Songze Ancient Cultural Site

Introducing Songze Ancient Cultural Site

The Songze Ancient Culture Site is located in Songze Village, Qingpu District, Shanghai. It is named Songze Culture. It is a Neolithic site and can be divided into three layers according to the stratigraphic structure: upper, middle and lower.

The Songze site has been discovered since the 1960s. Between 1961 and 1976, three excavations uncovered a total area of ​​703 square meters, revealing remains of geometrically stamped pottery and Neolithic settlements. 100 tombs were excavated, and 621 artifacts, including stone, jade, bone, pottery, and ivory artifacts, were unearthed.

In 1959, the Songze Village Ancient Cultural Site was listed as a Qingpu County-level cultural relic protection site. In May 2013, it was approved and announced by the State Council as the seventh batch of national key cultural relic protection sites.

Climate and best time to travel

Shanghai has a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by mild and humid weather, distinct seasons, ample sunshine, and abundant rainfall. Spring and autumn are relatively short, while winter and summer are longer.

Suitable for all seasons, spring and autumn are the best

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Songze Site is a site dating from the Neolithic Age to the Spring and Autumn Period.

According to the stratigraphic divisions, it can be divided into three layers: upper, middle and lower. The cultural relics in the lower layer are the most significant part of the site and were later named "Songze Culture".

The lower layer belongs to the Neolithic period, where pits for storing food, production tools, and artificially cultivated rice grains were discovered.

The middle layer is a public cemetery of primitive society. The tombs were buried by pushing the earth on the flat ground. The burial style was supine burial with straight limbs. Judging from the characteristics of the burial, it still belongs to the matriarchal society period.

The upper layer contains remains from the late Western Zhou Dynasty and the Spring and Autumn Period. The unearthed objects include pottery, porcelain, stoneware and a small amount of bronze artifacts.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Songze Ancient Cultural Site

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

The Songze Ancient Cultural Site is an archaeological site dating back to the Neolithic period, around 5000-3000 BCE. It is known for its significance in understanding the early development of human settlements in the Yangtze River Delta region, offering insights into prehistoric life and culture.

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

Songze Ancient Cultural Site is located in the Songjiang District of Shanghai. It is accessible by taking Metro Line 9 to the Songze Station, followed by a short bus or taxi ride to the site. Buses also serve the area from other parts of Shanghai.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit on weekdays or early in the morning.

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

The entrance fee for Songze Ancient Cultural Site is generally free, but there might be a small charge for the museum and special exhibits. Tickets can be purchased onsite, or online if a special event is being held.

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

Advance booking is generally not required unless you are attending a special exhibition or event. For such occasions, booking a few days in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on your level of interest in archaeology and history.

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

• The excavation sites where ancient tools, pottery, and burial artifacts have been found.
• The onsite museum showcasing findings from the Songze culture.
• The surrounding park and scenic walking paths, perfect for a quiet reflection on the history of the area.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some might offer English explanations. Audio guides are not commonly provided, but a guidebook in English can be requested at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The excavation site offers great views for capturing the artifacts and surrounding landscape.
• The museum's interior exhibits and artifacts can be photographed (with permission).

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the museum to get an overview of the Songze culture, then explore the archaeological sites. Finish with a walk through the surrounding park for some fresh air and reflection.

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

Night visits or light shows are not available at Songze Ancient Cultural Site. Special tours or events are typically held during specific periods, and these can be checked in advance.

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

The site is generally not very crowded, but weekends and public holidays can be busier. Weekdays, especially early mornings, are the least crowded times to visit.

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

The site has basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. There is no major food court, but small local eateries are available nearby. There are souvenir shops offering cultural artifacts and books.

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

The site is generally accessible for elderly and children, though some areas might require walking on uneven ground. There are no specific facilities for disabled visitors, but staff can assist with accessibility needs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (such as Alipay or WeChat Pay) are widely used for entry and purchases at the site.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

While there are no major restaurants inside the cultural site, the nearby Songjiang area offers a variety of local eateries and cafes that serve traditional Shanghai cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many nearby restaurants in the Songjiang area, but halal food options are more limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Shanghai Songjiang Hotel is a nearby option for comfortable accommodation.
• There are also various budget-friendly hotels in the Songjiang area for those looking for more affordable stays.

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

• The Thames Town, a charming European-style village, is just a short drive away and is a popular tourist spot.
• Fengxian Beach and other natural parks in the area make for a great addition to a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling Songze-related artifacts, local crafts, and books about the archaeological findings. Typical souvenirs include miniature pottery replicas and cultural trinkets.

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

• The Songjiang Metro Station (Line 9) is nearby for easy access to other parts of Shanghai.
• Taxis and buses are readily available for further exploration of the area.