A Surprising New Addition is Taking Over Shanghai's Streets? →

A Surprising New Addition is Taking Over Shanghai's Streets – Have You Noticed?

In a city where the Citywalk trend is booming, Shanghai's extensive network of "public seating" has become an unexpected delight for locals and tourists alike. Whether in parks, green spaces, shopping streets, or subway stations, Shanghai has transformed into a city where anyone can easily find a spot to rest.

Check our latest video on China Visa and foreign-related knowledge!

Follow our channel for updates 👇

By the end of 2023, over 21,000 public seating areas had been optimized or newly installed, with 743 adopted and maintained through community sponsorship. For many, these seats represent more than just a place to sit; they're seen as a reflection of Shanghai's warm and inclusive spirit. Fang Yizhou, a Shanghai representative, notes, "An admirable city shines through in its small details. A simple bench showcases Shanghai's hospitality." With a rapidly aging population, the city plans to increase the number of public seats and make them more senior-friendly.

High-Tech and Trendy Seating

Are these 21,000 benches enough for the city's residents and visitors? A walk through major parks, shopping areas, and public spaces reveals a variety of seating styles, each with its own unique charm. Some are sleek and modern, others are infused with artistic elements, and some integrate local cultural themes, creating quiet corners where people can relax amidst the hustle and bustle.

In areas like the Expo Park, certain benches offer phone-charging capabilities, powered by solar panels with both wired and wireless charging options. The benches along Suzhou Creek near the Sihang Warehouse go even further by adding mosquito-repellent features. "I was shocked when I saw this bench. Shanghai is so advanced!" a local resident commented, demonstrating the features of this smart seating option.

Aside from high-tech features, many of Shanghai's benches have a stylish appeal. For instance, the West Bund's millipede-shaped benches attract countless visitors looking for a unique photo backdrop. In other spots, like Xinhua Road, benches are designed with abstract smiley faces, creating a cheerful invitation for passersby.

Comfortable and Senior-Friendly Options

While high-tech and artistic benches attract attention, comfort remains the priority, especially for the city's elderly population. Elderly residents, who often stroll along scenic areas like Suzhou Creek, favor benches with backrests and armrests to support their posture and ease the strain of standing. Additionally, materials like wood are preferred for their warmth, especially in winter, over colder materials like metal.

The local government has taken steps to ensure that these seats are inclusive. Guidelines specify that benches in senior activity areas should avoid metal, have a height of 40-45 cm for easier access, and be spaced to accommodate wheelchairs, making these spots accessible to all.

Responding to Public Feedback

Public input has played a key role in the placement and design of these benches. In Xuhui District, for example, officials have focused on areas frequented by the elderly, such as grocery markets and healthcare facilities, where benches offer much-needed resting points during shopping trips or doctor visits. In response, benches along popular routes, like Qinzhou Road and near shopping centers, have been thoughtfully installed.

The Shanghai Greening and Urban Appearance Bureau has pledged to consider residents' needs and prioritize safety, comfort, and inclusivity in the ongoing development of public seating. Public representatives will be invited to participate in inspections, gathering citizen feedback to continually improve seating options.

In Shanghai, public seating is more than just a convenience—it's a testament to thoughtful urban planning, creating a welcoming, comfortable environment for all who live in or visit this vibrant city.

Source: 上海规划资源

Get daily news, tips, and events in Shanghai

Connect with expat communities and industry experts

For the latest jobs&policy updates, scan the code below to follow AnyJob! 

If you have any questions about China visa applications (work visa, company registration and more), please contact our visa consultant Lisa.

Click "Wow" if you like this article