The proposed design for a train station in Nanjing, China, has sparked discussions and ridicule among internet users.
The station's unique architecture, resembling a sanitary pad according to some, has garnered attention on social media platforms.
The train station in Nanjing called the Nanjing North Railway Station, has a special shape with four lobes.
Some people on social media have compared its appearance to a sanitary pad, which has caused amusement. However, the architects say that the design is inspired by a plum blossom, which usually has five petals.
Despite their explanation, many internet users have still found it funny to see it as a feminine hygiene product.
The Nanjing North Railway Station is a big project for the city, costing around $2.7 billion.
It aims to be the largest train station in Nanjing, covering a vast area of 14 square miles (37.6 square kilometers).
It is estimated to serve about 36.5 million passengers every year. However, even with its grand scale and importance, the station's design has been made fun of by Chinese internet users.
China's new train station mocked by Internet users for its 'sensitive' design
On Chinese social media platforms like Weibo, numerous users have shared their humorous remarks about the station's resemblance to a sanitary pad.
Some have questioned why the architects failed to recognize the resemblance, while others have taken the opportunity to raise awareness about period shaming.
The association of the station with feminine hygiene products has led to jokes about its capabilities, like being able to absorb a large number of passengers and remain dry all day.
They emphasize the importance of appreciating the architectural concept behind it.
It’s a good looking station, period, one user said.
Looks really helpful. It will absorb every drop perfectly when it rains, the second user commented.
This is designed for regular rain, maybe they r planning to have 1 more.. designed for heavy flows...perfect for overnight rain, the third user joked.
A pad with wings that big will surely keep you dry, another mocked.
This is not the first time a building in China has faced criticism for its design.
The China Central Television headquarters, also known as the CCTV building, drew attention for its resemblance to a pair of black shorts.
Similarly, locals often refer to it as the "big pants" or "big boxer shorts" building.
Despite the initial mockery, the CCTV building has also been recognized as an architectural achievement by some.
The plan for the Nanjing North Railway Station has been approved by the local government and China State Railway Group.
Construction is set to start in the first half of 2024, and the station is anticipated to open to the public in early 2028.
Despite the ongoing humor on the internet regarding its design, people should not forget the station's importance and impact on Nanjing's transportation system.
