“Louis, The Boat” Docks in Shanghai

On June 25, a striking new silhouette appeared in downtown Shanghai—not a yacht, but a giant steamer-trunk-inspired structure. “Louis, The Boat,” Louis Vuitton’s latest immersive concept space, has officially docked at HKRI Taikoo Hui, bringing with it a cultural spectacle that blends fashion, exhibition, and hospitality in one monumental installation.

Shaped like a legendary ocean liner, the architectural statement pays homage to the maison’s 19th-century travel trunks and the spirit of global exploration that defined its origins. Wrapped in monogrammed metalwork and tiered like ship decks, the building bridges Vuitton’s design codes with Shanghai’s deep maritime legacy as a port city and gateway to the East.

At the heart of the experience is Visionary Journeys—a 1,200-square-meter exhibition curated by OMA. It spans two levels and guides visitors through Louis Vuitton’s rich heritage and forward-looking vision, interweaving craftsmanship, travel narratives, and artistic interventions. The journey concludes in a dedicated Louis Vuitton boutique, where guests can explore ready-to-wear, footwear, and the brand’s signature travel pieces.

But “Louis, The Boat” is more than a showcase. The top deck houses Le Café Louis Vuitton, offering light fare and drinks on a rooftop terrace designed to evoke the relaxed mood of a luxury cruise.

For Louis Vuitton, this initiative is both a tribute to its founding ideals and a reflection of Shanghai’s enduring role in global cultural exchange. From ancient canal routes to 20th-century shipping lanes, the city has long connected East and West. Now, with the boat moored in its heart, Shanghai becomes the setting for a new kind of voyage—one that spans centuries, continents, and disciplines.

“Louis, The Boat” will open to the public starting June 28. Guests can book their visit through the “My LV” WeChat Mini Program.