Want a change of pace after work? Head to Yangpu district, where cozy streets, lively shopping areas, and peaceful river views come together. Whether you want to unwind, browse for something fun, or simply take a walk by the water, Yangpu has a stop worth stopping for.

Stop 1: Daxue Road

Daxue Road feels especially comfortable at night. Warm lights line the street, and the air carries the smell of coffee and fresh bread. It is lively, but never rushed.

81 Bakery

A local favorite that has been around for more than a decade, this pretzel-style bread is a must-try. Chewy and fragrant, it's ideal to take home for breakfast the next day. The original version pairs beautifully with coffee, while pistachio and red bean flavors are also popular.

Address: No 180 Daxue Road

Hours: 8 am to 10 pm

Herbal Bar

This is not a typical bar. It blends traditional Chinese medicine culture with creative cocktails, offering a truly distinctive sensory experience.

If you are curious, you can try the bar's signature "diagnosis cocktail". Instead of a casual chat, a trained staff member will take your pulse, a classic method in traditional Chinese medicine, to get a sense of your condition. Based on the pulse reading, you will receive a handwritten "flavor prescription", and the bartender will then create a one-of-a-kind drink just for you.

You can also order directly from the menu. Every cocktail thoughtfully incorporates herbal, floral, or spice notes, with layered flavors and elegant presentation.

Designed to resemble a vintage Eastern study, the space features a bar inspired by traditional medicine cabinets, classic furniture, and soft lighting. It is well-suited to small gatherings, dates, or anyone looking for a memorable and unconventional night out.

Address: Room 1603, 16F, No 248 Daxue Road

Hours: 6:30 pm to 3 am

Stop 2: Weide Road

Just a short walk away, Weide Road hides some real gems.

Hi-Fi Acoustic

A warm, inviting record shop filled with music and a gentle scent of incense. CDs are the main focus, with some vinyl and cassette tapes as well. You can find pop, rock, jazz, and K-pop, and chances are you will discover something you love.

Address: No 80 Weide Road

Hours: 12:30 pm to 9:30 pm

Mystery Books

Shanghai's first bookstore dedicated entirely to detective fiction. The first floor features Western mysteries, while the second floor focuses on Japanese and Chinese works. Classics by Agatha Christie and novels by Keigo Higashino are well stocked.

The owner is a mystery writer, and his latest book tells the story of running this bookstore. Look closely: small puzzles are hidden on the shelves and walls, and you can also find blind book boxes and themed badges.

Address: No 48 Weide Road

Hours: 10:30 am to 7:30 pm

Stop 3: Wujiaochang shopping area

Wujiaochang is always full of energy, especially at night. Think of it as a giant playground with endless things to see.

Pokemon TCG Official Gym

A dream stop for fans, and it's still worth a visit even if you aren't one. The shop sells official Pokemon merchandise. Pikachu is everywhere, along with other popular characters. New and limited items arrive often, so it always feels fresh.

Address: B1, Building A, Wanda Plaza, No 77 Songhu Road

Hours: 10 am to 10 pm

Stop 4: Yangpu Riverside

Why not end the evening by the embankment? In winter, the Yangpu Riverside feels calmer and more open, with fewer crowds and clearer night views.

Good Vibe Station

A small riverside spot that serves coffee during the day and drinks at night. Run by a musician, the space often hosts intimate live sessions, making it a relaxed place to slow down after dark. On colder winter nights, the warm indoor seating is especially inviting, with music, soft lighting, and views of the riverside just outside.

Address: Near the riverside path, No 640 Yangshupu Road

Hours: 11 am to 6 pm

Tip:

Before heading out, check the opening hours on Dianping. Some places can be busy on weekends, so planning will help you enjoy a smoother, more relaxed evening.

Sources: Yangpu district commission of commerce and ShanghaiLOOK