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Shanghai History Museum (上海历史博物馆)

上海历史博物馆

ClassicUpdated 2026-02-14

📋Overview

Overview of Shanghai History Museum

The Shanghai History Museum (Shanghai Revolutionary History Museum) is located at 325 Nanjing West Road (南京西路325号) in Huangpu District, adjacent to People's Square and People's Park. Its predecessor was the old Shanghai "Shanghai Race Club" building. The main building was constructed between 1932 and 1934, designed by the British firm McBain & McBain, and is a typical example of British neoclassical architecture with some eclectic elements. The exterior walls are built with alternating reddish-brown bricks and creamy white granite. The facade features Tashkent-style stone columns supporting the second and third-floor balconies. At the top stands a clock tower about 53.3 meters high, with four large round clocks approximately 3.3 meters in diameter on each side. It was once hailed as the "largest clock tower in Asia" and remains one of the most prominent landmarks around People's Square.

Originally, this building served as the clubhouse and management center for the "Far East's First Racecourse," making it the most elite social venue and the "Far East's premier casino" in old Shanghai. Details such as horse racing patterns on the stair railings and wrought iron horse head decorations are still visible today. The French crystal glass doors and stained glass windows featuring Chinese motifs like "Qilin Delivering a Child" and "Five Sons Passing the Imperial Exam" instead of religious imagery reflect the typical Shanghai-style fusion of Chinese and Western decorative arts. After liberation, the building successively housed important cultural institutions such as the Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Library, and Shanghai Art Museum, witnessing the city's transformation from a colonial entertainment hub to a public cultural space. In 2018, it was officially named the "Shanghai History Museum (Shanghai Revolutionary History Museum)" and took on the responsibility of systematically presenting Shanghai's 6,000 years of history and revolutionary journey.

The museum is divided into two parts: the East Building and the West Building:

  • East Building is the main exhibition area, consisting of five floors, arranged from bottom to top as follows:

    • 1st floor: Entrance hall and special exhibition space, featuring the multimedia presentation "A Brief History of Shanghai" and a concentrated display of the museum's treasures;
    • 2nd floor: "Ancient Shanghai" exhibition hall, showcasing the evolution of the Shanghai region from prehistoric times through the Majiabang, Songze, Liangzhu cultures to the Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties;
    • 3rd–4th floors: "Modern Shanghai" exhibition halls, focusing on the city's development after opening to the world, urban life, industry and commerce, finance, and the birth and revolutionary struggles of the Chinese Communist Party in Shanghai;
    • 5th floor: Rooftop garden and terrace restaurant, offering views overlooking People's Park, the People's Square building complex, and a distant skyline of Lujiazui.

  • West Building mainly hosts various special exhibitions and public event spaces, regularly introducing and organizing high-quality themed exhibitions such as "Let's Go! Coffee Culture Special Exhibition," "Fragrance Viewing — Hainan Agarwood Culture Exhibition / Nasal Appreciation of Hainan Agarwood," "The Winding Yellow River and Horseback Songs: Ordos Grassland Culture Exhibition," and "China Through the Lens of World Photography Masters." It also includes a café and a cultural and creative shop.

The museum's collection totals approximately 110,000 items, categorized into fifteen major types including paintings and calligraphy, metalwork, ceramics, crafts, badges, documents, prints, stone carvings, photographs, paper-cutting, stamps, and records. Highlights include the "Wuhua Hundred Sons Wedding Sedan Chair" (an eight-bearer sedan chair) comparable to the Ningbo Wan Gong Sedan Chair at the Zhejiang Museum, the only original pair of HSBC bronze lions from the old Bund HSBC building, General Zhenyuan's bronze cannon, the skull of the "First Person of Shanghai," an ivory scepter with divine beast face motifs, pottery and jade artifacts from the Songze culture, Tang dynasty blue-and-white porcelain bowls, Yuan dynasty blue-and-white covered jars, portraits and manuscripts of Xu Guangqi, paintings and calligraphy by Dong Qichang, and fan paintings by Lin Zexu. Through these artifacts, visitors can directly appreciate Shanghai's significant role in the Maritime Silk Road, modern industry and commerce, finance, and revolutionary movements.

The Shanghai History Museum places great emphasis on public education and interactive experiences, featuring projects such as the "Sound Museum," Shanghainese dialect interactive installations, voice message stations, telegraph experiences, and models of old Shanghai alleyways, making it ideal for families and youth educational trips. Official and social organizations offer activities like the "Magic City Treasure Hunt Historical Tour" and the "Art Lover Combo Ticket" with 100-minute in-depth guided explanations, allowing visitors to understand Shanghai's past and present through games and guided tours. The rooftop garden and terrace restaurant provide excellent vantage points to overlook People's Park, the People's Square architectural complex, and the distant Lujiazui skyline, making it a popular spot for vintage-style photography and cityscape shots. Overall, this museum combines profound history, exquisite architecture, and urban life atmosphere, making it one of the top venues for a systematic understanding of the city of Shanghai.

🌸Best Season

Best Seasons and Times to Visit

Year-Round Indoor Climate-Controlled Venue

The Shanghai History Museum is an indoor, climate-controlled, air-conditioned venue with well-sealed exhibition halls and stable conditions. Strictly speaking, there is no off-season or peak season, making it suitable for visiting any time of the year. Whether it’s the scorching summer heat, damp cold winters, or rainy days, this museum can serve as a perfect "escape from heat, cold, or rain," especially ideal as a mid-journey rest stop when exploring the People’s Square (人民广场) area.

Summer (June–September): The Ultimate Indoor Escape from the “Sauna Days” for Families

  • Shanghai’s summer outdoors are hot and humid with strong sunlight, and the ground temperature around People’s Square (人民广场) can be very high. Long outdoor walks may cause heatstroke and fatigue.
  • The museum’s ample air conditioning and long exhibition routes allow visitors to stay cool from morning until afternoon, making it perfect for “indoor family outings” and “summer holiday parent-child educational trips.”
  • During summer, the museum usually offers:
    • The “Treasure Hunt History Tour in Magic City” parent-child interactive activity;
    • The “Art Lover’s Combo Ticket” with 100 minutes of in-depth guided tours;
    • Special themed exhibitions on coffee culture, traditional Chinese medicine and health, grassland culture, and more.
  • It is recommended to avoid the peak period from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM and try to enter the museum within the first hour after opening or after 3:00 PM for a more comfortable experience.

Winter (December–February): The “Heated Museum” in Damp and Cold Magic City

  • Shanghai’s winter is notably damp and cold, making long outdoor stays uncomfortable and prone to catching a chill. The museum’s ample heating makes it a popular choice for “indoor family outings in winter” and “where to go during winter vacation.”
  • Winter is often a period packed with large-scale special exhibitions, such as:
    • “Let’s Go! Coffee Culture Special Exhibition”;
    • “Angelica and Huangpu Spring—Maritime Traditional Chinese Medicine and Healthy Living”;
    • “The Winding Yellow River and Songs on Horseback: Ordos Grassland Culture Exhibition”;
    • “China Through the Lens of World Photography Masters” and other cross-year exhibitions.
  • It’s ideal to plan a slow-paced half-day visit on cold, gloomy days to warm up while enriching your knowledge of history and culture.

Spring and Autumn (March–May, October–November): The Best Seasons for Citywalks

  • With mild weather and good visibility, these seasons are the best times to include the Shanghai History Museum in your walking route (Citywalk).
  • Recommended to combine the museum visit with nearby attractions:
    • People’s Park (人民公园), Shanghai Museum (人民广场馆), Shanghai Sports Museum;
    • Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street (南京东路步行街), The Bund (外滩), Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥), and more.
  • At this time, the rooftop garden offers clear views with gentle breezes and comfortable temperatures, perfect for enjoying coffee on the terrace, taking photos, and experiencing the unique atmosphere of “historic building + skyline.”

Chinese New Year and Traditional Holidays: The “Shanghai-Style Festive Atmosphere” in Old Western-Style Mansions

  • Taking the 2026 Chinese New Year official announcement as an example: the museum will be open normally during the Spring Festival holiday from February 15–23, with no reservation required and explicitly no closing during the holiday.
  • During the Spring Festival, the museum usually features:
    • “Galloping into Spring to Welcome the New Year—Year of the Horse Celebration Exhibition”;
    • “Nose Observes the Wonderful Realm / Viewing Fragrance—Hainan Agarwood Culture Exhibition” and other festive and incense culture exhibitions;
    • Old Western-style mansions decorated with red lanterns, zodiac elements, and British architecture create a striking contrast and a fantastic atmosphere, perfect for shooting vintage-style festive photos.
  • Although visitor numbers increase noticeably compared to regular days, the museum’s large size, long exhibition routes, and dispersed layout still allow for a relatively comfortable viewing experience.

