China Art Museum (中华艺术宫) is one of the leading art museums in China, located in the Pudong district of Shanghai. It is the largest art museum in Asia and one of the largest in the world, covering a total area of around 64,000 square meters.
The museum is housed in the former China Pavilion of the Shanghai World Expo 2010, which was transformed into an art museum after the Expo. It has an impressive collection of over 14,000 artworks, including traditional Chinese paintings, calligraphy, sculptures, ceramics, and contemporary art.
The museum’s collection spans from ancient times to the modern era, showcasing the development of Chinese art and culture over thousands of years. Some of the highlights of the collection include works by famous Chinese artists such as Qi Baishi, Xu Beihong, and Zhang Daqian.
In addition to its permanent collection, China Art Museum also hosts various temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing both Chinese and international art. The museum also offers educational programs, workshops, and guided tours, making it an excellent destination for art lovers and enthusiasts of all ages.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of China Art Museum
- Vlog about China Art Museum
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Art Museums in Shanghai
Basic Information
| Website | https://www.artmuseumonline.org/ |
| Estimated Length of Tour | About 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | General Exhibition: Free Special Exhibition: 20 CNY |
| Opening Hours | 10.00 – 18.00; Last entry: 17.00 Notice: Closed on Mondays, except for national holidays |
| Telephone Number | 0086-400-921-9021 (24 hours) |
Location and Transportation
The museum is situated in the Pudong district of Shanghai, which is a bustling area known for its modern skyscrapers, shopping centers, and cultural landmarks. It specific address is 205 Shangnan Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, China. Attractions nearly include the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Shanghai Tower, and the Shanghai World Financial Center.
Bus
- Take tourist line 3, get off at China Art Museum (中华艺术宫), and you will be right at the entrance.
- Take bus 1118 or Pudong 98, get off at Shangnanlu Bochenglu (上南路博成路), and walk about 100 meters to the south to reach the entrance.
- Take bus 83, 177, 1049, or Pudong 98, get off at Shangnanlu Guozhanlu (上南路国展路), and walk about 50 meters to the north to reach the entrance.
Subyway
- Take Subyway Line 8, get off at China Art Museum, and you will be standing at teh north entrance.
Highlights of China Art Museum
The Architecture
The China Art Museum is housed in the former China Pavilion of the 2010 Shanghai World Expo. The building is a blend of traditional and modern architecture and covers an area of 64,000 square meters. Its distinctive shape is inspired by the ancient Chinese ritualistic “ding” vessel, with a large central dome and several smaller ones surrounding it. The exterior is adorned with traditional Chinese motifs and patterns, while the interior features modern exhibition spaces with advanced lighting and sound systems.
The Collection of Chinese Calligraphy
The China Art Museum boasts an impressive collection of Chinese calligraphy that spans over 2,000 years of history. The collection includes works from the Han, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, as well as contemporary pieces. It showcases the evolution of Chinese writing and its artistic expression, from the earliest oracle bone inscriptions to the elegant and refined styles of the Tang and Song dynasties. Visitors can admire masterpieces by renowned calligraphers such as Wang Xizhi, Yan Zhenqing, and Su Shi.
The Collection of Chinese Painting
The China Art Museum houses a vast collection of Chinese paintings dating back to ancient times. It includes works from renowned artists such as Wu Changshuo, Qi Baishi, and Zhang Daqian, as well as pieces from lesser-known artists. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of styles and subjects, from landscapes and portraits to animals and still life. The museum also frequently hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Chinese art and culture.
The Collection of Modern and Comtemprary Art
The collection of modern and contemporary Chinese art in the China Art Museum includes works from the early 20th century to the present day, featuring artists such as Zhang Xiaogang and Zeng Fanzhi. it showcases a diverse range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, installation, video, and photography. Visitors can explore the evolution of Chinese art over the last century and witness the influence of Chinese cultural and social changes on artistic expression. The museum regularly features temporary exhibitions that highlight emerging artists and innovative contemporary art practices, making it a vital platform for the development and promotion of Chinese contemporary art.
Vlog about China Art Museum
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Security Check and Ticketing: Upon arrival, you’ll go through a security check and pass through a serpentine queue. There’s a ticket counter, but if you’re not planning to visit the Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden area, you don’t need to purchase a ticket.
Audio Guide: If you wish to enhance your experience with audio commentary, head to the 49M Service Center where you can rent a commentary device for the permanent exhibition. You’ll need to provide your ID card and a deposit of 200 yuan (or 400 yuan without an ID). The rental fee is 20 yuan.
Storage Service: Free storage services are available at the entrance, but items cannot be delivered to the exit. Retrieving your belongings may take at least fifteen minutes, so plan accordingly.
Prohibited Items: Lighters are not permitted inside the museum, so make sure not to bring one with you.
Expectations for Exhibits: The museum may appear somewhat quiet during regular hours, and some exhibition halls may be closed. Additionally, there may be a higher proportion of replicas compared to authentic artifacts, resulting in a lack of high-quality and genuine pieces.
