French Concession

Shanghai, China

Overall Safety
Good
3.9 / 5
Based on 12 Safety Metrics

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Summary

Tree-lined streets with cafes, boutiques, and colonial architecture. More walkable and expensive than other areas, with better English and a relaxed atmosphere.

Tree-lined streets with European feelCafe culture and creative sceneBoutique shopping and art galleriesWalkable and bike-friendlyStrong expat and artist community
Details

The French Concession has tree-lined streets with plane trees and old colonial villas turned into cafes. It's one of the few walkable areas in Shanghai. You'll see people working alone in cafes for hours - artists, young professionals, expats, the usual mix. Streets like Anfu Road, Wukang Road, and Nanchang Road have specialty coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants ranging from dumpling joints to international places. Staff speak more English here since they're used to expats and tourists. The area stays lit and busy until around 11pm on weeknights, later on weekends. Police are around but not everywhere. Expect to pay more than in local neighborhoods.

Safety Ratings

Daytime Safety

Excellent

Night Walking Safety

Good

Harassment Risk

Low

Public Transport Safety

Excellent

Pickpocketing Risk

Low

Scam Risk

Low

Police Visibility

Excellent

Emergency Services

Excellent

Evening Venues

Excellent

Solo Dining

Excellent

Drug Activity

Low

Homelessness Visibility

Low

Getting By in English

Good

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Recommended Places

Cafes

  • Arabica Coffee
  • Peet's Coffee
  • The Cottage Bar & Cafe

Restaurants

  • Fu He Hui (Vegetarian Fine Dining)
  • El Willy
  • RAC Bar & Restaurant

Bars

  • Speak Low
  • El Coctel
  • The Cannery

Other Spots

  • Tianzifang (Art & Crafts Alleys)
  • Anfu Road Shopping
  • Wukang Road Historic Buildings
Impressions & Tips

"Felt safe walking around day and night"

"Lots of cafes where working alone is normal"

"More expensive but worth it for the vibe"

"Easier to find English speakers here"

"Best area for walking around on your own"

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Safety Reminder

Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.

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