People's Square

Introducing People's Square

Shanghai People's Square, located in Huangpu District, is the city's political, economic, cultural, and tourist center, as well as a transportation hub. It is also one of Shanghai's most important landmarks. It was once a venue for horse racing and other events held by the upper class. Today, the square primarily consists of an open plaza, People's Park, and surrounding cultural, tourist, and commercial buildings.

People's Square, known as the "Green Lung of the City," is a garden-like plaza that integrates finance, administration, culture, transportation, and commerce. To the north of the square is the Shanghai Municipal People's Government, to the northwest is the Shanghai Grand Theatre, to the northeast is the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, and to the south is the Shanghai Museum. Renmin Avenue runs through the square. 17-meter-wide green belts are located on each side of the square, totaling 80,000 square meters of green space.

Standing in the center of the square and looking around, perhaps you will have a better understanding of the city of Shanghai.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Underground Mall

The People's Square Underground Mall is currently my country's largest underground commercial center, covering a total area of ​​over 30,000 square meters. It includes an underground commercial street and a shopping mall. The underground commercial street, a 300-meter-long, 36-meter-wide street, is lined with nearly 100 shops, each 50 square meters in size. All shops feature glass curtain walls and a floor clad in Indian red and Mongolian black granite.

Each shop is elegantly decorated, some reminiscent of a cozy living room, with small round tables, lounge chairs, and sofas where customers can sit and browse. The shops primarily sell clothing, leather shoes, watches, eyewear, photography, food, cafes, banks, and supermarkets.

Shanghai Museum

The Shanghai Museum, a building with a rectangular base and circular projections, evokes the Chinese concept of "the sky is round and the earth is square." It combines the pedestal and steps of traditional Chinese architecture with the oriental aesthetic of landscape architecture, embodying modern technology and the spirit of the times. It elevates Shanghai's cultural profile, fulfilling the needs of reform and opening up, and fostering the prosperity and promotion of international cultural exchange. Here, you can gain a deeper understanding of Shanghai.

Shanghai Grand Theatre

Located northwest of People's Square, the Shanghai Grand Theatre occupies 11,528 square meters and offers 1,800 seats. Designed by a renowned French architect, the venue utilizes the world's most advanced materials and lighting, employing a groundbreaking design concept. The structure features a simple, flowing geometric form, with a crown-like, curved white roof that curves toward the sky. Atop this, a classical outdoor theater and hanging gardens, the theatre resembles a treasure trove, symbolizing Shanghai's broad embrace of global culture and art. It has become another major cultural attraction of People's Square.

It is recommended to play for 2 to 3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for People's Square

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

People's Square is one of Shanghai's most iconic public spaces, originally a racecourse in the early 20th century. It has since become a symbol of modern Shanghai, surrounded by cultural landmarks like the Shanghai Museum, the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, and major shopping streets like Nanjing Road.

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

Located in the heart of Shanghai, People's Square is easily accessible by metro (Line 1, 2, or 8, People's Square Station), taxi, or walking. It’s also near major bus routes.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

People's Square is open 24/7, as it is a public space. However, the best time to visit for a relaxed experience is in the early morning or late afternoon, especially on weekdays.

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

Access to People's Square itself is free. However, if you want to visit the Shanghai Museum or the Urban Planning Exhibition Center, the entrance fees are usually around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased onsite or online for these attractions.

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

For People's Square, no tickets are required for entry. For the museums and exhibits nearby, booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons or weekends.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It generally takes 1-2 hours to explore the area around People's Square, including visiting the nearby museums or strolling through People's Park. You may need more time if you wish to explore the surrounding shopping areas.

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

The Shanghai Museum is a must-see, offering a glimpse into China's rich history. Don't miss the People's Park, the Urban Planning Exhibition Center, and the large fountains and gardens in the square itself.

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

Guided tours are available at the Shanghai Museum and other nearby attractions. They are typically offered in English, Chinese, and other major languages. Audio guides are also available at most museums in People's Square.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are the fountain area in People's Square, the towering buildings surrounding the square, and the Shanghai Museum. The square itself also provides great views of the skyline, especially at sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking through People's Square, then head to the Shanghai Museum. Afterward, visit the nearby Urban Planning Exhibition Center. Finish the day by relaxing in People's Park or exploring the nearby shopping areas, including Nanjing Road.

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

People's Square is open 24/7, but it doesn’t have specific light shows. However, the nearby area along the Huangpu River offers nighttime views and light shows, especially near The Bund.

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

The square can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. For a more peaceful visit, it's best to come in the morning or during weekdays.

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

There are clean toilets throughout the area, water fountains, and several rest areas. You'll also find food vendors and small shops offering snacks and souvenirs.

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

Yes, People's Square is fully accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with wide paved paths and wheelchair access. The museums and attractions nearby are also wheelchair friendly.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are accepted widely in and around People's Square, but it’s advisable to carry cash for small purchases at vendors or markets.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are various dining options inside the museums and near People's Square. Nearby areas such as Nanjing Road have many restaurants, ranging from fast food to fine dining.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available, especially in international restaurants nearby. Halal food is also available in the area, particularly in the Muslim Quarter of Shanghai.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near People's Square, including luxury options like the Fairmont Peace Hotel and mid-range options like the Holiday Inn Shanghai.

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

Nearby attractions include The Bund, Nanjing Road shopping street, Yuyuan Garden, and the Shanghai Tower. These can easily be visited in a day trip from People's Square.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling traditional Chinese crafts, silk, tea, and small art pieces. The area around Nanjing Road is particularly good for shopping.

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

Public transport options include the metro (Line 1, 2, 8) and taxis. The nearby Bund is accessible by walking, and you can take a boat tour along the Huangpu River for scenic views of the city.