bridge of happiness in china connects city and park
Xi Bridge, also known as the Bridge of Happiness, is a pedestrian structure in Huashan Greenland in Shanghai, China. The bridge spans a narrow stream and sits within a dense grove of trees, connecting the city street to the park’s central lawn. It functions both as an accessible circulation route and as a small ceremonial space, combining infrastructure with a place for gathering and ritual.
Huashan Greenland lies at the edge of the Former French Concession and near Xingfuli, a commercial block known as the Lane of Happiness. The park has recently undergone a series of upgrades, including the creation of a ‘Path of Happiness’ marked by open spaces and pink landscape elements. The relocation of the Changning District Marriage Registration Center nearby in early 2026 further reinforced the area’s identity as a destination associated with weddings and celebration.
all images Fangfang Tian
ceremonial space by HCCH Studio cast in pink concrete
The original brief called for two separate elements: an accessible bridge and a small pavilion for ceremonial use and photography. The design team combined these requirements into a single structure. A continuous pink form operates simultaneously as a gently arched bridge and a vertical tower, creating a unified architectural gesture that supports both movement and gathering.
The structure uses cast-in-place pink concrete. The bridge deck rises in a soft arch over the stream and existing stones, while the tower opens at the top to the sky. Openings in the tower project heart-shaped light patterns onto the ground below. In front of the tower, a circular forecourt forms a small plaza that accommodates ceremonies as well as everyday seating. A palette of concrete, granite, and exposed aggregate in varying shades of pink integrates the structure with the surrounding planting.
huashan greenland lies at the edge of a commercial block known as the lane of happiness
shanghai park revived with colorful structure
During design development, the team conducted detailed site studies and tested multiple alignments to minimize impact on existing mature trees and optimize the foundation layout. Local residents participated in selecting the final scheme. The broader park renewal also includes a landscaped stair at the Xingfu Road entrance, upgrades to the pedestrian boardwalk, and improvements to lawn and planting areas. Beyond its role as a wedding destination, Xi Bridge supports daily use. Residents cross it as part of routine circulation, children play along its structure, and neighbors gather in the plaza. These everyday activities anchor the structure within the life of the park, allowing it to function as both a symbolic landmark and a familiar public space.
the team conducted detailed site studies and tested multiple alignments to minimize impact on existing mature trees
the bridge spans a narrow stream, connecting the city street to the park’s central lawn
