As the final exhibition of the 2025 second-phase Chinese Excellent Cultural Experience Project at the Chinese National Community Experience Hall, the Shanghai Experience Zone’s “Yangpu Moment” debuted on July 2. Centered around the theme “Home in Shanghai, People’s Yangpu,” the exhibition showcased the achievements of urban development, the vivid interpretation of revolutionary heritage, the dynamic display of intangible cultural heritage, and heartfelt stories of collaborative partnerships, attracting countless citizens and visitors to this heartwarming celebration of the “People’s City.”

Upon entering the exhibition area, visitors were immersed in the vibrant practices of Yangpu’s “People’s City” initiative. The philosophy of “A city built by the people, for the people” has taken root in Yangpu, with the grand transformation of the Yangpu Riverside “1+6” comprehensive renovation unfolding before their eyes. The remarkable outcomes of urban renewal projects like the 228 Neighborhood and the convenience of the “15-minute living circle” allowed visitors to experience the tangible joys of everyday life.

“This exhibition showcases Yangpu’s culture, spirit, and character to the nation, and we believe it will become a shining emblem of our district,” said a representative from the Yangpu Ethnic Unity and Progress Association.

The exhibition blended historical memory with modern technology, reflecting Yangpu’s past and future. In the “City of Glory” section, the stories of the Work-Study Movement in France from the Huangpu Wharf a century ago, the stirring anthem of the nation, and the early dissemination of the “Communist Manifesto” stood as beacons of history, inspiring visitors to remember their roots. In the “City of Innovation” zone, guests were transported into a world of cutting-edge technology, experiencing Yangpu’s dynamic role as a hub of scientific advancement. Meanwhile, the “Artisan Craftsmanship” and “Artistic Living” sections featured traditional skills like Chinese knot buttons, Shanghainese wool knitting, and sachet-making, allowing visitors to appreciate the elegance of heritage craftsmanship.


This cultural feast also highlighted heartwarming stories of regional collaboration. Over the years, Yangpu has partnered with counties in Yunnan’s Lijiang—Yongsheng, Yulong, Ninglang—as well as Shangri-La in Diqing and Lhaze County in Tibet’s Shigatse, fostering deep bonds akin to the unbreakable ties between mountains and seas.

The “Unity for the Future” train-shaped display area featured agricultural specialties from Lijiang and other regions, symbolizing shared aspirations for development. Outside the exhibition hall, a marketplace offered a variety of Yangpu-themed cultural and creative products, allowing visitors to take home a piece of the district’s cultural legacy.

“Here, I can feel the diverse cultural traditions of different ethnic groups and the strong sense of unity and mutual support within the Chinese national community, which deeply moves me,” shared a student volunteer.


The opening ceremony was a dazzling tapestry of multicultural performances—a solo performance of “Walking Together” echoed with uplifting energy, showcasing the power of solidarity. Ethnic dances followed, their graceful movements embodying the beauty of diverse traditions, while the male trio “City of the People” painted a hopeful vision for Yangpu’s future with its stirring melodies.

The “Yangpu Moment” exhibition will run until July 6.

Chinese National Community Experience Hall

The Chinese National Community Experience Hall is a cultural institution dedicated to showcasing the unity and diversity of China’s 56 ethnic groups. It offers interactive exhibits and immersive experiences to promote understanding and solidarity among different ethnic communities. Established to reflect China’s commitment to ethnic harmony, the hall highlights shared history, traditions, and achievements under the national community framework.

Shanghai Experience Zone

The Shanghai Experience Zone is a modern exhibition and interactive space designed to showcase cutting-edge technology, urban development, and cultural innovation in Shanghai. Opened as part of the city’s push to highlight its advancements, it features immersive displays on smart city initiatives, sustainability, and digital art. While its exact history is brief, it reflects Shanghai’s role as a global hub for technology and culture in the 21st century.

Yangpu Riverside

Yangpu Riverside, located in Shanghai along the Huangpu River, is a revitalized industrial area transformed into a vibrant public space. Once home to China’s early 20th-century factories and docks, it now features scenic walkways, green parks, and preserved industrial relics, blending history with modernity. The area showcases Shanghai’s urban renewal efforts while honoring its industrial heritage.

228 Neighborhood

The **228 Neighborhood** in Taipei, Taiwan, is named in memory of the **February 28 Incident (228 Incident)** of 1947, a violent anti-government uprising and subsequent crackdown that marked a dark period in Taiwan’s history. Today, the area serves as a cultural and historical hub, featuring the **228 Memorial Park** and museum, which honor the victims and promote peace and reconciliation. The neighborhood symbolizes Taiwan’s journey toward democracy and remembrance of its past struggles.

15-minute living circle

A *15-minute living circle* refers to an urban planning concept where residents can access essential services—such as schools, healthcare, parks, and shopping—within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from their homes. Popularized by Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, the idea promotes sustainability, reduced car dependency, and stronger community ties by creating self-sufficient neighborhoods. The concept builds on earlier urbanist principles like the *garden city* and *new urbanism*, aiming to improve quality of life while addressing climate change and urban sprawl.

