Century-old Shanghai shipyard reborn as vibrant waterfront hub
A century-old Shanghai shipyard along the Huangpu River began trial operations on Nov 2, transforming into a dynamic cultural landmark that seamlessly blends industrial heritage with digital interactive experiences and panoramic riverfront vistas.
Stepping inside Meet178 on Tianzhang Road, visitors are greeted by red-brick walls and exposed steel structures.
The soaring atrium of Douyin Hall showcases floating, wave-like drapes alongside a central "Chuan Zhang Tai" (the bridge) designed to resemble a ship’s deck.
Inside the atrium, the Chuanwu Market showcases a curated selection of creative director-led brands, handcrafted goods, and anime franchise merchandise.
Interactive technology stations let guests customize background music, experience short-video features, and interact with visual screens powered by Volcano Engine — the cloud and AI service unit of ByteDance.
Outside, a market offers a walkable corridor lined with storefronts and decorative windows, set against an industrial backdrop.
The south plaza preserves rusted shipbuilding rails alongside movable industrial seating, allowing visitors to relax with coffee.
Adjacent to the plaza, Guanlang Park offers expansive views and a pleasant waterfront setting for walking and recreation, with something to enjoy for visitors of all ages.
One highlight is the shipyard's iconic vintage crane, which stands near the water, framing historic shipyard structures against the futuristic Lujiazui skyline.
This revitalization reflects Yangpu Waterfront's transition from an industrial heritage area to a public recreational space.
As a historic heartland of China's modern industry, Yangpu Waterfront was lined with factories, warehouses, and docks for more than a century. This ongoing urban renewal is now giving these industrial relics new purposes as cultural institutions, public parks, and vibrant public spaces for everyday life.
If you go
Where: No 178 Tianzhang Road, Yangpu district, Shanghai
Admission: Free
Source: Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism
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