Western styles) with cozy details like wooden floors and lattice windows. Inside, exhibits show old medical tools, family photos, and letters, offering a glimpse into his life. Guides often share stories about how Yan balanced Western science with traditional Chinese medicine—a fascinating clash of worlds!

Surroundings: More Than Just One Attraction

A visit to Yan Fuqing’s Former Residence should include neighboring historic spots. Walk two minutes to see the Wu Kang Mansion (a 1930s art-deco building) or the Former Italian Club (now a trendy cafe). The entire street feels like a living museum, with vintage shops, art galleries, and bakeries that could transport you back to the 1930s. Don’t miss the “Wukang Road Tourist Map” available at local info centers—it’s a great way to plan your route!

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Entrance: Free! (Some special exhibitions may charge a small fee.)
  • Hours: Open daily 9 AM–5 PM (closed Mondays).
  • Facilities: Clean restrooms, free Wi-Fi, and a small gift shop with Shanghai-themed souvenirs (think vintage postcards and mini Shikumen models).
  • Food: Try the Wukang Road Coffee for almond milk tea or grab a pastry at Farine Bakery down the street. For lunch, Winta Bistro offers French-Chinese fusion dishes—a nod to the area’s colonial past.

Experience: A Time-Travel Adventure

Visiting Yan Fuqing’s Former Residence feels like stepping into a time capsule. Spend 45 minutes exploring the house, then stroll along Wukang Road’s pedestrian-only section. Locals love chatting with tourists, so don’t hesitate to ask shop owners about the street’s history. For a deeper dive, join a free walking tour (check apps like “Meetup” or “Ctrip” for schedules). End your day at Fuxing Park, a 10-minute bike ride away, where you can rent paddleboats or watch elderly Shanghainese practice tai chi.

Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or casual traveler, Yan Fuqing’s Former Residence and its surroundings offer a unique slice of old Shanghai. Come with curiosity, leave with stories—and maybe a few Instagram-worthy shots!