Qing Pu Prison

Qingpu Prison Shanghai: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Qingpu Prison, located in Shanghai’s Qingpu District at 7405 Wai Qingsong Road, stands as one of China’s largest and most internationally significant correctional facilities. Established in 1994 during a wave of modernization in China’s criminal justice system, the prison is notable for its blend of high-security operations, multicultural inmate population, and pioneering rehabilitation initiatives—most famously the ISUN Performance and Art Group. While access is strictly limited due to its sensitive nature, understanding Qingpu Prison’s historical, cultural, and operational dimensions offers valuable insights into Shanghai’s legal reforms and correctional innovation.

This guide provides an in-depth overview of Qingpu Prison’s history, structure, rehabilitation programs, visitor regulations, and the broader context of penal reform in China. Readers will also find practical advice for exploring related cultural sites in Shanghai.

For official details on rehabilitation programs and operational context, see Shine.cn.

Introduction
Historical Background and Significance
Physical Structure and Security Classification
Operational Structure and Staffing
Daily Routine and Inmate Management
Rehabilitation Programs
Visiting Qingpu Prison: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility
Visitor Guidelines and Restrictions
Nearby Attractions
Controversies and International Scrutiny
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
References and Further Reading

Historical Background and Significance

Qingpu Prison officially commenced operations on December 24, 1994, reflecting China’s commitment to modernizing its penal system. Encompassing roughly 20 square kilometers, it is among the region’s largest correctional facilities and is structured into nine distinct units, including dedicated sections for logistics, foreign inmates, and maximum-security cases.

As the only prison in Shanghai authorized to house foreign prisoners—over 40 nationalities represented—Qingpu has developed a unique international profile. The facility’s commitment to both security and rehabilitation is seen as emblematic of China’s evolving approach to corrections, with a focus on societal well-being and legal reform.

Physical Structure and Security Classification

Qingpu Prison is fortified with high walls, controlled access points, and an extensive surveillance system, reflecting its medium- to high-security classification (Shine.cn). The infrastructure comprises cell blocks, administrative offices, rehabilitation program areas, educational classrooms, workshops, and special facilities for the ISUN Performance and Art Group.

Inmates are housed according to security risk, nationality, and participation in rehabilitative programs. Multilingual signage and bilingual staff support the facility’s diverse international population.

Operational Structure and Staffing

The prison is managed by the Shanghai Municipal Prison Administration Bureau, with staff including correctional officers, program coordinators, educators, psychologists, and administrative personnel. Officers are trained to balance strict security protocols with rehabilitative objectives, and staff actively participate in initiatives ranging from language instruction to dramatic therapy (Shine.cn).

Daily Routine and Inmate Management

Inmates follow a highly structured daily schedule that includes labor, educational classes, recreation, and participation in rehabilitation or therapy programs. Foreign inmates are integrated into the general population but receive additional language and cultural support. Bilingual communication is encouraged, with foreign inmates learning Mandarin and Chinese inmates learning English to facilitate integration and post-release opportunities (Shine.cn).

Rehabilitation Programs

ISUN Performance and Art Group

Founded in 2011, the ISUN Performance and Art Group is internationally recognized for its innovative use of dramatic therapy. The program has involved over 150 inmates from 76 countries in more than 80 productions, including drama, dance, and music. Productions such as “The Dreamland” are based on real inmate experiences, focusing on themes of crime, repentance, and personal transformation. Participation is voluntary and selective, with an emphasis on behavioral improvement (Shine.cn).

Educational and Vocational Training

Qingpu Prison offers robust educational and vocational programs. Inmates can earn diplomas and receive vocational training aligned with policy goals of discipline and skill-building. Language instruction is a priority, with efforts to bridge communication gaps and enhance future employability (Shine.cn).

Psychological and Behavioral Interventions

Psychological counseling and behavioral therapy complement the prison’s rehabilitative focus. Dramatic therapy addresses issues of shame and authority, increasing inmate engagement and fostering a safer, more respectful environment (Shine.cn).

