Changning Folk Culture Center

Introducing Changning Folk Culture Center

Located in Xinjing , the " Hometown of Folk Art " in western Shanghai , the Changning Folk Culture Center is located at 201 Tianshan West Road . This three- story, antique building features a two- story exhibition hall in the South Building. The center hosts a variety of exhibitions year-round, including the Chinese Folk Musical Instruments Exhibition and the Shanghai Stage Image Exhibition, a high-quality urban cultural exhibition.

The museum regularly hosts crosstalk performances, drama appreciation, folk rap, knowledge lectures, cultural salons, and other cultural activities. All facilities and cultural activities are open to residents and tourists free of charge or at a low price, allowing everyone, young and old, to enjoy a cultural feast of traditional folk customs and experience the unique charm of cultural diversity through lively folk performances.

The Changning Folk Culture Center's Old Street Miniature, modeled after the Beixinjing Old Street scene of the 1920s and 1930s , has hosted numerous performances, including reality shows about the old street. The miniature exhibit also features the popular Pingtan (Chinese storytelling) performance, a beloved Shanghainese folk art form, providing a new venue for residents to enjoy the storytelling and bringing new vitality to the old street.

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

9:00-16:30, closed on Mondays

Attraction opening hours

Admission is free, and various hand-made experience projects are charged separately

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Most Popular FAQs for Changning Folk Culture Center

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

The Changning Folk Culture Center celebrates and preserves the rich folk culture of Shanghai and the surrounding areas. It showcases the city's traditional arts, crafts, and performances, offering visitors a deep dive into local heritage and customs. The center is an important institution for cultural preservation and education in Shanghai.

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

The center is located in the Changning District of Shanghai, near Zhongshan Park. You can reach it via Metro Line 2, with the nearest stop being Zhongshan Park Station. From there, it's about a 10-minute walk. Buses and taxis also serve the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The center is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the morning.

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

Entrance is free, but there may be small fees for certain workshops or performances. Tickets for special events can be purchased on-site or through the center's official website.

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

Booking in advance is not required for general visits. However, for workshops or performances, it's recommended to book at least a few days in advance, especially during busy periods.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the center typically takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in participating in workshops or watching performances.

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

• The folk arts and crafts exhibition hall, showcasing traditional Shanghai crafts.
• The folk music and opera performance area, where you can enjoy live shows.
• The hands-on workshop rooms, offering activities like calligraphy, paper cutting, and silk embroidery.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there are audio guides in English and Chinese for self-guided exploration.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The traditional arts exhibitions and live performances offer excellent photo opportunities. The folk music performances also provide unique, culturally rich backdrops for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the folk arts exhibition, then explore the folk music and opera performances. End with a hands-on experience in one of the workshops for a deeper understanding of Shanghai’s traditions.

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

The center does not offer light shows, but there are evening performances, particularly during weekends and holidays. Special cultural tours can be arranged by request.

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

The center can get busy on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit on weekdays, especially early in the morning.

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

There are clean restrooms and a small café inside offering snacks and drinks. A small shop also sells cultural souvenirs and handicrafts related to the folk culture on display.

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

Yes, the center is fully accessible to elderly visitors, children, and people with disabilities. There are ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms available throughout the venue.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash, credit cards, and mobile payments (Alipay and WeChat Pay) are all accepted throughout the center.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Inside the center, there is a small café serving snacks and beverages.
• Nearby, you can find a variety of Shanghai-style restaurants and cafés along Zhongshan Park Road.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some of the nearby restaurants. Halal food can be found in a few restaurants in the area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Hotel Nikko Shanghai is located near Zhongshan Park and is a short taxi ride from the center.
• The Everbright Convention & Exhibition Center Hotel is another option close to the area.

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

• Zhongshan Park, a large public park with gardens and leisure facilities.
• Shanghai Zoo, home to a variety of animals, including rare species.
• Changfeng Ocean World, an aquarium and marine animal park.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there is a souvenir shop at the center selling folk arts and crafts, such as traditional calligraphy brushes, paper-cuttings, and silk items.

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

• The Shanghai Metro is the best option, with Zhongshan Park Station being close by.
• Taxis are also readily available from the center.