The People's Square Historical and Cultural Block is a prominent public activity center in Shanghai, encompassed by modern architecture that surrounds a vast space.

 The People's Square Historical and Cultural Block is located in the heart of Shanghai's city center,. [Photo/article.xuexi.cn]

The zone covers approximately 107 hectares and boasts a rich history dating back to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

Initially established as a racecourse, it gradually evolved into a hub for cultural, commercial, and entertainment activities.

Notable landmarks include the Park Hotel, the Shanghai Grand Theater, and various department stores, all representing the highest architectural and artistic standards of their time.

After the founding of the People's Republic of China, the area transformed, with the racecourse hall and its affiliated buildings repurposed into the People's Park, People's Square, and People's Avenue. This evolution resulted in the creation of a vast public space, with the central flagpole on the roof of the Park Hotel marking the city's plane coordinate system center.

Since 1984, the Shanghai Municipal People's Government has designated protection for numerous historical buildings and cultural relics within the historical zone.

Main venues include:

The Great World. [Photo/article.xuexi.cn]

Park Hotel. [Photo/article.xuexi.cn]

Shanghai Concert Hall. [Photo/article.xuexi.cn]

Shanghai Sports Building (former Foreign YMCA Building). [Photo/article.xuexi.cn]

(Updated on Aug 27, 2025)

Sources: shtong.gov.cn, article.xuexi.cn