Imagine stepping back in time. You find yourself in a place where history whispers from every brick. Welcome to Pudong Old House.
What exactly is Pudong Old House? It is not the former residence of a celebrity. It is a condensed version of Pudong’s folk houses from the last hundred years. Think of it as an essence of old Pudong architecture.
Back in the 1990s Pudong underwent massive changes. Land was requisitioned. Villages were demolished. Modern buildings rose. Many old farmhouses with historical and cultural value were reduced to rubble.
Wang Yangen, a former rural cadre, wanted to preserve Pudong’s heritage. He spent ten years collecting old materials. He led his company to gather old buildings. These buildings were carefully dismantled then rebuilt here.
That is how Pudong Old House came to be. It showcases traditional architectural styles. It is a testament to preserving cultural heritage.
Walking through Pudong Old House is like stepping into a vivid painting. You will see small bridges and flowing water. Willow trees sway gently in the breeze. The water is clear. Fish and shrimp playfully leap. Long corridors wind. White walls meet dark tiles. Courtyards are deep and serene.
The Shanghai Great World Guinness named it the “largest architectural complex built with dismantled old buildings”. Inside the courtyard you’ll find 128 different folk houses. They showcase various living standards. There are grand halls for wealthy families and humble homes for the poor.
Over 700 old doors and windows were used. 760000 blue bricks pave the way. Over a million roof tiles cover the buildings. 240000 slabs protect from rain. More than 13000 dripstones adorn the roofs. Over 71000 old beams and pillars support the structures. Over 12000 purlins add detail.
A small river flows through the complex. Ancient stone bridges connect different areas. Old wells and screen walls add to the charm. The area spans 24300 square meters. The project represents a huge investment in time and resources.
Pudong Old House is a creative endeavor. It shows the importance of preserving folk culture. It stands apart from simple imitation buildings. The use of authentic materials evokes a sense of history. It creates a feeling of connection to the past.
Pudong Old House may not yet be officially open. But its cultural value is undeniable. It is a reminder of Pudong’s roots. It is a place where you can experience old Shanghai. It is a treasure that deserves to be shared with the world.