Recommended Visiting Times

  • Best times to enter:
    • 9:00–10:00 AM: Groups and individual visitors have not yet gathered, making the exhibition halls relatively quiet—ideal for in-depth viewing and photography;
    • After 3:00 PM: Visitor flow begins to decrease, allowing a more relaxed visit to key exhibition areas.
  • Times to avoid:
    • 1:00–3:00 PM is the peak period, especially during summer and winter vacations, Chinese New Year, and other short holidays, when popular exhibits and interactive zones tend to be crowded.
  • Considering the closing time (5:00 PM, with last entry at 4:00 PM), it’s recommended to enter no later than 2:00 PM to ensure enough time for a full visit.

🚇Getting There

Transportation and Arrival Methods

Location Overview

  • Address: No. 325, West Nanjing Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
  • Area: Northwest side of People's Square, northern edge of People's Park
  • Nearby landmarks: Shanghai Museum (People’s Square Branch), People’s Park, Shanghai Grand Theatre, Raffles City, New World City, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, etc. The location is extremely central.

Metro: Preferred Exit 11 at People’s Square Station

1. People’s Square Station (Lines 1/2/8)

  • Interchange Lines: Lines 1, 2, and 8 intersect here, making it the top choice for reaching the museum.
  • Recommended Exit: Exit 11
    • Multiple tested guides recommend exiting from “People’s Square Station Exit 11”;
    • After exiting Exit 11, walk along the west side of West Nanjing Road, next to People’s Park for about 1–5 minutes (150–300 meters) to reach the museum. Some testers noted “just a 1-minute walk straight ahead”;
    • Look up to see the striking red brick old building with a tall clock tower—very eye-catching.
  • Other Exits:
    • If exiting from Exit 1 or other exits, you can walk west along People’s Avenue or West Nanjing Road for about 5–10 minutes to reach the museum.

2. Transfer Suggestions from Major Departure Points

  • Hongqiao Railway Station / Hongqiao Airport → People’s Square Station

    • Take Metro Line 2 directly to People’s Square Station, about 35–45 minutes in total;
    • Notes mention a taxi from Hongqiao Airport takes about 40 minutes, costing around ¥50 (~$7 USD), suitable for visitors who prefer no transfers.

  • Pudong International Airport → People’s Square Station

    • Take Metro Line 2 (towards Pudong Airport) directly to People’s Square Station, about 70 minutes.

  • Lujiazui / The Bund (外滩) → People’s Square Station

    • At Lujiazui Station, board Line 2 towards Xujing East, 1 stop to East Nanjing Road (南京东路站), 2 stops to People’s Square;
    • Alternatively, get off at East Nanjing Road Station and walk west along Nanjing East/West Road for about 15 minutes to the museum.

Bus: Multiple Lines Reach People’s Square Hub

People’s Square is a major central bus hub with many lines stopping nearby:

  • Typical lines: 20, 37, 330, 112, 123, 167, Night Bus 311, etc.;
  • Recommended stops:
    • “People’s Square”;
    • “Weihai Road & Huangpi North Road”;
    • “West Nanjing Road & Huangpi North Road”;
  • Walking distance: About 3–8 minutes from these stops to the museum.

Due to the many bus routes, it’s recommended to use Gaode Maps or Baidu Maps for real-time route planning, choosing routes with fewer transfers and shorter walks.

Driving and Parking: Recommend Parking in Mall Garages and Walking

  • Parking spaces around People’s Square are scarce and expensive, so driving directly to the museum entrance for temporary parking is not recommended.
  • Recommended navigation destinations:
    • “People’s Square Underground Parking Lot”;
    • Large nearby commercial parking garages such as:
      • Raffles City Parking;
      • New World City Parking;
      • First Department Store Underground Garage, etc.
  • Walking distance: Usually 5–10 minutes from these parking lots to the museum.
  • Multiple guides remind:
    • “If driving, navigate to ‘People’s Square Underground Parking Lot,’ but parking nearby is difficult”;
    • “You need to park in nearby buildings or malls,” and during holidays or peak times, parking is even tighter—be sure to allow extra time to find a spot.

Walking and Citywalk Connections

The museum is located in the core area of People’s Square and serves as a natural node for several walking routes:

  • Walking from Shanghai Museum (People’s Square Branch)

    • Route: Walk west along People’s Avenue, passing through People’s Park or along the north side of West Nanjing Road;
    • Duration: About 5–8 minutes;
    • Suitable itinerary: Visit the Shanghai Museum first, then conveniently walk to the Shanghai History Museum, forming a “dual cultural museum” combo.

  • Walking from the west end of Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

    • Route: Start from the west end of Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (towards People’s Square), walk west along Nanjing East/West Road;
    • Duration: About 10–15 minutes.

  • Walking from The Bund (外滩)

    • Route: Walk west along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, passing People’s Square, then to the museum;
    • Duration: About 30–40 minutes, suitable for Citywalk enthusiasts with good stamina.

Other Options and Accessibility Facilities

  • Shared Bikes:

    • There are some shared bike parking spots around People’s Square, but the core area is strictly managed;
    • It’s recommended to park slightly outside the core area (e.g., Weihai Road, Huangpi North Road, Chengdu North Road) and walk from there.

  • Accessibility Facilities:

    • The museum has accessible ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms;
    • Wheelchairs and strollers can be borrowed or stored free of charge at the first-floor service desk, which also offers free luggage storage—ideal for visitors with mobility challenges and families with children.

Overall Arrival Recommendations

From anywhere in the city, the best and most time-saving way is to take Metro Lines 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square Station and exit from Exit 11, then walk; if driving is necessary, plan parking in advance and allow plenty of time to avoid delays caused by searching for parking, ensuring a smooth visit.

🎫Tickets & Hours

Ticket and Opening Hours Information

1. Ticket and Reservation Policy

  • Ticket Price: Free of charge, the entire museum is open for free.
  • Reservation Policy:
    • Multiple tested notes and official account information from 2024 to 2026 clearly state: "Completely free! No reservation needed!";
    • Official announcements emphasize no reservation required for entry, including during the 2026 Spring Festival holiday (February 15–23), when the museum remains open as usual;
    • Some older guides mentioned “reservation via official WeChat account for direct entry,” which can be considered early or special period policies. Currently, “free and no reservation” is the norm.

2. Opening Hours and Closed Days

  • Regular Opening Hours:
    • Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM;
    • Last admission at 4:00 PM (security check and ticket gates close at this time).
  • Closed Days:
    • Closed every Monday;
    • National holidays are generally open unless otherwise announced. For example, the 2026 Spring Festival is explicitly stated as “no closing”.

Visitors are advised to plan their visit reasonably and try to enter before 2:00 PM to ensure enough time for a complete tour.

3. Free / Paid Area Division

  • Free Areas:

    • East Building floors 1–5 permanent exhibitions: “Ancient Shanghai,” “Modern Shanghai” exhibition halls, multimedia prelude “A Brief History of Shanghai,” rooftop garden, etc., are all free;
    • Most special exhibitions such as “Fragrance Viewing – Hainan Agarwood Culture Exhibition / Nasal Wonderland – Hainan Agarwood Culture Exhibition,” “Let’s Go! Coffee Culture Special Exhibition,” “Donggui Huangpu Spring – Maritime Traditional Chinese Medicine and Healthy Living,” “Nine Bends Yellow River, Long Song on Horseback: Ordos Grassland Culture Exhibition,” “Galloping Horses Welcome the New Year – Year of the Horse 2016 New Year Exhibition,” “China Through the Lens of World Photography Masters,” etc., are all marked as free and no reservation required.

  • Potentially Charged Temporary or Collaborative Exhibitions:

    • Some temporary exhibitions or cross-museum collaborative projects may charge admission or require separate reservations;
    • Some guides mention “West Building temporary exhibition halls are mostly paid,” but recent coffee, TCM, agarwood, and Ordos exhibitions have all been free;
    • It is recommended to check the latest exhibition news and ticketing information on the Shanghai History Museum official website or WeChat public account before visiting to avoid misunderstandings.

4. Guided Tours, Audio Guides, and Equipment Fees

  • Free Guided Tours:

    • Fixed-time free guided tours are available on each floor of the East Building, each lasting about 1 hour;
    • Common sessions are at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, with dedicated guides for ancient and modern sections respectively;
    • The detailed schedule can be checked in the lobby or service desk after entering.

  • Audio Guide Devices:

    • Languages: Chinese / English / Shanghainese (沪语);
    • Rental time: 8:50 AM – 4:00 PM (must be returned before 5:00 PM);
    • Fee: ¥20 per device (~$3 USD);
    • Deposit: ¥200 per device (~$30 USD);
    • Suitable for visitors who want to explore at their own pace while gaining a systematic understanding of the exhibits.

