Shanghai History Museum
Explore Shanghai's rich past through artifacts, models, and stunning neoclassical architecture in this historical gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Shanghai History Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Shanghai's rich past through artifacts, models, and stunning neoclassical architecture in this historical gem.
"A really detailed history of Shanghai, how it developed and evolved over time, including the uprisings and unsettled periods."
🎟️ Ticket for Oriental Pearl Tower
Entry to the museum may require a ticket for the Oriental Pearl Tower. Book in advance to save time!
🚶♀️ Navigate with Ease
The museum can be tricky to navigate. Ask staff for directions to make your visit smoother.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Neoclassical Architecture
Former Shanghai Race Club Building
Explore the stunning early 20th-century neoclassical buildings, once the British-run horse racing club.

Historical Artifacts & Models
Exhibition Halls
Discover thousands of years of Shanghai's evolution through artifacts, paintings, and engaging models.

Rooftop Garden Views
Rooftop
Enjoy panoramic city views from the rooftop garden, a peaceful escape with a cafe.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Deeper Dive
Navigating the Museum's Layout
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Ticket for Oriental Pearl Tower
Entry to the museum may require a ticket for the Oriental Pearl Tower. Book in advance to save time!
🚶♀️ Navigate with Ease
The museum can be tricky to navigate. Ask staff for directions to make your visit smoother.
☕ Relax at the Rooftop Cafe
Enjoy coffee and city views from the rooftop garden cafe.
📚 Allow ample time
With extensive reading and many artifacts, plan for a long visit to truly absorb the history.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Ticket for Oriental Pearl Tower
Entry to the museum may require a ticket for the Oriental Pearl Tower. Book in advance to save time!
🚶♀️ Navigate with Ease
The museum can be tricky to navigate. Ask staff for directions to make your visit smoother.
☕ Relax at the Rooftop Cafe
Enjoy coffee and city views from the rooftop garden cafe.
📚 Allow ample time
With extensive reading and many artifacts, plan for a long visit to truly absorb the history.
🤫 Hidden Gem Alert!
Many locals don't know about it! Enjoy a less crowded experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Shanghai History Museum for its detailed historical exhibits and the stunning neoclassical architecture of its former race club building. The rooftop garden offers a pleasant escape with city views. However, some find the extensive reading material overwhelming and note that navigating the museum within the Oriental Pearl Tower can be confusing.
"* Address: 325 Nanjing Xi Lu, People's Square, Huangpu Qu, Shanghai, 200003, China
* Phone number: +86 21 2329 9999
* Description: This museum focuses on Shanghai's history from 1843 to 1949. It is located in the former Shanghai Race Club and retains much of the original building's architecture. The 10 storey tall tower has long been a central Shanghai landmark. The museum’s oldest pieces are 6,000 years old. The museum was established in 1983 and first opened to the public in 1984. The museum moved to a new location in 1991, and to its current location in 2018."
Timothy Pang
"A really detailed history of Shanghai, how it developed and evolved over time, including the uprisings and unsettled periods with lots of artefacts, machines, paintings, all really well done but there is a lot of reading and you would need to spend a very long time here to get through it all. There is a roof top garden with a bar / cafe and the cafe outside of the museum serves really good coffee."
Jamie Higgs-Dey
"Entry to this place is via purchase of ticket to the Oriental tower. You absolutely need to buy tickets in advance for this. The place is hard to navigate with multiple entrances and exits. Even finding the ticket office is hard. Nonetheless, I did not enter the museum nor ascend up Oriental tower. The overall experience is a turn off."
Lucas Tan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Shanghai History Museum is located at 325 Nanjing Xi Lu, People's Square, Huangpu Qu. It's accessible via public transport, with Nanjing Road West metro station being a convenient option. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available in Shanghai.
Yes, it's situated in the People's Square area, close to the Shanghai Museum and Nanjing Road. This makes it easy to combine with other sightseeing activities in the city.
From Pudong, you can take the metro Line 2 to People's Square station, which is a direct and efficient route. Alternatively, a taxi or Didi (ride-sharing) will take you across the river.
While specific parking for the museum isn't highlighted, there are public parking garages in the People's Square area. However, using public transport is generally recommended due to traffic and parking availability.
It's a pleasant walk from The Bund to the Shanghai History Museum, taking approximately 20-30 minutes. This allows you to see more of the city's architecture along Nanjing Road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the museum itself is often free, but access might be tied to purchasing a ticket for the Oriental Pearl Tower. It's advisable to check the latest entry requirements and consider booking tower tickets in advance.
