Location & How to Get There

Songjiang Urban Planning Exhibition Hall sits in the heart of Thames Town, a charming European-style neighborhood in Songjiang District, Shanghai. The exact address is No. 626, Lane 900, Sanxin North Road, Songjiang. To reach here, take Metro Line 9 to Songjiang University Town Station, then transfer to a taxi or local bus (Songjiang Tourism Line 1)—it’s an easy ride through the town’s picturesque streets. If you’re driving, there’s a free parking lot nearby, but get there early as it fills up fast!

Natural Charm: Thames Town’s Vibe

Before even entering the exhibition hall, you’ll fall for Thames Town itself. Think cobblestone streets, Tudor-style houses, and a fake riverside reminiscent of England. It’s like a mini European getaway in Shanghai! The area around the Exhibition Hall has cute cafes and shops, plus a pretty lake where people rent paddleboats. Even if you’re here just for the hall, strolling through the town feels like a bonus adventure.

Cultural Highlights: What’s Inside

The Songjiang Urban Planning Exhibition Hall isn’t just about models and maps—it’s a storytelling machine! Here’s what you can’t miss:

1. City Memory Corridor

This hallway packs 6,000 years of Songjiang history into one walk. You’ll see animated walls showing ancient Shanghai (before it was even called “Shanghai!”) and lifelike statues of famous locals. Fun fact: there’s a giant scroll made of five projectors that lights up old Songjiang streets—it’s like time-traveling with lasers!

2. Miniature Models Galore

They’ve got entire rooms filled with tiny replicas of Songjiang’s landmarks. My favorite? The “Ten-Mile Long Street” model, which uses lights and sounds to recreate old marketplaces. There’s also a section with farms, factories, and even a model of Sheshan Resort—perfect for Instagram shots!

3. The 3D Movie: A Must-See

The 180° curved screen plays a 14-minute film called Songjiang: Roots of Shanghai. It’s not just pretty visuals—you’ll learn why Songjiang is considered the “historical soul” of Shanghai. The 3D effects make you feel like you’re flying over ancient walls and modern skyscrapers. Trust me, sit near the middle for the best experience!

4. Interactive Fun Zone

Tired of looking at stuff? Head to the “Green Grape Garden” area, where you can play farming games on touchscreens. Water virtual plants, harvest grapes, or test your knowledge of Songjiang’s agriculture. Kids (and adults!) will love the huge LCD wall showing local celebrities—it’s like a high-tech yearbook.

Practical Tips: Amenities & Visiting

The Exhibition Hall is super visitor-friendly. Here’s what to expect:

  • Free entry (score!), but check opening hours online.
  • Clean restrooms, plenty of chairs, and free Wi-Fi.
  • A small café inside serving coffee and snacks—great for a break.
  • English-friendly staff who’ll happily explain exhibits.

Plan for 2-3 hours inside. If you’re with kids, bring them to the interactive floors first—they’ll love pressing buttons and playing games. For photos, the 3D theater and the rooftop view of Thames Town are top spots.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

This place isn’t just about bricks and brochures—it’s a love letter to Songjiang’s past and future. Whether you’re a history buff, a tech geek, or someone who likes pretty lights, there’s something here for you. And hey, after exploring, you can wander Thames Town’s fake-Europe streets and pretend you’re on vacation in… Europe? Yeah, it’s that vibe.

Come for the models, stay for the stories—and leave with a better understanding of how Shanghai grew from a sleepy town to a megacity. The Songjiang Urban Planning Exhibition Hall might not be the fanciest attraction in Shanghai, but it’s one of the most underrated. Trust me, even jaded travelers will walk out saying, “Wow, that was actually cool.”