  • VR Guided Glasses:

    • Purpose: Provide an immersive explanation experience, with some exhibition areas recreating historical scenes via VR;
    • Fee: ¥70 per device (~$10 USD).

  • Themed Activities and In-depth Lectures:

    • Activities like “Treasure Hunt Historical Tour in Magic City,” “Art Lover Package” 100-minute in-depth lectures, and others are mostly paid, with prices varying depending on content and partners;
    • Advance registration is required via the “Shanghai History Museum” WeChat public account or cooperating platforms. Specific fees and times are announced per event.

5. Discounts and Group Policies

  • Since the museum is free for individual visitors, there are no student tickets, senior tickets, combo discounts, or other differentiated pricing;
  • For schools, enterprises, institutions, and study groups, red education courses and customized guided tours may be priced separately depending on group size and content. Inquiries can be made by phone or via the WeChat public account backend;
  • Some special lectures, workshops, and parent-child courses may be free or low-cost public welfare activities, so keep an eye on the official account for booking opportunities.

6. Practical Booking Tips Before Visiting

  • Before departure, it is recommended to:
    • Follow the Shanghai History Museum WeChat public account to check daily opening status, temporary closures, or maintenance announcements;
    • Learn in advance whether current special exhibitions charge admission or require reservations to plan time and budget accordingly;
    • If planning to rent audio guides or VR equipment, estimate your visit duration to avoid renting near closing time and having an insufficient experience.

⏱️Recommended Duration

Recommended Duration and Depth of Visit

1. Quick Visit: About 1–2 Hours

Suitable for visitors with limited time who just want to experience the architecture and key exhibits. You can follow this pace:

  • 1F Entrance Hall:

    • Quickly watch the multimedia short film "A Brief History of Shanghai" (~10–15 minutes) to establish an overall timeline;
    • Focus on key treasures such as the "Wuhua Hundred Sons Wedding Sedan" and the "HSBC Bronze Lions" (exhibits may vary due to display adjustments).

  • 2F Ancient Shanghai Exhibition Hall:

    • Concentrate on representative artifacts like the "First Person of Shanghai" skull, the divine beast face-patterned ivory scepter, Majia Bang pottery furnace grate, Songze culture pottery and jade, Tang dynasty blue-and-white small bowl, and Yuan dynasty blue-and-white lidded jar.

  • 3F or 4F Modern Shanghai Exhibition Hall (choose one):

    • Pick one floor to quickly browse core panels and scenes about Shanghai’s urban changes after opening up, concession areas, industrial and commercial development, and revolutionary history.

  • 5F Rooftop Garden:

    • Go up for photos, overlook the People’s Square building complex and People’s Park, and appreciate the scale of the "Asia’s Largest Clock Tower" and the city skyline.

This mode pairs well with nearby Shanghai Museum and 南京路 (Nanjing Road) pedestrian street for a half-day itinerary.

2. Standard Visit: About 3–4 Hours

This is the recommended duration for most visitors and travel guides, allowing you to see the main storyline plus some special exhibitions and interactive experiences:

  • East Building Full Route from Bottom to Top:

    • 1F: Entrance hall, multimedia "A Brief History of Shanghai," key treasures, and current special exhibitions;
    • 2F: Ancient Shanghai Exhibition Hall, systematically learning about prehistoric cultures like Majia Bang, Songze, Liangzhu, and urban development during Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties;
    • 3F: Modern Shanghai (urban construction, citizen life, industry, commerce, and finance);
    • 4F: Modern Shanghai (War of Resistance, Liberation, and revolutionary history);
    • 5F: Rooftop garden and terrace restaurant for rest and photos.

  • Interactive and Multimedia:

    • Reserve time to participate in the Sound Museum, Shanghainese language interactive devices, voice message "post," telegraph experience, old Shanghai lane models, and other interactive projects;
    • Optionally join a free guided tour (~1 hour) to naturally extend your visit to 3.5–4 hours.

  • West Building Special Exhibitions (1–2):

    • Depending on current exhibitions, choose 1–2 special shows such as Coffee Culture, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Health, Agarwood Culture, Grassland Culture, etc., to supplement thematic knowledge and lifestyle experiences.

3. In-Depth Exploration: About 4–6 Hours

Ideal for history enthusiasts, study groups, or visitors who want a systematic understanding of Shanghai’s urban development:

  • Systematic Review of Ancient and Modern Mainlines:

    • In the Ancient Shanghai Hall, focus on the "Three of the Six Prehistoric Yangtze River Delta Cultures Named After Shanghai" (Songze, Guangfulin, Majia) and "Shanghai’s Six Earliest Chinese Records";
    • In the Modern Shanghai Hall, compare exhibits with red sites like the First National Congress Site, Sihang Warehouse, and Longhua Martyrs Memorial Hall, closely examining industry, finance, and revolutionary movements.

  • Multiple Guided Tours and Deep Commentary:

    • Attend at least two free guided tours covering ancient and modern sections;
    • Or sign up for the "Art Lover’s Package" 100-minute in-depth guided tour for a systematic overview in a shorter time.

  • Complete Coverage of Current Special Exhibitions:

    • Allocate time to visit all special exhibitions on the West Building and 1F East Building (e.g., Coffee, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Agarwood, Ordos Grassland Culture, Photography, Western Xia Mausoleum exhibitions), and rest at the cultural shop or café.

  • Family and Study Activities:

    • If visiting with children, participate in family-friendly activities like the "Magic City Treasure Hunt History Tour," which involves puzzle-solving and stamp collection tasks to enhance engagement. A 4–6 hour stay is comfortable for this.

4. Time Planning Reference for Combining Nearby Attractions

  • Half-Day Itinerary (People’s Square Cultural Line):

    • Morning: Shanghai History Museum (~3 hours, including mainline + some interaction);
    • Afternoon: Walk to Shanghai Museum (People’s Square branch) or Shanghai Sports Museum;
    • Evening: Stroll 南京路 (Nanjing Road) pedestrian street.

  • Full-Day Itinerary (Citywalk Intensive Route):

    • Shanghai Museum → Shanghai History Museum → People’s Park → Shanghai Sports Museum → 南京路 (Nanjing Road) pedestrian street → 外滩 (The Bund) → Waibaidu Bridge → Shanghai Postal Museum;
    • Suitable for physically fit "special forces" visitors; reserve at least 3–4 core hours for Shanghai History Museum.

  • Full-Day Family Itinerary:

    • Morning: Shanghai History Museum (focus on interactive and family activities, about 4 hours);
    • Noon: Lunch at shopping malls around People’s Square;
    • Afternoon: People’s Park matchmaking corner and amusement facilities;
    • Evening: 南京路 (Nanjing Road) pedestrian street or 外滩 (The Bund) night view.

In summary:

  • For just "checking in" the architecture and key treasures, reserve at least 2 hours;
  • To "understand Shanghai" through the main historical storyline, 3–4 hours is recommended;
  • For "in-depth study + multiple special exhibitions + family interaction," 4–6 hours is more suitable.

✨Highlights

Must-See Highlights Inside and Outside the Museum

1. Architecture and Exterior: The Former Shanghai Jockey Club Building’s “Asia’s Number One Clock Tower”

  • Historical Background and Cost:

    • Originally the “Shanghai Jockey Club Building” constructed between 1932 and 1934, designed by the British firm Muirhead & Co.;
    • The East Wing was built by the Jockey Club at a cost of about 2 million taels of silver, serving as the core building of the “Far East’s Number One Racecourse” at the time, known as the “Third Jockey Hall.”

  • Architectural Style and Details:

    • Designed in British Neoclassical style with some eclectic elements;
    • Exterior walls feature alternating coffee-colored bricks and creamy white granite, with red bricks, granite, and other stones interwoven, creating a dignified and elegant overall look;
    • The facade is supported by eight Tashkent-style stone columns holding up the second and third-floor balconies, producing a strong vertical rhythm;
    • Stair railings are carved with horse racing patterns, entrances and some decorations feature black iron horse heads, preserving the “old money” atmosphere from the Jockey Club era.

  • Clock Tower and City Landmark:

    • The clock tower stands about 53.3 meters tall, with four large round clocks approximately 3.3 meters in diameter on each side at the top;
    • Once hailed as “Asia’s Number One Clock Tower,” it remains one of the most recognizable landmarks around People’s Square (人民广场);
    • The clock tower rooftop garden offers iconic views framing the People’s Square building complex and the Lujiazui skyline.

  • East-West Fusion Decorative Art:

    • Features decorative French crystal glass doors and stained glass windows;
    • The stained glass patterns are not Western religious themes but Chinese auspicious motifs such as “Qilin Bringing Children” and “Five Sons Passing Exams,” reflecting the typical Shanghai-style (Haipai) aesthetic and East-West fusion.

  • West Wing Courtyard:

    • After fence removal, visitors can freely enter to closely admire the building facade and stone columns;
    • An ideal spot for photographing architectural details and “old foreign-style mansion” check-in photos.

2. East Wing 1st Floor: Foyer and Museum Treasures

1. Multimedia Foyer “A Brief History of Shanghai”

  • Using multimedia technology, themed “Shanghai from Ancient Times to the Future,” it quickly presents the city’s formation and development timeline;
  • The film lasts about 10–15 minutes and is recommended by most guides and travel tips as the first stop, helping visitors build an overall chronological framework.

2. “Wuhuahao Hundred Sons Wedding Sedan Chair” (Wangong Sedan Chair, Eight-Bearer Sedan Chair)

  • Famous alongside the “Ningbo Wangong Sedan Chair” at Zhejiang Provincial Museum; only three Wangong sedan chairs remain in China, another is at Ningbo Museum;
  • Originally named “Wuhuahao Hundred Sons Wedding Sedan Chair,” it and the “Juchenghao Great Fortune Sedan Chair” were used by a late Qing to early Republic rental shop for wedding and funeral items;
  • Funded by Ningbo merchant Zhou Weicheng, crafted by 10 woodcarving artisans from Xiangshan over 10 years, costing hundreds of taels of gold, with an enormous amount of gold leaf used;
  • The sedan chair is a mortise-and-tenon structure with seven layers, shaped like a theater stage, carved with over 400 figures, hence called “Hundred Sons Sedan Chair,” the highest grade of bridal sedan chair;
  • Decorative techniques include vermilion gold lacquer woodcarving and gilt lacquer painting, with a “30% carving, 70% lacquer” ratio, like an enlarged 3D lacquerware;
  • The multi-layered top resembles a stage, carved with opera characters and scenes, inspired by Western stained glass but using Chinese auspicious motifs;
  • Equipped with nearly 100 small electric bulbs that light up at night, once serving as a “mobile lightbox” in Republican-era weddings;
  • The front and back of the sedan chair have no fixed doors; doors are installed after the bride boards to prevent “bride running away,” a fun detail often highlighted by guides;
  • Note: During some exhibition periods (e.g., large-scale red-themed exhibitions), it may be temporarily removed from public view; please refer to on-site displays.

3. Original HSBC Bronze Lions

  • Originally placed in front of the HSBC building on the Bund (外滩), ordered from the UK in 1923;
  • The only pair of original HSBC bronze lions in the world, witnessing the rise and fall of the Bund’s financial district;
  • Now displayed in the first-floor foyer, symbolizing Shanghai’s modern financial history and the Bund’s financial street, a must-see photo spot.

4. Temporary Exhibitions and Stamp Collecting Easter Eggs on 1st Floor

  • The first floor hosts various temporary exhibitions, such as “Shipbuilding Industry Exhibition”;
  • Some exhibitions offer themed stamps, like the “Fujian Ship” stamp, perfect for stamp collectors to gather souvenirs.

3. East Wing 2nd Floor: Ancient Shanghai Exhibition Hall

1. Exhibition Theme and Knowledge Framework

  • Theme: Introduces social development within Shanghai’s region from ancient times to mid-Qing Dynasty, highlighting Shanghai’s long-standing urban cultural lineage;
  • The exhibition traces from the Majiabang culture, Songze culture to Liangzhu culture, systematically presenting three of the six major prehistoric cultures in the Yangtze River Delta named after Shanghai: Songze, Guangfulin, and Maqiao;
  • Emphasizes the fact that “three of the six prehistoric ‘dynasties’ in the Yangtze River Delta are in Shanghai,” overturning the stereotype that “Shanghai’s history is short.”

2. Important Exhibits

  • “Shanghai’s First Person” Skull:

    • About 7,000–6,000 years old, excavated from the Songze culture layer;
    • An important artifact for understanding prehistoric humans in Shanghai, regarded as direct evidence of when people began living here.

  • Majiabang Pottery Kiln Grate:

    • Reflects early pottery making and living technology, important for studying prehistoric lifestyles.

  • Divine-Human-Beast Face Pattern Ivory Scepter:

    • Considered one of “China’s earliest ivory scepters”;
    • Carved with divine-human and beast face motifs, symbolizing early social power and ritual concepts, a museum-grade treasure.

  • Jade Belt Hook, Beast Face Pattern Bronze Zun, and Other Bronze and Jade Masterpieces:

    • Showcases characteristics of bronze civilization and ritual culture in the Jiangnan region.

  • Tang Dynasty Blue-and-White Small Bowl, Yuan Dynasty Blue-and-White Covered Jar:

    • Reflect Shanghai’s important role in the Maritime Silk Road and foreign trade during Tang, Song, and Yuan periods.

  • Portrait and Manuscripts of Xu Guangqi, and Documents Related to “Complete Book of Agricultural Administration”:

    • Xu Guangqi, known as “the first to open eyes to the world,” was an important Ming dynasty scientist and thinker;
    • His key documents are exhibited here rather than in his memorial hall, highlighting Shanghai’s pioneering role in Sino-Western cultural exchange.

3. Interactive and Educational Highlights

  • Multimedia and interactive installations demonstrate pottery design, jade crafting, and prehistoric settlement evolution;
  • Guides explain Shanghai’s city-building history starting from the Han dynasty, using ancient names like “Yunjian” and “Huating,” helping visitors build a more complete historical understanding.

4. East Wing 3rd–4th Floors: Modern Shanghai Exhibition Hall

1. Exhibition Theme

  • Theme: Showcases Shanghai’s rise as the largest modern metropolis in the Far East;

  • Focuses on:

    • Urban development and concession layout after the opening of the port;
    • The rise of industry, commerce, and finance;
    • Civic life and Haipai culture;
    • The War of Resistance and Liberation;
    • The founding of the Chinese Communist Party in Shanghai and revolutionary struggles.

  • The exhibition is divided into multiple units, telling the story of Shanghai’s opening, urban construction, industrial and commercial development, cultural life, war and liberation through seven sections, intertextually linked with many red-themed sites across the city.

2. Representative Exhibits and Scenes

  • Industry, Commerce, and Lifestyle:

    • Light bulbs produced by Edison General Electric in Shanghai, showing modern industrial and electrification progress;
    • Nameplates from foreign firms like Shell and Mobil, reflecting foreign investment history in Shanghai;
    • Jade mahjong and other old Shanghai daily items, presenting the lifestyle and entertainment of the “Ten-Mile Foreign Settlement.”

  • Urban Life and Spatial Memory:

    • Model of old Shanghai alleyways (nongtang), detailed down to fake underwear on clotheslines and flowerpots on windowsills, praised as “fun trivia Easter eggs,” so realistic you want to “reach out and take in the laundry”;
    • A small stage with switchable backdrops recreates old Shanghai opera and entertainment culture.

  • Sound and Visual Memories:

    • Sound museum: Using old-fashioned telephone dials, visitors can listen to historical recordings like the “May Fourth Movement现场录音,” described as an immersive experience that “makes your hair stand on end”;
    • Voice “post”: Listen to music from different eras, record or select voice messages, creating a personal connection with the city’s memory.

  • Red History and Revolutionary Memory:

    • Exhibits numerous documents and artifacts echoing the CCP First Congress Memorial, Sihang Warehouse War Memorial, Longhua Martyrs Memorial, etc.;
    • Includes important historical photos such as Mao Zedong and Chiang Kai-shek’s Chongqing negotiation meeting, forming an essential part of Shanghai’s red education.

  • Language and Cultural Interaction:

    • Shanghainese interactive device: Learn authentic Shanghainese, listen to “Hundred Schools Hundred Songs in Shanghai,” experience local language culture charm;
    • Telegraph experience: Simulates old communication methods, helping visitors understand technological changes through hands-on operation.

5. East Wing 5th Floor: Rooftop Garden and Terrace Restaurant

1. Rooftop Garden / Terrace

  • Offers nearly 360° panoramic views of the People’s Square building complex:

    • Overlooks People’s Park, Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Grand Theatre, and other landmarks;
    • Distant views of the Lujiazui skyline, especially clear on sunny days;
    • Close-up views of clock tower details, perfect for photographing the clock tower against the city skyline.

  • Called a “secret garden” and “retro blockbuster photo spot favored by flower enthusiasts” in many travel guides, it’s a popular location for portraits and cityscape photography.

2. Rooftop Restaurant / Café

  • Located beside the rooftop garden, offering light meals, coffee, desserts, etc.;
  • Ideal for resting during long visits while enjoying the view;
  • Some exhibition periods feature themed drinks or desserts matching special exhibitions, such as specialty coffee during coffee culture exhibitions.

