Weekend Art Fix: 5 Must-Visit Museums in Shanghai for Art Enthusiasts

1: Pudong Art Museum

Pudong Art Museum Shanghai

The Pudong Art Museum, designed by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel and his studio, boasts a unique central exhibition hall that spans from the first basement level to the fourth floor above ground. This innovative design allows visitors to experience different perspectives of the same artwork from various levels.

Opening hours: 10:00-21:00

Address: 2777 Binjiang Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

Transportation: Take Metro Line 2 or 14 to Lujiazui Station, Exit 6, then walk 1 km


2: China Art Museum

China Art Museum Shanghai

Housed in the former China Pavilion of the 2010 World Expo, the China Art Museum beautifully blends traditional and modern design elements, exuding an artistic atmosphere throughout.

Here, you can immerse yourself in a diverse range of art forms and styles, offering a delightful journey for your soul.

Opening hours: 10:00-18:00

Address: 205 Shangnan Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

Transportation: Take Metro Line 8 to China Art Museum Station, Exit 3, then walk 300 meters


3: Power Station of Art

Power Station of Art Shanghai

The Power Station of Art is a state-run museum dedicated to contemporary art. Its exhibitions encompass various forms of contemporary artwork, including paintings, sculptures, photography, installations, videos, and animations.

Opening hours: 10:00-18:00

Address: 678 Miaojiang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai

Transportation: Take Metro Line 4 or 8 to South Xizang Road Station, Exit 2, then walk 1.2 km


4: West Bund Museum

West Bund Museum Shanghai

Situated on the northwest bank of the Huangpu River in Shanghai, the West Bund Museum offers panoramic views of the river from its spacious riverside location. The building’s facade allows colorful daylight to filter in, while at night, it emits a brilliant display of lights, contrasting beautifully with the smooth-textured coating of the overhanging roof.

Opening hours: 10:00-17:00

Address: 2555 Longteng Avenue, Xuhui District, Shanghai

Transportation: Take Metro Line 11 to Yunjin Road Station, Exit 6, then walk 540 meters


5: Rockbund Art Museum

Rockbund Art Museum Shanghai

Located at 20 Huqiu Road, the Rockbund Art Museum was established in 1932. The original version of this museum was built in 1874 by British expatriates to display animal specimens collected from the Yangtze River Valley and North China.

In 1931, the building was demolished and reconstructed on the original site. Designed by the British firm Palmer & Turner, the new five-story club building was completed in 1932 in the Art Deco style, featuring a prominent vertical facade composition. The top, balconies, and iron gates are adorned with traditional Chinese patterns, with the most distinctive feature being the incorporation of octagonal windows.

Opening hours: 10:00-18:00

Address: 20 Huqiu Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai

Transportation: Take Metro Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station, Exit 6, then walk 500 meters