What is the second name of Shanghai?

Beyond Shanghai: Unveiling the Ancient Name Huating

Shanghai, a global metropolis pulsating with modern energy, is more than just its current moniker. Delving into its history reveals a rich tapestry of names, each offering a glimpse into different eras and the city’s evolving identity. While “Shanghai” is universally recognized, the name Huating (滬亭) holds a special place, representing a significant chapter in the city’s long and captivating past.

Unlike the relatively recent adoption of “Shanghai,” Huating’s origins stretch back centuries, pre-dating the city’s explosive growth and international prominence. This older name isn’t simply an archaic synonym; it carries a weight of historical significance and evokes a distinct image of a quieter, pre-industrial Shanghai. The name itself, a combination of “Hu” (滬) referencing a type of fishing weir and “Ting” (亭) meaning pavilion, paints a picture of a more rural settlement, deeply connected to the Huangpu River and its abundant resources.

The transition from Huating to Shanghai reflects the city’s dramatic transformation. As the city grew in size and influence, particularly during the Qing Dynasty and beyond, the name Shanghai, likely derived from a local dialect, gradually superseded Huating in common usage. However, the older name remains embedded in the city’s collective memory, appearing in historical records, maps, and literary works. Its continued presence serves as a powerful reminder of Shanghai’s evolution from a small riverside settlement to the global powerhouse it is today.

Understanding Huating offers a valuable lens through which to view Shanghai’s history. It allows us to appreciate the depth and complexity of the city’s past, acknowledging the layers of development and cultural shifts that have shaped its present. Therefore, while “Shanghai” is the internationally recognized name, Huating serves as a vital, evocative second name, reminding us of the city’s humble beginnings and rich, ancient heritage. It is a name whispered by the echoes of history, a testament to a past that continues to inform the vibrant present of this extraordinary city.