Gaoqiao a name that might not immediately spring to mind when you think of Shanghai’s old towns, but prepare to be surprised. Gaoqiao dates back to the Southern Song Dynasty. That’s over 800 years of history etched into its streets.
Gaoqiao sits in the north of Pudong. It adjoins the Yangtze River estuary to the north and the Huangpu River to the west. The Waigaoqiao Port lies to the south. This strategic location has shaped Gaoqiao’s story.
Let’s walk along Gaoqiao Old Street. It is divided into north, east, and west sections by a T-shaped river course. Notice the buildings. Many have been carefully renovated to maintain their original features.
Here on East Street stands Yangxian Hall. Locals also call it the residence of Shen. Shen Jinfu, a Gaoqiao native, owned it. He sold foreign goods. Flour, kerosene, soaps, and matches passed through his hands. Shen incorporated Western architectural elements into the hall. Look closely. The mantelpiece, floor materials, and even the bronze door bolts are imports.
During Shanghai’s liberation in 1949, Yangxian Hall became a stronghold. Its sturdy structure helped it survive fierce battles. Bullet holes still mark the walls, a testament to its strength.
Gaoqiao has long been known for its artisans and architects. They built one-third of the old buildings on the Bund. They also created China’s first power plant and first gas plant. Consider that. The first bridge of all-steel structure was also their work. Villas for three of the four big families of the Republic of China bear their mark.
Gaoqiao also nurtured artistic talent. Qian Huian was a master of Shanghai-style art. Visit the Qian Huian Museum on Gaoqiao West Street. Admire his masterpieces. The museum also serves as Gaoqiao Painting and Calligraphy Academy. It is also the Pudong Chinese Painting Academy.
Embroidery is another strong tradition here. Visit the Gaoqiao Woolen Embroidery Museum to see stunning examples. This technique arrived from Europe in the late 19th century. By 1980, Gaoqiao was the country’s largest embroidery export base. Over 1.3 million pieces shipped to over 40 countries.
Notice the blend of old and new. The Shanghai New Gaoqiao Development Co Ltd has worked to preserve the town’s historical architecture. They aim to meet modern needs. The focus is on the traditional water town culture. They want to maintain the river-street symbiosis. The town’s bridge-related name from the Ming and Qing periods is important.
Renovations have taken place on Wanshou Square. The entrance of Yumin Middle School has been improved. The garden corridor at the West Street entrance is new. Repairs have been made to the East Street Leisure Plaza. The Jijing Road Bridge and Shengli Road Bridge have been restored.
Gaoqiao Ancient Town offers a unique glimpse into Shanghai’s past. It combines history, culture, and art. It’s a place where you can discover the beauty of a laid-back town. It is mellowed by time.