Shanghai Museum of Glass
A captivating museum showcasing the art and science of glass, from natural processes to contemporary installations and hands-on workshops.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the glassblowing demo
Shanghai Museum of Glass
Best Time
Catch the glassblowing demo

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A captivating museum showcasing the art and science of glass, from natural processes to contemporary installations and hands-on workshops.
"A high-quality, must-visit destination in China for art lovers and families alike."
🎯 Catch the Glassblowing Show
Don't miss the live glassblowing demonstrations, usually around 1:30 PM!
🚶♀️ Explore the Whole Campus
It's bigger than it looks! Wander through multiple buildings, gardens, and play areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Glassblowing Demonstrations
Witness skilled artisans craft intricate pieces using traditional bamboo tubes, a captivating display of skill .

Glass Garden Sculptures
Discover sculptures that shimmer and change color with the sunlight, thanks to embedded metal oxides .

Optical Illusion Glass Floor
Experience a mind-bending walk on a glass floor designed with multiple layers and air gaps to play with depth perception .

Contemporary Art Exhibitions
Explore diverse and innovative glass art installations from various contemporary artists .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Glass Art
Explore the Campus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch the Glassblowing Show
Don't miss the live glassblowing demonstrations, usually around 1:30 PM!
🚶♀️ Explore the Whole Campus
It's bigger than it looks! Wander through multiple buildings, gardens, and play areas.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during summer evenings for a magical glow on the glass art.
💡 Visit Before Lights On
Experience a unique, tranquil atmosphere before the main lighting.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch the Glassblowing Show
Don't miss the live glassblowing demonstrations, usually around 1:30 PM!
🚶♀️ Explore the Whole Campus
It's bigger than it looks! Wander through multiple buildings, gardens, and play areas.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during summer evenings for a magical glow on the glass art.
💡 Visit Before Lights On
Experience a unique, tranquil atmosphere before the main lighting.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Browse the shop for unique glass products and art pieces.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Shanghai Museum of Glass for its high-quality exhibits, especially the live glassblowing demonstrations and unique art installations like the color-changing garden sculptures and optical illusion floor. It's highly recommended for both adults and children, with bilingual descriptions making it accessible. However, some find the admission price to be quite expensive.
"The museum part is okay, there are a few interesting items but mostly great for kid workshops where they can make things, and fun glass blowing presentation at 1:30pm. It has several buildings, a glass souvenir shop and indoor and outdoor play areas."
miss bubu
"MUST COME.
This place is very high quality and is a must come in china, although it is very expensive.
Fri, Aug 15 2025
- Lucas"
Lucas122
"It's a perfect place for adults and children to spend their weekend. Here you can get an overview of how glass is produced in nature and the history of glass making by humans. Glass art from all over the world is on display in a number of galleries. All descriptions of the exhibits are in both Chinese and English. You need to buy tickets at the entrance. There is also a theatre next to the main building for kids to have fun and a shop which sells all kinds of glass products."
willsonlee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in the Shanghai Expo Culture Park. Public transport options are available, but specific routes might vary. It's recommended to check local transit apps for the most up-to-date information.
Information on parking availability is not widely shared, but given its location in a park, it's advisable to check for designated parking areas or consider public transport.
Yes, ride-sharing services are a convenient option for reaching the museum, especially if you're coming from different parts of Shanghai.
While specific accessibility details are scarce, many modern museums strive for accessibility. It's best to contact the museum directly for detailed information on ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Taking the metro is often the most efficient way to navigate Shanghai. Check your preferred transit app for the best metro line and station closest to the museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reviews indicate that the museum can be quite expensive. It's recommended to purchase tickets at the entrance, but checking their official website or social media for current pricing is advised.
While tickets are available at the entrance, booking in advance might be beneficial during peak seasons or for special exhibitions to secure your spot.
Opening hours can vary, especially for special events. It's best to check the museum's official channels for the most accurate daily operating times.
Information on discounts is not readily available. It's worth inquiring at the ticket counter or checking their official website for any potential student, senior, or group rates.
Refund policies typically depend on the ticketing platform and the museum's specific terms and conditions. It's advisable to review these policies before purchasing tickets.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the live glassblowing demonstrations, the unique glass garden sculptures that change with light, and the optical illusion glass floor. Contemporary art exhibitions are also a highlight.
Yes, it's considered a perfect place for children, with dedicated workshops where they can create things and indoor/outdoor play areas.
Yes, all exhibit descriptions are provided in both Chinese and English, making it friendly for international visitors.
The 'Vanguard' project invites contemporary artists to challenge the boundaries of glass as a material, showcasing its infinite possibilities.
The museum offers kids' workshops where they can make things, and the glassblowing demonstrations are highly interactive and engaging.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there's a glass souvenir shop, specific dining facilities like restaurants or cafes are not prominently mentioned. It's advisable to dine before or after your visit.
Generally, bringing outside food and drinks into museum galleries is discouraged. Check the museum's specific policy upon arrival.
Given its location in the Expo Culture Park, there might be food stalls or nearby eateries. Exploring the surrounding area will likely reveal various dining choices.
No specific cafes are highlighted in visitor feedback. The focus seems to be on the exhibits and the overall experience.
Shanghai offers a wide range of culinary options. You'll likely find vegetarian and vegan choices in restaurants around the Expo Culture Park area.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits.
The glass garden sculptures, the optical illusion glass floor, and the contemporary art installations offer fantastic photo opportunities. The golden hour light also enhances the visuals.
Professional photography or videography might require special permits or prior arrangements. Contact the museum for their specific policy.
A camera with good low-light performance and a versatile lens would be ideal, especially for capturing the subtle color changes in the glass garden and the atmosphere before the lights turn on.
Yes, you can usually take photos during the demonstrations, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash, which can be distracting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the workshops, there are indoor and outdoor play areas to keep little ones entertained. The entire campus is designed to be engaging, and the dual-language descriptions (Chinese and English) make it accessible for everyone. Don't miss the live glassblowing demonstrations – they're captivating for all ages!
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Don't miss the Glass Garden with its light-reactive sculptures and the mind-bending optical illusion glass floor. Experiencing the art during the golden hour can add an extra layer of magic to your visit. The museum also hosts special exhibitions, so check their schedule for current showcases.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the golden hour for breathtaking shots, especially in the summer evenings. For a truly unique perspective, try to visit before the main lights turn on to capture a serene, atmospheric mood. Remember to check for any flash restrictions to ensure you get the best shots without disturbing others.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Glassmaking
The museum actively promotes contemporary glass art through its 'Vanguard' project. This initiative invites artists to push the boundaries of what's possible with glass, resulting in a diverse collection of innovative and thought-provoking installations. The sheer malleability and potential of glass are on full display, challenging perceptions of the material.
Witnessing live glassblowing demonstrations is a highlight for many. Artisans use traditional techniques, often employing bamboo tubes reminiscent of ancient methods, to create intricate works of art right before your eyes. This hands-on display of craftsmanship offers a unique appreciation for the skill involved in glass art.
Experiencing the Museum's Unique Features
Prepare for a playful optical illusion on the walk-on glass floor. This feature is ingeniously constructed with multiple laminated layers and air gaps, designed to trick your perception of depth and create fascinating visual effects. It's a fun and memorable experience that adds an interactive element to the visit.
For those seeking a more serene experience, arriving before the museum lights are switched on offers a special ambiance. This 'night at the museum' feel provides a tranquil setting to appreciate the art in a different light. It's a tip that enhances the overall visit, offering a unique perspective on the exhibits.
Family Fun and Workshops
One of the key attractions for families are the kids' workshops, where children can actively participate and create their own glass-related items. These hands-on activities are not only fun but also foster creativity and a deeper connection with the art form. The museum also features indoor and outdoor play areas, ensuring that children have plenty of space to explore and enjoy themselves.
With exhibit descriptions available in both English and Chinese, the museum is friendly to English speakers and accessible to a diverse range of visitors. This ensures that families from different backgrounds can fully appreciate the exhibits and activities offered.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit