Shanghai Museum

Located on the southern side of People’s Square, the Shanghai Museum is a large and comprehensive museum dedicated to showing Chinese art and history. Originally founded in 1952, the museum's collection has expanded over the years as the institution played an important role in saving historic artifacts during tumultuous periods in Chinese history such as the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution.

Recommended sightseeing time: 3-6 hours Address: 201 Renmin Avenue, Huangpu District,Shanghai

Shanghai Museum Tickets for The Attractions Inside

  • Shanghai Museum Tickets (Adult)

    The Civilization of Ancient Egypt Tickets. Adult age: over 18 and up to 59 years old

  • Shanghai Museum Tickets (Student)

    The Civilization of Ancient Egypt Tickets. Student tickets aged 6-18, or full-time undergraduate aged 18-23.

  • Shanghai Museum Tickets (Senior)

    The Civilization of Ancient Egypt Tickets. Age: 60 and over

Shanghai Museum Nearby Hotels

Shanghai Museum Reviews

4.6/5
3099 reviews
4/5
I really liked the robot dance!
review picture
5/5
The museum is very spacious, with a clear, logical arrangement of exhibits across halls and eras. There's no feeling of crowding—you can easily examine the objects without crowding.
review picture
5/5
Shanghai museum has been on my list for a while and it didn’t disappoint. Unlike other museums it has a lot to offer. Instead of just walls of pictures it had physical sculptures, clothing, relics and models. It was super interesting to read about everything in the museum as they had beautiful English translations everywhere! The minority clothing display on the fourth floor was great and on the first floor the Qipao display was amazing! Cant be missed. Definitely recommend putting it on your list!
review picture
5/5
There was a time when I had no time while traveling, so I was looking for a place to go and I came across this one near my hotel, so I went there without a plan. I don't know if it was just the day I went, but there were so many people that it was hard to see it properly. There was an exhibition of Egyptian relics, but it was really hard to take pictures. There was almost no Korean guide, so it didn't seem worth making time to see. My exact expression when I entered;;🫠
review picture
5/5
The building has a magnificent exterior and exhibits covering many dynasties.
review picture
Shanghai Museum Guide
See All Flights
Seoul
ICN
Shanghai
PVG
Thu, Mar 5
Thu, Mar 5
One way
62% off
From 336.00US$127.00
Seoul
ICN
Shanghai
PVG
Fri, Mar 13
Sat, Mar 14
One way
62% off
From 336.00US$128.00
Seoul
ICN
Shanghai
PVG
Fri, Mar 13
Fri, Mar 13
One way
60% off
From 336.00US$135.00
Seoul
ICN
Shanghai
PVG
Thu, Mar 5
Thu, Mar 5
One way
59% off
From 336.00US$137.00
Seoul
ICN
Shanghai
PVG
Sat, Mar 14
Sat, Mar 14
One way
59% off
From 336.00US$138.00
Seoul
ICN
Shanghai
PVG
Thu, Apr 2
Thu, Apr 2
One way
58% off
From 336.00US$142.00
Seoul
ICN
Shanghai
PVG
Sat, Mar 28
Sat, Mar 28
One way
57% off
From 336.00US$143.00
Seoul
ICN
Shanghai
PVG
Fri, May 1
Fri, May 1
One way
56% off
From 336.00US$148.00

About Shanghai Museums (People's Square Branch & East Branch)

About Shanghai Museums (People's Square Branch & East Branch)
  • Shanghai Museum actually has two branchs. The original location is in People's Square downtown. It's in 201 People's Avenue, People's Square - ever since 1996. The first mainly shows China's artistic history.
  • The newer East Branch opened in Pudong across the river. 1952 Century Avenue, Pudong - opened 2024. The latter focuses more on how Chinese culture connects with the world.

