Really looking forward to autumn in Shanghai! The falling plane tree leaves are the true sign of autumn in Shanghai
Shanghai’s autumn is a romance awakened by plane tree leaves~ When the London plane trees on the streets start turning light gold and the wind blows the leaves down in a flutter, the whole city is bathed in a gentle caramel hue. This is the right way to capture autumn in the Magic City! Here are 3 tried-and-true plane tree CityWalk routes, with photo and outfit tips included—save them for a November trip~
🍂 Classic Must-Do: Wukang Road - Anfu Road Artsy Route
The top combo for Shanghai’s plane tree autumn scenery! Starting from the Wukang Building, this century-old building is naturally framed by golden plane tree leaves. Go before 9 a.m. when it’s very quiet; standing at the intersection to capture the full view with leaves falling is simply magical. Even local aunties passing by will compliment, “You take photos so skillfully”~ Stroll slowly along Wukang Road, where old Western-style houses are covered in vines, and the plane tree branches intertwine to form a golden tunnel. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows, and stepping on the fallen leaves creates a soothing rustling sound.
At the end, turn into Anfu Road, where trendy shops and artsy cafes hide under the plane trees. When tired, duck into a terrace café, order a hot latte, and watch leaves drift down by the wall—time seems to slow down. Highly recommend the small alleys near Wukang Court; they’re quiet and scenic. A light-colored long dress paired with a knit cardigan makes every casual shot look like a vintage movie scene.
🎵 Romantic & Offbeat: Fenyang Road - Xiangyang Park Music Route
For those wanting to avoid crowds, this is the route! Starting from Nie Er Green Space and walking to Fenyang Road, this area hides Shanghai’s artistic soul. The melodious piano sounds drifting from music shops blend with the rustling plane tree leaves, like a natural and artistic symphony. The old Western-style houses on both sides of the street have Baroque charm, and the light and shadows on the red walls look like dancing musical notes. Any street corner here is photogenic.
Crossing Fenyang Road leads to Xiangyang Park, where the plane tree leaves in the French-style garden look even more lively. When the wind blows, golden leaves fall softly. Sitting on a bench watching the leaves is the ultimate date spot. On the way, visit the Shanghai Conservatory green space; lush vegetation and fresh air, with occasional piano sounds from nearby campuses, create a fully artsy atmosphere—perfect for quietly soaking in autumn.
🌿 Healing Slow Walk: Hengshan Road - Huaihai Middle Road Leisure Route
Hengshan Road is known as the “Oriental Champs-Élysées.” In autumn, it’s a scenic route where fallen leaves are left untouched, with golden plane tree leaves covering the ground like a soft carpet. Starting from Hengshan Fang, the garden-style houses along the street hide treasure shops. When tired, visit Xujiahui Park to interact with the black swans or check in at the Baidai Little Red House to feel the charm of old Shanghai.
Turn into Huaihai Middle Road, where old buildings and unique shops complement each other. Sunlight shines on the shop windows, blending with the lively atmosphere of century-old stores. Recommended to visit after 4 p.m. when the light is soft and not harsh, and the plane tree shadows stretch long. Photos taken here naturally have a gentle filter. If you find a café you like along the way, stop in for a break, sip a hot drink, and watch the bustling street—this is the relaxed feeling of autumn in Shanghai~
✨ Practical Tips for Your Trip
1. Best Time: Mid to late November through early December, when plane tree leaves are most golden; 3-5 p.m. offers the best light for photos
2. Outfit Suggestions: Light-colored clothes + white sneakers, paired with a knit cardigan for morning and evening temperature changes; photos will naturally have a soft filter effect
3. Avoid Pitfalls: Avoid crowds at noon; try to visit on weekdays; bring a foldable water cup, as cafes along the way offer refills
4. Transportation: Prioritize subway travel; Line 11 Traffic University Station and Line 1 South Shaanxi Road Station provide direct access to the starting points of all routes
Autumn in Shanghai is short, but the romance brought by plane tree leaves lasts long~ Walking these little streets on fallen leaves is the true way to understand the city’s autumn vibe. This autumn, invite a friend to join this plane tree rendezvous—after all, an autumn without falling plane tree leaves isn’t a complete Shanghai~