Location & How to Get There

The National Anthem Exhibition Hall sits in Yangpu District, Shanghai, at Jingzhou Road 151. It’s right next to the Huangpu River, near the historic Yangpu Bridge. To get here, take Metro Line 12 and hop off at Ningguo Road Station (Exit 2). From there, it’s a 10-minute walk. Buses 22, 37, or 934 also drop you nearby. If you’re driving, there’s free parking along Jingzhou Road—just watch for rush-hour traffic!

Natural Scenery & Architecture

The museum’s plaza is a sight itself! The open space covers 27,000 square meters and looks like a giant vinyl record from above. A circular fountain cuts through the center, surrounded by green lawns and trees. At night, lights illuminate the national anthem sculpture—a metallic wave shaped like sound waves. Nearby, the Huangpu River adds a calming backdrop, perfect for photos.

Cultural & Historical Stories

This place is all about China’s national anthem, “The March of the Volunteers.” The song was written in the 1930s during a tough time for China, when people fought against invaders. The lyrics were by Tian Han, and the music was composed by Nie Er. Fun fact: the song first appeared as the theme for the old movie “Children of Storm”, filmed right here in Yangpu! The museum even shows clips from that movie. It opened in 2009, just before China’s 60th birthday, to honor the anthem’s legacy.

What’s Inside the Museum

The National Anthem Exhibition Hall has six main sections:

  1. Intro Hall: Starts with a powerful audio-visual show about the anthem’s impact.
  2. Birth of the Anthem: Old photos, letters, and聶’s piano from the 1930s.
  3. Anthem Memories: Interactive screens where you can listen to different versions (even foreign covers!).
  4. “Me & the Anthem”: Visitors share stories—kids draw flags, adults record themselves singing.
  5. Anthem’s Power: Giant projections of the anthem played at major events (Olympics, space launches).
  6. World Anthems: Compare China’s anthem with others—some are catchy, some are weird!

There’s also a sound lab where you can record your voice over the anthem’s music. Try not to laugh—it’s harder than it looks!

Practical Tips

  • Free entry, but book tickets online (especially on weekends).
  • Guides offer free English tours at 11 AM and 2 PM daily.
  • The gift shop sells anthem-themed souvenirs: badges, postcards, even mini flags.
  • Nearby eats: “Old Yangpu Restaurant” (try the crab dishes) or “Bridge Coffee” with river views.

Why Visit?

This isn’t just a museum—it’s a vibe. The mix of history, sounds, and interactive fun makes it great for families. You’ll leave humming the anthem (even if you didn’t know it before!) and feeling connected to China’s past. Plus, the riverside location means you can pair this visit with a walk along the Huangpu River Trail. Just remember: weekdays are less crowded, and summer brings evening light shows on the plaza!