Shanghai Oriental Art Center
A butterfly-shaped architectural marvel hosting diverse performances, from classical music to acrobatics.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience captivating performances
Shanghai Oriental Art Center
Best Time
Experience captivating performances
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A butterfly-shaped architectural marvel hosting diverse performances, from classical music to acrobatics.
"A modern, futuristic complex for art and performance with stunning architecture."
🎟️ On-site Ticket Purchase
If online booking is difficult, buy tickets at the center (9 AM-8 PM daily).
🗣️ Ask for Directions
Staff can help you find the right concert hall if you get lost inside.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Marvel
A stunning, futuristic complex designed by architect I.M. Pei, resembling a 'butterfly'.
Diverse Performances
From classical music to acrobatics and circus acts, experience a wide range of artistic expressions.
Convenient Metro Access
Easily accessible via the Shanghai Science & Technology Museum metro station on Line 2.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Ticket Purchases
Getting Around Inside
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ On-site Ticket Purchase
If online booking is difficult, buy tickets at the center (9 AM-8 PM daily).
🗣️ Ask for Directions
Staff can help you find the right concert hall if you get lost inside.
📍 Metro Convenience
Take Line 2 to Shanghai Science & Technology Museum station.
💳 Payment Options
WeChat Pay is confirmed; Visa may also work.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ On-site Ticket Purchase
If online booking is difficult, buy tickets at the center (9 AM-8 PM daily).
🗣️ Ask for Directions
Staff can help you find the right concert hall if you get lost inside.
📍 Metro Convenience
Take Line 2 to Shanghai Science & Technology Museum station.
💳 Payment Options
WeChat Pay is confirmed; Visa may also work.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Shanghai Oriental Art Center is lauded for its stunning, futuristic architecture and its role as a premier venue for diverse performances. While its modern design and convenient metro access are highlights, some visitors have noted challenges with internal navigation and suitability for certain intimate music genres.
"Good location, close to Shanghai Science & Technology Museum metro station on Line 2.
It probably depends which concert you want to visit, but the ticket I was trying to buy was pretty difficult to get online as a foreigner. However, it's possible to buy tickets at the ticket center on-site, which is open from Monday to Sunday 09:00 to 20:00. I was just able to walk in and show which ticket I would like to buy, the English of the person helping me was pretty good as well. I've read that it's possible to purchase tickets with a Visa card, but I cannot confirm because I used Weixin Pay (WeChat).
It was pretty difficult to navigate inside as someone who doesn't speak Chinese, but that could just be me. There are multiple concert halls, but after asking the staff they were able to point me to the right concert hall."
Tim P.
"Great place"
James Chen
"It's absolutely beautiful. Unfortunately, I slept through the show but was awake during the motorcycle act and the couple doing acrobatics with silk. The other portion of the men on the circles also kept my attention.
Everything else, was a circus act which had been seen before.
But the place was wonderful."
Susan Barnes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is by metro. Take Line 2 to the Shanghai Science & Technology Museum station. From there, it's a short walk to the venue.
Information on parking availability is limited, but public transport is highly recommended due to its excellent metro connectivity.
Yes, ride-sharing apps are widely used in Shanghai and can be a convenient option to reach the venue.
From Pudong Airport, you can take the metro (Line 2) directly to Shanghai Science & Technology Museum station, which is close to the art center.
Yes, the Shanghai Science & Technology Museum station is well-connected, and the venue is a recognizable landmark nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can often be purchased online, but for foreigners, it might be easier to buy them directly at the on-site ticket center, open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM.
Some visitors have found online purchases challenging. The on-site ticket center is a reliable alternative with helpful staff.
WeChat Pay is confirmed to be accepted. While Visa might be an option, it's best to confirm at the ticket counter.
Information on discounts is not widely available. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire at the ticket center for any promotions.
The ticket center is open every day from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
One reviewer felt it was not ideal for jazz, citing issues with sound and seating arrangements, preferring the Shanghai Culture Plaza for such performances.
The venue hosts a variety of performances, including classical music, acrobatics, circus acts, and more.
Some visitors have found it challenging to navigate due to multiple halls and language barriers, but staff are available to assist.
Yes, there are drink vendors available within the venue.
The building is a modern, futuristic complex, famously designed by I.M. Pei to resemble a 'butterfly'.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by performance. It's best to check the specific rules for the show you are attending, as flash photography is usually prohibited during performances.
The unique 'butterfly' architecture of the Shanghai Oriental Art Center makes for stunning exterior shots, especially during the day and at night when illuminated.
While general photography in public areas is usually allowed, specific restrictions may apply inside performance halls or during certain events.
Both daytime and nighttime offer unique photographic opportunities. Daytime highlights the architectural details, while nighttime showcases its illuminated beauty.
Often, you can take photos of the empty stage before the performance begins, but always confirm with venue staff or signage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning a visit with children, consider the age appropriateness of the show. While the venue is modern and accessible, navigating its multiple halls might require extra attention with very young children. Purchasing tickets in advance or at the on-site center is recommended to avoid last-minute stress.
✈️ Day-Trippers
You can easily incorporate a visit here into a broader itinerary, perhaps before or after exploring nearby attractions. Consider checking the performance schedule to see if a show aligns with your visit, or simply admire the striking architecture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
Visitors often marvel at the building's unique structure, which houses multiple performance venues, including a concert hall, opera house, and exhibition space. The thoughtful design ensures excellent acoustics and sightlines, contributing to a superior audience experience. The exterior itself is a popular spot for photography, especially when illuminated at night.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Oriental Art Center represents Shanghai's commitment to fostering arts and culture. Its presence enhances the city's cultural landscape and provides a world-class venue for both local and international artists.
Performance Variety and Audience Experience
While the venue is praised for its modern facilities, the audience experience can vary. Some visitors have noted that it might not be the ideal setting for intimate genres like jazz, citing potential issues with sound quality and seating arrangements. However, for larger-scale productions and visually spectacular performances, it generally receives positive feedback.
It's always a good idea to check the specific performance schedule and read reviews for individual shows to gauge the expected experience. The convenience of its metro access also adds to the overall ease of attending an event.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit