The pier, close to the south end of Longteng Avenue in Xuhui District, looks like a spacecraft has landed by the Huangpu riverside.

A newly renovated pier on the WestBundinXuhuiDistrict, dubbed “the most beautiful pier,” is now open to the public.

The renovation of theGangkoudukouPier was begun in 2017, with an investment of 770 million yuan (US$110 million).

The pier, near the south end ofLongtengAvenue, used to provide timber transport toSanlinin the Pudong New Area across the Huangpu River.

TheArchiUnion design team said it took inspiration from the Rubik’s Cube to createmulti-level pathways for sightseeing, which also helps alleviate nearby traffic.

The spacecraft-styled pier is set to become a cultural landmark and modern public space with diverse functions.

Apart from ferry (SanlinLine) and cruise ship services, visitors can also access the latest news about nearby museums and buy tickets through an intelligent service station.

In the future, sightseeing bus routes and more leisure facilities by the riverside will also be introduced.

Jiang Xiaowei / SHINE

The interior design of the pier provides places for visitors to enjoy views by the Huangpu River.

Jiang Xiaowei / SHINE

The Gangkoudukou Pier provides ferry services connecting with Sanlin in the Pudong New Area.