Shanghai's most authentic contemporary art district — free to explore
M50 is Shanghai's premier contemporary art district, located in a former textile mill complex from the 1930s along Suzhou Creek. With 100+ artist studios and galleries spread across preserved brick factory buildings, it's more authentic and less commercial than Beijing's 798. The red brick industrial aesthetic provides a beautiful backdrop, and many artists work in open studios welcoming visitors.
A favorite destination for art and architecture travel content — features strongly in Shanghai lifestyle videos
Address: 50 Moganshan Rd, Putuo District, Shanghai
The easiest way to reach M50 Art District (Moganshan Road) is by Didi (China's ride-hailing app, similar to Uber). Download the Didi app and link your international credit card before arriving in China. Show the driver the Chinese name: 莫干山路50号.
Metro is also available for most attractions — check the city metro map and look for the nearest station. All metro signs in Shanghai are bilingual (Chinese and English).
Citizens of 54+ countries including the USA, UK, EU nations, Canada, and Australia can visit China for up to 240 hours (10 days) without a visa. M50 Art District (Moganshan Road) is fully accessible during a visa-free transit stay.
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