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Former French Concession (Xuhui/Jing'an)
Shanghai, China · Neighborhood Guide
Plane-tree-lined boulevards, Art Deco villas, independent cafés, wine bars, and boutique shops. Shanghai's most charming and walkable area with a distinctly European feel.
Last updated March 2026
Former French Concession (Xuhui/Jing'an) at a Glance
Higher-End
Cost Level
¥8,000–¥15,000/month for 1-BR ($1,100–$2,100)
Rent Range
Very safe — well-patrolled area with heavy foot traffic. Safe at all hours.
Safety
100–300 Mbps — excellent fibre from China Telecom/Unicom. VPN recommended for global services.
Internet
Who Lives in Former French Concession (Xuhui/Jing'an)?
Western expats, creative professionals, restaurant and bar owners, diplomats' families, and wealthy young Chinese. Average age 28–45.
Living in Former French Concession (Xuhui/Jing'an) — Practical Details
Walkability
Excellent — tree-lined streets with cafés, boutiques, and restaurants all within walking distance. Shanghai's most pedestrian-friendly area.
Grocery & Food Access
City Shop for imported Western goods. Fresh markets for Chinese produce. Hema (Alibaba's grocery) for delivery. Boutique delis throughout.
Getting Around
- Metro: Lines 1, 7, 10 cross the area
- Walking and cycling are the best way to explore the Concession
- DiDi ride-hailing: ¥20–¥40 to most destinations
Nearby Coworking
- naked Hub (¥120/day)
- People Squared (¥100/day)
- WeWork Jing'an (¥150/day)
Insider Tips for Former French Concession (Xuhui/Jing'an)
- 1Yongkang Road was the famous bar street — now scattered but the café scene is still world-class
- 2Use a VPN (Astrill or ExpressVPN) — Google, WhatsApp, and Instagram are blocked without one
- 3The best lane houses (shikumen) combine Art Deco charm with modern renovation — ask agents for these specifically
- 4WeChat Pay and Alipay are essential — cash is barely accepted; set up mobile payment on day one
FAQ — Former French Concession (Xuhui/Jing'an), Shanghai
What is Former French Concession (Xuhui/Jing'an) like for expats?
Former French Concession (Xuhui/Jing'an) is a higher-end neighborhood in Shanghai. Plane-tree-lined boulevards, Art Deco villas, independent cafés, wine bars, and boutique shops. Shanghai's most charming and walkable area with a distinctly European feel. Best for: Western expats, creatives, and professionals who want the most cosmopolitan lifestyle with easy access to international restaurants and nightlife.
How much does it cost to live in Former French Concession (Xuhui/Jing'an), Shanghai?
Former French Concession (Xuhui/Jing'an) is classified as "Higher-End" in Shanghai. Typical rent: ¥8,000–¥15,000/month for 1-BR ($1,100–$2,100). Total monthly budget in Shanghai: ¥13,000–¥18,000 ($1,800–$2,500).
Is Former French Concession (Xuhui/Jing'an) safe for expats?
Very safe — well-patrolled area with heavy foot traffic. Safe at all hours.
Who lives in Former French Concession (Xuhui/Jing'an)?
Western expats, creative professionals, restaurant and bar owners, diplomats' families, and wealthy young Chinese. Average age 28–45.
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Mid-RangeUp-and-coming riverside district with stunning Bund views, lower rents, historic Jewish quarter heritage, and a growing café scene. Less polished but rapidly improving.
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