6. West Wing: Special Exhibitions and Public Spaces

1. West Wing 1st Floor: Coffee Culture Exhibition and Café

  • “Let’s Go! Coffee Culture Exhibition” (Oct 30, 2025 – Mar 1, 2026):

    • Displays 182 items divided into three main sections, narrating coffee’s journey from Africa to Shanghai;
    • Introduces the first coffee beans imported to Shanghai in 1844, “Jiafei Beans,” and the amusing story of the Old Deji Pharmacy selling coffee as “cough syrup” in 1853;
    • Shows early Chinese transliterations of “coffee,” such as “kafei” and “kafei”;
    • The exhibition space is decorated with strong Haipai style, featuring many exquisite coffee cups and vintage items, with various coffee aromas, described as “like reading a lighthearted history book.”

  • Ground floor café and cultural shop:

    • The café often launches themed drinks or co-branded cups alongside exhibitions;
    • The cultural shop sells building-themed fridge magnets, co-branded coffee cups, scented candles, etc., with strong design appeal.

2. West Wing 2nd Floor: Grassland Culture and Agarwood Culture

  • “Nine Bends of the Yellow River, Long Songs on Horseback: Ordos Grassland Culture Exhibition” (Oct 17, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026):

    • Exhibits nearly 150 artifacts, including bronzes, bone and horn tools, pottery, jade, textiles, etc.;
    • Key items: Han dynasty bronze basin, Warring States double-sheep bronze ornament, Yuan dynasty painted female attendant figurine, Ming dynasty sancai figurines, Qing dynasty cloisonné saddles, silver-plated bronze censers from Qing temples, Qing dynasty silver inlaid blue incense pouches;
    • Presents grassland civilization inside a Haipai old building, creating a striking cultural contrast.

  • “Scent Viewing — Hainan Agarwood Culture Exhibition / Nasal Viewing of Wonderful Scenery — Hainan Agarwood Culture Exhibition” (Jan 24 – Mar 22, 2026):

    • Jointly presented with Hainan Provincial Museum, displaying 127 sets of Hainan collection artifacts + 2 Shanghai History Museum calligraphy and paintings;
    • Divided into four units: “Natural Fragrance,” “Fragrance Spreads over Qiongya,” “Fragrance Resonates Across Nine Continents,” and “Fragrance Gathers in Thousands of Homes”;
    • Exhibits twelve forms of Hainan cliff agarwood specimens, historical incense utensils, ancient and modern incense harvesting tools, and modern incense creations;
    • The theme summarized as “A wisp of agarwood, a millennium of cultural lineage,” with different grades of agarwood scents available on-site;
    • The cultural shop features the “Taiyue” genuine agarwood brand, launching “Year of the Horse Shanghai History Museum Co-branded Gift Box” and “Four Seasons Wealth Incense Sticks,” etc.

  • “Galloping into Spring to Welcome the New Year — Year of the Horse New Year Exhibition” (Jan 24 – Feb 24, 2026; exhibition area in East Wing 2nd floor corridor but often mentioned with West Wing exhibitions):

    • Four main units: Zodiac origin, evolution and domestication, cultural contributions, global imagery;
    • Uses Eastern Han “Lunheng,” Qin bamboo slips, and “Heavenly Horse Legend” to explain the cultural status of the horse zodiac;
    • Shows the evolution from ancestral horses to modern horses, innovations in military and transportation with stirrups and horse bells;
    • Presents Mongolian cavalry, postal routes, equestrian arts, and compares Northern European eight-legged horses and Tibetan dragon horses, illustrating East-West horse culture imagery.

3. West Wing 3rd Floor and Other Special Exhibitions

  • “China Through the Lens of World Photography Masters — Michael Freeman Photography Exhibition” (Sep 30 – Oct 30, 2025):

    • Presents China’s landscape through the eyes of an international photography master; though short-term, it reflects the West Wing’s frequent introduction of high-quality image exhibitions.

  • Western Xia Tombs Special Exhibition:

    • Previously held a limited-time exhibition on Western Xia tombs, allowing visitors to “see Western Xia artifacts without going to Yinchuan”;
    • Showcases Western Xia script, tomb structures, and unearthed artifacts, coinciding with the successful UNESCO World Heritage listing of Western Xia Tombs on July 11, 2025.

  • “Glorious Huangpu Spring — Shanghai Traditional Chinese Medicine and Healthy Living” (East Wing 1st floor special exhibition, often linked with West Wing exhibitions):

    • Following the theme of “medicine, herbs, and health preservation,” it tells the story of TCM’s roots and Sino-Western fusion in Shanghai, displaying nearly 300 items;
    • The opening day featured a century-old wild ginseng worth tens of millions RMB, with free ginseng lozenges in the atrium, and introduced trivia like indigo cloth “life-saving” and medicinal ink.

  • “City of Glory” Red Education Special Exhibition (East Wing 1st floor):

    • Through interactive forms like stamping, message writing, handprint pledges, and lighting up a CCP site model, it enhances red education experience and is popular among red-themed check-in and stamp collectors.

7. Interactive Experiences and Family Highlights

  • “Magic City Treasure Hunt History Tour” Activity:

    • A puzzle-solving adventure guiding families to find clues and learn about artifacts inside the museum;
    • Offers great value for one adult and one child package, highly interactive and popular with family visitors.

  • “Art Lover’s Combo” 100-Minute In-Depth Guided Tour:

    • Led by professional guides, systematically covering 6,000 years of Shanghai history in about 100 minutes;
    • Suitable for visitors wanting dense information in limited time.

  • Audio Guides and VR Experience:

    • Chinese, English, and Shanghainese audio guides and VR glasses provide multi-level options for visitors who want detailed explanations at their own pace.

  • Stamp Collecting Game:

    • Multiple stamp stations inside the museum; some special exhibitions like “City of Glory” allow collecting multiple themed stamps, adding fun to the visit.

8. Citywalk and Nearby Connected Routes

  • Route A (No Backtracking Citywalk Line):

    1. Shanghai Museum (People’s Square location)
    2. Shanghai History Museum
    3. People’s Park
    4. Shanghai Sports Museum (150 Nanjing West Road, Sports Building, also part of Jockey Hall history)
    5. Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街)
    6. The Bund (外滩)
    7. Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥)
    8. Shanghai Postal Museum (featuring the “Horse of the Far East Hall” sculpture)

  • Route B (People’s Square Historical and Cultural Line):

    • People’s Square → Shanghai Museum → Shanghai History Museum → Shanghai Sports Museum → International Hotel Historical Exhibition Hall (170 Nanjing West Road, a work by architect Wudake) → Fuzhou Road Cultural Street (including Pen and Ink Museum, etc.).

  • Route C (People’s Square Power Walk Line):

    • Shanghai History Museum → Shanghai Museum → M&M’s World (People’s Square shopping and entertainment area) → Nanjing West Road shopping district.

With these highlights and routes, visitors can experience the “ancient and modern splendor all in one museum” inside a century-old building, gaining a multi-dimensional understanding of Shanghai—from prehistoric civilization to modern history, from agarwood and coffee to traditional Chinese medicine and grassland culture, and from red revolutionary memories to the city skyline.

💡Tips

Practical Visiting Tips

1. Visiting Time and Crowd Planning

  • Best Entry Time:

    • It is recommended to enter within 1 hour after opening (9:00–10:00), when groups and individual visitors have not yet gathered, making the exhibition halls relatively quiet—ideal for in-depth viewing and photography;
    • After 15:00, the crowd starts to thin, suitable for catching up on key exhibition areas, but note that entry stops at 16:00.

  • Peak Hours:

    • The peak crowd time is 13:00–15:00, especially during summer and winter holidays and the Spring Festival; popular showcases and interactive zones tend to be crowded;
    • For a quieter visit, it is recommended to choose morning or after 15:00 for entry.

  • Closed Days and Holidays:

    • Closed every Monday (national holidays such as the Spring Festival are usually open, subject to the annual announcement);
    • Check the official WeChat public account before your visit to confirm opening status and avoid wasted trips.

2. Suggested Visiting Order and Route

  • Recommended Standard Route (if time allows):

    1. East Building, 1st Floor: Entrance hall, multimedia "Brief History of Shanghai," museum treasures, and current special exhibitions;
    2. East Building, 2nd Floor: Ancient Shanghai exhibition hall;
    3. East Building, 3rd Floor: Modern Shanghai (urban development, citizen life, industry, commerce, and finance);
    4. East Building, 4th Floor: Modern Shanghai (War of Resistance, Liberation, and revolutionary history);
    5. East Building, 5th Floor: Rooftop garden and terrace restaurant;
    6. West Building: Choose 1–2 special exhibitions based on interest.

