Taipingqiao Park

　　   Taipingqiao Park is situated west of Ji’an Road, east of Huangpi South Road, south of Hubin Road, and north of Zizhong Road. Covering an area of 44,054 square meters, it is one of the large-scale open parks in downtown Shanghai. Its landscape features include an artificial lake, green spaces, Shikumen buildings, viewing platforms, and Hubin Road.

　　   The site of Taipingqiao Park was originally densely populated with old-style alleyway residences. To create a better ecological environment for the Taipingqiao commercial-residential district, in October 2000, the municipal and Luwan District governments decided to first build an artificial lake and green space in the area, using environmental improvements to drive the redevelopment of the old district. The project was jointly invested in by the municipal and district governments along with Hong Kong’s Shui On Group. On November 10 of the same year, relocation began and was completed by December 23, marking an unprecedented speed for large-scale construction relocations in Shanghai. A total of 3,800 households (approximately 20,000 people), 156 businesses, and 87,000 square meters of various buildings were relocated. Construction started on January 5, 2001, the artificial lake was filled with water on May 20, the project was completed on June 8, and the park officially opened on June 9.

　　   Since its opening, the park has hosted numerous events, including: on June 12, 2001, a visit and tour by the General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee and a member of the Politburo and State Councilor; on June 16, a visit and tour by the Vice Chairman of the State; on September 20, a cultural performance held at the viewing platform and a float parade along Hubin Road as part of the Shanghai International Tourism Festival; on October 5, the Rose Wedding Ceremony, a themed event of the Shanghai International Tourism Festival. In 2002, the opening ceremony of the Shanghai Science and Technology Week was held on May 18, among others.

　　   Artificial Lake

　　   Covering an area of over 12,000 square meters, the lake has a depth of 0.2 meters at the edges, sloping at a ratio of 1:4 toward the center where it reaches a maximum depth of 2.5 meters. The lake holds over 20,000 cubic meters of water, making it the largest artificial lake in central Shanghai. With its winding shoreline shaped like a gourd, the lake includes two small islands named Magnolia Island and Albizia Island, named after the theme plants planted on them. To prevent water pollution and mosquito breeding, multiple aeration outlets, a recirculating water supply system, fountain system, biological purification system, overflow prevention system, and control systems have been installed. A waterproof mat made of natural American clay has also been laid at the bottom of the lake. Visitors often release frogs, fish, and turtles. In spring and summer, the shimmering blue waters, green waves, blue skies, and building reflections create a scene bustling with visitors.

　　   Green Space

　　   Covering nearly 32,000 square meters, the green space includes 22,630 square meters of shrubs and lawns, as well as 1,250 trees of various species such as ginkgo, red beech, camphor, magnolia, white magnolia, osmanthus, red maple, koelreuteria, and soapberry, totaling over 30 types of trees and shrubs. The average age of the trees is 40 years, with one century-old ancient tree near the viewing platform. The green space and the islands are adorned with undulating rockeries, landscape ornaments, and lighting features.

　　   Shikumen Buildings

　　   Three Shikumen buildings are preserved on the western side, with a total floor area of 1,400 square meters. Their facades, with alternating blue and red bricks outlined by white mortar lines, blend seamlessly with the style of the site of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China, creating a unique historical and cultural atmosphere.

　　   Viewing Platform

　　   Located along Xingye Road leading to the lakeside, the viewing platform serves as a spot for visitors to stop and enjoy the scenery, and doubles as a stage for performances during events.

　　   Hubin Road

　　   Stretching approximately 460 meters in length and 20 meters in width, Hubin Road is built along the northern edge of the lake and extends down to the water’s edge via wide stone steps, forming a waterside terrace. Many visitors descend the steps to dip their hands in the water, enjoying a touch of rural charm in the urban setting.

　　   Underground Garage and Underground Substation Entrance

　　   On the southeastern side, there is an underground garage spanning 10,000 square meters with 222 parking spaces. On the eastern side, there is a 110-kilovolt underground substation.