Key Info about Shanghai Museums

What's Inside

Over 120,000 artifacts across 15+ galleries

Time Needed

Plan 2-3 hours for each location

Shuttle Service

¥4 buses run every 30 mins between them (10am-5pm)

🎁 Grab Cheap flights to Shanghai and the Best hotels in Shanghai! 1 click for Fast data in China!

Shanghai Museum Opening Hours

Shanghai Museum hours change by season:

Regular Hours (Most of the year):

Branch

Opening Days

Daily Hours

Last Entry

Closed On

People's Square Branch

Tuesday to Sunday

09:00 – 17:00

16:00

Mondays (except national holidays)

Shanghai Museum East

Wednesday to Monday

10:00 – 18:00

17:00

Tuesdays (except national holidays)

Summer Extended Hours (July 1 - August 10):

Both locations open until 21:00 (last entry 19:00) Closed: Main branch on Mondays, East branch on Tuesdays

🎁 Grab Cheap flights to Shanghai and the Best hotels in Shanghai! 1 click for Fast data in China!

How to Get to Shanghai Museum

How to Get to Shanghai Museum

How to Get to Shanghai Museum (People's Square Branch)

Address: No. 201 Renmin Dadao, Huangpu District (South Entrance on Wusheng Road)

  • Shanghai Metro: Take Line 1, 2, or 8 to People's Square Station. Walk 5–10 minutes from any exit to the museum.
  • Bus:
    • Routes: 18, 23, 42, 46, 49, 71, 71 (section), 108, 108 (section), 112, 112 (section), 123, 145, 167, 454, 455, 537, 775, 782, 783, 789, 930, 934, 952, 952B, 980, Tunnel Route 3, Tunnel Route 6, Shanghai-Chuansha Line, Shanghai-Zhujiajiao Highway Line.
    • Alight at stops near "People's Square" and walk 5–15 minutes.
  • CitySights Bus: Lines 1 and 2 (stops close to People's Square).
  • Shuttle Bus (to/from East Branch):
    • Operates on Wednesdays to Sundays and national holidays.
    • Departure times: 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00 (bidirectional).

How to Get to Shanghai Museum East

Address: No. 1952 Century Avenue, Pudong New Area

  • Metro:
    • Line 2 to Shanghai Technology Museum Station → Exit 8.
    • Line 4 to Xiangcheng Road Station → Exit 2.
    • Line 6 to Pudian Road Station → Exit 1.
  • Bus:
    • 638, 975 → "South Yanggao Road Century Avenue" stop.
    • 987, Pudong 36 → "Century Avenue Dingxiang Road" stop.
    • Pudong 106 → "Pudian Road Zhulin Road" stop.
    • Lujiazui Financial City 4 → "South Yanggao Road Eshan Road" stop.
    • 736 → "Pudian Road Songlin Road" stop.
    • 1069 (loop) → "Pudian Road Fushan Road" stop.
    • Pudong 78 → "Jindai Road Yingchun Road" stop.
  • Shuttle Bus (to/from People's Square Branch):
    • Operates on Wednesdays to Sundays and national holidays.
    • Departure times: 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00 (bidirectional).
New to Trip.com? Grab 8% off your first car rental and hit the road for less - it's a way of saying welcome to Trip.com family! 😘

What to See at Shanghai Museum

What to See at Shanghai Museum

Credit: Shanghai Museum Official, Shanghai Museum East

Both Shanghai Museums are full with treasures. Here's what you shouldn't miss:

What to See At the Main Building (People's Square)

  • Ancient Bronzes Gallery (Ground Floor): Ritual wine vessels from 1600 BC - look for the massive Da Ke Ding cauldron.
  • Ming Furniture Gallery (2nd Floor): Over 100 hardwood chairs, beds and cabinets displayed in room settings.
  • Minority Arts (4th Floor): Colorful costumes and silver jewelry from China's 55 ethnic groups.
🎁 Grab Cheap flights to Shanghai and the Best hotels in Shanghai! 1 click for Fast data in China!
What to See at Shanghai Museum

Credit: Shanghai Museum Official, Shanghai Museum East

What to See At the East Branch (Pudong)

  • Ancient Egypt Exhibit (Through Aug 2025): Real mummies, sarcophagi and hieroglyph-covered tablets.
  • Jade Gallery: Ritual blades from 5000 years ago to delicate Qing dynasty ornaments.
  • Digital Experience Room: Interactive screens where you can "unwrap" virtual artifacts.

