Kikyo Space–– Most instagrammable place in Shanghai?

An art space called Kikyo Space opened in Xuhui, the central region of Shanghai, on July 14th, 2018. It is a place where various scenes were set up specifically for photo-taking. Every afternoon, eager photographers from all around Shanghai excitedly gather at Kikyo Space with their phones and cameras, trying to get the best angle for their photos.

People speak highly of Kikyo Space on social media. There are posts where people claim that they have taken many pictures in the space and frequent mentions of how “it’s cool.” Students from our school who have went to the space also have a positive impression of it. “So, at first I thought that this place was pretty, and I have an interest in taking cool photos so I went there,” said Irene Zhang (9A).  “The idea of having a place like that where you can take aesthetically pleasing pictures and videos was really cool! I would totally like to go again and take more good pictures,” said Yeseo Jeon (9A).

Despite the pervasive positive comments for Kikyo Space, does this art place actually appeal to professional photographers? Kikyo Space has a public notice saying that their space should not be used for commercial purposes. Does this mean that there were photographers who have taken pictures at Kikyo Space for commercial use before? Seventh grade history teacher and skilled photographer, Daniel  Yenshaw, had a different opinion about the art space. “It doesn’t really appeal to [me] because [it’s] something fake. People can just go out, and they can get their phones and just sit there around there and just take pictures of themselves.”  Mr. Yenshaw expressed that he would not choose to go to Kikyo space for photo opportunities. “It’s just not something that I will do at all because I want more natural stuff. Stuff that’s not created, just stuff that’s naturally created, not created by someone just so you can go and take pictures because you want to have the best selfies in all of Shanghai.”

Considering both the positive and negative reviews for Kikyo space, it seems that while the art space may hold appeal for amateur photographers, it may not be as attractive to serious photographers. Kikyo Space, however, remains an interesting place to explore in Shanghai.

Featured Image – Mint Fridges Courtesy of Irene Zhang