This Mall in Shanghai Looks Like a Giant Mountain Covered in Trees 🌳

This is not Photoshop—Shanghai literally grew a mountain of trees on top of a mall. Rising along Suzhou Creek in Putuo District, this mega-complex designed by Heatherwick Studio stacks over a thousand trees and plants across chunky concrete columns, making the whole place look like two forested peaks sprouting from the city. 🌿⛰️

Built on the old site of a flour mill and right next to the M50 art district, the project mixes shopping, cafés, galleries, and rooftop terraces with a very green twist. Each column doubles as a giant planter, holding more than 70 species of trees and shrubs. Walk by at sunset and you’ll see locals comparing it to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon—or a Minecraft build brought to life. 🏙️🎮

It’s not just about looking pretty either: the greenery helps with shade and air quality, while giving Shanghai one of its most Instagrammable landmarks. Phase 2, a taller “east mountain” tower, is still under construction, which means the skyline forest is only getting bigger.

Netizens? Some are amazed (“finally, a mall that’s not boring!”), others roll their eyes (“greenwashing much?”). Either way, this riverside jungle mall is a must-see on your next Shanghai walk. 📸