  • Condensed Route for Limited Time:

    • Priority visits: 1st floor museum treasures → 2nd floor ancient Shanghai → 3rd floor modern Shanghai → 5th floor rooftop garden;
    • Depending on remaining time and interest, decide whether to visit West Building special exhibitions.

  • Time Allocation Suggestions:

    • For main route only: reserve at least 2–3 hours;
    • If planning to listen to guided tours, participate in interactions, and see multiple special exhibitions, reserve 4–6 hours.

3. Guided Tours, Audio Guides, and Activity Options

  • Free Guided Tours:

    • Check the schedule at the lobby or service desk after entry; common sessions are at 10:00 and 14:00;
    • Ancient and modern sections usually have separate guides, each session about 1 hour;
    • It is recommended to attend at least one session to significantly enhance viewing efficiency and understanding.

  • Audio Guide Devices:

    • Languages: Chinese / English / Shanghainese;
    • Rental fee: ¥20 per device, deposit ¥200 per device;
    • Rental time: 8:50–16:00, must be returned by 17:00;
    • Suitable for visitors who prefer not to join a group but want a systematic understanding of exhibits.

  • VR Glasses:

    • Fee: ¥70 per device;
    • Provides an immersive explanation experience, ideal for those interested in tech interactions.

  • Family and Educational Activities:

    • Programs like “Treasure Hunt in Magic City” and “Art Lover’s Combo” are mostly paid and require advance registration via the official WeChat or partner platforms;
    • Limited spots, especially popular during holidays and weekends, so plan ahead.

4. Clothing and Personal Items

  • Clothing Suggestions:

    • The museum has sufficient air conditioning and heating; in summer, bring a light jacket, and in winter, you can remove heavy coats indoors for comfort;
    • The exhibition route is long, so wear comfortable flat shoes or sneakers to avoid foot fatigue from high heels.

  • Items to Bring and Restrictions:

    • Security is strict; no beverage bottles allowed inside exhibition halls. You may bring an empty cup or thermos; drinking water stations are available on each floor;
    • Large photography equipment such as selfie sticks and tripods are prohibited; do not use flash photography to protect artifacts;
    • Large luggage and strollers can be stored for free at the 1st floor service desk, making your visit lighter.

5. Photography Etiquette and Composition Tips

  • Photography Etiquette:

    • Do not occupy space in front of display cases for extended periods; be mindful to leave room for others to view;
    • Climbing railings, leaning on display cases, or performing risky actions on stairs is prohibited;
    • Respect privacy when photographing others; avoid posting identifiable images of strangers online without consent.

  • Brief Composition Tips (detailed camera positions are in the highlights section):

    • For portraits, choose side or backlighting, using old building window frames, colonnades, and stair curves as foreground elements;
    • For exhibits, shoot at an oblique angle to avoid glass reflections, and slightly reduce exposure to preserve details;
    • For the rooftop garden, choose sunny or cloudy evenings to capture silhouettes and city skylines with soft light.

6. Money-Saving and Value-Added Tips

  • Free Cultural Day Combo:

    • Shanghai History Museum itself is free and requires no reservation; combine it with other free nearby museums like Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Sports Museum, and Shanghai Postal Museum to create a “Free Cultural Day”;
    • Only transportation and food costs apply, enabling a dense cultural experience.

  • Free Souvenirs and Stamp Collecting:

    • The 1st floor service desk occasionally offers free admission tickets, postcards, and other small gifts, and has museum stamps available—stamp collectors should bring their own books;
    • Some special exhibitions like “City of Glory” offer free stamps, message cards, and handprint pledges with no extra charge.

  • Follow the Official WeChat for Benefits:

    • It is recommended to follow the “Shanghai History Museum” WeChat public account in advance for the latest exhibition news and event info;
    • Free or low-cost public lectures, workshops, and family courses are often announced, ideal for locals and long-term visitors.

7. Pitfall Warnings

  • Key Exhibits May Be Temporarily Removed:

    • Treasures like the “Wuhuahao Hundred Sons Wedding Sedan Chair” may not be on display during special exhibition setups or restoration;
    • If you are coming specifically for a certain item, confirm in advance via the WeChat or phone to avoid disappointment.

  • Confirm Whether Special Exhibitions Are Free:

    • Recent exhibitions such as the coffee, traditional Chinese medicine, agarwood, and Ordos exhibitions have been free, but some temporary exhibitions in the West Building have charged admission;
    • Check the entrance, official website, or WeChat for current exhibition details and ticket requirements.

  • Parking Is Difficult and Expensive:

    • Parking spaces around People’s Square are tight and costly; if driving, allow extra time to find parking;
    • Metro travel is recommended, or park in large shopping mall garages and walk to the museum.

  • Pace Control When Visiting with Children:

    • The exhibition route is long; avoid “special forces-style” rushing with young children;
    • Plan short breaks in interactive zones and rooftop garden, and split the visit into segments to prevent information and physical overload.

8. Safety and Public Etiquette

  • Safety Notes:

    • Running and chasing are prohibited inside, especially on stairs and rooftop garden; supervise children carefully;
    • Do not lean on or climb railings and display cases to avoid accidents.

  • Visiting Etiquette:

    • Do not touch artifacts or display case glass; maintain a proper viewing distance;
    • Keep quiet; set phones to silent or vibrate during guided tours;
    • Avoid loud conversations or playing audio inside exhibition halls.

9. Pre-Visit Preparation and Information Access

  • Information Channels:

    • “Shanghai History Museum” WeChat public account: for opening hours, temporary closures, exhibition info, guided tour schedules, and some online guides;
    • Official website: for detailed exhibition introductions, academic activities, and educational programs.

  • Maps and Navigation:

    • It is recommended to install and familiarize yourself with Gaode Map or Baidu Map on your phone for planning metro and bus routes and real-time walking navigation;
    • If planning to visit nearby red-themed sites (such as the Memorial of the First National Congress of the CPC, Sihang Warehouse War of Resistance Memorial, etc.), book in advance via the respective venue mini-programs to arrange a full-day itinerary efficiently.

🍜Food Nearby

Nearby Dining and Coffee Recommendations

The Shanghai History Museum is located at the intersection of People’s Square (人民广场) and the Nanjing West Road (南京西路) shopping district, with an extremely rich variety of dining options within walking distance. Below are only those options that are truly close by and walkable, making it convenient for you to dine or rest before or after your visit.

1. On-site and Adjacent Facilities

1. East Building 5th Floor Terrace Restaurant / Café

  • Type: Light meals, coffee, desserts
  • Average cost: About ¥60–120 (~$9–$18 USD)
  • Location: East Building, 5th floor rooftop garden side
  • Highlights:
    • Focuses on "scenery + relaxation," allowing you to dine while overlooking People’s Square and People’s Park;
    • Ideal for a relaxing afternoon tea or light meal after touring, with a quiet and atmospheric environment;
    • Menu mainly features Western-style light meals, desserts, and coffee, suitable as a mid-visit refreshment rather than a heavy meal.

2. West Building Ground Floor Café

  • Type: Coffee, soft drinks, light meals
  • Average cost: About ¥40–80 (~$6–$12 USD)
  • Location: Near the entrance on the 1st floor of the West Building
  • Highlights:
    • Linked to the “Let’s Go! Coffee Culture Exhibition” with themed drinks and co-branded cups often available;
    • Perfect for a short stop before or after visiting the special exhibition to enjoy a hand-brewed or specialty coffee, extending the “coffee culture” experience;
    • Seating is relatively limited, suitable for a brief rest rather than long work sessions.

3. Museum Cultural & Creative Shop (Non-food)

  • Although no food or drinks are sold, you can purchase coffee- and agarwood-related cultural products such as the “Year of the Horse Co-branded Agarwood Gift Box,” “Four Seasons Fortune Incense,” and “Architecture Fridge Magnets”;
  • Great as a small souvenir to take home, leaving a tangible memory of your cultural journey.

2. Dining in Shopping Malls Around People’s Square / Nanjing West Road (About 5–15 Minutes on Foot)

4. New World City Food Floor

  • Type: Comprehensive food court
  • Average cost: About ¥40–100 (~$6–$15 USD)
  • Location: Inside “New World City” at the intersection of Nanjing West Road and Xizang Middle Road
  • Walking distance: About 8–10 minutes from the museum
  • Highlights:
    • Offers a variety of Chinese fast food, noodle shops, snacks, and chain restaurants;
    • Suitable for families, friends, or small groups with many choices and quick table turnover;
    • A very reliable choice for visitors who don’t want to do much research and just want to “grab a meal nearby.”

