Railway Museum

Introducing Railway Museum

The Shanghai Railway Museum, located at 200 Tianmu East Road, Zhabei District, showcases the 100-year history of the Shanghai and East China railways, starting with the introduction of railways into China in the 1860s and 1870s. It highlights the changes and developments in railway productivity. The museum is divided into six sections, featuring over 50 exhibits and nearly 1,000 items.

The overall layout of the Shanghai Railway Museum has a strong historical atmosphere of railway history: the outdoor square exhibition area creates a scene of an early railway station, and the bulky steam locomotives and wooden platform canopies appear to have experienced the vicissitudes of time.

The museum's four-story main building was built at an 80% scale according to the original appearance of the Shanghai Station on the Shanghai-Nanjing Railway built in 1909, recreating the British classical style of the Shanghai Station at that time.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

Adults 10 yuan

5 yuan for students and railway workers

Attraction opening hours

9:00-11:30 (last admission 11:00), 14:00-16:30 (last admission 16:00), closed on Mondays.

---

Most Popular FAQs for Railway Museum

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

The Railway Museum in Shanghai is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of railways in China. It highlights the development of China's railway system, from the first railroads in the late Qing Dynasty to the high-speed rail systems of today. The museum serves as a cultural and educational hub for those interested in the history of transportation and China's technological advancements.

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

The Railway Museum is located in the Putuo District of Shanghai, near the Shanghai Railway Station. It can be easily accessed by metro, with the nearest station being Shanghai Railway Station (Lines 1, 3, and 4). Visitors can also take a taxi or walk from the station if they prefer.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. Weekdays, especially in the mornings, tend to be less crowded, making it the best time for a peaceful visit. Weekends and holidays can get crowded with families and school groups.

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

The general admission ticket costs around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the museum entrance or online through the official website for convenience.

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

While it is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, it is recommended during peak seasons or for special exhibitions. Booking online a few days ahead is a convenient option, especially during Chinese public holidays.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need around 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the museum thoroughly, especially if you take time to read the exhibit descriptions and interact with the displays. A guided tour may take slightly longer, depending on your level of interest.

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

Key highlights include the collection of antique trains, the section on the history of the Chinese railway system, and interactive exhibits showcasing the development of railway technology. The model railway diorama and the display of China's high-speed rail network are also worth seeing.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and there is also an audio guide available in English, which can be useful for foreign visitors. Audio guides can be rented at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are near the full-scale train replicas and the large railway model. The model railway offers a stunning view and is a great spot for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit with the history section to understand the development of railways in China, then move on to the technology and high-speed rail exhibits. Don’t miss the train replicas and the large-scale model railway at the back of the museum for a full experience.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available at the Railway Museum. However, the museum occasionally hosts special exhibitions, so it’s a good idea to check the event schedule for any unique tours or activities.

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

The museum tends to be crowded during weekends and holidays. If you prefer a quieter experience, visiting on a weekday, particularly in the morning, is recommended.

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

The museum has clean toilets and several rest areas. There is a small gift shop selling railway-themed souvenirs. There are no full-service restaurants inside the museum, but small snacks and drinks can be purchased from the gift shop.

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

The museum is accessible to elderly, children, and disabled visitors. It has ramps and elevators for easy access to different floors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted. Credit and debit cards may also be used at the ticket counter and gift shop.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants near the museum offering Chinese cuisine, including dumplings, noodles, and rice dishes. You can also find cafes and small eateries in the surrounding area of the Shanghai Railway Station.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are vegetarian and halal food options available in nearby restaurants. Many local eateries offer vegetarian dishes, and some places near the station serve halal meals.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near the Shanghai Railway Station, including budget options and more luxurious hotels like the Jinjiang Inn and the Grand Mercure Shanghai Zhongya, both within a short distance from the museum.

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

Nearby attractions include the Shanghai Natural History Museum, the Jing'an Temple, and the bustling Nanjing Road for shopping. These locations can be easily combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The museum’s gift shop sells railway-themed souvenirs such as miniature train models, keychains, and books about the history of railways in China.

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

After visiting the museum, you can take a taxi, bus, or metro to continue your trip. The Shanghai Railway Station is a major transportation hub, making it easy to travel to other parts of the city or beyond.