People’s Square

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Shanghai’s’ People’s’ Square(rinmin guangchang) occupies large portion of the geographic city center and is home to Shanghai’s city hall. Underneath the square is the city’s largest metro station and the only station to transfer between metro lines one and two. Linking the two lines are elongated shopping arcades while above ground is the People’s Park, the Shanghai Museum, the Shanghai Art Museum, the Grand Theatre and the Urban Planning Hall.

The lawns and plazas making up People’s Square hint at the old racetrack that once occupied the grounds. Of all the Western extravagances throughout old Shanghai, none was more celebrated by the wealthy than the horse races, which were held twice annually. The preparation. On the big day, schools and businesses went on holiday and all social life raccused on the outcomes of the races and the surrounding festivities. After 1949, the conve racetrack was converted into the People’s Park to offer festivities all could enjoy.

People’s Square is now mainly used for transit, ,and the addition of several cultural centers has increased tourism. Expansion of the park and open spaces gives locals pleasant place to enjoy Shanghai’s balmy springs and crisp autumns. The square remains quite crowded, especially during rush hour, and ongoing construction only seems to exacerbate congestion. However, it’s also good place to fly kites, enjoy an evening stroll or read a book and people-watch.

From a cultural and historical perspective, the highlight of the People’s Square is the Shanghai Museum( shanghai bowuguan). Often ranked as China’s’ best museum,the new building was completed in 1996 at a cost of RMB 570 million and is a modern and well-kept facility. The museum was designed by Shanghai architect Xing Tonghe to evoke the image of a ding, an ancient Chinese vessel, and architecturally, it’s a harmonious fusion of ancient and contemporary styles. The entrance, flanked by six stone lions and two stone mythical ancient Chinese beasts, opens onto a wide plaza with benches for sitting and music at night.