Madame Tussauds Shanghai

Madame Tussauds Shanghai: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Guide to Shanghai Historical Sites

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Madame Tussauds Shanghai is a premier cultural and entertainment destination, centrally located in the heart of one of China’s most dynamic cities. Since opening in 2006, it has introduced the renowned art of wax figure modeling to Shanghai, blending global celebrity culture with China’s rich heritage. Housing over 75–100 intricately crafted wax figures across multiple themed zones, the museum offers visitors an immersive experience that bridges East and West. Enhanced by interactive installations, augmented reality, and educational workshops, Madame Tussauds Shanghai stands out as both an entertainment hub and a cultural landmark. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, special events, travel tips, and nearby attractions, ensuring a memorable and seamless visit (China Culture Tour; Madame Tussauds Shanghai Official; TravelChinaGuide).

Introduction
Historical Background & Cultural Significance
Visiting Hours & Tickets
Accessibility & Visitor Tips
Signature Exhibits & Interactive Experiences
Special Events & Fan Engagement
Facilities & Guest Services
Nearby Attractions & Itineraries
FAQs
Conclusion & Call to Action
References

Historical Background & Cultural Significance

Origins of Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds traces its beginnings to Marie Grosholtz (Madame Tussaud), who was born in Strasbourg in 1761 and learned the art of wax modeling in Paris under Dr. Philippe Curtius. She created her first wax figure in 1777 and, after inheriting Curtius’ collection, spent over three decades touring Britain before establishing her permanent exhibit in London in 1835. Over the centuries, Madame Tussauds expanded globally, with Shanghai becoming the sixth international branch in 2006 (Madame Tussauds London PDF).

Madame Tussauds Shanghai: Milestones

Opening on May 1, 2006, Madame Tussauds Shanghai was the first mainland China location for the brand, situated on the 10th floor of the New World Department Store on West Nanjing Road—a bustling commercial artery of Shanghai (China Culture Tour). Its arrival marked a milestone in cultural openness, offering a blend of international icons and prominent Chinese figures, with input from public polls to ensure relevance for both local and global audiences.

Thematic Zones & Representation

Madame Tussauds Shanghai is organized into immersive zones, each celebrating different facets of fame:

Glamour Zone: Red-carpet experiences with fashion icons and celebrities.
Behind the Scenes: Insight into wax figure creation and artistry.
Music, Film, Sports, Speed: Encounter stars like Jackie Chan, Yao Ming, Lady Gaga, and Leonardo DiCaprio.
History & Leaders: Features historical and current figures, allowing for both educational and interactive experiences.
Marvel Universe: 4D cinema and superhero-themed installations.
Shanghai Celebrities: Honoring local legends and influential modern personalities.

Role in Shanghai & China

The museum has become a symbol of Shanghai’s cosmopolitan identity, showcasing Western-style interactive entertainment while celebrating Chinese pride through the inclusion of national icons. By regularly updating its roster and engaging with fans, Madame Tussauds Shanghai remains a dynamic participant in China’s cultural scene (China Culture Tour).

Visiting Hours & Tickets

Opening Hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (last entry 6:00 PM)
- Friday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (last entry 8:00 PM)
- Summer Peak (July 1 – August 31): 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily (Deep China Travel).
- Some sources note closing at 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM—always check the official website for current hours.
Ticket Prices:
- Standard Adult: ¥160–230
- Students/Seniors: ¥120–190
- Family Packages: e.g., two adults + one child under 1.2 meters: ¥260
- Fast Track Pass: ¥259 (priority access to popular zones)
- Annual Pass: ¥499 (unlimited visits and merchandise discounts)
- Children under 1 meter enter free; discounted rates available for various groups (Intotravelchina).
Where to Buy:
- Official website, Fliggy, Meituan (up to 14 days in advance), or at the entrance. Online booking is strongly recommended, especially during holidays.

Accessibility & Visitor Tips

Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps throughout (TravelChinaGuide).
Restrooms: Available on each floor; accessible restrooms also provided.
Lockers: Secure storage for ¥10/day; large bags and food not allowed inside.
Language: Exhibits in Chinese and English.
Photography: Permitted except with flash near delicate figures; some figures may require an additional fee for close-ups (Islamic China Travel).
Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings or after 4 PM to avoid crowds. Most visitors spend 2–3 hours inside (Triphobo).

Signature Exhibits & Interactive Experiences

Recent Additions and Fan-Focused Events

A significant highlight in 2025 was the unveiling of Wang Sulong’s wax figure in a live concert setting, a first in Madame Tussauds’ history. The figure, crafted in the UK over 240 days, features intricate details and debuted at a concert attended by 10,000 fans (source). Other new additions include Lin Gengxin, Hua Chenyu, Luo Yunxi, and Zhou Shen, reflecting the museum’s embrace of contemporary Chinese pop culture.

Themed Zones

Music Zone: Features global and Chinese musical icons, interactive “Tussauds Sound Field” installations, and commemorative memorabilia for visitors (source).
Film & TV Zone: Pose with Hollywood and Chinese film stars and explore recreated movie sets.
Sports Arena: “Compete” with figures of famous athletes, including interactive games.
Marvel Universe: Enjoy 4D cinema and superhero-themed activities.
Fashion & Glamour: Walk the runway or pose with global style icons.

Interactive Installations

AR & AI Experiences: “Voice of the Stars” lets visitors interact via mobile app; AI-powered photo kiosks allow guests to “meet” their favorite stars (Intotravelchina).
“Star Pet Fan Season”: Exclusive events with memorabilia for concert ticket holders.
Behind-the-Scenes Workshops: Learn about the wax figure creation process.

Special Events & Fan Engagement

Fan Reward Events: The “Star Pet Fan Season” offers exclusive souvenirs and activities for fans, such as commemorative postcards and restored concert scenes (source).
Award Presentations: Special ceremonies recognize celebrities and foster fan engagement.
Seasonal Exhibitions: Rotating displays and themed installations throughout the year.

Facilities & Guest Services

Gift Shop: Exclusive Madame Tussauds souvenirs and personalized photo packages.
Café: Themed snacks and beverages; ideal for a mid-visit break.
Cloakroom: For small bags and coats.
Customer Service: Contact the museum at +86 18977321572 or email [email protected] (Visit Our China).
Security: Standard checks at entry; lost and found services available.

Nearby Attractions & Suggested Itineraries

Top Shanghai Historical Sites Near Madame Tussauds

People’s Square: Major cultural hub with the Shanghai Museum and Urban Planning Exhibition Center (Trip.com).
Nanjing Road: Bustling shopping street, ideal for dining and retail.
The Bund: Iconic riverside promenade with colonial architecture and skyline views.
Shanghai Museum: Free entry to Chinese art and artifacts.
Xintiandi & Yu Garden: Historic districts with shopping, dining, and traditional gardens.
Shanghai Natural History Museum: Family-friendly, with over 10,000 exhibits (Trip.com).

Sample Itineraries

Short Visit (1–1.5 hours): Focus on Glamour Zone, Marvel Universe, and Shanghai Celebrities.
Full Experience (2–3 hours): Follow the route: Glamour → History & Leaders → Sports → Marvel → Music → Film & TV → Royal Tea Party → Gift Shop (Intotravelchina).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Monday–Thursday 10:00–19:00, Friday–Sunday 10:00–21:00; check the official site for updates.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online via the official website, Fliggy, Meituan, or at the entrance.

Q: Is the museum accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Yes, except with flash near delicate figures; some figures may incur extra fees.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through local travel agencies or by inquiry at the entrance.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Madame Tussauds Shanghai stands as a vibrant intersection of art, culture, technology, and entertainment, appealing to families, tourists, and pop culture enthusiasts alike. Its carefully curated exhibits, interactive installations, and prime location make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Shanghai historical sites or seeking unique experiences. To maximize your visit, check for the latest updates, book tickets online, and plan to explore nearby cultural attractions. For more travel insights, download the Audiala app and follow Madame Tussauds Shanghai on social media for exclusive offers and updates.