5. People’s Square Raffles City Dining Area

  • Type: Various chain restaurants and cafés
  • Average cost: About ¥60–150 (~$9–$22 USD)
  • Location: Northeast corner of People’s Square, directly connected to People’s Square Metro Station (人民广场站)
  • Walking distance: About 8–10 minutes from the museum
  • Highlights:
    • Diverse dining options including Japanese cuisine, hotpot, burgers, light meals, desserts, etc.;
    • Suitable for lunch or dinner with a modern environment and comfortable air conditioning;
    • Family- and friend-friendly, allowing flexible choices based on taste and budget.

6. Local Shanghai and Jiangsu-Zhejiang Cuisine Along Nanjing West Road (General Area Recommendation)

  • Type: Shanghai local cuisine, Jiangsu-Zhejiang cuisine
  • Average cost: About ¥100–200 (~$15–$30 USD)
  • Location range: Along both sides of Nanjing West Road from People’s Square to Shimen 1st Road, within office buildings and malls
  • Highlights:
    • Ideal for visitors wanting to taste authentic Shanghai local dishes and Jiangsu-Zhejiang flavors, such as braised pork belly, stir-fried shrimp, scallion oil noodles, etc.;
    • Recommended to search in map apps for “Shanghai local cuisine Nanjing West Road People’s Square” and filter for restaurants within 1 km and with high ratings;
    • Weekday lunch hours may be busy with office workers, so off-peak visits are advised.

7. Established Noodle Shops / Dim Sum Brands Around People’s Square

  • Type: Shanghai snacks like pork rib rice cakes, xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), tangyuan (sweet rice balls), etc.
  • Average cost: About ¥30–60 (~$5–$9 USD)
  • Location: Many branches near People’s Square and East Nanjing Road (南京东路)
  • Highlights:
    • Well-known brands like “Xian De Lai” and “Shen Da Cheng” usually have stores near People’s Square / East Nanjing Road;
    • Great for visitors wanting a quick taste of “Shanghai flavors,” searchable by brand name + “People’s Square” to find the nearest store;
    • Suitable for brunch or afternoon snacks, with flexible timing and affordable prices.

3. Coffee and Afternoon Tea: Continuing the “Coffee Culture Exhibition” Theme

8. Boutique Coffee Shops Along Nanjing West Road

  • Type: Specialty coffee, hand brew, creative drinks
  • Average cost: About ¥40–80 (~$6–$12 USD)
  • Location range: From People’s Square to Shimen 1st Road along Nanjing West Road
  • Highlights:
    • This stretch is Shanghai’s famous “Coffee Corridor,” home to chains like Manner, Seesaw, and many independent cafés;
    • After visiting the “Let’s Go! Coffee Culture Exhibition,” you can conveniently visit nearby coffee shops to extend the “coffee history” experience into real life;
    • Great for photos, chatting, or short work sessions, with each café offering a unique atmosphere to suit personal preferences.

9. Simple Meals and Coffee Stalls Inside / Around People’s Park

  • Type: Light meals, drinks, snacks
  • Average cost: About ¥30–60 (~$5–$9 USD)
  • Location: Inside People’s Park and near its entrances/exits
  • Walking distance: Just a few minutes’ walk through People’s Park from the museum
  • Highlights:
    • Convenient for resting while walking through People’s Park or visiting the matchmaking corner;
    • Mostly light food and drinks, suitable as a refreshment stop during a stroll rather than a full meal.

4. Recommendations for Families and Groups

  • Families with Children:

    • Large mall food courts (such as Raffles City, New World City, First Department Store) are recommended first choice, offering spacious, child-friendly environments within 10–15 minutes walking distance;
    • Check in advance on map apps whether restaurants provide high chairs, kids’ menus, and other child-friendly services.

  • Groups and Friends Dining Together:

    • For larger groups, choose chain restaurants inside malls or medium-sized local Shanghai cuisine restaurants, and make phone reservations in advance to avoid waiting;
    • If your schedule is tight, consider having a light meal near the museum first and plan a formal group dinner later in other shopping districts.

5. Tips for Choosing Restaurants and Navigation

  • When using Gaode Maps or Baidu Maps, try searching with keyword combinations like:
    • “People’s Square food”;
    • “Nanjing West Road Shanghai local cuisine”;
    • “People’s Square coffee”;
  • Prioritize:
    • Restaurants within 1 km of the Shanghai History Museum;
    • Ratings of 4.5 or above (out of 5);
    • Consistently positive reviews regarding environment and service.

By smartly combining the museum’s cafés, nearby mall food courts, and restaurants along Nanjing West Road, you can easily enjoy a full People’s Square food and cultural experience: "morning exhibition, good lunch, afternoon coffee, and evening shopping."

🏨Accommodation

Accommodation and Area Choices Nearby

The Shanghai History Museum is located in the heart of People’s Square (人民广场), surrounded by a wide variety of accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to budget chains and youth hostels. Below are recommendations categorized by distance and price range to help you choose based on your itinerary and budget.

1. High Convenience Zone within 5–10 Minutes’ Walk: People’s Square (人民广场) – Nanjing West Road (南京西路) Area

1. International Hotel (170 Nanjing West Road, 南京西路170号)

  • Type: Established landmark hotel
  • Price Range: Mid-to-high end, about ¥700–1200 per night (varies by season and room type)
  • Walking Distance: About 5–8 minutes to Shanghai History Museum
  • Features:
    • Designed by renowned architect László Hudec (邬达克), it is one of Shanghai’s classic landmark buildings;
    • Houses the "International Hotel History Exhibition Hall," making the hotel itself a historical site worth visiting;
    • Ideal for visitors interested in old Shanghai architecture and cultural atmosphere who want to “live in history.”

2. High-Star Hotels Around People’s Square (Along Xizang Middle Road and Nanjing West Road)

  • Type: International brands and local high-star hotels
  • Price Range: About ¥800–2000 per night
  • Walking Distance: About 5–10 minutes to Shanghai History Museum
  • Features:
    • Extremely convenient transportation, within walking distance to People’s Park, Shanghai Museum, Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street (南京东路步行街), etc.;
    • Well-equipped facilities and standardized services, suitable for first-time visitors to Shanghai planning to visit central city attractions intensively;
    • Friendly for both business travelers and family vacations.

2. Mid-Range Cost-Performance Zone: People’s Square (人民广场) – Nanjing East Road (南京东路) – Huanghe Road (黄河路) Area

3. Business Hotels and Chain Brands near Nanjing East Road / People’s Square

  • Type: Mid-range business hotels, chain brands (such as All Seasons, Orange Hotel, Jinjiang Inn Plus, etc.)
  • Price Range: About ¥400–800 per night
  • Location: Mostly near Metro Line 1/2/8 People’s Square Station (人民广场站) or Nanjing East Road Station (南京东路站)
  • Transport & Distance:
    • About 10–20 minutes’ walk to Shanghai History Museum;
    • Or take one stop on Metro Lines 1/2/8 to People’s Square, then walk.
  • Features:
    • High cost-performance ratio, comfortable rooms, and stable service;
    • Rich dining, shopping, and night view resources nearby, suitable for family and couples;
    • Perfect for visitors who want to “visit exhibitions during the day and shop at night.”

4. Hotels near Huanghe Road (黄河路) and Fengyang Road (凤阳路)

  • Type: Mid-to-lower range business hotels and small boutique hotels
  • Price Range: About ¥300–600 per night
  • Walking Distance: About 10–15 minutes to Shanghai History Museum
  • Features:
    • Quieter than main roads, with complete living facilities (many convenience stores and small restaurants);
    • Suitable for visitors who want to balance budget and convenience without staying in the busiest central area.

3. Budget-Friendly: Youth Hostels and Economy Chains

5. Youth Hostels and Economy Hotels Around People’s Square

  • Type: Hostel beds, economy chain hotels
  • Price Range:
    • Hostel beds about ¥80–150 per night;
    • Economy hotel standard rooms about ¥250–400 per night.
  • Location: Mostly in small alleys near People’s Square Station (人民广场站)
  • Walking Distance: About 8–15 minutes to Shanghai History Museum
  • Features:
    • Suitable for students, solo travelers, and “special forces-style” travelers;
    • Easy and safe to walk back to accommodation at night;
    • Recommended to prioritize highly rated places with good reviews on cleanliness and quietness.

6. Other High Cost-Performance Hostels (e.g., Yuyuan Garden Area)

  • Some guides mention hostels near Yuyuan Garden Metro Station (豫园地铁站) offering 6-bed dorms for about ¥104 per night:
    • Although not next to the museum, you can take Metro Line 10 and transfer to Line 2 to reach People’s Square, making the commute still convenient;
    • Suitable for budget-conscious backpackers wanting to experience the old city vibe;
    • Allow for about 30 minutes one-way metro commute time.

