In a groundbreaking feat of modern engineering, China is using 432 standing robots to return a 7,500-ton historic Shikumen complex in Shanghai to its original location. Discover how robotics and heritage preservation are reshaping urban development.

A Fusion of Heritage and Technology: China’s Robotic Relocation of History


In a rare intersection of cultural preservation and technological innovation, China is undertaking a remarkable engineering project—relocating an entire 7,500-ton architectural complex in Shanghai using robotic power.

The historic Shikumen-style buildings, part of the iconic Zhang Garden site, are being restored to their original location after being temporarily moved to accommodate a new underground shopping development. The operation, now captivating global audiences, involves the deployment of 432 standing robots in one of the most ambitious relocation efforts ever seen in urban construction.

Returning to the Past: Why the Shikumen Complex Matters


Located in the heart of Shanghai, the Shikumen complex is more than just a cluster of old buildings. Shikumen, meaning "stone gate," refers to a traditional architectural style that blends Western and Chinese elements, emblematic of Shanghai’s 19th and early 20th-century urban culture.

Preserving such structures is crucial in maintaining the city's historic identity amid rapid urbanisation. In this case, the relocation was necessary to pave the way for a modern commercial space beneath the surface—but plans were put in place to ensure that the heritage above would not be sacrificed.

432 Robots at Work: How China Is Moving Mountains


To return the complex to its original position, Chinese engineers enlisted the help of 432 autonomous hydraulic robots. These standing robots function like robotic "legs," lifting and moving the massive structure gradually across a carefully plotted path.

The building moves at an average speed of 10 metres per day—slow by conventional transport standards, but astonishing considering the weight and fragility of the structure involved. The robots synchronise with one another to avoid stress fractures or uneven shifting, ensuring the building’s integrity remains intact throughout the move.

This method not only minimises disruption to the structure but also represents a turning point in how large-scale relocations can be approached in future engineering and conservation projects.

A Blueprint for Future Urban Development


The project is being hailed as a success story in balancing progress with preservation. As China continues to modernise its cities, the approach taken in Shanghai could serve as a model for urban planners worldwide seeking to preserve historical identity without halting innovation.

Videos of the operation have gone viral, showing the surreal sight of a building inching forward—propelled not by cranes or bulldozers, but by intelligent machines. It’s a moment that underscores the growing role of robotics in urban engineering and heritage conservation.

Preserving the Past with the Technology of Tomorrow

Heritage on the Move: China Leads the Way

China’s use of 432 robots to relocate a 7,500-ton historic complex is not just an engineering achievement—it’s a symbol of the country’s commitment to harmonising the past with the future. As urban skylines rise, the thoughtful preservation of cultural landmarks becomes a vital part of sustainable development.

By blending advanced robotics with architectural care, China is rewriting the rulebook on how we move forward—without leaving history behind.