Located at No. 457 North Shaanxi Road, the former residence of Robert Ho Tung was designed by László Hudec. Built in 1928, this century-old villa has recently opened to the public for the first time.
Video Tour of
the Newly Opened Villa in Jing'an
Not only is it hosting Daido Moriyama's largest photography exhibition in China, but Now Space Phase III is also nearby.
Century-Old Villa First Opens
The Former Residence of Hong Kong's Tycoon
Shanghai is a city that never ceases to surprise. The villa at No. 457 North Shaanxi Road, just a stone's throw from West Nanjing Road, is one such surprise.
Built in 1928, this century-old masterpiece is one of Hudec's early works.
The villa is the former residence of Robert Ho Tung, who was a prominent comprador, businessman, and philanthropist in Hong Kong.
This two-floor neoclassical villa stands as the second building Hudec designed in Shanghai. In addition to the Western design, it is accompanied by a traditional Chinese garden, blending Eastern and Western architectural styles.
The villa's main and side facades are adorned with Ionic columns and pilasters.
In 1957, the villa was repurposed as the editorial office for the dictionary Cihai of the Zhonghua Book Company.
Although the former residence of Robert Ho Tung underwent renovation a few years ago, it remained closed until now. Thanks to the recently opened Daido Moriyama's photography exhibition, visitors can explore the interior of this historical gem.
Daido Moriyama, a pioneering figure in contemporary Japanese photography, is showcasing his largest exhibition in China here.
Beyond the villa, there's also a hub, Now Space Phase III, tucked inside. While only two stores are open, the architecture and garden make it worth a visit.
Daido Moriyama's Photography Exhibition
Explore a World of Black and White
Renowned for his black-and-white street photography, Daido Moriyama is considered one of the most influential Japanese photographers. This exhibition is his largest photography exhibition in China.
Spanning two floors and 16 rooms, there are over a hundred pieces on display. You can fully immerse yourself in Moriyama's art while also admiring the century-old villa from the inside.
At the entrance, there are filter cards in blue, red, yellow, or green. You can pick one of them and view the artwork through different color lenses.
The spiral staircase that connects the two floors is a luxurious and elegant feature, showcasing the refined charm of villas in the early 20th century.
The exhibition starts on the second floor, where you'll find Moriyama's iconic screen-printed canvas works.
As you explore deeper, you'll find a striking space adorned with red lips. This installation restores the space of Kuro Bar in Shinjuku in 2005.
The first floor mainly presents gelatin silver prints, Moriyama's documentary, and his publishing project.
As you walk through, take in the parquet flooring, ceiling mouldings, and European-style fireplaces that blend classical European aesthetics with Chinese elements.
If you bring a Ricoh GR series camera to the exhibition and capture your experience, you might receive an exclusive gift.
So grab your camera and come capture the black-and-white moments of Daido Moriyama's world.
Address: The former residence of Robert Ho Tung, No. 457 North Shaanxi Road, Jing'an District
Duration: Now-October 7, 2024
Time: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:30-19:30 (last admission at 19:00)
Ticket Price: Single: RMB 78; Double: RMB 138
Now Space Phase III
Blend of Architecture and Nature
After soaking in the exhibition, take a stroll deeper into the space, and you'll find the newly opened Now Space Phase III.
With its classic architectural lines and symmetrical aesthetics, this area offers endless opportunities for capturing stunning photos.
The white buildings integrate with the surrounding natural beauty, creating a harmonious blend of architecture and landscape.
Concrete and glass create a transition between the indoors and outdoors.
Since most of the area is still unoccupied by businesses, it retains a raw beauty that highlights the original architectural form.
Currently, there are only three stores in the hub, with two already open and the third, Bottega, set to open soon.
Spot Table X Endo
On the first floor, you'll find Spot Table, the second coffee brand by Coffee Spot.
The current seasonal set focuses on stone fruits, exploring the journey from root to branch and the fruit.
Spot Table has also teamed up with Endo, one of Shanghai's most popular dessert stores, offering a delightful experience where coffee and desserts meet.
It's pet-friendly, so bring along your furry friend to enjoy a relaxing time.
Address: Building 10, Room 104, No. 457 North Shaanxi Road
Lumos X MCM
Lumos, the popular flower shop once on Shaoxing Road, opens an upgraded location on the second floor of Now Space Phase III.
Branches running through the concrete structure bring energy to the space.
The store is currently hosting a pop-up event with MCM, where you can create your own bouquet and embark on a stylish journey with MCM.
Address: Building 10, Room 205, No. 457 North Shaanxi Road
Video of Museum of Art Pudong
Video of Museum of Art Pudong
Yoga Retreat at New Luxury Hotel in Huangshan
New Urban Forest in Shanghai Goes Viral Online
New Urban Forest in Shanghai Goes Viral Online
36 New Shopping Malls to Open in Shanghai
Healing Retreat in Water Town near Shanghai