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The Typewriter Museum, located on the 7th floor of No. 719 Yan'an West Road in Changning District , is the world's third typewriter museum, following the British Museum and the Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland. Although the museum is only a little over 40 square meters, it is the third typewriter museum in the world, with the other two being in London, England, and Lausanne, Switzerland.
Lu Hanbin, the founder of the Typewriter Museum , shipped back to China 212 typewriters weighing a total of more than 10,000 kilograms , along with his collection of phonographs, cameras, movie cameras, sewing machines, telescopes, etc., and opened this Typewriter Museum in the " golden location " of Wuxing Road near Hengshan Road.
Entering the small museum, rows of timeworn typewriters stand like soldiers lined up for inspection. The Adler typewriter, manufactured in 1895 , is a highly prized elder . The world's smallest miniature typewriter, the size of a book cover, is a must - photograph for visitors . Folding typewriters and typewriters for the blind are rarely seen elsewhere .
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour
free
10:00-22:00
The Typewriter Museum in Shanghai is dedicated to preserving the legacy of typewriters, a key invention that revolutionized writing and communication. The museum houses over 100 models, some of which date back to the early 20th century, showcasing the development of this mechanical tool and its role in modern history.
The Typewriter Museum is located in the Jing'an District of Shanghai. The easiest way to reach the museum is by taking Line 7 on the Shanghai Metro and getting off at the "Changping Road" station, then walking a short distance. Taxis and buses are also viable options in the area.
The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry at 5:30 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and holidays when it can get busier.
Admission to the Typewriter Museum is usually around 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the museum or through various online platforms, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not required but is recommended during peak times such as national holidays. It's best to book tickets a day or two in advance to guarantee your spot, especially for group visits.
A typical visit to the Typewriter Museum takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the exhibits and interacting with the displays.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and English-speaking guides can be arranged upon request. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, are also available for a more self-paced experience.
The best photography spots are around the display of antique typewriters, as well as the sections with vintage designs that highlight the typewriter's historical evolution. Be sure to photograph the old-fashioned typewriters for a retro aesthetic.
Start by exploring the historical exhibition that details the origins and evolution of typewriters. Next, head to the collection of rare and vintage typewriters, where you can learn about the significance of each model. End with the interactive area where you can try your hand at typing on a vintage machine.
The museum operates only during the day and does not offer night visits or light shows. Special tours or events may be scheduled from time to time, so it’s a good idea to check in advance.
The museum can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday mornings.
The museum offers basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There are no food or water stations inside, but nearby cafes and restaurants offer refreshments. Souvenir shops are available for purchasing typewriter-related memorabilia.
The museum is accessible to elderly visitors and those with mobility challenges, with ramps and elevators available. It is also family-friendly, with some exhibits designed to engage children.
Both mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) and credit/debit cards are accepted. Cash payments are also possible, though not as commonly used.
Nearby dining options include local Chinese eateries, cafes like Starbucks, and international restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. The area around Jing'an is known for its vibrant dining scene.
Yes, there are vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options available in nearby restaurants. Many of the local eateries cater to different dietary preferences.
Yes, the museum has a small souvenir shop selling typewriter-themed items such as miniature models, vintage-inspired stationery, and books about the history of typewriters.
After visiting the museum, you can take the Shanghai Metro from the nearby Changping Road station (Line 7) or opt for a taxi to explore other parts of Shanghai, including the Bund or the French Concession.
