People’s Square

From a racetrack to the heart of Shanghai, People’s Square has seen a dramatic transformation. People’s Square wasn’t always the bustling hub you see today. Imagine the thunder of hooves and the roar of the crowd. This very spot was once a famed horseracing course during the British colonial era, known as the “No.1 Racetrack in Far East”. Can you believe it? People’s Square, in the heart of Shanghai’s Huangpu District, covering 140,000 square meters, once echoed with the excitement of horse races. The racecourse, built in 1861, was a symbol of the city’s colonial past. After 1949, the new government transformed this space. The thundering hooves were replaced by the quiet murmur of museum-goers and the laughter of children in People’s Park. People’s Square became a symbol of the people, a place for cultural events, festivals, and everyday life. The square is surrounded by iconic landmarks. The Shanghai Museum, with its unique round top and square base symbolizing ancient Chinese cosmology, stands proudly here. Then there’s the breathtaking Shanghai Grand Theatre, a modern architectural marvel resembling a giant eggshell. Designed by French architect Jean-Marie Charpentier, its glass curtain wall reflects the vibrant city around it. People’s Square is more than just a square. It’s a testament to Shanghai’s ever-evolving spirit, a place where history and modernity collide. From a colonial racetrack to the vibrant heart of Shanghai, People’s Square is a must-see for every visitor. It offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and culture, a true reflection of Shanghai’s dynamic soul.