Elong Hotel Hotels Near St. Ignatius Cathedral

Stay at Hyatt Regency Shanghai Hongqiao, offering panoramic views of the Xu Jiahui Catholic Church from its upper-floor rooms. The church's Gothic-style architecture and red-brick façade are visible from the hotel’s sky garden and rooftop terrace, creating a serene urban backdrop. Located just a 5-minute walk away, the hotel is also connected to Metro Lines 1 and 11, making it easy to explore nearby attractions like Nanjing Road and Xintiandi. The hotel provides guided tours for early morning or evening visits, allowing guests to experience the church’s peaceful ambiance and intricate stained-glass windows without crowds.

From Xu Jiahui Catholic Church, it’s a mere 8-minute walk to Xujiahui Mall, one of Shanghai’s busiest commercial hubs offering shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. For quicker access to The Bund or People’s Square, take Metro Line 1 from Xujiahui Station—just a 15-minute ride. Multiple bus routes also connect the area to Lujiazui Financial District and Nanjing West Road Shopping Zone. Use the "Metro Shanghai" app for real-time updates on train schedules and transfers. The area’s integrated transit network ensures seamless travel for both business and leisure visitors.

Beyond visiting the church itself, join the Sunday choral Mass hosted by the local congregation, featuring classical pieces by Bach and Mozart—perfect for experiencing sacred music in a historic setting. Nearby, the Xujiahui Library (Shanghai Library West Branch) offers free exhibitions on rare manuscripts collected by Western missionaries, shedding light on Sino-Western cultural exchange. Stroll along Hengshan Road, where tree-lined avenues flank historic French-style villas and cozy cafés, creating a nostalgic, artsy atmosphere ideal for photography and quiet reflection.

Yes, Xujiahui Park is right next to the church, featuring spacious lawns, playgrounds, and a man-made lake—ideal for family picnics and kids’ outdoor play. The park hosts regular outdoor concerts and family workshops, such as crafting Christmas ornaments or drawing architectural sketches of the church, blending fun with learning. Just a 10-minute metro ride away, Shanghai Science and Technology Museum offers interactive exhibits perfect for children. These activities allow families to bond while introducing kids to history, art, and science in an engaging way.

The Xu Jiahui Catholic Church exemplifies Gothic architecture, with its red-brick façade, pointed arches, and flying buttresses creating a strong vertical emphasis and dramatic light effects. The central rose window, made of colored glass, casts vibrant hues across the interior when sunlight streams through—especially striking during morning hours. Inside, the high vaulted ceiling, wooden beams, and detailed frescoes and altar carvings create a solemn yet serene atmosphere. Its design blends European traditions with local craftsmanship, making it one of Shanghai’s most authentically preserved religious buildings. Visit outside mass times to fully appreciate every architectural detail.

Try Nanxiang Steamed Buns at a century-old shop on Xujiahui Old Street—known for their thin skins and juicy fillings, this classic Shanghainese delicacy is a must-try. For a refined meal, visit Marseille Restaurant on Hengshan Road, offering authentic French cuisine in a sophisticated setting. For modern fusion, head to Shíguāng · Eastern in the Plaza 66 mall, where signature dishes like lobster with black truffle blend traditional Chinese ingredients with contemporary techniques. All are within walking distance of the church, combining culinary delights with historical charm for a truly immersive Shanghai experience.