Shanghai Museum
travel wonder in China

Why the Shanghai 
Museum is special

The Shanghai Museum is China's finest and one of the world's greatest museums. The ancient cultural masterpieces are superbly presented using state of the art lighting and display cases. 

Insights about the
Shanghai Museum 


The museum's collection has Chinese cultural treasures from prehistoric times through the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). In addition, special exhibits featuring modern art are sometimes presented.

The Shanghai Museum has ten permanent specialized galleries (bronze, calligraphy, ceramics, coins, furniture, jades, minority art, paintings, sculpture and seals) plus several special exhibition halls.

The Gallery of Chinese Bronze is the museum's most celebrated gallery. The bronze objects include ceremonial food and beverage vessels, musical instruments and armor. The 2,500 year old bronze wine warmer (see photo) in the form of an ox is a museum goers' favorite.

The ceramics gallery is highly praised by experts. Exquisite is the best word to describe this collection.

Shanghai Museum tidbits

The museum began operations in an old, former bank building (where I first saw the collection). It moved into its well planned modern building in 1996.

The collection grew from 13,000 items in 1952 to well over 100,000 today (but only a fraction is on display at any given time).

Tips for your 
vacation tour or trip


The museum now rents a digital audio tour guide that intelligently describes various fine works on art. I highly recommend it. The narration is in various languages, including English.

Reserve ample hours for the museum. Most first time visitors exit it wishing that they had allocated more time for it. The Shanghai Museum is that good. 



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I hope your China travel dreams come true - and that my

Shanghai Museum travel guide helps you enjoy your vacation, tour or trip

©2008 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications