Top Rated Attractions in Shanghai

Housed in a restored power station in Huangpu, Power Station of Art is the first contemporary art museum of China that is run by the state. Established in 2012, it has already become a major part of China's art and culture and is the symbol of the cultural development of Shanghai. The museum spans multiple floors and exhibits the country's contemporary art dating back to 1980s, along with tracing its development over the years and various architectural styles. Special shows are conducted and exhibits change from time to time.

Yuz Museum in Shanghai is located in the Xuhui District. Part of the Yuz Foundation, this museum is one of the largest, private, non-profit institutions for art exhibitions in the city. The mission is to bring people closer to art, by enhancing their appreciation and facilitating better understanding of contemporary pieces. This former airport hangar was redesigned into a enormous space that perfectly showcases the rich collection and installations scheduled all through the year. Spreading over 9,000 square meters (approximately 32,000 square feet), the museum features frequent special events and temporary exhibitions of Chinese contemporary masterpieces as well as a few Western artists.

Discover the beauty of glass at this scintillating museum dedicated to the various forms of glass. Established with help from the Shanghai University, the museum aims to not only present beautiful glass creations, but also spread a general awareness of the role of glass in historical and modern society. Apart from the stunning exhibits, there's also a live demonstration of glass-blowing for visitors, which should not be missed. Tours of the facility are available, and you can also shop for glass souvenirs once you're done.

Rockbund Art Museum is a contemporary art museum located in Shanghai, in an area which was one of earliest commercial hubs of the city. The art displays at the museum always keep changing, there is no permanent exhibit. The building in which the museum is located is in itself an Art Deco masterpiece and a symbol of the former British influence in the city. One can see works by some of the best artists from China and all over the world at this place. Some of the artists that have been featured here include Zeng Fanzhi, Cai Guo-Qiang, John Armleder, and Heman Chong.

Formerly known as the Shanghai Art Museum, the China Art Museum boasts a vast collection of modern and contemporary art, with a permanent collection of artwork in every imaginable medium numbering over 14,000 individual pieces. Housed within the former China Pavilion of the Expo 2010, the museum's vivid-red facade and distinctive architecture make it impossible to miss. Inside, the structure is a veritable wonderland for art enthusiasts, with art galleries featuring permanent and temporary exhibitions that highlight both Chinese and international artists. And one of the notable features of the museum is its location. The museum's location along the Huangpu River provides stunning views of the Shanghai skyline, including the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and the city's modern architectural wonders. These picturesque surroundings enhance the overall museum visit.

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center has multiple floors that detail the ambitious plans for Shanghai's urban planning and development. Visitors are provided with a glimpse of what Shanghai will look like in a couple of decades. The centerpiece of the place is a huge model of the city as it stands today. This breathtaking model of Shanghai city stands out as a beautiful masterpiece of this enriching museum. An elaborate map showcases the districts scheduled for new construction, and green areas are clearly marked.