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Visit the beautiful neo-gothic architecture of Xujiahui Catholic Church, explore its serene surroundings, and take time to admire the stunning stained-glass windows and interior. Attend a mass service to experience the church's spiritual atmosphere or simply enjoy a peaceful moment in the garden.
Xujiahui Catholic Church, located at 156 Puxi Road in Xuhui District , is the headquarters of the Shanghai Catholic Three-Self Patriotic Movement. Xujiahui Catholic Church is a prominent Catholic church in China and the cathedral of the Catholic Diocese of Shanghai. Its official name is " Church of Our Lady as the Mother of God . "
Xujiahui Catholic Cathedral was built in 1896 , the 22nd year of the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty , in a French medieval style. The cathedral is flanked by Gothic bell towers and spires, each rising 50 meters. The statue of the Virgin Mary holding the baby Jesus inside the cathedral was made in Paris and transported to Shanghai in 1919. The cathedral is now a Shanghai cultural relic protection site.
The church boasts 64 columns carved from Suzhou Jinshan stone , each composed of 10 smaller columns. The floor is paved with square bricks, while the central passageway is paved with decorative tiles. The doors and windows are Gothic-style with pointed arches and inlaid with stained glass, depicting patterns and images of gods. There are 19 altars , the central altar being brought from Paris for Easter 1919 and possessing high religious and artistic value.
Xujiahui Catholic Church can accommodate over 3,000 parishioners and currently has tens of thousands of members. Adjacent to the church is the Bishop's Palace and convent of the Catholic Diocese of Shanghai. Masses are held multiple times each morning, and on Sundays and major religious holidays, the church gathers for grand ceremonies.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour
free
Monday - Saturday 9:00-16:00
Sunday 14:00-16:00
The first Friday of each month may be closed due to religious activities.
Built in the late 19th century, Xujiahui Catholic Church (also known as St. Ignatius Cathedral) is a symbol of Shanghai's historical connection with Christianity. It was originally founded by French missionaries and has become one of the most significant Catholic churches in China.
Xujiahui Catholic Church is located in the Xujiahui district of Shanghai. It is easily accessible by metro (Line 1, Line 9, and Line 11), bus, taxi, or even within walking distance from Xujiahui Station.
The church is generally open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with mass held at specific times. Early morning visits are recommended for a quieter experience before mass services begin.
There is no entrance fee to visit the church. Visitors can freely explore the church and its surroundings. Mass services are also free to attend.
No booking is required to visit the church, but it is advisable to check the schedule for mass services in advance if you plan to attend a service, especially on weekends or holidays.
Visiting the church itself takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on whether you attend mass or explore the interior in more detail.
The must-see highlights include the majestic altar, stunning stained-glass windows, and the peaceful atmosphere of the church. The detailed carvings and the architecture of the church's interior are also worth admiring.
Guided tours are not available, but you can explore the church on your own. Some local guides may offer informal tours in Mandarin, but audio guides are not typically provided.
The best photography spots include the main altar area, the stained-glass windows, and the exterior of the church with its iconic tower. Be respectful of others, especially during mass, when taking photos.
Start by entering through the main doors, admire the stained-glass windows, and walk around the central aisle to the altar. Spend time in the side chapels, which often contain smaller religious artworks.
The church does not offer night visits or light shows. However, it is beautifully lit in the evening and offers a peaceful atmosphere for evening prayers or reflection.
The church can be busy on weekends and holidays, especially during mass times. To avoid crowds, visit on weekday mornings or early afternoons.
The church has basic facilities, including clean restrooms. There are no on-site restaurants or cafes, but several food and beverage options are available nearby in the Xujiahui area.
The church is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors with ramps and elevators. Children will enjoy exploring the church and its peaceful surroundings, making it family-friendly.
There is no charge for entry, so cash is not needed. However, nearby shops and restaurants may accept both cash and mobile payments (e.g., Alipay, WeChat Pay).
Nearby restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, including Chinese, Western, and casual eateries. Popular options include restaurants within the Xujiahui shopping mall complex.
Vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are available at various nearby restaurants. Look for local eateries or international food chains for a range of choices.
There are several hotels close to the church, including mid-range and luxury options. Notable hotels include the Xujiahui Garden Hotel and the Grand Millennium Shanghai.
Nearby attractions include the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, the Xujiahui shopping district, and the charming streets of the old French Concession.
There are no souvenir shops inside the church, but nearby shopping malls and streets offer religious items, Shanghai-themed merchandise, and other souvenirs.
The best transportation options to continue your trip are metro lines 1, 9, or 11 from Xujiahui Station, or you can take a taxi or bus to your next destination in Shanghai.
