Shanghai Museum

Shanghai Museum which includes interior views
Peel back the layers of symbolism in the design of this important local museum for an insight into contemporary and historical Chinese beliefs and living.

The Shanghai Museum was designed by the local Chinese architect Xing Tonghe in the shape of a traditional bronze cooking pot known as a Ding. It is thought to have been modelled on one specific pot - the Da Ke Ding – which is now housed inside. As with many Chinese buildings, the museum is encased in more than one layer of symbolism. Its four-sided foundation and circular roof are believed to represent the traditional Chinese outlook on the World as a combination of round sky and square earth.

Open daily, with no entry fee, the museum is a perfect place to reach a deeper understanding of China’s unique heritage. It houses more than a million artifacts and artworks representing periods ranging from Neolithic times to the Qing Dynasty, each with its own particular story to tell. As well as its eleven permanent galleries, there are three large display chambers which play host to a range of temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

Stroll through the Gallery of Chinese seals to understand the growing importance of these key markers of identity and authenticity across Chinese history. In the Gallery of Chinese Ancient Sculptures, you’ll find a spectacular collection of Buddhist figurines which point to an important spiritual influence on the nation’s development.

Other highlights include a gallery dedicated to priceless pottery and ceramics dating back to ancient times as well as a unique collection of Chinese coins which showcase the increasing significance of international trade.

The Shanghai Museum is centrally located in the People’s Square, making it easy to get to by bus or metro. Visitor numbers are limited, so be prepared to wait a while before being allowed to enter.

Radisson Collection Hotel Xing Guo Shanghai
Hotel Indigo Shanghai on The Bund, an IHG Hotel
Pullman Shanghai Jing An
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

See all 32 activitiesOpens in new tab

Popular places to visit


Top Shanghai Museum Hotel Deals

Central Hotel Shanghai
Central Hotel Shanghai
4 out of 5
No 555 Jiujiang Road, Shanghai, Shanghai
Central Hotel Shanghai
The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi
The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi
5 out of 5
No.99 Madang Road, Luwan District, Shanghai, Shanghai
The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi
The Westin Bund Center, Shanghai
The Westin Bund Center, Shanghai
5 out of 5
88 Henan Central Road, Shanghai, Shanghai
The Westin Bund Center, Shanghai
Radisson Collection Hyland Shanghai
Radisson Collection Hyland Shanghai
4 out of 5
505 Nanjing Road East, Shanghai, Shanghai
Radisson Collection Hyland Shanghai
Grand Central Hotel Shanghai
Grand Central Hotel Shanghai
4.5 out of 5
505 Jiujiang Road, Shanghai, Shanghai
Grand Central Hotel Shanghai
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
5 out of 5
555 Middle Xizang Road, (Close to Nanjing), Huangpu District, Shanghai, Shanghai
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
Conrad Shanghai
Conrad Shanghai
5 out of 5
789 Nanjing Road East, Shanghai, Shanghai
Conrad Shanghai
JW Marriott Hotel Shanghai Tomorrow Square
JW Marriott Hotel Shanghai Tomorrow Square
5 out of 5
399 Nanjing West Road, Shanghai, Shanghai
JW Marriott Hotel Shanghai Tomorrow Square
Crowne Plaza Shanghai Nanjing Road, an IHG Hotel
Crowne Plaza Shanghai Nanjing Road, an IHG Hotel
4.5 out of 5
700 Jiujiang Road/719 Nanjing Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, Shanghai
Crowne Plaza Shanghai Nanjing Road, an IHG Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.