There are so many tourist attractions in Shanghai that you might miss some cool hidden gems like the 1933 Slaughterhouse! It’s located near Hailun Rd Station (metro Line 4 & 10) and entrance to this photography paradise is free 🙂
And it’s not just the slaughterhouse itself that’s worth a visit. After arriving at Hailun Rd Station, you will be treated on some cool views of the pearl oriental tower while you are wandering through historic streets. This is the wonderful thing about Shanghai for me, it’s a cocktail of old and new and you will probably enjoy every sip!
After a 10 minute walk by the canals you will reach the slaughterhouse that was built in 1933. It ss a fascinating building, you feel like you are getting lost in one of Eshers’ drawings.
This is not just a creative masterpiece. The different sized “bridges” directed the animals to their final destination. Windows were faced to the West where the wind could help to reduce the smell. The Buddhist holy land is also facing West and this would help for the animal’s reincarnation.
Today you can enjoy this maze, filled with trendy coffee shops, art galleries, creative office spaces and sadly even a Starbucks. Oh there is a dog cafe (Canil) as well, no not to eat them just a place where you can play with dogs while having a drink.
You can easily enjoy a few hours of getting lost and taking pictures. Just take a moment and try to imagine the scene here in 1933, 130 tons of cattle turned into meat.
On your way out I suggest you follow some of the canals to get some more views of Pudong.
That’s it, hope you enjoy an afternoon at this quirky place in town!
Was it once really a slaughterhouse?
Yes it was 🙂 Built in 1933 as slaughterhouse and now turned into office / art / event space
Thanks for sharing