The Shanghai Historical Museum is a fascinating destination that allows visitors to delve into the rich and diverse history of this vibrant city. It is essential to note that the Shanghai Historical Museum is distinct from the Shanghai Museum. Located in a historic building that was once the Shanghai Race Club, the museum opened its doors to the public in March 2018, showcasing approximately 110,000 artifacts. The exhibitions cover the evolution of Shanghai from ancient times to the modern era, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the city’s past.
Location and Architecture
- Address: 325 Nanjing West Road, Shanghai
- Architecture: The museum itself is a stunning representation of old Shanghai, with features that evoke the charm of the city’s historic architecture. The building comprises two main sections: the East Building and the West Building. The East Building, which houses most of the permanent exhibitions, was originally the site of the Shanghai Race Club and has a storied past, having also hosted the Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Library, and Shanghai Art Museum.
Exhibitions of Shanghai Historical Museum
The museum’s exhibitions are divided into permanent and special exhibitions:
Permanent Exhibitions: These are housed on the 2nd to 4th floors of the East Building and provide a comprehensive overview of Shanghai’s history. Visitors can trace the city’s development from the Majiabang culture to its emergence as a national economic and cultural center. A large screen in the lobby displays a short film that outlines Shanghai’s history, serving as an excellent introduction before exploring the exhibitions in detail.
Special Exhibitions: Currently, there are three special exhibitions available:
- “March Flowers, One Life” — This exhibition explores the lives and arts of women in Jiangnan during the Qing Dynasty.
- “Benefiting the Nation and the People” — Focusing on modern patriotic entrepreneurs from the Shanghai metropolitan area, this exhibition includes a free stamp available at the end, making it a unique souvenir.
- “Pioneers of China’s Early Modernization: Zhang Jian” — This exhibit highlights the contributions of Zhang Jian, a key figure in China’s early modernization efforts.
Photography Opportunities in Shanghai Historical Museum
The museum’s architecture provides numerous excellent photo opportunities that capture the essence of old Shanghai:
The iconic clock tower stands out and is a popular spot for photos.
The spiral staircase with horse-head handrails reflects the building’s former life as a race club.
On the 5th-floor platform of the East Building, visitors can step outside for aerial shots of the adjacent People’s Park.
The exterior of the West Building along Huangpi North Road showcases intricate baroque details, perfect for those looking to capture a European ambiance in Shanghai.
Visitor Information about Shanghai Historical Museum
Opening Hours: The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and is closed on Mondays.
Free Admission: Entry is free, and no reservation is required, making it accessible for spontaneous visits.
Luggage Storage: The museum provides luggage storage for convenience.
Dining Options: On the 5th floor of the East Building, there is a Western restaurant, while the first floor of the West Building features a creative shop and café for refreshments.
Surrounding Area
The museum is conveniently located next to People’s Park and is within walking distance of Huanghe Road and the International Hotel. This central location makes it easy to explore other attractions in the area, adding to the overall experience of visiting the Shanghai Historical Museum.