✅Get fast Data in China - you'll need it in China for built-in access to overseas apps like X/YT/INS/Whatsapp etc. Grab the eSIM coupon below!
See All Attractions
476249 booked
4.7/515394 reviews
Mainland China 5G eSIM | Supports ChatGPT | Day Pass/Total Package | 24H Billing | 1–365 Days | QR code
SIM card
US$0.22
357071 booked
4.6/513931 reviews
Mainland China/Hong Kong/Macau 5G eSIM | Day Pass/Total Data Package | 24-Hour Billing | In-App Installation | 1-30 Days | QR Code
SIM card
US$0.23
255535 booked
4.6/56775 reviews
Mainland China/Hong Kong/Macao/Taiwan 5G eSIM | Supports ChatGPT | Day Pass/Total Package | 24H Billing | 1-30 days | QR code
SIM card
US$0.23
3555 booked
4.4/5303 reviews
China 4G/5G eSIM 1-30 days High-speed data daily package/data package Number of days optional (natural days) QR code
SIM card
4218 booked
4.4/5188 reviews
Chinese mainland/Hong Kong/Macau 4G/5G eSIM|Daily data plan/Data plan|24-hour billing|1–30 days|QR code
SIM card
US$0.14
45236 booked
4.6/52392 reviews
Asia 8 countries 5G/4G eSIM | DayPass/Total | 1-30 days | QR code
SIM card
US$0.12

Where is Shanghai Museum? Location & Map

Map: Shanghai Museum Main Building Location Map

Shanghai Museum - Main Building Location


Right in center of People's Square - that big public space downtown. It's:

  • 5 minutes walk to Nanjing Road shopping street
  • 10 minutes to The Bund waterfront
  • Next to Shanghai Grand Theatre

Shanghai Museum - East Branch Location


In Pudong's cultural zone:

  • Across from Century Park
  • 5 minutes walk to Shanghai Library East
  • 15 minutes by taxi to Lujiazui skyscrapers

Handy tip: Grab a free paper map at the entrance - the galleries can feel like a maze.

Shanghai Museum Layout & Visiting Route

Shanghai Museum Layout & Visiting Route

Credit: Shanghai Museum Official, Layout - People's Square Branch

Shanghai Museum Layout - People's Square Branch

  1. Start on Ground Floor: Begin with the ancient bronzes - these heavy ritual objects show China's earliest artistry.
  2. Second Floor: Move to ceramics - see how pottery evolved over dynasties. Then explore the Ming furniture exhibit.
  3. Third Floor: Chinese painting and calligraphy masterpieces - some scrolls are 10 meters long!
  4. Fourth Floor: Minority crafts and ancient coins - perfect finale.
🎁 Grab Cheap flights to Shanghai and the Best hotels in Shanghai! 1 click for Fast data in China!
Shanghai Museum Layout & Visiting Route

Credit: Shanghai Museum Official, Layout - Pudong East Branch

Shanghai Museum Layout - Pudong East Branch

  1. First Floor: Head straight to the Egypt exhibit - it gets crowded by noon.
  2. Second Floor: Bronze and ceramics collections show China's global connections.
  3. Third Floor: Painting galleries feature works inspired by foreign techniques.
  4. Rooftop Garden: End here for skyline views and fresh air.

Shanghai Museum - Facilities & Services

Shanghai Museum - Facilities & Services

Shanghai Museum (People's Square Branch) - Facilities & Services

Here's the facilities & services guide for the main Shanghai Museum:

Category

Details

Cloakroom

- Locations: North & South Gates.