Visiting Qingpu Prison: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility

Visiting Hours:
Qingpu Prison is not open for general tourism. Visits are limited to family members, legal representatives, select researchers, and authorized delegations. Educational or cultural tours, when offered, require official approval and prior booking.
Tickets and Booking:
Entry is managed through official government or institutional channels. Ticketing details—when applicable—should be confirmed via the Shanghai Municipal Prison Administration Bureau or authorized operators. Prices and availability vary by visit type.
Accessibility:
The prison is located approximately 50 kilometers west of central Shanghai. Private transport or taxi is recommended, as public transportation is limited. Visitors with disabilities should confirm accessibility arrangements in advance.
Visitor Guidelines:
All visitors must pass security screening and present valid identification. Photography and video recording are generally prohibited. Communication with inmates is monitored, and visits are often conducted through partitions or video links.

Visitor Guidelines and Restrictions

Visits must be scheduled in advance and are subject to strict approval.
Only permitted individuals (family, legal representatives, approved researchers) may enter.
Electronic devices, cameras, and recording equipment are prohibited.
Visitors must adhere to all prison regulations and security protocols.

Nearby Attractions

While Qingpu Prison is not accessible for casual tourism, the Qingpu District and surrounding area offer several notable cultural and historical attractions:

Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town:
A well-preserved water town with canals, historic architecture, and local markets.
Qingpu Museum:
Features exhibits on regional history and culture.
Shanghai National Exhibition and Convention Center:
Major venue for events and exhibitions.
Qingpu Lake Park:
Scenic spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Thames Town:
European-style urban development with unique architecture and dining options.
Oriental Land Park:
Large recreational park suitable for families.

Controversies and International Scrutiny

Despite its innovative rehabilitation programs, Qingpu Prison faces ongoing international criticism over allegations of forced labor and lack of transparency. Reports have surfaced claiming that inmates, including foreign nationals, have been compelled to produce goods for export—such as the well-publicized cases involving Tesco Christmas cards and Quaker oats (Henry Jackson Society). Access for independent auditors and media is restricted, fueling concerns about human rights and due process.

Chinese authorities consistently deny these allegations, emphasizing the prison’s rehabilitative focus, while international organizations continue to call for increased oversight and reform.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can tourists visit Qingpu Prison?
A: No. Access is strictly limited to authorized individuals such as family, legal representatives, and approved researchers.

Q: How can I book a visit or tour?
A: Only through official approval from the Shanghai Municipal Prison Administration Bureau or, in rare cases, via academic or government delegations.

Q: What languages are used in the prison?
A: Chinese (Mandarin) and English are commonly used, with multilingual support for foreign inmates.

Q: What rehabilitation programs are available?
A: Programs include dramatic therapy (ISUN), educational and vocational training, and psychological counseling.

Q: Is Qingpu Prison involved in forced labor?
A: Allegations have been made and widely reported, though denied by Chinese authorities. Access for independent verification remains limited.

Q: What other historical sites can I visit in Shanghai?
A: Recommended alternatives include the Shanghai Museum, Yuyuan Garden, the Bund, and Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Qingpu Prison stands as a symbol of China’s shifting correctional philosophy, balancing high-security operations with a commitment to rehabilitation and cultural engagement. Its international inmate population and programs like the ISUN Performance and Art Group have garnered attention both for innovation and controversy—particularly regarding forced labor allegations.

Access to Qingpu Prison is highly restricted and not suited to typical tourism. However, its story is integral to understanding broader social, legal, and political developments in Shanghai and China as a whole. For those interested in exploring Shanghai’s history, nearby sites such as Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town and the Shanghai Museum offer culturally rich and accessible alternatives.

To remain informed about updates on rehabilitation initiatives, visiting policies, and related cultural sites, consult official Shanghai tourism resources and credible news sources such as Shine.cn.