Discover Yunjian First Tower: A Hidden Gem in Shanghai’s History

Location & How to Get There

Yunjian First Tower stands quietly at 250 Zhongshan East Road in Songjiang District, Shanghai. It’s nestled near the Songjiang Science and Technology Museum (north side), making it easy to spot if you’re exploring the area. To reach here, you can:

  • By metro: Take Line 9 to Songjiang University Town Station, then transfer to a local bus (like Songjiang Tourism Line 1) and hop off near Zhongshan East Road.
  • By bus: Buses 松江1路, 松江3路, or 松江9路 drop you close to the tower.
  • On foot: If you’re visiting nearby attractions like Fangta Park or Songjiang Old Street, it’s just a short walk away.

A Snapshot of Natural Charm

Though Yunjian First Tower isn’t surrounded by mountains or rivers, its traditional Chinese architecture blends beautifully with the modern cityscape. The tower’s red-brick walls and upward-sweeping eaves create a striking contrast against the sky. In spring, cherry blossoms near the Songjiang Science Museum add a romantic touch to photos of the tower.

Human History in Every Brick

This isn’t just any old building—it’s a time capsule! Originally built as the bell tower of Songjiang Prefecture Government during the Ming Dynasty, Yunjian First Tower has seen centuries of change. Here’s the story:

  • Architecture: The tower mimics styles from ancient China, with a double-eave hipped roof (imagine layers of roofs stacked like pancakes!) and five-room width. It’s made entirely of wooden pillars, no walls! Standing 16 meters tall, it’s like a giant sculpture come to life.
  • Tragic Past: During the 1940s, the Japanese army destroyed most of it, leaving only ruins. A typhoon in 1951 finished what war couldn’t, reducing it to rubble. But in the 1980s, experts rebuilt it to match the original design.
  • Heritage Status: In 1985, it became a protected cultural site in Songjiang, one of only two surviving “post-and-beam” towers in China after liberation.

What to See & Do

  • Photography Heaven: The tower’s ornate corners and ancient vibes make it a perfect backdrop for Instagram shots. Try framing it with the modern museum behind!
  • History Buffs: Look for the plaque explaining its story—it’s written in both Chinese and English.
  • School Connection: Fun fact: the tower now sits right next to Songjiang No. 2 Middle School. You might see students hanging out by this piece of living history!

Practical Tips

  • Open? The tower itself isn’t open for tours, but you can admire it from the street or the school’s gate.
  • Nearby Eats: After your visit, grab snacks at Songjiang Old Street (10-minute walk) or try local desserts like little caged buns at nearby shops.
  • Best Time: Visit on a sunny day for the best photos. Mornings are less crowded, and the light highlights the brickwork beautifully.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

Yunjian First Tower may be small, but it’s packed with stories. It’s like a bridge connecting Songjiang’s ancient past (think Qingming Riverside Scene paintings!) with its futuristic tech vibes. Even if you’re just passing by, take a moment to snap a photo—you’ll be standing where centuries of history meet modern Shanghai!

Pro tip: Pair this stop with a visit to the Songjiang Drum Tower or Xiudao Pagoda for a full historical adventure!