Hello, I’m Michael Zhang, a seasoned Chinese traveler who has explored cities across the globe. Rather than rushing through attractions, I prefer diving deep into the historical and cultural layers that define a city’s true character. Today, I’d like to introduce you to one of my highly recommended places in Shanghai — the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. Unlike tourist-heavy landmarks, this spot is a hidden gem — a “time machine of Shanghai” that lets you explore the city’s past, present, and future. If you appreciate urban history, architectural aesthetics, or city planning, this is a place worth spending one or two thoughtful hours.

Summary

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall Overview

The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall is an official AAAA-rated tourist site in China, offering the public an in-depth look into the evolution of Shanghai, its natural resources, and urban development vision. Covering a land area of approximately 3,600 square meters and a total building area of 20,670 square meters, the hall includes 15,100 square meters above ground. The building stands 43.3 meters tall, with a large roof height of about 35.5 meters. The structure consists of six floors above ground and two basement levels.

  • Address: No. 102 Renmin Avenue, Huangpu District, Shanghai (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Opening Hours: Thursday to Tuesday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM); closed on Wednesdays except for national holidays
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Year-round
  • Temporary Exhibitions: Visit the Official Website
  • Ticket Prices: Free entry, but advance reservation is required
Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall building exterior

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall Map

  • Basement Level 1: Temporary exhibition hall and planning disclosure area
  • Foyer [1st Floor]: Themed “Shanghai: A Global City in Pursuit of Excellence,” this space features artistic models of “Shanghai Impressions” and outlines the city’s planning history and development goals
  • City of Humanity [2nd Floor]: Focused on historic preservation and urban renewal, this level showcases Shikumen architecture models and cases of cultural conservation
  • City of Innovation [3rd Floor]: Displays achievements in building Shanghai as a science and innovation hub, including planning models of Zhangjiang Science City and the Lingang New Area
  • Eco City [4th Floor]: Highlights sustainable development concepts through exhibitions on the “Five New Towns” initiative and ecological space design
Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall floor guide and map

Top Things to Do in Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall

Main Exhibitions

Foyer

The exhibition journey begins in the Foyer. This space uses immersive visual installations and guiding narratives to reveal “how Shanghai became Shanghai.” Through massive projection walls and interactive displays, visitors are taken on a chronological voyage through the city’s development. From a fishing village along the Huangpu River to a global metropolis, the Foyer weaves together light, imagery, and sound to illustrate the city’s origin and urban character, setting the tone for the deeper themes explored in later sections.

Preface Hall at Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall entrance

City of Humanity

This area highlights Shanghai’s deep cultural heritage and urban spirit. A meticulously crafted miniature model of the city includes iconic landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Bund’s international architecture. Multimedia displays, life-size recreations, and interactive experiences transport you back to Old Shanghai, offering insights into how this cosmopolitan culture was shaped by diverse influences over time.

Humanistic City exhibition miniature model of Shanghai

City of Innovation

While the City of Humanity looks back at the past, the City of Innovation offers a glimpse into Shanghai’s future. Here, visitors encounter Shanghai as a national innovation engine — from smart city infrastructure and green ecosystems to artificial intelligence and urban transit systems. A two-story-high digital city model and a 5D immersive simulation of street life help illustrate what the future might look like. This section, rich in data visualization and conceptual planning, is a favorite for anyone interested in urban development.

Digital urban model in Innovative City zone

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall Ticket Guide

No ticket is required for entry, but reservations are necessary. Visitors can book their visit up to seven days in advance (including the day of visit) through the official WeChat account.

Reservation Methods

  • Online: Via the official WeChat account
  • On-site: Scan the code or use the reservation machines at the venue. During off-peak times, reservations are usually not needed.
Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall official WeChat QR code

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall Audio Guide

The Exhibition Hall provides audio guide devices. Most major exhibits include explanations, and even those without commentary are generally easy to understand. The guide helps you gain deeper insight.

  • Languages: Chinese, English
  • Fee: 20 CNY per device, with a 100 CNY deposit or a valid ID required

There are no restaurants inside the hall itself, but there is a café on the 5th floor that offers drinks and cakes. If you’re looking for a meal, the Exhibition Hall is conveniently located near People’s Square, where you’ll find a wide range of restaurant options. Many dining spots are also within walking distance toward Nanjing Road.

If you’re looking for convenient accommodation close to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, we recommend staying near Nanjing West Road. From there, it’s easy to reach virtually every major destination in central Shanghai, including the Bund, Yu Garden, Jing’an Temple, People’s Square, Tianzifang, and the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea Site. It’s also highly accessible to both airports — Pudong Airport and Hongqiao Airport — as well as train stations like Hongqiao Railway Station and Shanghai Railway Station. Metro Line 2, accessible from Nanjing West Road Station, connects directly to most tourist attractions and major transit hubs. The area is also full of great food and dining options.

CitiGO Hotel Jingan Shanghai

CitiGO Hotel Jingan Shanghai

Very convenient, close to Nanjing West Road shopping district, easily accessible to other attractions. Be aware, there is another hotel with the same name nearby; double-check the address when taking a taxi.

Clean and well-equipped. Breakfast offers a wide variety, including fresh vegetables, fruits, delicious mousse, Swiss rolls, and freshly ground coffee. Free night snacks including dumplings available after 10 PM.

Ji Hotel (Shanghai People’s Square Nanjing Road)

Ji Hotel (Shanghai People's Square Nanjing Road)
  • Location: 9-minute walk from Huangpi South Road Metro Station, 10-minute walk from Nanjing West Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 487 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Laundry, robot room service, triple rooms

Located near People’s Square inside an old building, quiet, with easy access to transportation. Close to the Old Shanghai Museum, City God Temple, and local parks. Great value for money.

Excellent facilities, friendly and attentive staff. Rooms are clean, odor-free, and quiet. Varied breakfast options.

Atour Hotel X Nanjing West Road Shanghai

Atour Hotel X Nanjing West Road Shanghai

Prime location near Shanghai’s central business district, just below Wujiang Road, convenient for dining and close to a subway entrance.

Well-equipped, clean, and quiet. Features soft-bristled toothbrushes, excellent Wi-Fi, and high-pressure showers in the bathrooms with upscale fixtures.

How to Get to Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall from Downtown Shanghai

The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall is located near People’s Square in downtown Shanghai. If you’re coming from Nanjing Road or the Bund, both walking and metro are great options.

By Metro

You can take Metro Line 1, Line 2, or Line 8 to People’s Square Station. Exit from Exit 2, and you’ll arrive directly at the Exhibition Hall entrance.

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing

If you’re using a ride-hailing app or taxi, simply set your destination to “Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall.” A ride from most central locations takes about 20 minutes and costs approximately 30 CNY.

FAQ

Is the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall stroller and wheelchair accessible?

Yes. Every floor has both elevators and escalators, making it easy to move between levels.

Is there luggage storage available?

Yes. You can store your luggage on Basement Level 1 and the 1st Floor. Large bags are accepted, and small items can be stored in lockers.

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