People's Square

People's Square is a large central public space in Shanghai with a circular musical fountain, green landscaping, and significant civic buildings framing its edges. The space connects different sections into a unified pedestrian area in the city's core.

The square developed on the site of a colonial-era horse racing track and became a public space following the founding of the People's Republic in 1949. This transformation marked the shift from Shanghai's colonial past to a modern civic area.

The Shanghai Museum displays artworks and historical objects from different periods in its building shaped like a traditional cooking vessel. The Grand Theatre across from it hosts performances and contributes to the active cultural life around the square.

The square is served by three subway lines and is easily reached from different parts of the city. Since it is a major hub, it is best to visit during early hours when fewer people are around.

Beneath the square lies one of Asia's largest power transformer stations, hidden within underground passages and shopping centers. This hidden infrastructure powers the entire surrounding area.

Location: Shanghai

Inception: 1949

GPS coordinates: 31.23090,121.47030

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02