Situated at the confluence of the Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek, Shanghai Mansion celebrates its 90th anniversary this year. Once one of the three tallest buildings on the Bund and one of the most representative landmarks of the “one river, one creek” area, it carries rich urban memories.
The Second Tallest Building on the Shanghai Bund
Originally named Broadway Mansion, Shanghai Mansion was built on the site of the British Yee Kwong Real Estate Company’s property. It was designed by the company’s architect Bright Farey, constructed by the Chinese Xinrenji Construction Company, and the British Kung Ho & Co. was invited as the design consultant.
The exterior facade of Broadway Mansion is simple and elegant, without elaborate classical decorations, only partially adorned with Art Deco-style lace patterns, representing an early example of Shanghai’s high-rise buildings moving towards a modernist style.
Starting from the 11th floor, the building gradually recedes upwards, forming terraces on both wings, with the 18th floor being the highest terrace.
Before the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Shanghai Mansion was the second tallest building on the Shanghai Bund, second only to the International Hotel.
It had the highest observation restaurant and terrace in Shanghai at the time and was one of the three tallest buildings on the Bund, along with the Sassoon House (now Peace Hotel) and the Bank of China Building.
After its completion, Broadway Mansion served as a high-end apartment exclusively for foreign residents, mainly senior staff working in foreign agencies and companies. The interior was entirely designed in a Western style, with all kinds of living facilities, including rare amenities such as air conditioning, heating, and standard kitchen and bathroom equipment, making it an ideal place for Western expatriates to relax and socialize in Shanghai.
One of the Best Vantage Points Overlooking the Bund
During the battle to liberate Shanghai, the Kuomintang defenders stubbornly resisted here. The People’s Liberation Army chose to sacrifice lives rather than bombard the building, believing that “these high-rise buildings will soon return to the hands of the people and must be preserved!”
On May 27, 1949, Shanghai was fully liberated. A huge banner reading “Warmly Welcome the Chinese People’s Liberation Army to Liberate Shanghai” was hung atop Broadway Mansion. The workers who stayed behind set off firecrackers to express their enthusiastic welcome to the Liberation Army.
In 1951, Shanghai Mayor Chen Yi ordered the renaming of “Broadway Mansion” to “Shanghai Mansion,” making it an important venue for the Shanghai People’s Government to receive heads of state and distinguished guests from various countries.
The 18th-floor terrace of Shanghai Mansion is one of the best vantage points for leaders to accompany foreign dignitaries to overlook the Bund.
A plaque reading “World Leaders and Friends Visit Shanghai Mansion to View the City” was erected. Since 1956, countless heads of state and international friends have ascended to the terrace to take in the sights of Shanghai.
Premier Zhou Enlai was particularly fond of the 18th-floor terrace. Every time he accompanied foreign heads of state on a visit to Shanghai, he liked to come here. Therefore, Premier Zhou Enlai accompanied foreign guests to the terrace the most times.
In September 1973, despite his illness, Premier Zhou accompanied French President Pompidou to Shanghai Mansion. After a brief rest in the VIP lounge on the 18th floor, he accompanied the French guests to the terrace, happily overlooking the urban area and the Bund, opening a new chapter in Sino-French friendly relations.
Old Objects Cherishing the Building’s Elegance
Today, Shanghai Mansion remains a popular destination for Chinese and foreign tourists visiting Shanghai. Many old objects are still preserved in the building, cherishing the gifts from the past.
Under the afternoon clear sky, ascend to Shanghai Mansion, enjoy the city’s stunning panorama while indulging in exquisite and tempting desserts.
A leisurely and comfortable afternoon tea time with the scenery on both sides of the Huangpu River is within reach.
Shanghai Mansion
📍: No. 20 North Suzhou Road, Hongkou District
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