Visit the Shanghai Stock Exchange to understand China’s financial markets. While public access is generally restricted, you can book a guided tour to learn about the stock exchange's role in global finance. Take in the impressive architecture of the building and explore nearby financial districts.

The Shanghai Stock Exchange, located in Pudong New Area, is one of the two stock exchanges in mainland China. Founded on November 26, 1990 , it is committed to creating a transparent, open, secure and efficient market environment. Its main functions include: providing venues, facilities and services for securities trading; formulating and revising the business rules of the stock exchange.
After 29 years of rapid growth, the Shanghai Stock Exchange has developed into a stock exchange with a relatively complete market structure, offering four major categories of securities trading: stocks, bonds, funds, and derivatives.
The Shanghai Stock Exchange boasts a trading system and basic communications infrastructure that support the efficient and stable operation of the Shanghai Stock Exchange, and a self-regulatory system that ensures the orderly and effective operation of the Shanghai Stock Exchange. Leveraging these advantages, the Shanghai Stock Exchange is rapidly expanding in size and investor base.
Suitable for all seasons
free
8:45-11:30, 13:00-17:00
The Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) is one of the largest and most significant stock exchanges in the world. Established in 1990, it plays a crucial role in China’s economy, attracting both domestic and international investments. It represents China’s growing influence in the global financial market.
The SSE is located in the Lujiazui area of the Pudong district in Shanghai, accessible by metro (Line 2, Lujiazui Station). Taxis and buses are also convenient options, with the area being a major financial hub in Shanghai.
The exchange operates during regular business hours, typically from Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM (with a lunch break from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM). The best time to visit is during weekdays when the area is bustling with financial activity.
Visiting the Shanghai Stock Exchange is generally restricted to those with official business or those partaking in a guided tour. No general public entrance is allowed. You may need to book a tour through specific agencies or the exchange itself.
If you’re looking to join a tour, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for groups or foreign visitors. It’s best to book at least a week in advance for availability and smooth entry.
A guided tour of the Shanghai Stock Exchange typically takes 1 to 2 hours. However, if you are exploring the financial district and nearby areas, you may want to allocate 3 to 4 hours to fully appreciate the surroundings.
The main highlight is the trading floor, which is generally not accessible to the public but can be viewed during a guided tour. The architecture of the building, as well as the interactive exhibits about China’s financial history, are key features to explore.
Guided tours are available in Chinese and English. It’s advisable to book in advance to ensure availability of an English-speaking guide.
Since access to the trading floor is restricted, the best photography spots are from the outside of the building, particularly from nearby Pudong avenues and the Lujiazui skyline area. The SSE building itself is a modern architectural landmark.
Visitors typically begin with an introduction to the history of the SSE, followed by a tour of the trading floor (if available), and concluding with an exhibit on China's role in global finance. You can also take time to explore the surrounding district, which is home to other financial institutions and skyscrapers.
Night visits are not typically offered, but the nearby Lujiazui area is lit up with impressive skyscrapers and light shows in the evening. Special tours may be arranged for corporate clients or large groups, but these should be booked in advance.
The Shanghai Stock Exchange itself is not typically crowded due to its restricted access. However, the Lujiazui area, being a business hub, can get crowded during lunchtime and after work hours. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon on weekdays is ideal for avoiding crowds.
Inside the SSE, amenities like restrooms and water fountains are available. However, there are no major food or shopping facilities. The surrounding Lujiazui area has plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shopping malls, including the Shanghai IFC Mall and Jin Mao Tower.
The Shanghai Stock Exchange is generally accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available for easy movement within the building. However, keep in mind that tours may require some walking.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted around the SSE and the surrounding area. Cash is less commonly used, but it’s always good to have small bills on hand for smaller purchases.
Nearby restaurants include high-end options such as The Lounge & Bar at the Ritz-Carlton and restaurants in the Shanghai IFC Mall. There are also casual cafes and fast food joints in the vicinity.
Many restaurants in the Lujiazui area offer vegetarian and vegan options. Halal food options may be less common, but can be found in nearby areas like the Muslim Quarter in the city.
Nearby accommodations include the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, the Grand Hyatt, and the Park Hyatt in the Jin Mao Tower. There are also more affordable hotels around the Lujiazui area.
Nearby attractions include the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and the Shanghai Tower. You can easily visit all of these in a single day as they are within walking distance of the SSE.
Souvenir shops near the SSE are mostly located in malls like Shanghai IFC Mall. Common souvenirs include Chinese financial-themed items, luxury goods, and traditional Chinese crafts.
After visiting the SSE, you can continue your trip by taking the metro from Lujiazui Station, or using taxis to explore other areas like the Bund or Nanjing Road. The area is well-connected to major attractions in Shanghai.