- Stores: Coats, bags, luggage (keep valuables; laptops allowed).

- Process: Security check first (get a ticket for storage).

- Free borrowables: Wheelchairs/strollers (¥300 deposit, in-museum use only).

- Extras: Sewing kits, first aid kits, lost & found (South Gate).

Food & Drink

- Restaurant (1F, South Gate): Chinese/Western meals, 11:00–14:00.

- Tea Room (2F): Tea, coffee, snacks, 09:00–16:30.

Multimedia Guides

- Free WeChat Guide: Audio for highlights via official WeChat (“GO - 上博 - 人广馆导览”).

- Audio Devices:

- Chinese: ¥20 (adult/parent-child), ¥10 (children’s); no deposit (ID/phone needed).

- Foreign languages (8 options): ¥40 + ¥400 deposit (or $50/passport).

- Smart Guide (Chinese only): ¥30 (tablet with videos/games); no deposit (ID/phone needed).

🎁 Grab Cheap flights to Shanghai and the Best hotels in Shanghai! 1 click for Fast data in China!

Shanghai Museum East - Facilities & Services

Category

Details

Cloakroom

- Location: F1 (B1 closed).

- Stores: Coats, bags, luggage (laptops allowed; no other valuables).

- Free borrowables: Wheelchairs/strollers (ID or ¥300 deposit, in-museum use only).

- Extras: Sewing kits, first aid kits, water fountains, baby care rooms, accessible elevators, lost & found.

Information Centre

- Location: F1 hall (east side).

- Services: Brochures, help, complaints.

Food & Drink

- Café (1F) & Café Staircase (2F–3F): Coffee, snacks.

Multimedia Guides

- Free WeChat Guide: Audio via official WeChat (“GO - 上博 - 东馆导览”).

- Audio Devices: Chinese (¥20), English (¥40); no deposit (8 languages coming soon).

- Smart Guide: ¥30+ (tablet with videos/games); no deposit (ID).

- AR Guide: ¥60 (AR glasses); no deposit (ID/phone).

Guided Tours

- Paid English tours: Starting at ¥300.

- Booking: WeChat (scan QR code) or on-site at the guided tour desk.

Tours & Tickets in Shanghai
See All Attractions
1913 booked
4.6/553 reviews
Shanghai Palace Banquet: Immersive experience of a royal feast thousands of years ago (fine Food and Beverages+ dance performance + Qin Dynasty historical and cultural experience + optional Clothes & Accessories and makeup)
Local cuisine
US$29.01
1542 booked
4.7/539 reviews
"Shanghai ERA Acrobatic Show Tickets | Circus World"-Instant E-ticket Booking via QR Code
Sports experiences
US$47.86
273 booked
4.9/58 reviews
Tickets for the must-see ERA Time Travel Acrobatic Show in Shanghai
Day tours
US$37.64
828 booked
4.6/525 reviews
Shanghai Circus World Tickets: ERA2 - Spirit of Shanghai Extravaganza E-ticket
Riding & driving
US$46.41
739242 booked
4.7/531832 reviews
Mainland China 5G eSIM | Day Pass/Total Data Package | ChatGPT Available | 24-Hour Billing | 1-365 Days | QR Code
SIM card
US$0.22
384 booked
4.7/514 reviews
Shanghai Day Tour to Zhujiajiao Water Town and City Attractions(Private Car & Ticket)
Day tours
US$40.85
58 booked
5/51 review
"Shanghai ERA Acrobatic Show Tickets | Circus World"-Instant E-ticket Booking via QR Code
Day tours
US$40.32
634 booked
4.8/571 reviews
Shanghai Yu Garden + City God Temple Traditional Culture Experience: Professional Tour Guide Service, Optional Chinese Tea
Day tours
US$41.44

