Shanghai Museum has been famous for its large collection of rare cultural piece. The museum now houses over 120,000 pieces of cultural relics in twelve categories, including Chinese bronze, ceramics, paintings and calligraphy, and artifacts.
Construction of the current building started in August 1993. It was inaugurated in October 12, 1996. It is 29.5 meters high with five floors, covering a total area of 39,200 m². Designed by a local architect, the new museum building is designed in the shape of an ancient bronze cooking vessel called a ding. It is said that the inspiration for the design was specifically provided by the Da Ke Ding, now on exhibit in the museum.
In ancient times, 中国人 （Chinese）believed in "天圆地方" which means 'round sky, square earth' and this believe was seen replicated in various aspects of their culture and traditional Chinese architecture. When you look at the museum building from the outside, you will see how their believe was replicated in the structure and construction of the building.
If you are interested in Chinese architecture, you should not miss the room showing Chinese furniture of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Over 100 pieces of various styles of furniture made in the Ming and Qing Dynasty were displayed. There are also some models of valuable furniture and wooden buried warrior figure of Ming Dynasty unearthed in the area around Shanghai. Stepped into the room, visitors almost feel like he is in a Chinese-style garden and mansion.
On the Arts and Crafts by Chinese Minority room, visitor can enjoy about 600 pieces of work of art, such as dress and personal adornment, dyed and woven embroidery, metal art ware, sculpture, ceramics, bamboo wares used by the minority. Different styles, remarkable color and creative conception embody the pursuit of happier life.
How to reach Shanghai Museum:
1. Take bus numbers 46, 71, 112, 123, 145, 916, 925 or Tunnel Line 6 and get down at 人民广场站 (People's Square Station)
2. Take metro Line 1, Line 2, Line 8 ; walk out from exit 1 and walk south for the museum.
Opening Hours :- 09:00 am to 17:00pm
P.S. - Keep at least a minimum of 1.5 hours to see the entire museum.
