I’m sure this has happened to everyone at one time or another. You are visiting a city for only a few days and dear Mother Nature refuses to cooperate. The skies open up and down comes the rain. This is what happened during my time in Shanghai. After my Yuyuan Garden visit was literally a wash out (no pun intended), I referred to my trusty guide-book for some indoor activities.
The Shanghai Museum is exceptional and a great place to keep dry on a rainy afternoon. What’s even better…It’s Free! The current museum, located in People’s Square, was completed in 1996. Each of its four floors offers galleries showcasing ancient treasures that epitomize the wisdom and virtuosity of the ancient Chinese people. There are twenty-one categories including ceramics, jade and ivory works, sculptures and coins.
At the entrance to each gallery, there are one-page handouts providing visitors with some background on the artifacts found inside. I love to explore at my own pace, so I found these handouts especially helpful. Outside each gallery is a small kiosk-style gift shop.
I found the ancient Chinese sculptures and glazed pottery especially fascinating. Many of the pottery pieces and wooden carvings were funeral figurines, depicting humans and animals from dynasties dating back to the 5th century BC. I’ve included pictures of just a few of my favorites.
An afternoon at the Shanghai Museum was an experience I will not soon forget. What a wonderful way to experience the brilliant history of China. It is doubtful that I would have taken time to visit if not for Mother Nature’s blessing.
Photo Credits: The Traveling Gal
The Traveling Gal 