Shanghai’s “Laochangfang” Has Transformed Successfully: From Slaughterhouse to Cultural and Creative Park

Reporter He Guanxian / Comprehensive Report

Do you still remember the backstage of the fashion show that everyone desperately helped Nanxiang complete at the end of the first episode of *Tiny Times*? That was the “1933 Laochangfang” in Shanghai. Just from the film’s camera work, you can see how intricate the set was. But you’d never have guessed that this vast square, with its maze-like layout and stark, cold concrete interior, was once a slaughterhouse that has now been transformed into a cultural and creative park.

▲% The dramatic atmosphere of the place makes many people wonder—what’s the story behind this modern and stylish design? It’s hard to imagine that this was once a slaughterhouse, yet now it blends historical elements with contemporary architectural aesthetics. (Photo/IG@)ouilifenotes(Provided, please do not take unauthorized photos to avoid copyright infringement)

The slaughterhouse that preceded Laochangfang was built in response to the surge in population within the Shanghai International Settlement in 1930, which led to a sharp increase in beef demand. The land and construction costs were funded by the Municipal Council, and they even invited the renowned British architect Balfours to co-design it. Upon its completion in 1933, it became the largest slaughterhouse in the Far East and one of the world’s three most advanced modern slaughterhouses at the time.

However, it was later gradually replaced by meat processing plants and was also used by several food research institutes. It wasn’t until 2006 that renovation and transformation began, turning the site into a hub for the creative industries. It now serves multiple functions including exhibitions, banquets, offices, tourism, as well as housing cafes, cultural and creative shops, clothing stores, and photography companies.

▲ The maze-like routes allow you to easily reach various spots, but they can also make it easy to lose your way. Yet the bright and ample lighting offers infinite positive hope and possibilities, even when you find yourself wandering aimlessly through Laochangfang—or through life. (Photo/IG@)stephanie.614(Provided, please do not take unauthorized photos to avoid copyright infringement)

The most distinctive feature of 1933 Laochangfang is the 30 staircases or walkways inside the building that connect to corridors on the opposite side, all varying in width and length. These were designed to separate humans from livestock and to efficiently manage the flow of animals of different sizes. Now, they’ve become the building’s biggest highlight.In addition to being a filming location for *Tiny Times* and the Huang Bo and Lin Chi-ling starrer *101st Proposal*, it also attracted China’s version of *Running Man*, *Keep Running*, where contestants raced through its crisscrossing spaces to victory.

▲ 1933 Laochangfang was once a slaughterhouse, and some historical traces from that time are still preserved. (Photo/IG@)stephanie.614(Provided, please do not take unauthorized photos to avoid copyright infringement)

Visitors are first struck by the vast yet intricate layout, and then captivated by the history of Laochangfang. Netizens have said, “It’s hard to imagine thousands of livestock walking around here, waiting to be slaughtered.” The masculine yet uniquely charming architectural style, the straight yet complex lines, and the blend of old and new industries all draw people into the allure of Laochangfang. Here, you can feel the passage of time, imagine the historical scenes of the past, and immerse yourself in this astonishing space.

1933 Laochangfang
(Free entry, but tickets are required for performances inside the theater)
Address: No. 10 Shajing Road, Hongkou District, Shanghai