People's Square (人民广场) and People's Park
The People Take Back Their City
(South of Huaihai Rd. by Xizang Rd.)
Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Daily
Nearest Public Transit: Huangpi Nan Lu Station, Line 1 or
Laoximen Station, Line 8 or
Jing'an Subway Station, Line 2
The People's Square is a large public square in the Huangpu District of Shanghai, China. People's Square is the site of Shanghai's municipal government building, and is used as the standard reference point for measurement of distance in the Shanghai municipality.
Prior to 1949, People's Square was a part of the horseracing course of Shanghai. After gambling and horseracing was banned by the new government, a part of the race course became the People's Square, which included a large avenue and spectator stands for use during parades.
In the 90s, major changes were made to the square. The Shanghai city hall was moved from the former HSBC Building, and the Shanghai Museum was also moved away from its previous site. More recent additions include the Grand Theatre and the Urban Planning Exhibition Hall.
Other parts of the race course still remain today. The clubhouse buildings became the Shanghai Art Museum, while part of the race track became People's Park, a public park.
Landmarks
Prominent landmarks on and around the square and park include:
Shanghai City Hall
Shanghai Grand Theatre
Shanghai Museum
Shanghai Art Museum
Urban Planning Exhibition Hall
