Customs House, Historic customs building in Huangpu District, China
The Customs House is a historic administrative building in Shanghai's Huangpu District featuring classical architecture and a prominent clock tower. The tower rises above the entrance and has shaped the waterfront skyline since the 1920s.
The building was constructed in the early 1900s as the primary customs checkpoint for goods entering and leaving Shanghai. Its construction coincided with the expansion of international trade that transformed the city.
The structure reflects how international commerce shaped Shanghai's architectural identity by blending foreign building styles with local design traditions. Visitors can observe how such fusion was expressed through the building's materials and proportions.
The building sits conveniently on the waterfront promenade and is accessible by multiple public transportation options. Visitors can combine their stop here with exploring the nearby Bund district on foot.
The clock mechanism in the tower still operates today and keeps time for the entire district as it has since the building's opening. This mechanical system has been maintained continuously and remains fully functional.
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