Huangpu Park (黄浦公园) is a beautiful and historic park located in the heart of Shanghai, China. Covering an area of 20 acres, it is situated on the banks of the Huangpu River and is the oldest and most famous park in the city. It was first established in 1868 as a private garden for British officials and was later opened to the public in 1914.
The park offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city and provides stunning views of Shanghai’s iconic skyline, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Bund. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverfront promenade, relax in the peaceful gardens, or watch the boats sail by on the Huangpu River.
One of the park’s most popular attractions is the Monument to the People’s Heroes, which commemorates those who died during China’s revolutionary struggles. The park is also home to several historic buildings, including the British Consulate and the former Shanghai Club.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- History of Huangpu Park
- Highlights of Huangpu Park
- Vlog about Shanghai Huangpu Park
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Parks in Shanghai
- Attractions Near Huangpu Park
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Telephone Number | 0086-021-53082636 |
Location and Transportation
Huangpu Park is located in the Huangpu District of Shanghai, China. It is at the northern end of the famous Bund, a waterfront promenade lined with historic buildings, restaurants, and shops and bordered by Zhongshan East Road to the north, Zhongshan South Road to the south, the Huangpu River to the east, and the famous Waibaidu Bridge to the west.
Bus: Take bus 33, 55, 65, 305, 307, or 317, get off at Zhongshan East 1 Road and Nanjing East Road (中山东一路南京东路), and walk about 50 meters to the north to reach the park.
Subway: Take subway line 2 or 10, get off at Nanjing East Road station (南京东路), and walk about 400 meters to the east to reach the park.
History of Huangpu Park
Huangpu Park has a rich and fascinating history that spans over 150 years. It was first established in 1868 as the Garden Bridge, a private garden for British officials who were stationed in Shanghai at the time. The garden was designed in the typical English landscape style, with winding paths, ornamental lakes, and a variety of exotic trees and plants.
In 1890, the garden was opened to the public, and it became a popular gathering place for both locals and foreigners. However, it wasn’t until 1914 that the garden was officially renamed Huangpu Park and became a public park.
During the early 20th century, Huangpu Park was the site of many important events in Chinese history. In 1919, it was the location of the May Fourth Movement, a political and cultural movement that marked the beginning of China’s modern era. In 1925, it was the site of the first workers’ demonstration in Shanghai, which led to the founding of the Chinese Communist Party.
During World War II, the park was occupied by the Japanese army, who used it as a military base. After the war, the park was returned to the Chinese government, and it underwent a series of renovations and improvements.
Today, Huangpu Park is a popular tourist destination and a beloved gathering place for locals.
Highlights of Huangpu Park
The Monument to the People’s Heroes
The Monument to the People’s Heroes was built in 1949 to commemorate the revolutionary martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the establishment of the People’s Republic of China. It stands at 24 meters high and is made of granite and white marble. The front features eight embossed reliefs depicting key moments in China’s revolutionary history, while the back is inscribed with Mao Zedong’s call to “Eternal glory to the heroes of the people who fell in the struggle for the liberation of the Chinese people and the construction of socialism.” The monument remains a significant symbol of China’s revolutionary past and its ongoing commitment to socialism.
The Former British Consulate
The former British Consulate was the first foreign consulate to be established in Shanghai, and it played an important role in the development of trade and diplomatic relations between China and the UK. The building features a neoclassical design, with white columns and an imposing facade that overlooks the Huangpu River. Today, the former consulate is a popular tourist attraction and has been converted into a museum. Visitors can explore the building’s rich history, which includes its use as a headquarters for the Japanese army during World War II.
The Former Shanghai Club
The former Shanghai Club was originally built in 1910 as a social club for wealthy expatriates and Chinese elites, and it quickly became a hub of social activity in the city. The building features a neoclassical design with a grand entrance hall, a ballroom, and a rooftop terrace overlooking the Huangpu River. Today, the former Shanghai Club has been converted into a museum, showcasing the building’s rich history and its role in shaping the social and cultural landscape of Shanghai. Visitors can explore the elegant interiors and learn about the club’s heyday during the 1920s and 1930s.
The Riverfront Promenade
The riverfront promenade in Huangpu Park is a scenic walkway that stretches along the banks of the Huangpu River in Shanghai. It offers stunning views of the Pudong skyline and the historic buildings along the Bund. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the wide walkway, which is lined with benches and shaded by trees. The promenade is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the city. At night, the promenade comes alive with colorful lights and the buzz of activity from the nearby restaurants and bars.
Vlog about Shanghai Huangpu Park
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Bring sunscreen and a hat: Shanghai can be quite hot and sunny in the summer months, so it’s important to protect yourself from the sun while you’re walking around the park.
Bring cash: While some vendors in the park may accept credit cards or mobile payments, it’s always a good idea to bring some cash with you in case you need to buy snacks or souvenirs.
Be respectful of local customs: Huangpu Park is a public space that is frequented by both locals and tourists. Be sure to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and avoid doing anything that might be considered rude or offensive.
