China International Students Museum

中国留学生博物馆 (Zhōngguó Líuxuéshēng Bówùguǎn)

Cultural Institutions Shanghai China | 13.37km from downtown

Explore Chinese students' global education stories through vintage artifacts, letters, and interactive displays. Highlights include a 1920s study room replica and audio diaries, showcasing cultural resilience and exchange. Free entry near Shanghai's university town.

Discover China’s Unique Cultural Treasure: China International Students Museum

Nestled in the vibrant yet tranquil Songjiang District of Shanghai, the China International Students Museum (CISM) offers a fascinating glimpse into the stories of Chinese students who studied abroad. Let’s explore this hidden gem from location to experience!

Where to Find It

Located at Lane 1177, Rongmei Road, Songjiang (address: No. 7, Tongxinli), CISM sits near the bustling Songjiang University Town. It’s a short walk from Metro Line 9’s Songjiang University Town Station, or a 15-minute taxi ride from Sheshan National Resort. If you’re driving, there’s free parking nearby, and the area feels calm compared to central Shanghai’s hustle.

How to Get There

By Metro: Exit at Songjiang University Town on Line 9, then take a 10-minute bus (Songjiang 18 or Songmei Line) or a quick bike ride.
By Bus: Routes like Songjiang Tourism Line 1 drop you steps away.
On Foot: The museum is surrounded by tree-lined streets and small cafes, perfect for a leisurely pre-visit stroll.

What’s Inside?

Historical Vibes & Exhibits

CISM isn’t about grand landscapes—it’s all about human stories. The museum showcases artifacts, letters, and photos from Chinese students who studied overseas since the late 1800s. You’ll see:

Vintage suitcases and textbooks from pioneers like Zhan Tianyou (who built China’s first railway).
Handwritten diaries and letters home, translated into English for clarity.
Interactive displays where you can listen to audio clips of留学生 (overseas returnees) sharing their journeys.

The highlight? A replica of a 1920s study room in Europe, complete with old desks and typewriters—perfect for a nostalgic photo!

Cultural Spirit

The museum’s mission? To honor the “留学生精神” (spirit of international students)—curiosity, resilience, and the drive to bridge cultures. Guides (with English options!) explain how these students brought knowledge back to China, shaping modern fields like science, art, and education.

Who Should Visit?

History buffs: Learn how overseas education shaped China’s modernization.
Families: Kids enjoy the interactive timeline walls and quizzes.
Students: Inspiring for anyone planning to study abroad!

Tips for Your Visit

Free entry: Just show your ID (or passport for foreigners).
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Mondays).
Guided Tours: Available in English with advance booking (check their website).
Souvenirs: Buy books, postcards, or a mini “diploma” badge in the gift shop.

Beyond the Museum

After your visit, stroll to nearby Sheshan for hiking or visit Guanhua Art District for modern art. The area also has student-friendly cafes and street food stalls—try the shengjian bao (pan-fried buns)!

Why It’s Worth a Detour

While CISM isn’t a “must-see” like the Bund, its unique focus on global learning makes it special. Spend 2–3 hours here to appreciate China’s connection to the world—and leave inspired by stories of grit and ambition.

Visit China International Students Museum for a dose of culture, history, and human connection—all in one unexpectedly engaging stop!

Basic Trip Information of China International Students Museum

Play Time:

1-3 Hours

Traffic:

From Hongqiao Railway Station: Take Hongqiao Hub Line 10 (towards Songjiang East Bus Station/Drop-off Point) and alight at Zhaoshang Market/Drop-off Point. Walk 104 meters to transfer to Songjiang Line 11 (towards Dongjing Central Village), then disembark at Rongmei Road & Shihui Road. Walk an additional 359 meters to reach the China Overseas Students Museum.
From Hangzhou to China Overseas Students Museum: Drive via Shanghai-Kunming Expressway → Jiasong South Road → Rongmei Road. The museum is located along this route (total travel time: approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes).

Ticket:

Normal Ticket Price: Free
Adult Ticket Price: Free
Child Ticket Price: Free
Senior Ticket Price: Free
Special Groups Ticket Price: Free

Note: Admission is free. Advance booking required at least one day in advance.

Open Time:

Opening Hours:

Weekdays (Monday to Friday):
Morning Session: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Afternoon Session: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM (January 1 - December 31)
Weekends (Saturday to Sunday):
All Day (Full Day) (January 1 - December 31)

Note: The museum operates on split sessions during weekdays and remains open throughout the day on weekends, year-round.

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