People's Park

People's Park is located on a parcel of land in central People's Square, whose incarnation was the northern part of the city's racecourse in the colonial age (1862).

The park covers 98,200 square meters (24.3 acres) and has been established with a great amount of green space. Pathways wind through beautifully manicured gardens, lotus ponds, and pavilions, taking a leisurely stroll within it can be quite a joy of relaxing.

Spreading along the opposite side of the park's northern border road - West Nanjing Road is a line of stunning architectural landmarks, prominent two of which - the Grand Cinema and the Park Hotel are designed by modernist Hungarian Architect Lazslo Hudec. Southward the park, there are a couple of attractions and tourist destinations which include the office building of the Municipal Government, the Grand Theater, the Urban Planning Exhibition Center, the Shanghai Museum, and the Shanghai History Museum.

The park is the place where locals go to unwind over a game of chess, practice their English at the weekly "English corner", or get centered with tai chi 太极, a slow and graceful form of shadow boxing. On the weekends don't miss the marriage market, where parents seek out suitors for their sons and daughters -- quite a fascinating social spectacle.

There are also a few carnival rides if you're keen.