While the museum exhibits are sometimes free, access might be included with an Oriental Pearl Tower ticket. It's best to verify current pricing and any bundled offers before your visit.
It's highly recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially if they are linked to the Oriental Pearl Tower. This helps avoid potential queues and ensures entry.
Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official website or inquire directly. Generally, museums in Shanghai operate during standard daytime hours, but confirm for your specific visit date.
The museum is located within the Oriental Pearl Tower. Navigating the entrances and exits can be confusing, so be prepared to ask for directions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum showcases Shanghai's history from 1843 to 1949 with a vast collection of artifacts, documents, photos, models, and interactive displays illustrating its development.
To fully appreciate the detailed exhibits and extensive reading material, plan for at least 2-3 hours. Some visitors suggest dedicating a significant portion of the day if you want to absorb everything.
The museum offers a historical overview that might be more engaging for older children or teenagers interested in history. Younger children might find the extensive text challenging.
While not explicitly mentioned for the History Museum itself, tours of People's Square often include it. You might find private tour guides who can offer in-depth insights.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to look for signage within the museum or ask staff if photos are permitted, especially without flash.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located outside the museum and a restaurant within the former Shanghai Race Club building. The rooftop garden also has a cafe.
The cafe outside the museum is noted for serving really good coffee. The rooftop cafe offers refreshments with a view.
The rooftop garden offers a great vantage point, and there's a decent, reasonably priced restaurant within the historic building.
Being in the People's Square area and near Nanjing Road, you'll find a vast array of dining options, from local street food to international cuisine.
While specific menus aren't detailed, Shanghai's diverse culinary scene generally offers vegetarian choices. It's always good to ask about options when ordering.
📸 📸 Photography
The neoclassical architecture of the former race club building is a prime spot. The rooftop garden also offers excellent panoramic city views for photography.
Photography rules can differ for exhibits. Always check for signs or ask museum staff before taking pictures of artifacts and displays.
Morning light can be softer for architectural shots, while late afternoon might offer beautiful cityscapes from the rooftop. Consider the weather for optimal lighting.
The museum uses models and projected images to recreate street scenes, which can make for interesting and unique photographic subjects.
A versatile lens for both architecture and interior shots would be useful. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grand scale of the buildings and city views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical Tip: If visiting with children, plan your route within the museum to highlight the most visually stimulating exhibits. The rooftop garden offers a nice break and a chance for them to run around a bit while you enjoy the views. Ensure you have snacks and water, as navigating the museum and its surroundings can take time.
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
Recommendation: Allocate a significant amount of time for your visit, as the detailed narratives and extensive displays require careful study. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the neoclassical architecture of the former race club and enjoy the panoramic views from the rooftop garden, which offer a modern contrast to the historical exhibits.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photo Tips: Visit during the golden hours for softer light on the architecture. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the grandeur of the buildings and the expansive city views. While photography of exhibits might be restricted, the building's interiors and exteriors offer ample subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Shanghai's Past
Many visitors highlight the extensive reading required to fully grasp the narratives presented. This makes it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts who enjoy delving deep into the context of exhibits. The use of projected images and dioramas helps to bring street scenes and domestic life of old Shanghai to life, offering an engaging visual experience. While some find the sheer volume of information daunting, others appreciate the depth and detail provided, making it a truly immersive historical exploration.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the museum also provides opportunities to unwind. The rooftop garden offers a tranquil space with panoramic views of the surrounding city, and a cafe is available for refreshments. This blend of in-depth historical learning and scenic relaxation makes the Shanghai History Museum a unique and rewarding destination.
Architectural Marvels and Historical Significance
These architectural gems are not just a backdrop but an integral part of the museum's appeal. Visitors often praise the beauty and grandeur of the buildings, noting how they enhance the overall experience. The ten-story tower has long been a landmark in central Shanghai, and its integration with the museum adds to its iconic status. Exploring these spaces provides a unique perspective on the city's layered history, blending cultural exhibits with architectural appreciation.
The rooftop garden is another highlight, offering a different perspective on the city's skyline and the historic buildings. It's a perfect spot to reflect on the history you've just absorbed while enjoying the modern cityscape. The presence of a cafe here makes it an even more inviting space to linger and soak in the atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit