Some say the best way to understand Lu Xun is to read his works. In Shanghai's Hongkou district, however, you can also get to know him by following the paths he once walked.

This route traces the writer's daily life in the city — from his former home on Shanyin Road to the bookshop he frequented on North Sichuan Road and the cinemas he visited on Zhapu Road.

Route: Hongkou district tourism information center → Lu Xun Park → CapitaLand Hongkou Plaza → 1927 Lu Xun and Uchiyama Memorial Bookstore → Lu Xun's Former Residence → Zhapu Road → The Inlet → Beisuzhou Road

1. Hongkou district tourism information center

Address: No 2286 North Sichuan Road

Open: 9 am – 5 pm

Start your journey from here. The center offers travel information, brochures, cultural and creative products, and interactive displays. Luggage storage is also available to ensure a hassle-free experience.

2. Lu Xun Park

Address: No 2288 North Sichuan Road

Open: 5 am – 10 pm (May to October); 5 am – 9 pm (November to April)

Originally known as Hongkou Park, this was one of Lu Xun's favorite spots for walking and relaxation. Today, his statue stands silently amid pine and cypress, inviting visitors to engage in a quiet dialogue with the literary giant.

3. CapitaLand Hongkou Plaza

Address: No 388 Xijiangwan Road

Open: 10 am – 10 pm

Pause for lunch at the nearby mall, which offers a wide range of dining options. Try the yellow croaker and borscht — both are mentioned in Lu Xun's diaries.

4. 1927 Lu Xun and Uchiyama Memorial Bookstore

Address: No 2056 North Sichuan Road

Open: 10 am – 9 pm

This is the former site of Uchiyama Bookstore, where Lu Xun bought books, met friends, and stayed for a time.

Restored to its original appearance, the building retains its wooden staircase, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, and warm lighting. Visitors can enjoy coffee while reading Lu Xun's works or browsing cultural merchandise.

5. Lu Xun's Former Residence

Address: No 9 Alley 132, Shanyin Road

Open: 9 am – 4 pm (closed on Mondays)

From the bookstore, walk along Shanyin Road to Lu Xun's former residence, where he spent the final three and a half years of his life. The bedroom, study, and living room remain as they were, offering a glimpse into his personal world.

6. Zhapu Road

Open: 24/7

Late afternoon is a good time to explore Zhapu Road. The area was once home to several iconic cinemas, including the Hollywood Theater, now the Victory Cinema. A dedicated film enthusiast, Lu Xun watched more than 100 movies in the theaters along this road. Although the streetscape has changed over the decades, the area's strong connection with film culture lives on.

7. The Inlet

Address: Alley 989, North Sichuan Road

Open: 10 am – 10 pm

As night falls, The Inlet commercial zone comes alive with dazzling lights. The historic Shikumen alleys now host a variety of restaurants, bars, and theaters. It's an ideal place to enjoy dinner before catching an evening show, from stand-up comedy and live music to immersive theater.

8. Beisuzhou Road

Open: 24/7

End the day with a walk along the Suzhou Creek waterfront, where the breeze carries the river's scent. Across the water is the Lujiazui skyline, while the century-old Shanghai Postal Museum, with its distinctive green dome, stands nearby. The view brings together history and modernity, echoing the day's journey from Lu Xun's past to the city's vibrant present.

 

Note: Opening hours and other information are subject to change. Please check with the venues before visiting.

 

Source: Hongkou district culture and tourism affairs center