The World's Most Lavish Deserted Structures
2. China's Houtouwan
Houtouwan, Shengshan Island, China Location: Shengshan Island, Houwan, China
Time Period: 1980s
Price: Not Specified
Houtouwan is an abandoned fishing town located east of Shanghai, nestled within a series of 400 islets on the northern side of Shengshan Island. Once a vibrant community, it has now been overtaken by nature, with buildings engulfed in vegetation.
Today, Houtouwan serves as a poignant metaphor for the consequences of sudden human disappearance, showcasing how quickly nature can reclaim space once occupied by people.
Houtouwan, Shengshan Island, China
Houtouwan was once home to around 2,000 fishermen. However, in the early 1990s, challenges related to food distribution and education prompted many residents to abandon the village. A small group continued to inhabit the town until 2002, after which it was fully deserted.
Today, Houtouwan has transformed into a popular destination for adventurers and photographers seeking to explore its haunting beauty and capture its otherworldly images amidst the overgrown ruins.
