Location & Transportation
Shanghai Maritime University sits in Lingang New City, a coastal area in the eastern part of Shanghai. The address is 1550 Haigang Avenue, right by the East China Sea. To get there, take Metro Line 16 to Lingang Dajiao Station, then switch to the Luchong Bus (lines 申港1路 or 申港3路) and get off at Shanghai Maritime University. If you drive, punch “Shanghai Maritime University” into your GPS—it’s near Pudong Airport, about 1–1.5 hours from downtown Shanghai. The campus feels tucked away, but the ocean views make it worth the trip!
Natural Scenery
The university’s grounds blend with the coastline, so you’ll see waterfront trails, a man-made lake, and plenty of green space. Walk along the promenade by the sea, and you’ll spot ships passing through the Yangshan Deep-Water Port. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom near the library, and autumn brings golden ginkgo leaves. For photography, head to the bridge over the lake at sunset—the light reflects off the water, and it’s super Instagrammable!
Cultural Highlights
As China’s top maritime university, the campus is packed with nautical vibes. Check out the Wave-Shaped Library, which looks like a ship’s bow. Inside, there’s a maritime history museum with old maps and ship models. Don’t miss the statue of Zheng He (the famous Chinese explorer) near the entrance—it’s a nod to China’s seafaring past. Students often practice traditional dragon boating on the lake, which is both a sport and a cultural tradition.
Campus Facilities
Even if you’re not a student, you can still enjoy parts of the campus. The student cafeteria (called the “Meteor Garden Restaurant”) serves cheap and tasty Chinese food—try the pork dumplings or sweet soy milk. For coffee, visit the cafe near the library. There’s also a convenience store and a bookshop with maritime-themed souvenirs. If you visit on a weekend, you might catch a live music performance or a cultural festival hosted by students.
Exploration Tips
Start your visit at the main gate, which has a giant anchor sculpture. Walk straight to the library and lake, then follow the path to the ocean-view platform. Bring comfy shoes—the campus is huge! For a full day, combine your visit with nearby Donghai Farm (a coastal eco-park) or the China Shipbuilding Museum. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot students practicing captain’s calls (like shouting orders) during their training exercises.
Shanghai Maritime University isn’t just a school—it’s a coastal adventure with history, nature, and quirky photo ops. Perfect for travelers who want something different from busy city sights!