Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum
Discover the poignant history of 20,000+ Jewish refugees who found sanctuary in Shanghai during WWII, a testament to resilience and hope.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the poignant history of 20,000+ Jewish refugees who found sanctuary in Shanghai during WWII, a testament to resilience and hope.
"An interesting and enlightening exhibition that tells the little-known story of Jewish refugees who found refuge in Shanghai."
🎯 English Signage is Great
The English text and signage are well-written and informative, making the exhibits accessible.
🚶♂️ Explore the Neighborhood
Walk around the surrounding streets to get a feel for the area where refugees once lived.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Preserved Synagogue
Main exhibition hall
Step back in time in the beautifully preserved synagogue, a poignant symbol of the community's spiritual life.
Artifacts and Photos
Exhibition halls
Discover authentic items and moving photographs that vividly depict the daily lives and struggles of refugees.
Peace Park Plaque
Across the street
A touching memorial dedicated to the Jewish refugees, inscribed in Chinese, English, and Hebrew.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 English Signage is Great
The English text and signage are well-written and informative, making the exhibits accessible.
🚶♂️ Explore the Neighborhood
Walk around the surrounding streets to get a feel for the area where refugees once lived.
💰 Affordable Entry
Adult tickets are very reasonably priced at around RMB20.
🏛️ Renovated Exhibits
The museum has been renovated and now holds a much larger and more interesting exhibition.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 English Signage is Great
The English text and signage are well-written and informative, making the exhibits accessible.
🚶♂️ Explore the Neighborhood
Walk around the surrounding streets to get a feel for the area where refugees once lived.
💰 Affordable Entry
Adult tickets are very reasonably priced at around RMB20.
🏛️ Renovated Exhibits
The museum has been renovated and now holds a much larger and more interesting exhibition.
🤝 Helpful Staff
Visitors often mention the staff being very helpful and friendly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum for its enlightening and touching exhibition, highlighting the little-known story of Jewish refugees in WWII Shanghai. The well-maintained museum, clear English signage, and affordable entry make it a highly recommended, yet often under-rated, historical gem. Some visitors note that while the synagogue might be closed for renovation, the surrounding neighborhood and Peace Park offer further historical context.
"An interesting and enlightening exhibition that tells the little-known story of the tens of thousands of Jewish refugees who fled Germany and Austria on the eve of World War II and found refuge in Shanghai.
The wide exhibition describes, through many photos and authentic items, the background to this event and especially the life of the refugee community in terms of physical survival, daily life, cultural life, and more.
The renovated museum holds a much larger and more interesting exhibition than the older museum held, so even if you visites the place in the past, there's much more to see now.
Highly recommended!"
Uriel Fliess
"Great museum representing the Jews who took refuge in Shanghai. Shows the level of respect and love the Chinese people have for the Jewish people. The synagogue is currently closed for renovation, but you can walk around the neighborhood and get a feel of the history. Make sure to visit the park across the street!"
Jessica Miller
"Highly recommend this place. Very informative and touching. Too under-rated at the moment. They are closed on Monday. Adult ticket only RMB20. We didnt make any reservation. Nice quiet exhibit from the noisy tourist spots in Shanghai. I enjoyed this site very much. The staff are very helpful and friendly too."
eunice lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 59 Changyang Road, Hongkou District. It's accessible by public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also convenient options for reaching this historical site.
Yes, it's generally easy to find. It's situated in a well-known area of Hongkou District. Keep an eye out for signage directing you to the museum.
Taking the metro to a station like Tilanqiao (Line 12) and then a short taxi or bus ride is a common and efficient method.
Limited parking may be available nearby, but it's often more convenient to use public transportation or ride-sharing services due to potential parking challenges in the area.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy walking around the historic neighborhood to get a feel for the area where the Jewish refugees lived.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, but it is closed on Mondays. It's always a good idea to check their official website or contact them for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Admission is very affordable, with adult tickets costing around RMB20. This makes it an accessible historical experience for most travelers.
Reservations are not always required, and many visitors can purchase tickets upon arrival. However, for peace of mind, especially during peak seasons, checking if advance booking is recommended is wise.
Information on specific discounts for students or seniors is not widely publicized, but the general admission price is already very low. It's best to inquire directly at the ticket counter.
While specific accessibility details can vary, the museum has undergone renovations, suggesting improved facilities. It's recommended to contact the museum directly for detailed information on accessibility features.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a comprehensive exhibition detailing the history of Jewish refugees in Shanghai, featuring numerous photos, authentic artifacts, and personal stories. The preserved synagogue is a highlight.
Most visitors find that 1.5 to 2 hours is sufficient to explore the exhibits thoroughly and absorb the historical context.
The museum offers a poignant historical lesson. While the content is serious, it can be educational for older children who can understand and appreciate the historical context.
While not always advertised, sometimes docents or staff are available to share insights. The English signage is excellent, making self-guided tours very informative.
The area around the museum was nicknamed 'Little Vienna' by Jewish refugees because it became a vibrant hub for their community, reminiscent of their European homes.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the artifacts. It's always best to check for any posted signs or ask staff.
The preserved synagogue, the exterior of the historic buildings, and the Peace Park plaque are popular and photogenic spots.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in and around historical sites and museums in Shanghai. Always adhere to local regulations.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for the indoor exhibits. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the synagogue.
Searching on Instagram or TikTok with hashtags like #ShanghaiJewishRefugeesMuseum or #JewishHistoryShanghai can provide excellent visual inspiration. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting with children who have a particular interest in World War II history or social studies. The museum's peaceful atmosphere also provides a good opportunity for quiet reflection. Exploring the surrounding neighborhood and the Peace Park can add a more tangible element to the historical narrative for younger visitors.
🏛️ History Buffs & Researchers
Researchers may find the museum's archives and the detailed narratives particularly valuable. The well-preserved historical setting of the surrounding neighborhood further enhances the immersive experience, allowing for a more comprehensive study of the era. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Peace Park and its memorial.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Reflective Visitors
Take your time to absorb the stories and connect with the history on a personal level. The surrounding neighborhood offers a peaceful environment for further contemplation after your visit. It's an ideal destination for those seeking a meaningful and less crowded cultural experience in Shanghai.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Jewish Refugees in Shanghai
+1The museum's exhibits cover the journey of these refugees, their daily lives in the designated 'Restricted Sector for Stateless Refugees' (often called 'Little Vienna'), their cultural contributions, and their eventual fates. It's a powerful narrative of survival, hope, and the unexpected kindness found in a distant land. The museum serves as a vital reminder of Shanghai's role as a haven during one of history's darkest periods.
Visitors often express how moving and eye-opening the experience is, highlighting the profound connection between the Chinese and Jewish people forged during this time. The museum's well-maintained facilities and informative displays make it a highly recommended visit for anyone interested in WWII history or the diverse cultural tapestry of Shanghai.
Experiencing the Museum: What to Expect
Many visitors are particularly struck by the personal stories and artifacts, which offer an intimate glimpse into the refugees' experiences. The English signage is consistently praised for its clarity and depth, making the museum accessible to international visitors. The atmosphere is generally quiet and reflective, providing a stark contrast to the bustling city outside.
Beyond the main exhibits, take time to explore the surrounding neighborhood. Many of the old buildings and street layouts still evoke the era when Jewish refugees walked these same paths. The nearby Peace Park, with its memorial plaque, is also a significant site to visit, further enriching your understanding of this unique historical connection.
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