Springtime Photography in Shanghai

This time of the year, the city of Shanghai is tinted green. Locals love the spring here because it is very short yet very precious. If you don’t have several days to sightsee in Shanghai, never mind: bring your camera and visit these cool spots to explore in just one weekend.

Located in the historic Hongkou district,  1933 was once a prominent slaughterhouse designed by British architects in… you guessed it… 1933. The architecture not only leaves a cultural signature on the area, but it played witness to the historical change of Shanghai. After being abandoned for decades, the local government renovated 1933 into a creative center in 2008.

Spread over four levels, the huge circular central building is intricately designed with concrete spiral staircases and curved walkways which used to transport the processed pork. On the top is a circulular glass stage where you can view the entire layout of the building. The renovation work retained all the structure and color inside, leaving it stunningly original.

Though it’s a little bit spine-chilling when you walk up the narrow stairs and imagine what had happened here, the maze-like structure and marble-colored facade slow down the time and flash back all the memory of the building in front of your eyes.

As far as photography goes, 1933 is a perfect place to practice: the lines, curves, light and shade constitute all the elements of a masterpiece.

Compared with 1933, the Bridge 8 is more delicate and less remote subject for photo-taking. As the first loft building in Shanghai, the former automobile warehouse nowhouses bookstores, art studios, cafes, restaurants, and galleries, giving the new definition of hip spots among trend followers. Grey bricks, glass walls, rusty signage and patterned wood floors are all present as the renovator infused modern elements into the old industrial foundation.

The most amazing highlight- the colorful glass-box bridge cross over the Jianguo Rd.- stands as a landmark of the area. When lighted in the dark, it looks like a magical box in the sky, full of all the wonderful vibes of the sleepless city.

Be sure to spend a sunset at the Bridge 8. Stand in the middle of the bridge, and watch the sun go down on the hustle and bustle of the city.