When planning a visit to the Shanghai Museum, many visitors often wonder which branch to prioritize: the Main Museum at People’s Square or the East Branch in Pudong. With each location offering unique exhibits and experiences, it can be challenging to decide where to spend your time. According to museum director Chu Xiaobo, the East Branch represents “the world looking at China,” while the Main Museum reflects “China looking at the world.” In this guide, we’ll compare the two branches to help you determine which one is right for your visit.
Location Comparison
Main Museum: Located in the heart of Puxi at People’s Square, the Main Museum is conveniently situated near Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, The Bund, and Xintiandi. After exploring the museum, you can easily visit other nearby attractions.
East Branch: Situated in Pudong, the East Branch is near the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum and the Shanghai Library East. It is also close to the bustling Lujiazui financial district, making it an accessible destination with convenient transport links.
Opening Hours
- Main Museum: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays).
- East Branch: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays).
Exhibition Highlights
Main Museum Highlights:
- Ancient Egypt Special Exhibition: Currently one of the most popular exhibits; a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient civilizations.
- Ming and Qing Furniture Hall: Daily volunteer-led tours offer insights into the exquisite craftsmanship of Ming and Qing dynasty furniture—an absolute treat for design enthusiasts.
- Minority Crafts Hall: Showcases traditional attire, utensils, and furniture from various ethnic groups in China, providing a fascinating glimpse into diverse cultures.
- Cloisonné Exhibition: This special display features intricate cloisonné pieces that are a feast for the eyes and a highlight not to be missed.
East Branch Highlights:
- Permanent Exhibitions: Includes eight major halls dedicated to bronze artifacts, calligraphy, painting, seals, ceramics, currency, sculpture, and jade. The painting hall is expected to open by the end of this year, featuring renowned works by famous Chinese calligraphers.
- Pagoda Universe Special Exhibition: This display features treasures from the Shanghai Yuanying Pagoda, offering a unique historical perspective.
- Post-Wood Double Purity Exhibition: Combines Jiangnan stone supplies with Haipai bonsai, creating an exquisite blend of nature and artistry.
- Cartier Jewelry Exhibition: Opening next month, this exhibition promises to showcase stunning pieces from the luxury brand.
Which One Should You Choose?
If time allows, visiting both branches is highly recommended, as each offers distinct experiences and collections. However, if your schedule is tight and you can’t fully enjoy either, consider choosing one based on your interests or availability for reservations.
Tips for Visitors
- Shuttle Service: A convenient shuttle bus operates between the Main and East branches every half hour, with a fare of just 4 yuan. This makes it easy to explore both locations if time permits.
- Plan Ahead: Make reservations in advance, especially for popular exhibitions and weekends, to ensure you get to see the exhibits you’re most interested in.
- Allow Enough Time: Each museum offers a wealth of exhibits; aim for at least 2-4 hours at each location to fully appreciate the art and history on display.