Yuan Dynasty Water Gate Ruins Museum

Introducing Yuan Dynasty Water Gate Ruins Museum

The Shanghai Yuan Dynasty Water Gate Ruins Museum, located at the intersection of Yanchang West Road and Zhidan Road, was built to protect, study and display the Shanghai Yuan Dynasty Water Gate Ruins. It is the first ruins museum in Shanghai and the largest Yuan Dynasty water conservancy project ruins in the country to date. It was selected as one of the "Top Ten Archaeological Discoveries in China in 2006".

Its discovery plays an extremely important role in the history of the development of ancient Chinese water conservancy projects. It provides a direct basis for understanding the engineering and technical process of ancient water conservancy construction. It has very important scientific value for studying ancient Chinese water conservancy projects, especially the water conservancy projects in the Jiangnan region during the Song and Yuan dynasties, the historical changes in the Wusong River Basin, and the economic growth of the Yangtze River Delta region.

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

free

Attraction opening hours

9:00-16:30 (ticket checking stops at 16:00), closed on Mondays

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Most Popular FAQs for Yuan Dynasty Water Gate Ruins Museum

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

The Yuan Dynasty Water Gate Ruins Museum showcases the remnants of a water gate that once served as an essential defensive structure during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). The site is significant for its role in the historical defense mechanisms of the city, as it was part of a larger system designed to protect the city from floods and invaders. The museum offers insight into ancient Chinese engineering and the city's historical development.

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

The Yuan Dynasty Water Gate Ruins Museum is located at No. 216, Quxi Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai. You can reach it by metro (Line 8, South Huangpi Road Station) and walk to the museum in about 10 minutes. Alternatively, taxis and buses also serve the area, with convenient stops nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. The best time to visit is during weekdays, especially in the morning, to avoid large crowds. Weekends and holidays can be more crowded.

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

The entrance fee for the museum is approximately 20 CNY for adults. Tickets can be purchased directly at the museum’s ticket counter or online via the museum’s official website or third-party platforms.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for general visits, but it is recommended to do so if attending special events or guided tours. Booking a few days in advance should suffice.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need about 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the Yuan Dynasty Water Gate Ruins Museum, including visiting the exhibits and walking around the outdoor ruins.

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

• The preserved remains of the water gate, including its stone walls and ancient water management system.
• The museum's exhibitions showcasing artifacts from the Yuan Dynasty and historical information about the city's development.
• The outdoor area surrounding the ruins, where you can see the city’s ancient defensive structures up close.

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

Guided tours are available in both Chinese and English. Audio guides are also provided in multiple languages, including Chinese, English, and Japanese, to enhance your experience of the exhibits.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The exterior of the water gate ruins, which makes for an excellent photo backdrop with its ancient stone structure.
• The museum's elevated viewing platforms, where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding area.
• The inner courtyards and ruins, where you can photograph the well-preserved stonework and architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by exploring the outdoor ruins of the Yuan Dynasty Water Gate to understand its historical context.
• Next, move inside the museum to view the exhibits showcasing artifacts and archaeological findings.
• End your visit by taking a guided tour (if available) or exploring the museum’s educational displays for further insight.

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

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows. However, special guided tours and educational events are occasionally offered, particularly during cultural festivals or historical anniversaries.

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

The museum can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the morning or during the late afternoon hours.

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

The museum has clean public restrooms and water fountains. There are no food or drink services inside the museum, but small rest areas are available. You can find nearby cafés and restaurants for refreshments.

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

The Yuan Dynasty Water Gate Ruins Museum is mostly accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available. However, some areas of the ruins may not be wheelchair-friendly due to uneven terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but it is more convenient to use mobile payments like WeChat Pay, Alipay, or credit cards for ticket purchases and souvenirs.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Cafés and restaurants are located nearby on Quxi Road and in the surrounding area, offering local Chinese cuisine and international options.
• For a quick bite, there are also street food stalls close to the museum offering traditional snacks like dumplings and steamed buns.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants. Halal food options are also available in the area, catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are a number of hotels within walking distance, such as The Bund Hotel and Les Suites Orient, Shanghai.
• More budget-friendly options can be found along the nearby streets or in the surrounding commercial districts.

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

• The Bund, which offers stunning views of Shanghai’s skyline, is a short distance from the museum.
• The Shanghai Museum, located in People’s Square, is another great nearby attraction for those interested in Chinese history and art.
• Yuyuan Garden, one of Shanghai’s oldest classical gardens, is also a short metro ride away.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops in and around the museum, selling traditional Chinese crafts, postcards, and books related to Shanghai's history. Common souvenirs include miniature sculptures, silk products, and traditional tea sets.

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

• The nearest metro station is at South Huangpi Road (Line 8), which connects easily to other parts of the city.
• Taxis are readily available outside the museum for direct travel to other destinations.