Huangpu Wharf

Huangpu Wharf, located along the Huangpu River in Shanghai, is a historic waterfront area that played a key role in the city’s development as a major trading port since the late 19th century. Once a bustling hub for international commerce, it now offers scenic river views, cultural attractions, and a glimpse into Shanghai’s maritime past. The wharf area is also famous for its proximity to landmarks like the Bund and Pudong’s modern skyline.

Communist Manifesto

The *Communist Manifesto*, written by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels in 1848, is a foundational political pamphlet that outlines the principles of Marxism and critiques capitalism. It calls for class struggle and the overthrow of bourgeois rule, advocating for a proletarian revolution to establish a classless society. Historically, it became one of the most influential political texts, shaping socialist and communist movements worldwide.

Chinese knot buttons

Chinese knot buttons, or *zhongguo jie niukou* (中国结纽扣), are traditional decorative fasteners originating from ancient China, often crafted from silk or cotton cords. They evolved from practical clothing closures into intricate art pieces during the Ming and Qing dynasties, symbolizing luck, prosperity, and unity. Today, they remain a cultural emblem, used in traditional attire and modern fashion.

Shanghainese wool knitting

Shanghainese wool knitting, a traditional craft from Shanghai, became popular in the early 20th century as Western-style fashion influenced Chinese urban culture. Known for its intricate patterns and fine craftsmanship, it was especially cherished for handmade sweaters, scarves, and gloves. Though less common today, it remains a nostalgic symbol of Shanghai’s blend of Eastern and Western aesthetics.

sachet-making

Sachet-making is a traditional craft that involves creating small, fragrant pouches filled with dried herbs, flowers, or spices, often used for scenting linens or repelling insects. Historically, sachets date back to ancient civilizations like Egypt and China, where they were used for both practical and ceremonial purposes. Today, sachet-making remains a popular DIY and artisanal practice, blending cultural heritage with modern creativity.

Yongsheng

Yongsheng is a county located in Lijiang City, Yunnan Province, China, known for its rich ethnic diversity and scenic landscapes. Historically, it was an important stop on the ancient Tea Horse Road, facilitating trade between Yunnan and Tibet. The area is also home to cultural heritage sites, including traditional villages of the Yi and other ethnic minorities, as well as natural attractions like the Chenghai Lake.

Yulong

Yulong, also known as Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, is a stunning mountain range in Yunnan Province, China, renowned for its snow-capped peaks and breathtaking scenery. It holds cultural significance for the local Naxi people, who consider it a sacred place and the spiritual embodiment of their protector god. The mountain has a rich history tied to the ancient Tea Horse Road and remains a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and exploring traditional Naxi culture.

Ninglang

Ninglang is a county located in Yunnan Province, China, known for its rich ethnic diversity, particularly the Yi and Mosuo people. It is part of the larger Lijiang region and features stunning natural landscapes, including Lugu Lake, a famous cultural and ecological site shared with Sichuan Province. Historically, Ninglang has been an important area for ethnic minority cultures, preserving traditional customs and matrilineal societies among the Mosuo people.

Shangri-La

Shangri-La is a fictional paradise described in James Hilton’s 1933 novel *Lost Horizon*, depicted as a secluded, utopian valley in the Himalayas where people live in peace and harmony. Inspired by Tibetan Buddhist myths of Shambhala, the name has since been adopted by real places, such as Zhongdian County in China’s Yunnan Province, which was renamed “Shangri-La” in 2001 to promote tourism and reflect its stunning landscapes and Tibetan culture. The area is known for its monasteries, like Songzanlin, and its connection to Himalayan spiritual traditions.

Diqing

Diqing (迪庆), officially known as Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, is a scenic region in northwestern Yunnan Province, China, bordering Tibet. It is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Meili Snow Mountain and Shangri-La (formerly Zhongdian), a county inspired by the mythical paradise described in James Hilton’s novel *Lost Horizon*. With a rich Tibetan cultural heritage, Diqing is home to ancient monasteries like Songzanlin (Ganden Sumtseling) and vibrant ethnic traditions, blending Tibetan, Naxi, and Han influences. Historically, it was part of the ancient Tea Horse Road trade route, connecting Yunnan and Tibet.

Lhaze County

Lhaze County, located in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, is known for its stunning Himalayan landscapes and rich Tibetan Buddhist culture. Historically, it has been an important area for trade and pilgrimage, with landmarks like the Rongbuk Monastery—one of the highest-elevation monasteries in the world—nearby. The region reflects traditional Tibetan life and offers access to Mount Everest’s northern base camp.

Shigatse

Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, is a historic and cultural hub known as the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama and home to the majestic Tashilhunpo Monastery, founded in 1447. Located along the trade route between Tibet and Nepal, it served as a vital political and religious center. Today, it remains an important pilgrimage site and a gateway to Mount Everest, blending rich Tibetan heritage with stunning Himalayan landscapes.