The 2025 Shanghai Cultural Heritage Season is now underway, spotlighting two significant cultural days: International Museum Day on May 18 and China's Cultural and Natural Heritage Day, celebrated on the second Saturday of June.

A diverse array of activities is being rolled out to celebrate these important occasions. Here are some exciting new exhibitions to look forward to.

 

1. Shanghai Museum

Precious Rarities: Ming and Qing Rhinoceros Horn Carvings

In China, the art of rhinoceros horn carving matured by the Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 220) and peaked during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. Delve into the zenith of Chinese rhinoceros horn carving art with over 100 exquisite artifacts, highlighting diverse designs and rich themes.

When: Starting May 30

Where: No 201 People's Avenue, Huangpu district

 

2. Shanghai Museum East

Hongshan culture ancient civilization special exhibition

Explore the archaeological achievements of the Hongshan culture, a Neolithic civilization from Northeast China renowned for its exquisite jade carvings. This exhibition delves into the pivotal role Hongshan culture played in the development of Chinese civilization. It highlights the culture's most significant accomplishments, showcasing the latest archaeological discoveries from Liaoning province, Hebei province, and other northern regions of China.

When: June 26 – Oct 8

Where: No 1952 Century Avenue, Pudong New Area

 

3. China Maritime Museum

Immersive exhibition of Chinese marine mythology: The Human

Experience traditional arts like puppetry and paper-cutting as they bring classic ocean myths to life, complemented by artifacts that showcase ancient Chinese maritime civilization and mythology.

When: May 16 – Aug 18

Where: No 199 Shengang Avenue, Pudong New Area

 

4. Shanghai Natural History Museum (Branch of Shanghai Science & Technology Museum)

China Dinosaur Grand Expo

This exhibition will feature approximately 150 representative Chinese dinosaur specimens and their scientific research findings, selected from over 340 types of dinosaur fossils discovered in China. Additionally, it will delve into the philosophical insights, humanistic spirit, and ecological civilization concepts embedded in dinosaur evolution.

When: May 31 – Nov 30

Where: No 510 West Beijing Road, Jing'an district

 

5. Minhang Museum

Anhui Chu culture artifacts exhibition

The State of Chu was one of China's most powerful states in the early Warring States Period (475-221 BC). This exhibition showcases over 100 exquisite artifacts that capture the rich and romantic Chu culture of Anhui province. By featuring historical pieces from local museums, the exhibition highlights the enduring brilliance of this great state in its twilight years.

When: June 15 – Oct 8

Where: No 1538 Xinzhen Road, Minhang district

 

6. Fengxian Museum

Exhibition on the Aesthetics of Tang Dynasty Life

Explore over 300 Tang Dynasty (618-907) artifacts showcased in three distinct sections. This exhibition highlights the elegance of Tang artifacts through tea and incense ceremonies, delves into the evolution and uniqueness of Tang-era makeup and fashion, and illustrates the cultural impact of the Tang Dynasty through its rituals, music, and literature.

When: June 18 – Oct 18

Where: No 333 Hupan Road, Fengxian district

 

Sources: Official WeChat account of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism at "shanghaitourism", museums mentioned above