4. Area Selection Suggestions

  • For itineraries focused on museums and cultural sites:

    • Strongly recommend staying within the “People’s Square – Nanjing West Road – Nanjing East Road” triangle area;
    • This greatly reduces commute time and allows walking or short metro rides between Shanghai History Museum, Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Sports Museum, Shanghai Postal Museum, the First National Congress Site, and other museums.

  • For itineraries focused on shopping and nightlife:

    • Consider the slightly westward “Jing’an Temple – middle section of Nanjing West Road” hotel area;
    • Just two stops on Metro Line 2 to People’s Square, about 10–15 minutes by taxi;
    • Enjoy upscale shopping and dining while having easy access to museums and The Bund (外滩).

  • During holidays and exhibition peak periods:

    • During Chinese New Year, summer vacation, and major exhibitions (such as popular international exhibitions at Shanghai Museum or Pudong Art Museum), hotel prices around People’s Square usually rise significantly;
    • It is recommended to book in advance and look out for “stay-long discounts” or “early bird rates.”

5. Booking and Selection Tips

  • Booking platforms and filter criteria:

    • When using common online booking platforms, set “People’s Square Metro Station (人民广场地铁站)” as the center and filter for hotels within a 15-minute walk;
    • Prioritize hotels with ratings above 4.5 out of 5 and a large number of reviews to ensure reliability.

  • Room type and noise control:

    • People’s Square area has heavy traffic and crowds; when booking, request “high floor, away from street side” to reduce noise disturbance;
    • For travelers sensitive to sleep quality, prioritize hotels with double-glazed windows and good soundproofing reviews.

  • Overall advice:

    • As long as you choose hotels or hostels within a 15-minute walk from People’s Square Station on Metro Lines 1/2/8, getting to Shanghai History Museum is very convenient;
    • It is recommended to stay within walking distance to both the museum and Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street to achieve an efficient itinerary of “daytime exhibitions, evening shopping/night views.”

🗺️Itinerary

Sample Itinerary: One-Day Walking Route Centered on Shanghai History Museum

Here is a one-day itinerary suitable for first-time visitors to Shanghai who want to combine exhibitions + city walking + night views in one day, covering People’s Square (人民广场) – The Bund (外滩). You can adjust it flexibly based on your energy and interests.

Morning: People’s Square Dual-Museum Cultural Line (About 3.5–4 hours)

08:45–09:00 Arrive at People’s Square Station

  • Take Metro Lines 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square Station (人民广场站) and exit from Exit 11;
  • Quickly identify nearby landmarks on the surface: the Shanghai Museum dome, People’s Park (人民公园) greenery, and the red brick old building with a clock tower (Shanghai History Museum 上海历史博物馆).

09:00–11:00 Shanghai History Museum (First Half)

Recommended visit order: East Building main route, bottom to top

  1. 1F Entrance Hall & Treasures (About 30–40 minutes)

    • Watch the multimedia short film “A Brief History of Shanghai” to quickly build a 6,000-year timeline of Shanghai’s history;
    • Focus on treasures like the “Wuhua Hao Hundred Sons Wedding Sedan” and the original HSBC bronze lions, experiencing old Shanghai wedding customs and The Bund’s financial history;
    • If there is a special exhibition like “City of Glory,” browse it and collect your first stamp.

  2. 2F Ancient Shanghai Exhibition (About 40–50 minutes)

    • Follow the timeline from the Majiabang, Songze, and Liangzhu cultures to explore prehistoric civilizations in the Shanghai area;
    • Pay special attention to the “First Person of Shanghai” skull, the divine beast face-patterned ivory scepter, Tang dynasty blue-and-white small bowls, Yuan dynasty blue-and-white covered jars, and documents related to Xu Guangqi;
    • Join a free guided tour if available to systematically understand the ancient section.

  3. 3F Modern Shanghai (Urban Development & Citizen Life) (About 40–50 minutes)

    • Learn about Shanghai’s opening as a treaty port, concession layout, and the rise of industry, commerce, and finance;
    • Experience interactive exhibits such as old Shanghai lane models, the sound museum, Shanghainese language installations, and telegraph sending;
    • Take some photos of daily life scenes and exhibit details.

If you feel a bit tired or information overload, you can end on the 3rd floor, take a short break at the 5th-floor rooftop garden, then head downstairs for lunch. You can return in the afternoon to see the 4th floor and West Building special exhibitions.

Noon: Lunch at People’s Square Shopping Malls (About 1–1.5 hours)

11:15–12:30 Dining at New World City or Raffles City

  • Walk about 8–10 minutes from Shanghai History Museum to:
    • New World City food floor: good for quick and diverse lunch options;
    • Or People’s Square Raffles City dining area: suitable for those wanting Japanese cuisine, hotpot, or Western casual meals.
  • Suggestions:
    • Choose a window seat or a relatively quiet spot to review the morning’s exhibition content while dining;
    • If you plan to return to the museum in the afternoon, keep lunch to about 1 hour.

Afternoon: Museum Second Half + People’s Park Stroll (About 3–3.5 hours)

12:45–15:00 Shanghai History Museum (Second Half)

  1. 4F Modern Shanghai (War of Resistance, Liberation, Red History) (About 40–50 minutes)

    • Focus on exhibits and materials related to the CPC First Congress Memorial, Sihang Warehouse Battle Memorial, Longhua Martyrs Memorial, etc.;
    • Use videos, documents, and artifacts to trace Shanghai’s key moments in modern revolution and war resistance;
    • Join a free guided tour if available to better understand the red historical context.

  2. 5F Rooftop Garden and Terrace Restaurant (About 30–40 minutes)

    • Climb to the rooftop garden to closely admire the clock tower details and overlook People’s Park and People’s Square buildings;
    • Take some photos of the city skyline and portraits depending on weather;
    • If desired, order a coffee or drink at the terrace restaurant for a short rest.

  3. West Building Special Exhibitions (About 40–60 minutes)

    • Choose 1–2 special exhibitions based on current shows:
      • During the coffee culture exhibition, focus on “Let’s Go! Coffee Culture Special Exhibition” to learn how coffee evolved from a “medicine” to a daily drink in Shanghai;
      • During the agarwood culture exhibition, visit “Scent Viewing – Hainan Agarwood Culture Exhibition / Nasal Viewing of Wonderful Scenery – Hainan Agarwood Culture Exhibition” to experience elegant incense culture;
      • If there are grassland culture or photography exhibitions, select according to your interests;
    • Afterward, browse the West Building café or cultural creative shop for souvenirs.

By now, the main route plus 1–2 special exhibitions at Shanghai History Museum are basically complete, with a total stay of about 3.5–4 hours—rich in information but not overwhelming.

15:15–16:30 Leisurely Walk in People’s Park

  • Walk a few minutes from the museum into People’s Park (人民公园):
    • Visit the famous “People’s Park Matchmaking Corner (人民公园相亲角)” to experience local life;
    • Find a bench in the park to rest and digest the day’s sights;
    • If with children, spend some time at the park’s playground area.

Evening & Night: East Nanjing Road – The Bund Night Views (About 3 hours)

16:30–18:00 East Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

  • Walk from People’s Park or People’s Square to the west end of East Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京东路步行街);
  • Stroll eastward along the pedestrian street:
    • Experience Shanghai’s most iconic commercial street atmosphere;
    • Do some light shopping or grab snacks at the malls along the way;
    • Decide whether to walk the full distance to The Bund based on your energy and interest.

18:00–19:30 The Bund and Huangpu River Night Scenery

  • Arrive at The Bund (外滩):

    • Enjoy the night views of both sides of the Huangpu River and the Lujiazui “three-piece set” skyline;
    • Recall the old Bund photos and HSBC bronze lions you saw in the morning at Shanghai History Museum, then compare with the modern skyline for a deeper historical perspective.

  • If you have the energy, continue walking to Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥) to admire the cityscape where the Suzhou Creek meets the Huangpu River from a different angle.

After 19:30 Return to Hotel or Continue Nightlife

  • Depending on your accommodation location:
    • Take Metro Line 2 or 10 back to People’s Square, East Nanjing Road, Jing’an Temple, or other areas;
    • Or find a café or bar near The Bund to end your day.

Half-Day Simplified Itinerary (People’s Square Area Only)

If time is limited and you only have half a day around People’s Square, consider this route:

  • Morning or afternoon (about 4 hours):
    1. Shanghai History Museum (focus on East Building main route and rooftop garden, about 3 hours);
    2. Short stroll in People’s Park (about 30–40 minutes);
    3. Lunch or coffee at Raffles City or New World City (about 40–60 minutes).

This simplified version is ideal for weekend half-day trips, local residents, or repeat visitors to Shanghai who treat Shanghai History Museum as a “fixed revisit spot,” focusing on different special exhibitions and floors each time to gradually piece together a complete memory of Shanghai.

Based on 43 articlesModel: gpt-5.1