Shanghai through cinema: Under the plane trees

Home

China

World

Politics

Business

Sci-Tech

Health

Opinions

Video

Live

Radio

World Asia-Pacific Middle East Europe Americas Africa

By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of cookies, revised Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. You can change your cookie settings through your browser.

I agree

Shanghai through cinema: Under the plane trees

What image comes to mind when you think of Shanghai? For many film lovers, it's a sun-dappled street beneath a canopy of plane trees.

As the 2026 Shanghai International Film Festival draws near, we're revisiting one of the city's most iconic cinematic symbols. From the nostalgic elegance to the contemporary charm, Shanghai's tree-lined avenues have long provided the backdrop for stories of romance, chance encounters and everyday life. More than part of the scenery, the city's plane trees have become a character in their own right – quietly witnessing generations of stories unfold on screen.

(Photos via VCG)

Open in CGTN APP for better experience

Search Trends