Tips for Visiting Shanghai Museum

Tips for Visiting Shanghai Museum
  1. Book tickets early - Free general entry tickets release 7 days ahead on their official WeChat channel. Special exhibits like Egypt need separate bookings.
  2. Go midweek - Tuesdays at People's Square and Wednesdays at Pudong East are quietest.
  3. Take the free tour - English guides start at 10:30am daily from the main lobby.
  4. Pack light - Big bags need checking (¥10 deposit lockers available).
  5. Photo rules - No flash or tripods. Video not allowed in special exhibits.
  6. Eat beforehand - Cafe options are limited and pricey.
🎁 Grab Cheap flights to Shanghai and the Best hotels in Shanghai! 1 click for Fast data in China!

More Things to Do Near Shanghai Museum

More Things to Do Near Shanghai Museum

Shanghai People's Park

After the museum, check out these spots:

Things to Do - Near Shanghai Museum People's Square Branch

Things to Do - Near Shanghai Museum Pudong East Branch

Shanghai Science and Technology Museum
Shanghai Science and Technology Museum
4.7/5
4671 reviews
The Shanghai Science and Technology Museum is a must-visit for curious minds and families alike. With its stunning architecture and interactive exhibits, it offers a thrilling journey through space, robotics, wildlife, and more. Highlights include the Rainforest Adventure, Robot World, and a 3D IMAX theater that brings science to life. Kids will love the hands-on experiments, while adults appreciate the educational depth. The museum’s clean layout and bilingual displays make it easy to explore.
Museum of Art Pudong
Museum of Art Pudong
4.7/5
1030 reviews
An excellent museum. While we were there, they were showing an Impressionist exhibition from the Musée d'Orsay in Paris. We also visited a wonderful exhibition of paintings by the Chinese artist Chen Yifei.
Century Park
Century Park
4.8/5
983 reviews
A beautiful city park. It's mostly frequented by senior citizens and schoolchildren. Everything is green, clean, and beautiful. There are vending machines, though there are a few coffee stations missing.
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street
4.7/5
1363 reviews
✨🇨🇳 Review of Nanjing Road, Shanghai – A Foodie, Shopper, and Photo-Seeking Paradise 🇨🇳✨ If you come to Shanghai and don't walk along Nanjing Road, you haven't truly been to Shanghai! This is a world-famous shopping street, blending modernity, neon lights, and tempting street food 🍢✨ 🍢 Foodies will love it! The aroma is amazing everywhere you go 😍 • Mala grilled skewers – spicy and numbing, a real taste bud boost! • Spiral fried potatoes Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside • Spicy stinky tofu & fish balls • Delicious ice cream & rich matcha dessert 👉 Prices start from around 10–30 yuan. Try many different things! 🛍️ World-class shopping ✔ Globally renowned brands ✔ Fashion & cosmetics stores ✔ Chinese souvenirs, snacks, tea, and herbs ✔ Large department stores 📸 Amazing photo spots 📍 Neon signs at night 📍 An endless street 📍 Restaurants with colorful lights 📍 Classic sightseeing tram ⏰ Best time to visit 🌆 Evening – Night → Neon lights are at their best 🌤 Daytime → Comfortable shopping, not crowded 💡 Tips for a fun trip ✅ Bring a small amount of cash Some street food stalls don't accept cards. ✅ Beware of the spiciness of the mala 🌶️ ✅ The evening walk is perfect. ✅ Great for shooting neon-lit city content. ✨ In summary: Nanjing Road is a vibrant and charming street showcasing the modern Chinese metropolis. It has everything from food and shopping to sightseeing and photo opportunities. You'll lose track of time while strolling around.
People's Park
People's Park
4.7/5
101 reviews
People’s Park is a great natural escape from Shanghai’s concrete buildings. There is a pond with fishes in the park and a restaurant overlooking the pond. The park is quite big and beautiful. Some months you can see lotus blooming over the pond. It is truly wonderful!

[8% Off] Shanghai Hotels Recommendations

Grab an extra 8% off Shanghai hotels on Trip.com—my go-to for booking reliable stays in Shanghai.

