City charting a new course for Shanghai's 'mother river'
Tourists capture memories on the Bund, enjoying the historic architecture and riverside views.
Shanghai is embarking on an ambitious journey to rejuvenate its iconic waterways – the Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek – breathing new life into the city's landscape and cultural tapestry.
These master plans aim to transform the historic rivers into vibrant urban corridors that attract both locals and visitors.
The Huangpu River, often referred to as Shanghai's "mother river," is set to redefine its role in the city's landscape, though it has already become a landmark for both locals and overseas tourists.
"The river carries the history of Shanghai, a magnificent city," said Sara S., a visitor from Oklahoma City, United States, reflecting the deep connection between the Huangpu River and Shanghai's heritage.
Jamie, another tourist from the United Kingdom, said a walk along the river embankment is among the most pleasant experiences in Shanghai.
"On one side you have the ultra-modern financial district with the skyscrapers and on the other you have all the old architecture, seeing so many boats go along the river with people enjoying the views," he said.
The contrasting views of Huangpu River landmarks showcase Shanghai's commercial vibrancy and historical charm.
The newly unveiled master plan for the river covers a 50-kilometer stretch, cutting through six districts from Yangpu to the Pudong New Area. The vision is to develop the riverbank into five distinct themed segments:
New Quality Show Shore: Spanning about 7.8 kilometers along the Yangpu-Minsheng Road section, this area is set to become a hub of innovation, repurposing former industrial sites into vibrant public spaces.
World Living Room: Covering 16.5 kilometers from the Bund to the Lujiazui financial hub, this segment aims to showcase Shanghai's cosmopolitan flair, blending historical landmarks with modern architecture.
Cultural Innovation Zone: This 14.9-kilometer stretch links areas across Huangpu, Xuhui and Pudong, fostering a corridor rich in cultural and creative industries.
Artistic Smart Shore: Extending 10 kilometers along the Xuhui-Qiantan corridor, this zone is set to integrate art with technology, creating a dynamic urban art scene.
Shanghai Style Show: Occupying 6.8 kilometers from Huajin to Sanlin towns, this area will celebrate the city's unique cultural heritage and traditional aesthetics.
A 12-meter-tall silver robot graces the West Bund, infusing the historic cement silos along the Huangpu River with a striking cyberpunk aesthetic.
Beyond these segments, the plan delineates the waterfront into three spatial layers:
Inner Zone: About 22 square kilometers along the river focusing on water-edge public spaces, enhancing accessibility and leisure opportunities.
Middle Zone: Around 66 square kilometers dedicated to street-level enhancements, improving urban livability.
Outer Layer: Nearly 144 square kilometers aimed at extending urban functionalities, integrating residential and commercial developments.
Experts hail the initiative as a pivotal moment for Shanghai.
Bao Yaming, executive dean at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences' Urban Culture Innovation Institute, said that the river and creek are not merely geographical features but also convergence points for the economy, society, history and culture.
Landscape designer Liu Han emphasized that these plans not only guide waterfront development but also bolster urban space optimization.
Visitors explore Green Hill, a popular Yangpu riverside attraction.
Stretching 113 kilometers, the Huangpu has long played a central role in the city's growth.
In 2017, a 45‑kilometer stretch of waterfront was reconnected, turning old industrial docks into public spaces and cultural landmarks.
The city's urban planning authority says the latest plan will break down old administrative barriers and use key roads, bridges and public nodes to unite both banks.
The new measures will expand public spaces, improve pedestrian access and create themed urban zones that highlight Shanghai's cultural legacy and modern ambition.
The plan is a key step in the "one river, one creek" initiative and reflects lessons from global cities like London and New York while forging a uniquely Shanghai path.
The blueprint sets clear targets and paves the way for a decade of urban renewal along one of the city's most iconic waterways, according to the planning authority.
Blooming flowerbeds at the North Bund draw crowds of visitors eager to capture colorful spring moments.
Highlights of Shanghai's Waterfront Development:
- Qidian Plaza: A revitalized space around Pudong's Yangjinggang Bridge, enhancing the bridge's appeal as a sunset spot with improved public space and functionality.
- Minsheng Grain Silo: Transformed into a trendy district with avant-garde art and performances, featuring greener riverside areas.
- Digital Art Shore: A Yangpu waterfront hub for digital art, with a repurposed power plant and redesigned petroleum site.
- Nanpu Park: Upgraded under Nanpu Bridge with enhanced sports facilities and public spaces.
- Pujiang Celebration & Eye of Innovation: A cultural landmark at the World Expo 2010 venue in Pudong, hosting events and international exchanges.
- West Bank Green Corridor: Expanded greenery in Xuhui, connecting the Shanghai Botanical Garden to the riverside.
- Junxi Town: A modern Jiangnan (regions to the south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River) watertown in Pudong's Sanlin, showcasing traditional water street patterns and Eastern charm.
Artist KAWS presents his iconic COMPANION sculpture at the North Bund.
