Shanghai Museum

The collection covers ancient Chinese bronzes, ceramics, painting, calligraphy, furniture, jade and minority arts, housed in a purpose-built building on People’s Square with a round roof echoing an ancient bronze vessel.

It is genuinely excellent and it is free, which together make it the most underrated hour you can spend in central Shanghai. Book a timed entry slot a day ahead.

The galleries worth prioritising

The bronze gallery is the strongest in China. Ceramics run chronologically and reward following in order. The Ming and Qing furniture rooms are extraordinary and usually nearly empty.

Painting and calligraphy rotate because light damages them — check what is currently displayed.

Practicalities

Entry is free but requires an online reservation for a timed slot, which fills up during holidays. Reserve the day before.

Closed on Mondays except public holidays. Bring your passport for the booking.

Strategy

Go when the weather turns. Shanghai has many wet days in June and having this available transforms a ruined afternoon.

Two hours covers the highlights; four hours is realistic if you read labels properly.

Verdict

The single best indoor option in Shanghai. Do not skip it because it is free.

Skip it if

You have ninety minutes and a beautiful day — save it for outside and come back.