Tian An 1000 Trees is a striking architectural landmark on the Suzhou Creek, designed by renowned British designer Thomas Heatherwick. The building is a shopping mall with thousands of trees planted atop concrete columns, giving it a "Hanging Gardens of Babylon" feel — an architecture photo spot unlike anywhere else in Shanghai.
What Is Tian An 1000 Trees
The building sits on Moganshan Road in Putuo District, along the Suzhou Creek, near the M50 Art Park. Its standout feature is thousands of cylindrical concrete columns with trees planted on top, stacked in tiers to look like a floating forest — a striking blend of modern architecture and green space.
Best Photo Spots
Changhua Road Bridge
The most popular photo spot is on Changhua Road Bridge, which crosses the Suzhou Creek right in front of the building. From here you get the whole building in frame with its reflection in the water, giving photos real depth and a clear architectural feel.
Looking Up From the Entrance
Shooting from below looking up shows the stacked tiers of tree-columns clearly — great for photos that emphasize the scale of the architecture.
How to Get There
The closest metro station is Jiangning Road on Line 13, about a 10-minute walk to the building. It pairs well with a visit to the nearby M50 art district, so you can plan two photo spots in one trip.
Is a MY FOTO Photographer Worth It vs. Going Alone?
Because this is an architecture-focused location, choosing the right angle and timing for the light makes a big difference in how dimensional the photos look. An experienced photographer will help pick the timing and camera angle that fits the style you want, whether that's pure architecture shots or portraits with the building as a backdrop.
Related Links
View Shanghai City Walk photographers / View pricing
Read next: Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town / Shanghai Trip Prep Guide 2026 / Yuyuan Garden & Chenghuangmiao
Frequently Asked Questions
Where in Shanghai is Tian An 1000 Trees?
It's on Moganshan Road in Putuo District, along the Suzhou Creek, near Jiangning Road metro station on Line 13.
Is there an entrance fee?
Shooting around the exterior of the building and on the bridge is free, since it's public space and a shopping mall.
What's the best time to visit for good photos?
Early evening before sunset gives the softest light and the best water reflections.