11 Places in China that Look Like Europe

Chinese are well known to imitate things. From expensive bags to anything that is on-trend in this modern world, they can produce it. Travelers are increasing because of lesser restriction in passport regime and also because of rising incomes. Europe is a continent that has a higher number of visitors and several campaigns have been made to attract more tourists in some respective cities.

China figured out that imitation of these European destinations is a brilliant idea. Now, the European atmosphere can be seen and felt without booking a flight as they already have this in their own land.

Below are the 11 places in China that look like Europe:

1. Paris – Tianducheng

Since Paris (city of lights) brightens China’s eyes, China has a complete Paris package, including its trademark, which is the Eiffel Tower and the apartment buildings. However, this area is now a ghost town because of the location that seems inconvenient to many.

2. Hallstatt – Guangdong

China’s Hallstatt is a copied architecture project by artists Phil Thompson and Sebastian Acker. This imitation of World Heritage (UNESCO) site has its complete feature like imported doves, houses similar to Alphine Village, and an artificial lake that made the original Hallstatt residents upset at the same time surprised.

3. Holland Village – Pudong

It’s like you are in the Netherland when you see the windmill near the river. The quiet town of Holland Village is part of “1 City – 9 towns” housing project, set up by the Shanghai Planning Commission in 2001. The project was not successful due to its far-flung location.

4. Thames Town

Another part of “1 City – 9 Towns” project is the Thames Town. A replica of cobbled streets, tudor buildings, red telephone boxes, Winston Churchill bronze statue, and the Queen’s guard was made at the English Town, however another abandoned town.

5. Sweden Town – in Luodian

The Sweden Town is also part of “1 City – 9 Towns” project that has been discontinued. It’s the resemblance of Sigtuna, Sweden and Lake Malaren.

6. Anting German Town

Albert Speer designed the Anting German, part of “1 City-9 Towns” project that has green spaces, restaurants, canals, and 3-5 story buildings. However, like the other town, Chinese are not interested in residing this place permanently.

 

7. Breeza Citta di Pujiang

The Breeze Citta di Puijang or Italian town located in Shanghai is another ghost town and part of “1 City-9 Towns”. Unlike other towns that have a replica of Europe, this town does not seem to copy some parts of Italy.

 

8. Tower Bridge of London – Suzhou

There’s a cafe on top of Jiangsu’s fake bridge which serves coffee (English-style) and has numerous towers, unlike the original London Tower Bridge. The only thing missing is the raising mechanism that allows any boats to pass.

 

9. Florence – Tianjin

Unlike the other replicas which are town, Florence is a shopping mall. It covers about 200,000 sqm and houses of some famous brands worldwide.

 

10. Bejan Bridge (Pont Alexandre III) – Tianjin

In the year 1973, the replica of Parisian arch bridge was made. The 4 statues represent the wishes for harmony and peace: White Tiger, Blue Dragon, Black Tortoise, and The Rosefinch.

11. Chateau de Maisons-Laffitte – Beijing

It didn’t miss any details after the usage of 10,000 photos and the original blueprints to be their guide. There’s also a wine museum and a spa inside.

 

China is also famous for its wonderful places and inventions. Read more about the top 12 things China is famous for.