Shanghai Natural History Museum
Explore prehistoric giants, diverse wildlife, and Earth's wonders across five levels of captivating exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Shanghai Natural History Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore prehistoric giants, diverse wildlife, and Earth's wonders across five levels of captivating exhibits.
"So AMAZING!! 5 Levels inside this Museum and the price is very reasonable!"
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Advance online booking is recommended, though it might require a Chinese phone number .
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across five levels, so comfortable footwear is essential .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dinosaur Skeletons
Paleontology Hall
Marvel at towering dinosaur skeletons, showcasing China's rich fossil discoveries. A must-see for all ages!
Biodiversity Exhibits
Various Halls
Explore diverse animal exhibits, from local fauna to ancient species. Fascinating for both kids and adults alike.
Gemstone and Mineral Collection
Geology Hall
Discover a dazzling array of gemstones and minerals, offering a colorful and sparkling visual treat.
Jing'an Sculpture Garden
Adjacent Park
Enjoy the beautiful sculptures and serene Japanese-style garden surrounding the museum.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Weekday Visits Recommended
Allocate Ample Time for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Advance online booking is recommended, though it might require a Chinese phone number.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across five levels, so comfortable footwear is essential.
🗣️ Consider a Translator Device
Descriptions are primarily in Chinese. Renting a translator device can enhance your understanding.
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
The museum is vast; dedicate at least 2-3 hours to explore its many exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Advance online booking is recommended, though it might require a Chinese phone number.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across five levels, so comfortable footwear is essential.
🗣️ Consider a Translator Device
Descriptions are primarily in Chinese. Renting a translator device can enhance your understanding.
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
The museum is vast; dedicate at least 2-3 hours to explore its many exhibits.
👨👩👧👦 Great for Kids
Children under 13 enter free and will love the animal and dinosaur exhibits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Shanghai Natural History Museum for its impressive scale, diverse exhibits, and reasonable ticket prices, making it a great educational outing for families. However, the museum can get extremely crowded on weekends and holidays, and non-Chinese speakers may find it challenging without a translator device.
"I went there on sunday, have to wait 30+ mins to buy ticket (the ticket only available to purchase online if you want to buy it in advance, and it request Chinese number). The staff at the ticket booth was very nice.
Children under 13 are free to enter, but if you bring children along I recommend to go on weekday because it super crowded on weekend (as you can see in the picture)"
Ngoc Tr.
"So AMAZING!! 5 Levels inside this Museum and the price is very reasonable! It does get crowded with many kids from nearby schools. If you have kids I highly recommend coming here at least for half a day in Shanghai."
Friendly Notary
"A really big venue to explore everything regarding animal, geographic, humanity,... with detail description per information/inforgraphic; if you are not Chinese speaker, please book a transcriptor device for better experience here."
Michael Anh Bui
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is easily accessible via public transport. Take Line 13 of the Shanghai Metro to the Shanghai Natural History Museum station. From there, it's a short walk to the entrance.
Information on on-site parking is limited, but public transportation is highly recommended due to potential crowds and traffic in Shanghai.
The most convenient way is by metro. Line 13 directly serves the museum station, making it a straightforward journey from most parts of the city.
Yes, the Jing'an Sculpture Garden and Shanhaiguan Road with its wall murals are located nearby and are worth exploring.
Ride-sharing apps are a viable option, but be prepared for potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The ticket price is very reasonable, around 30 yuan.
While you can buy tickets at the booth, it can involve long waits on busy days. Online purchase is preferred, though it may require a Chinese phone number.
Specific discount information for students and seniors is not widely publicized, but children under 13 are free.
The museum is generally open daily, but it's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays.
It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially if you plan to visit on a weekend or during a holiday to avoid long queues.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include massive dinosaur skeletons, diverse animal exhibits, a stunning gemstone collection, and displays on human history and climate.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic place for kids, with engaging exhibits like dinosaurs and animals that spark curiosity.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the museum, but you could easily spend half a day if you want to see everything in detail.
The primary language for exhibit descriptions is Chinese. Renting a translator device is recommended for non-Chinese speakers.
The museum is a large venue and generally designed to be accessible, but it's advisable to check specific accessibility features if needed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific dining facilities are not detailed, large museums often have cafes or snack bars. It's advisable to check the museum's official website for current offerings.
Typically, large museums have policies against bringing outside food and drinks into exhibition halls. Check the museum's rules before your visit.
The museum is located in a developed area of Shanghai, so there are likely numerous dining options in the vicinity. Exploring the surrounding streets can reveal many choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits. Always look for signage.
The towering dinosaur skeletons, the vibrant gemstone displays, and the unique architecture of the museum itself are excellent photo opportunities.
Avoid using flash photography, especially near delicate exhibits. Tripods and selfie sticks may also be restricted.
Yes, the Jing'an Sculpture Garden and the wall murals on Shanhaiguan Road are great for photography and are open to visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1To make the most of your family visit, consider planning your route to focus on the most engaging halls first. The sheer size of the museum means it's best to allow ample time, perhaps even half a day, to explore without rushing. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of ground to cover across its five levels.
📚 Curious Learners & Students
To truly benefit from the exhibits, especially if English is your primary language, renting a translator device is highly recommended, as most information is in Chinese.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The museum's modern architecture also offers interesting angles and compositions.Remember to check for any restrictions on flash photography, as it's often prohibited to protect the exhibits. Exploring the Jing'an Sculpture Garden and the Shanhaiguan Road murals nearby also offers excellent photographic subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Dinosaur Hall
These exhibits are meticulously curated, providing educational context about the species, their habitats, and the geological periods they inhabited.Visitors often express awe at the sheer size and preservation of these ancient creatures. The museum features a variety of dinosaur species, highlighting the biodiversity of prehistoric China. It's an immersive experience that captivates both children and adults, making it a standout attraction for anyone interested in natural history.
+1Tip: Arrive early or visit on a weekday to fully appreciate the dinosaur exhibits without overwhelming crowds. The scale of these fossils is best experienced with ample space to observe.
Family Fun and Educational Value
+1Beyond the popular prehistoric creatures, the museum offers a comprehensive look at biodiversity, human evolution, and Earth's geological history. This broad scope ensures that there's something to capture the interest of every family member, from the youngest to the oldest. The interactive elements and detailed displays provide a rich learning experience that goes beyond simple observation.
Pro-Tip: Given the museum's size, consider focusing on specific halls that your children are most interested in to avoid fatigue. Bringing snacks and water (if permitted) can also help keep younger visitors happy and energized.
Beyond the Exhibits: The Surrounding Area
Adding to the charm is the Shanhaiguan Road, often referred to as the 'Mural Wall,' which is just behind the museum. This street is adorned with vibrant and artistic wall murals that depict various scenes, adding a splash of color and creativity to your visit.
Recommendation: Allocate some extra time to explore these nearby attractions. They provide a refreshing contrast to the indoor exhibits and offer a more holistic experience of the area.
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