Market · People’s Square
The first department Store (Nanjing East Road)
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
The First Department Store on Nanjing East Road is a landmark of Shanghai's commercial history, housed in a grand Art Deco building that dates back to the 1930s. As you step inside, you're greeted by a bustling atmosphere of shoppers browsing everything from luxury goods to everyday essentials across multiple floors. The store retains a nostalgic charm with its vintage escalators and classic interior design, offering a glimpse into Shanghai's golden age of department store shopping. What makes it distinctive is its location on Nanjing East Road, one of the world's busiest shopping streets, and its role as a cultural touchstone for locals and tourists alike. While it may not offer the most modern shopping experience, it's a must-visit for those interested in retail history and authentic urban life. You'll find a wide range of products, including clothing, cosmetics, electronics, and souvenirs, all under one roof.
Don't miss
- Ride the original wooden escalators, a rare surviving feature from the 1930s.
- Browse the food hall for local snacks and Shanghai specialties.
- Check out the vintage signage and Art Deco architectural details.
- Shop for traditional Chinese crafts and souvenirs on the upper floors.
- People-watch at the entrance, observing the flow of Nanjing East Road.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit The first department Store (Nanjing East Road)
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine The first department Store (Nanjing East Road) with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inShanghai City Guided Walking Tour | China's 1st and Best Rated5★ · 356 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →
Best full dayPrivate Shanghai Full Day City Tour with Old and New Highlights5★ · 1,222 travelers7–8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$115 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Day Tour: Zhujiajiao with Your Choice of Shanghai Sites5★ · 17 travelers~10 hoursFree cancellationFrom$208 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Bring cash or a mobile payment app like Alipay; some vendors may not accept credit cards.
- Photography is allowed, but be respectful of staff and shoppers.
- There is a luggage storage service near the entrance for a small fee.
- Try the food court on the top floor for affordable local dishes.
A bit of history
Opened in 1936 as the Sun Sun Company, it was one of Shanghai's first modern department stores. After the Communist takeover in 1949, it was renamed the First Department Store and became a state-run enterprise, symbolizing socialist retail.
Common questions
Is the First Department Store the same as the No. 1 Department Store?
Yes, it's commonly referred to as both. The official name is Shanghai No. 1 Department Store.
Can I bargain on prices?
Prices are generally fixed, especially for branded items. Some small vendors may negotiate, but it's not common.
Is there a dress code?
No, casual attire is fine. The store is air-conditioned in summer and heated in winter.
Are there English-speaking staff?
Limited. It's helpful to have a translation app or phrasebook handy.
What are the opening hours?
Typically 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, but confirm locally as hours may vary.
Is the store wheelchair accessible?
Yes, there are elevators and accessible entrances, though some older sections may be narrow.
More attractions in Shanghai
