Cao Tang Inn

Top choice in Shanghai


Not your typical generic backpackers, this friendly and atmospheric hostel is set within a century-old house full of character. Its common area in the lobby has a well-stocked bar and a fire pit to hang out by. There's a lovely courtyard garden too. The rooms are clean and well kept, including dorms and traditionally dressed doubles and twins.

It's popular with travelling musicians around the world, so jams are common.

Turn right after crossing Fangsheng Bridge and head towards another small bridge, cross over the bridge and turn left along the canal where it's 50m along.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Shanghai attractions

1. Fangsheng Bridge

0.1 MILES

Of Zhujiajiao’s quaint band of ancient bridges, the standout must be the graceful, 72m-long, five-arched Fangsheng Bridge, first built in 1571 with…

2. Kezhi Garden

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This Chinese garden established in 1912 is a nice spot for a stroll with pavilions, ponds, quaint bridges and rocky outcrops.

3. Yuanjin Buddhist Temple

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The Yuanjin Buddhist Temple is famed for its Qinghua Pavilion (清华阁; Qīnghuá Gé) at the rear, a towering hall visible from many parts of town. It's located…

5. City God Temple

0.35 MILES

Moved here in 1769 from its original location in Xuejiabang, this temple stands on the west side of the Chenghuang Bridge.

6. Qing Dynasty Post Office

0.42 MILES

A historic 1903 outpost of the Qing dynasty postal service, this is not a huge place but it's nice to walk through the old wooden building's interior,…

7. Sheshan Basilica

8.23 MILES

A very pleasant walk up through the trees of Sheshan National Forest Park, this cruciform red-brick and granite church is the highlight of the West Hill…

8. Shanghai Astronomical Museum

8.29 MILES

Founded by the Jesuits in 1900, the former Sheshan Observatory is near the Sheshan Basilica on West Hill. The museum contains exhibitions on the history…