East China Normal University

Introducing East China Normal University

East China Normal University, located on Zhongshan North Road in Shanghai, has two campuses, Minhang Campus and Zhongshan North Road Campus, located in Minhang District and Putuo District, respectively. Its beautiful campus environment has earned it the reputation of a "Garden University." Directly under the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, the university is ranked as a Category A university in the World-Class University Construction Program, a member of the "985 Project" and the "211 Project," and is selected for the "2011 Project," the "111 Project," the "National Training Program," the National Undergraduate Innovation Experiment Program, the National Undergraduate Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program, the National Program for Sponsored Graduate Students in the Development of High-Level Universities, a Chinese Government Scholarship-receiving institution for international students, and a national base for cultural quality education for undergraduates.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for East China Normal University

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

ECNU was founded in October 1951 through the merger of earlier institutions, and has become one of China’s prestigious universities, being designated a “National Key University” in 1959. Its history reflects the evolution of teacher-training and modern higher education in China. The campus is often called a “garden university” for its scenic grounds and mature trees.

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

ECNU has multiple campuses; the main historic one is at 3663 North Zhongshan Road (Putuo District), Shanghai. To get there:

• Take Shanghai Metro (e.g., Line 13 or others that stop near Zhongshan North Road), then walk to the campus.
• Use a taxi or ride-hail service in Shanghai and ask for “ECNU Putuo Campus” or “华东师范大学 北中山路校区”.
• On foot or bike if you are staying nearby in the city—once inside the campus it’s walkable.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

As a functioning university campus, there is no strict “closing time” for outdoor grounds; generally accessible during daylight hours. Best times to visit are in the mornings or late afternoons when the light is good and the campus is quieter. Visiting on a weekday (non-holiday) helps avoid crowds.

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

There is no entrance fee for strolling through the university campus publicly (outside restricted academic-areas). It functions as a normal campus.

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

No booking is required for general campus access. If you wish to attend a special exhibition or guided tour (if offered), check the university’s website for any registration.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Allow 30-60 minutes for a casual walk around the main grounds. If you wish to explore more deeply (historic buildings, gardens, photo stops), allocate 1-2 hours.

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

Highlights include:

• The historic buildings on the Putuo campus (e.g., buildings dating from earlier universities that merged into ECNU).
• The green gardens, mature trees and “garden campus” ambiance.
• The main academic quad along North Zhongshan Road and any public art or university-heritage displays.

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

No standard public audio tour is widely advertised. Visiting is usually self-guided. If you want a guided tour, you may arrange one via ECNU’s international office or a local guide (Mandarin, possibly English).

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Good photography spots:

• The front façade of major campus buildings along North Zhongshan Road.
• The tree-lined walkways and garden spaces—especially in spring or autumn when foliage is colourful.
• The campus at golden hour (late afternoon) for warm light on the architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Suggested route:

• Enter through the north main gate on North Zhongshan Road and walk toward the central quad.
• Pause at a prominent historic building for exterior photos.
• Stroll over to the gardens or tree-lined side walkways and enjoy the greenery and calm.
• Exit via another campus gate or return past cafés nearby for a break.

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

No large-scale night light-show or dedicated tourist night tours are noted for this campus. However the campus is often lit in the evenings and can be pleasant for a quiet evening stroll (subject to access rules).

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

Since it is not a major tourist spot, it normally sees light to moderate foot traffic—mostly students and staff. The least crowded times are weekday mornings before classes begin, or late afternoons. Avoid major event days or graduation periods.

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

Facilities are those of a working university: restrooms in academic buildings, cafés or canteens on campus, benches and garden seating in common areas. Nearby streets outside campus also have shops and cafés.

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

The campus walkways are generally flat and accessible for most visitors. Some older buildings may have stairs and limited elevator access. For visitors with mobility issues, the landscaped garden paths are suitable; check specific building access if you wish to enter them.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

No ticket payment is needed. For cafés or services on or near campus, cards and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay, bank cards) are widely accepted in Shanghai; carrying a small amount of cash is still prudent.

What restaurants or cafés are available inside or nearby?

Nearby the Putuo and Zhongshan Road campus you’ll find numerous cafés, student canteens and restaurants in the neighbourhood offering Chinese and international cuisine. Great stop-off for a coffee or light meal after your stroll.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes—given the cosmopolitan nature of Shanghai and the student population, vegetarian and vegan-friendly cafés exist nearby. Halal options may require a short walk to more specialised restaurants around the city, but are available in Shanghai.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels, guesthouses and serviced apartments are available around Putuo District and nearby Jing’an or Changning districts, offering convenient access to ECNU. Staying nearby gives easy access for a morning visit.

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

Nearby you can combine your visit with:

• The former French Concession with its tree-lined lanes and historic villas.
• The nearby Jing’an Temple area or West Nanjing Road shopping corridor.
• The Shanghai Exhibition Centre, close by, which also offers historic architecture.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are not a major feature on campus, but nearby you’ll find specialty stores offering Shanghai-themed gifts (postcards, stationery, campus-branded items) and cafés with packaged treats.

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

After your campus visit you can walk back to the metro station (Line 13, etc.), take a taxi/ride-hail or bus to your next destination. The metro system makes onward travel across Shanghai easy from this central location.