Shanghai Natural History Museum

Introducing Shanghai Natural History Museum

The Shanghai Natural History Museum, located in Shanghai's Jing'an Sculpture Park, is one of China's largest natural history museums. The museum boasts a collection of over 290,000 items, encompassing natural and human historical relics from East China, throughout China, and around the world. The collections are organized into five major categories: flora, zoology, paleontology, geology, and humanities. The museum features over 150,000 plant specimens, over 4,000 mammal specimens, over 10,000 each of fish, birds, and amphibians and reptiles, nearly 33,000 insect specimens, over 50,000 other invertebrate specimens, over 5,000 geological specimens, over 8,000 paleontological specimens, and over 3,500 humanities and folklore items.

Themed "Nature, Humanity, and Harmony," the Shanghai Natural History Museum showcases 10 permanent exhibition areas, including "The Mystery of Origin," "The Long River of Life," "The Scroll of Life," and "The Epic of Civilization," along with one temporary exhibition hall. The museum also boasts a 4D cinema, a discovery center, and other supporting areas. It is a comprehensive museum encompassing diverse natural sciences, including paleontology, botany, zoology, anthropology, geology, and astronomy.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 3 to 4 hours

Tickets

Adults 30 yuan, children 12 yuan, seniors 25 yuan

Attraction opening hours

9:00-17:15

Last admission at 15:30 (closed on Mondays)

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Most Popular FAQs for Shanghai Natural History Museum

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Shanghai Natural History Museum is one of the largest natural history museums in China. Its mission is to educate the public about natural science through its extensive collections, including fossils, taxidermy specimens, and scientific exhibits. The museum aims to raise awareness of environmental issues and the importance of preserving biodiversity, while also offering a space for scientific research.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Shanghai Natural History Museum is located in the Jing'an District of Shanghai, at 510 Beijing West Road. It is easily accessible by metro, with the nearest station being the Shanghai Natural History Museum Station (Line 13). You can also take a taxi or bus, or walk if you're staying nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. The best times to visit are during weekdays, especially in the morning when the museum is less crowded. Avoid weekends and public holidays if you prefer a quieter experience.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately ¥30 for adults and ¥15 for children and students. Tickets can be purchased on-site or in advance through the museum’s official website or various online ticket platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during weekends and holidays. It is usually sufficient to book 1-2 days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full visit typically takes around 2-3 hours, but if you are particularly interested in certain exhibits or wish to participate in workshops, you may need 4-5 hours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Dinosaur Hall with its life-sized replicas and fossil displays.
• The Evolutionary Hall, which explores the origins and development of life on Earth.
• The Mammal Hall, showcasing diverse species from around the world.
• The China Zone, which features exhibits on the country’s unique wildlife and ecosystems.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and English-speaking guides can be arranged in advance. Audio guides are also available in Mandarin and English for self-guided exploration.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best spots for photography include the large dinosaur skeletons in the Dinosaur Hall, the life-like animal dioramas, and the museum's stunning architecture, especially from the upper floors. The large glass dome is also a great location for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the entrance with a quick overview of the museum's layout.
• Head to the Dinosaur Hall to view the main exhibits.
• Explore the Evolutionary Hall to understand the development of life on Earth.
• Visit the Mammal and China Zones to learn about animal species and ecosystems.
• Finish with a visit to the interactive exhibits and gift shop on the ground floor.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

The museum does not offer night visits or light shows. However, it occasionally organizes special events or themed exhibitions, so it’s worth checking the museum’s schedule for any upcoming programs.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The museum can get crowded, particularly on weekends and holidays. The best times to visit are on weekdays, early in the morning or late afternoon when fewer visitors are around.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The museum offers clean restrooms, drinking water stations, a café, and a gift shop. There are also rest areas throughout the museum where visitors can take a break.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes, the museum is wheelchair accessible and has elevators for easy access to different floors. It is also family-friendly with kid-friendly exhibits and interactive displays.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted at the museum. It is not necessary to carry cash for most transactions.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

The museum has a café on-site offering light snacks and drinks. Nearby, you can find several restaurants, including Chinese, Western, and fast food options, especially in the Jing'an area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants, especially those offering plant-based meals. Halal food options can be found in nearby eateries that cater to the Muslim community in Shanghai.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are many hotels in the Jing'an District, ranging from luxury options to budget-friendly accommodations. Some nearby hotels include the Jing'an Shangri-La, The Puli Hotel and Spa, and various boutique hotels in the area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Shanghai Museum, Jing'an Temple, and the Nanjing Road shopping street. These can easily be combined with a visit to the Shanghai Natural History Museum for a full day of exploration in the city.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, the museum has a gift shop where you can purchase educational toys, books, fossils, and other science-related souvenirs. Popular items include dinosaur-themed merchandise and natural history books.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the museum, you can take a taxi, metro, or bus to nearby attractions. The closest metro stations are Shanghai Natural History Museum Station (Line 13) and Jing'an Temple Station (Lines 2 and 7), making it easy to continue your trip by public transport.