Travel with Karina: A Perfect Day Trip Exploring Shanghai Natural History Museum

Having spent unforgettable years studying in Shanghai, I've developed a deep love for this city. Shanghai, a place where ancient traditions meet futuristic innovation, has established itself as one of China's most compelling tourist destinations. With its breathtaking skyline, rich cultural tapestry, and world-class attractions, this bustling metropolis offers visitors an unforgettable blend of experiences that showcase both China's heritage and its ambitious future.

For museum lovers, Shanghai Natural History Museum stands out as a true hidden gem. Located within the beautiful Jing'an Sculpture Park, the museum impresses visitors with its stunning architecture both externally and internally. As a key center for science education and cultural exchange in the city, it successfully combines learning with amazement. This museum is my favorite weekend getaway during my college years.

⋙ Shanghai Travel Guide 2025
⋙ Top 15 Museums in Shanghai

One of the best perks? Students can purchase tickets for only 12 RMB - an incredible bargain. My friend and I typically start our journey on a fresh morning, leaving directly from campus. Getting to the museum is straightforward. It's easily accessible via several metro lines.

⋙ Shanghai Metro

Once inside, a world of discovery opens up. The museum houses ten carefully designed permanent exhibitions, temporary galleries, an exciting 4D theater, and interactive Exploration Center laboratories that satisfy every scientific interest. What struck me most was the lively weekend atmosphere. Many families with curious children exploring the exhibits, transforming scientific learning into shared experiences of wonder.

Children's Painting Exhibition

"River of Life" Exhibition on L1

The Shanghai Natural History Museum offers countless specimens across its immersive exhibition spaces. As we explored the various floors, we gained fascinating scientific knowledge while appreciating nature's incredible design. Stepping into the mesmerizing "River of Life" exhibition felt like traveling through a time portal. In this hall, both legendary creatures of the past and celebrated species of today converge along the "River of Life".

Reindeer and Marine Life in "River of Life" Exhibition

However, the real star attraction? Mengshi the lion is the museum's unexpected internet sensation. Due to the limitations of early 20th-century taxidermy techniques, its body was filled with straw and supported by simple metal frames. Over time, these basic materials created an accidentally comical expression – a surprised look that became viral for its confused charm.

Mengshi the Lion

"Experience Nature" Exhibition on L1

Everything here is alive, brimming with vitality, growing and changing every single day. In the "Experience Nature" exhibition, you can truly observe the ever-changing beauty of the natural world up close.

Jellyfish and Chubby Cushion Starfish Displayed on "Expeirence Nature" Exhibition

"Colorful Lives" Exhibition on B2

My friend and I always visit the ground-floor "Colorful Lives" exhibition. This exhibition showcases the breathtaking beauty and incredible marvels of life, highlighting the astonishing diversity of species on our planet.

Fur, Pinecones, and Crabs Displayed in "Colorful Lives" exhibit

Karina and Plant Specimen Display

Here, beautiful insects are creatively arranged into colorful specimen displays - a perfect spot for photos that has become particularly popular with younger visitors.

Karina Take a Photo with Painting Made from Butterfly Specimens

Butterfly Specimens

"Diverse Ecologies" Exhibition on B2

Families with children often go directly to the "Diverse Ecologies" section. Young kids love the immersive ecosystem videos and realistic habitat displays, which combine entertainment with environmental education in an engaging way.

Polar Bear, Bear, Cheetah, and Wolf in Diverse Ecologies

Souvevir Shop

After exploring the fascinating exhibits at the museum, don’t forget to stop by the souvenir shop before you leave! The shop is filled with adorable plush toys, which are perfect gifts for friends and family.

Souvevir Shop in Shanghai Natural History Museum

The Shanghai Natural History Museum demonstrates that learning about our planet can be genuinely exciting. Each exhibit narrates a story that spans millions of years. My visits to this place always leave me feeling newly inspired about both natural science and the city I lived during my university years.

Popular Attractions in Shanghai for First-time Visitors

While this museum holds special significance for me, first-time visitors to Shanghai should also explore these essential attractions that capture the city's unique character:

- The Bund: Take a walk along this iconic waterfront to see historic colonial buildings on one side and Pudong's modern skyline across the Huangpu River.

- Yu Garden: Discover classical Chinese garden design in this beautiful Ming Dynasty creation located in the Old City.

- Shanghai Tower: Visit one of the world's tallest buildings for spectacular views of the entire city.

- Tianzifang: Explore this quaint network of alleyways filled with small shops, art studios, and pleasant cafés.

- Nanjing Road: Experience China's famous shopping street that runs from the Bund to People's Square.

Whether you're visiting briefly or staying longer for a grand China tour, Shanghai's combination of historical significance, modern development, and cultural diversity creates a memorable experience that appeals to travelers from around the world.