Location & Transportation

Songjiang Museum sits in the heart of Songjiang District, Shanghai, at No. 233 Middle Shanshan Road. This area blends old and new—think quiet lanes near ancient gardens and modern university campuses. To get there, take Metro Line 9 to Songjiang University Town Station. From the exit, it’s a 15-minute walk or a short taxi ride. Buses like Songjiang Tourism Line 1 also drop you nearby. The museum’s red-and-gray building stands out, so you won’t miss it!

Natural Scenery Around the Area

Though Songjiang Museum is indoors, its surroundings are worth a stroll. Just outside, you’ll find tree-lined streets and a small park. During spring, cherry blossoms bloom near the entrance, making it a nice spot for photos. A 10-minute walk leads to the ancient Yu Garden (a separate site), where traditional Chinese architecture meets greenery. It’s a calm area away from Shanghai’s usual hustle.

Cultural Highlights Inside

Songjiang Museum is all about local history. Opened in 1984, it’s packed with over 5,000 artifacts—from ancient pottery and jade tools to gold jewelry and wooden carvings. One hall even shows 2,000+ ancient books, some rare handwritten copies! My favorite? The Tang Dynasty ceramics, which look simple but tell stories of early Chinese craftsmanship. Guides often say, “This jar was made before your country was born!” to add humor.

The museum also explains how Songjiang became a hub for trade and culture. You’ll see old maps, tools, and even coins used here centuries ago. If you’re into hidden gems, ask staff about the tiny Ming Dynasty inkstone—it’s easy to miss but super detailed.

Visitor Facilities

Good news: Songjiang Museum is free! Just show ID to pick up a ticket. It’s open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM (last entry at 4 PM). Inside, English audio guides are available, and staff speak basic English. There’s a small gift shop with cute souvenirs—I bought a jade-themed keychain. The courtyard has benches if you need a break, and a café sells tea and snacks.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Touring Songjiang Museum feels like a mini time-travel. Start with the history timeline, then dive into themes like “Daily Life in Ancient Songjiang.” Interactive screens let you zoom in on artifact details, which kids love. Some exhibits recreate old shops or homes, so you can imagine living here back in the day.

Plan for 1–2 hours inside. Photos are allowed (no flash!), but the real highlight is listening to guides connect objects to stories. For example, a rusty sword becomes cooler when you learn it belonged to a local hero. End your visit on the rooftop, where they sometimes host traditional music performances.

Pro Tip: Combine your trip with nearby Sheshan Hill or the Songjiang Old City. The museum isn’t as flashy as downtown Shanghai spots, but it’s perfect for diving deep into local culture.