The Shanghai Arts and Crafts Museum (上海工艺美术博物馆) is one of the city’s more understated museums, often overlooked despite its rich history and beautiful architecture. Known by locals as the “Little White House,” this museum, established in 1905, is housed in a French Renaissance-style building with striking white walls. While it might not attract as much attention as other major museums, its exquisite exhibits and historical significance make it a must-visit for those interested in Chinese craftsmanship and cultural heritage. The building itself has an intriguing past, having once served as the office of the World Health Organization’s first Asia-Pacific headquarters after the victory of the Second Sino-Japanese War. Several notable figures, including former U.S. President Ronald Reagan, British Prime Minister Edward Heath, boxing legend Muhammad Ali, and the First Lady of Egypt, have all visited this remarkable place.
Key Information about Shanghai Arts and Crafts Museum
- Address: 79 Fenyang Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai (徐汇区汾阳路79号)
- Transportation:
- Metro Line 1/7, Changshu Road Station (常熟路站), Exit 7 (820 meters walk)
- Metro Line 10/12, Shaanxi South Road Station (陕西南路站), Exit 7 (860 meters walk)
- Parking: Available at Light Technology Building (轻科大厦), 15 CNY per hour
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM / 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (last entry 30 minutes before closing; closed on Mondays)
- Admission: 8 CNY per person (tickets can be purchased at the entrance, no reservation required)
Exhibition Route in Shanghai Arts and Crafts Museum
The museum’s exhibits are spread across three floors, with a clear route designed to maximize the experience of visitors:
- Second Floor: Carving Gallery
This floor is dedicated to intricate carvings, including ivory sculptures, jade carvings, wood and bamboo carvings, as well as gold and silver enamel works. The displays are both educational and visually stunning, showcasing the exquisite techniques used in traditional Chinese craftsmanship. - Third Floor: Weaving and Embroidery Gallery
The third floor focuses on the rich heritage of Chinese embroidery and textiles. These non-material cultural heritage pieces highlight the delicate art of weaving, embroidery, and other textile-based crafts, with many pieces representing regional traditions. - First Floor: Folk Arts Gallery
The first floor features folk art workshops, where visitors can explore traditional crafts such as paper-cutting and seal carving. There are also small display cases showcasing works created in these studios.
The museum’s second floor is more traditional in its exhibition style, with well-lit display cabinets that highlight the beauty of these crafts. In contrast, the first and third floors offer a more interactive experience, with active workshops and additional displays of art.