See All Hotels
NO.1
9.3/103767 reviews
Yitel Collection (Shanghai train station)
Hotel in Shanghai
NO.2
9.4/101870 reviews
Tianhua Hotel Shanghai People's Square Nanjing Road Walkway
Hotel in Shanghai
NO.3
8.8/109888 reviews
Dihang Boutique Hotel (Shanghai Pudong Airport)
Hotel in Shanghai
NO.4
9.4/1010926 reviews
Yitel Premium (Shanghai people's Square Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street)
Hotel in Shanghai
NO.5
9.5/106198 reviews
Shanghai People's Square Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street Treasury Hotel
Hotel in Shanghai
NO.6
9.3/102665 reviews
yihotel (Shanghai Lujiazui Riverside Center Expo Park Branch)
Hotel in Shanghai
NO.7
9.3/102649 reviews
Homeinn Selected Hotel (Shanghai Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street The Bund Center)
Hotel in Shanghai
NO.8
9.2/105250 reviews
Radisson Collection Hyland Shanghai
Hotel in Shanghai

FAQs about Shanghai Museum

  • Do I need to book tickets in advance for Shanghai Museum?

    It depends on which branch you’re visiting. For the People’s Square Branch, reservations are not required on weekdays (Tuesday–Friday) under normal circumstances but are mandatory during peak times (weekends, national holidays, July–August, and special exhibitions like “Who is Leonardo Da Vinci?”). Use the official WeChat account, website, or mini-program to book—no third-party platforms are authorized. For the East Branch, individual visitors don’t need reservations; just bring a valid ID and pass through security. Groups of 20+ at the East Branch must book 7–14 days in advance by phone (021-20729999 ext. 134).
  • What are the opening hours for Shanghai Museum’s two branches?

    The People’s Square Branch is open Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM) and closed on Mondays (except national holidays). The East Branch operates Wednesday–Monday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM) and is closed on Tuesdays (except national holidays). Both branches may adjust hours for special events, so check the official website before your visit.
  • How do I get between the two Shanghai Museum branches?

    There’s a shuttle bus connecting the People’s Square Branch and East Branch. It runs Wednesdays to Sundays and national holidays, with departures at 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 3:00 PM. The service is bidirectional, making it easy to visit both locations in one day. No need to book—just arrive at the designated pick-up points at the branches in time.
  • Are there guided tours available at Shanghai Museum?

    Yes, but options vary by branch. The People’s Square Branch offers free English guided tours daily at 10:30 AM (meet in the main lobby). For the East Branch, guided tours are paid: English tours start at ¥300. You can book these via the East Branch’s WeChat QR code or in person at the guided tour service desk on-site. Both branches also have audio guides (rental fees apply) in multiple languages for self-guided exploration.
  • What facilities are available for visitors at Shanghai Museum?

    Both branches offer practical amenities. Cloakrooms (North/South Gates at People’s Square; F1 at East Branch) store coats, bags, and luggage (keep valuables with you). Free wheelchairs and strollers are available (¥300 deposit required). Food options include restaurants/cafés (People’s Square: 1F restaurant and 2F tea room; East Branch: 1F café and 2F–3F café staircase). First aid kits, sewing kits, and lost & found services are also available. The East Branch adds water fountains, baby care rooms, and accessible elevators for convenience.
Bethy

Bethy

Trip.com Travel Expert

Hey there! I’m Bethy (Huang Lan, 黄澜) – a travel enthusiast and content creator for Trip.com. I live as a digital nomad, mostly based in China, and I’ve also lived in awesome places across Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe. I love traveling all over the world, sharing useful travel tips and guides for fellow wanderlusters. When I’m not on the road, I’m a huge cat lover and play guitar for fun~

501 articles
Travel Insights & Local ExperiencesDigital nomad travelTravel budget hacksItineraries & Planning
>>
Shanghai Museum
aaaa