Whether you’re a current student or you have studied before, we are all too familiar with trying to study and get some work done while being distracted by pretty much anything. These distractions can be disguised in many ways. Whether it be annoying siblings, nagging moms, friends or Netflix, it all results in us trying to work while we actually get nothing done.

Of course, we as a school, want our students to work towards their fullest potential. So we compiled a list of some study proof cafes. Get your caffeine fix while preparing for your HSK exam or get some work done. Are you ready to be productive?!

This cafe is the perfect place to sit relax and have a good coffee. It is very spacious with many high windows, allowing for enough natural lighting. The interior design makes you feel comfortable and zen, it emits cozyness and a relaxing atmoshpere. The sereneity of this caffe and the plenty of plugs available makes it a good study environment. Now you can finally finish that paper or gaze outside through the big windows for some inspiration or motivation to study.

Location: 1/F, No.634 Lane 650 Huaihai Middle Road

This place is located in the French Concession. They offer a menu full of delicious and Instagram-worthy brunches which can be easily matched with one of their coffees. So for all the Instagram lovers…this café is definitely worth mentioning. Since this place is quite popular, it can be very crowded at times. So be prepared to either come early or wait for a while. Once seated, you should definitely try one of their galettes, which is similar to a crêpe topped with the most delicious toppings. After lunchtime, when it gets less crowded, it can be a very peaceful and quiet place to study. There are also some seats outside, perfect for when it gets a bit warmer and you don’t want to be boiled up in your room.

Location: No.322 Anfu Road, Building 1

This one might sound familiar, as it is quite possible that you have been here already or heard about it. You might have even passed it a couple of times as they have several locations throughout Shanghai. This café is Danish inspired and offers great food options, especially the baked goods are amazing. Be aware that it might get pretty crowded around breakfast and lunchtime! There is a relatively quiet low key atmosphere (depending on the location), making it a good option for a study place. Start the day off by trying one of their delicious breakfasts after which you’ll be energized enough to write that essay.

Location: No.195 Anfu Road

This little-hidden gem is definitely worth visiting, especially if you love a cozy, charming and a little bit messy workspace. When the weather allows it, their little courtyard serves as a nice place to chill, relax and get some fresh air. As the name already suggests, this cafe is mostly decorated with books, hence the messier decor. Nevertheless, it is the perfect place to spend an afternoon browsing through the impressive book selection. Evidently, this place fosters an environment for readers, providing a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. They also offer decent coffee with some great food options. And if you get bored of studying or just need a little break they have two cats that can be a perfect distraction. All-in-all this place is perfect to get some Chinese vocab memorized.

Location: No.1101 Hunan Road

Not a big fan of coffee? Check out this blog post about Chinese tea traditions.

Did these unfamiliar (or not so unfamiliar) coffee places make you excited to explore the city or do you just want another excuse to explore Shanghai? Check out our programs which include language courses, internship programs and so much more!