Changzhou Cultural Plaza: A Filming Location for Modern Fantasy Films
General Introduction
Changzhou Cultural Plaza is a landmark architectural complex in the Xinbei District. It consists of 6 arch-shaped buildings, covering a total area of 490,000 square meters, integrating a library, art museum, art and culture center, and commercial blocks. The surreal geometric lines and interlaced light and shadows create a futuristic "city photo frame" during the day, and transform into a dazzling and magical dome at night. Every shot is a blockbuster! The best part is that it's free!
Must-See Highlights
Architectural Photography Goals
Recommended angles: Shoot upwards from under the "cross dome" in the center of the square, where the gaps in the architecture and the sky form a natural frame; use the reflection of the sunken square's water surface for symmetrical composition, and place your phone close to the ground to capture an "Inception" effect (refer to the reflection techniques on webpage 3)!
Time selection: It is recommended to go in the early morning or evening to avoid the overhead light at noon. The night scene lights turn on at 19:00, filling the scene with a blue-purple sci-fi vibe!
Free Cultural Experience
New Changzhou Library: 5G coverage + 1.2 million books, with many picture books in the parent-child area, making it kid-friendly!
Changzhou Art Museum: Permanent free exhibitions, recently featuring the "Wetland Elf" ecological exhibition, with interactive light and shadow installations.
Hidden Gems
Wild Concerts: Open-air music festivals are often held in the square during holidays. Enjoy free live music!
Commercial Blocks: There are light food and coffee shops on the first floor below ground, but the prices are relatively high. It is recommended to bring your own water cup, as there is direct drinking water in the building!
Heads up: There is a lot of foot traffic on weekends, so it is recommended to take photos on weekdays; the square is windy, so wear a windproof jacket!
Ticket Prices & Opening Hours
The square is open for free all day. The art museum/library is open from 9:00–17:00 (closed on Mondays).
Additional tickets are required for special exhibitions or market events.
Personal Experience*
The architectural design is better than Shanghai's popular spots! The library's parent-child area has a complete collection of children's books, making it easy to entertain kids. However, the restaurants in the commercial area are not cost-effective. A bowl of noodles costs CNY 48, which is really expensive. The signs in the underground parking lot are confusing, and it took 20 minutes to find the car!
Transportation (From Shanghai)
High-speed train: Shanghai Hongqiao → Changzhou Station (1 hr/CNY 74.5). Transfer to Metro Line 1 to Citizen Square Station Exit 2, and walk for 5 minutes to arrive!
2️⃣ Self-driving: Navigate to "Changzhou Cultural Plaza Parking Lot", CNY 5/hr. Parking spaces are limited on weekends, so it is recommended to arrive early!