Shanghai Museum

The Shanghai Museum on People's Square is one of China's finest museums of ancient art, housed in a distinctive building shaped like a bronze ding vessel, with world-class galleries of bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy and jade. Admission is free. Note that since the huge Shanghai Museum East opened in 2024 in Pudong, many thematic galleries moved there, so this original branch now shows a slimmed-down selection; check which site has the collection you want before going.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

What are the opening hours?

Shanghai Museum East is open 10:00am to 6:00pm, last entry 5:00pm, closed Tuesdays except on national holidays. Confirm the People's Square building's hours separately if you plan to go there instead.

How do I get to Shanghai Museum East?

It is at 1952 Century Avenue in Pudong. Take Metro Line 2, 4, 6, or 9 to Century Avenue Station - it is a short walk. The People's Square building sits above People's Square Station (Lines 1, 2, 8).

Do I need a reservation?

For individual visitors at Shanghai Museum East, no - just bring your passport and enter via the B1 East Gate after security. Groups of 20 or more must reserve by phone in advance. Policies can change, so check before a special exhibition.

How much time should I budget?

Two to three hours for a solid visit; a full day if you are a serious museum-goer, since the East building is enormous. Prioritize a few galleries rather than trying to see everything.

Is the Shanghai Museum free?

Yes, general admission is free at both sites. The new Shanghai Museum East in Pudong lets individual visitors enter with a valid ID/passport through the B1 East Gate without a prior reservation; special exhibitions may be ticketed.

Is it good for a rainy day?

Ideal - it is a large indoor world-class museum, free, and directly metro-connected. It is one of the best wet-weather options in the whole city.

What are the highlights of the collection?

The ancient Chinese bronze gallery is world-famous, alongside outstanding ceramics, ink painting and calligraphy, jade, seals, and coins. Give the bronzes and ceramics priority if you are short on time.

What is the difference between the East and People's Square buildings?

The original museum on People's Square is the classic domed building downtown; the newer, much larger Shanghai Museum East opened in Pudong and now holds the fuller collection. East is the flagship - go there for the complete experience.

Nearby in Ask Shanghai

• AP Xinyang Fashion and Gifts MarketMarket0.39 km · 5 min walk
• Century ParkPark0.52 km · 7 min walk
• Shanghai Tower Observation DeckAttraction4.37 km · 55 min walk
• Flair Rooftop Restaurant & BarBar4.46 km · 56 min walk
• Fangbang Middle Road Fabric and Craft MarketMarket4.48 km · 56 min walk