Margaret Williamson Hospital building in 1915

Red House Hospital

Red House Hospital Shanghai: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Red House Hospital, officially known as the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University (复旦大学附属妇产科医院), is one of Shanghai’s most iconic historical and medical landmarks. Established in 1884 as the Margaret Williamson Memorial Hospital for Women and Children by Dr. Elizabeth Reifsnyder, it was the first hospital in Shanghai dedicated exclusively to women and children. With its signature red-brick façade and red-tiled roof, the institution has come to symbolize not only the introduction of Western medicine to China but also the advancement of women’s healthcare and social progress in Shanghai.

Today, Red House Hospital continues its legacy as a leading center for medical care, education, and research, while also serving as a cultural heritage site. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information for visitors, from historical context and architectural highlights to practical travel tips, accessibility, ticketing, and nearby attractions. Whether you are a history buff, a medical professional, or a traveler seeking to explore Shanghai’s unique blend of East and West, this guide will help you experience the enduring significance of Red House Hospital.

For further reading and planning, consult resources such as ExpatDen, SmartShanghai, and the Shanghai Government.

Margaret Williamson Hospital operating pavilion in Shanghai China established by Woman's Union Missionary Society

Nurses at Margaret Williamson Hospital in Shanghai, China

Historical Overview
Visitor Information
Nearby Attractions & Unique Features
Visuals and Media
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Practical Travel Tips
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Historical Overview

Foundation and Early Years (1884–1900)

Founded in 1884 as the Margaret Williamson Memorial Hospital for Women and Children, Red House Hospital was established with a $5,000 donation and led by Dr. Elizabeth Reifsnyder, an American medical missionary. It was the first hospital in Shanghai dedicated to women and children, situated near the old city’s West Gate (now 419 Fangxie Road, Huangpu District). The hospital quickly earned the trust of local residents after Dr. Reifsnyder performed a successful ovarian cyst removal, and by its 25th anniversary, it had treated over 800,000 patients.

Architectural and Operational Innovations

The hospital’s red-brick exterior and red-tiled roof, completed in 1883, inspired the nickname “Red House Hospital.” Early on, it set high standards for patient care with amenities such as steam heating, electric lighting, running water, and landscaped gardens. Residences for staff fostered a communal medical environment.

Expansion, Renaming, and Wartime Service (1900–1952)

Under Dr. Al Ralph in the early 20th century, the hospital expanded and became a hub for women’s and children’s healthcare and medical training. During the 1937 Battle of Shanghai, it provided critical emergency care. In 1942, the hospital transitioned to Chinese administration and, by 1952, was affiliated with Shanghai Medical College, later becoming part of Fudan University.

Modern Development (2000s–Present)

Red House Hospital now operates multiple branches, notably expanding in 2009 with a Yangpu District location and, more recently, a modern branch in Qingpu District. It treats over 1.3 million outpatients and 46,000 inpatients annually, offering 820 beds and 14 departments, while echoing its historic architecture with contemporary red terracotta façades.

For more on its historical background, see ExpatDen and Journals.lww.com.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Patient and general visitor hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily (may vary by department)
Historical exhibition areas: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; closed Mondays and public holidays
Guided tours: Available by appointment; check the official website or contact the visitor center for schedules

Tickets and Admission

General entry to public areas: Free of charge
Guided tours & special exhibitions: May require advance booking and a nominal fee

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible: Ramps and elevators throughout hospital and exhibition areas
Assistance: Notify the visitor center in advance for mobility or language support

How to Get There

Main campus: 128 Shenyang Road, Yangpu District, Shanghai
Metro: Line 10 (Shenyang Road Station) or close to People’s Square (Lines 1, 2, 8) for the historic site in Huangpu District
Bus: Multiple routes serve the area
Taxi & ride-sharing: Widely available; public transit recommended due to traffic

For travel tips, see The Travel Blogs and Trip.com.

Nearby Attractions & Unique Features

French Concession: Tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and vibrant cafés
The Bund: Iconic waterfront with views of the city skyline
People’s Square: Cultural hub with museums and theaters
Yu Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, Longhua Temple: Notable historical sites nearby

Red House Hospital’s distinctive façade makes it an excellent subject for photography. Occasional exhibitions and tours highlight its legacy, so check local tourism boards or the hospital’s official channels for updates.

Visuals and Media

Images: Capture the red-brick façade, historic interiors, and modern facilities (use alt tags like “Red House Hospital Shanghai exterior,” “Historic Red House Hospital entrance”)
Interactive maps: Show hospital branches and nearby attractions
Virtual tours: Enhance engagement if available

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Red House Hospital’s visiting hours?
A: General visiting hours are 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; exhibition areas are open Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Q: Do I need tickets to visit?
A: Public areas are free; guided tours may have a small fee and require booking.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment. Check the official website for availability.

Q: Is Red House Hospital wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps and elevators throughout.

Q: How do I get there by public transit?
A: Use Metro Line 10 (Shenyang Road Station) or Lines 1, 2, 8 (People’s Square), plus bus or taxi.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Only in designated areas. Always seek permission, especially inside hospital facilities.

Q: What language is spoken?
A: Services are primarily in Chinese; some English available in international clinics. Bring a translation app if needed.

Practical Travel Tips

Plan ahead: Confirm visiting hours, tour availability, and current policies before arrival.
Hygiene: Carry hand sanitizer and tissues (The Helpful Panda).
Water: Drink only bottled water (Trip.com).
Payment: Use RMB cash or Chinese mobile payment apps; credit cards may not be widely accepted (The Travel Blogs).
Dress: Modest attire is recommended.
Best seasons: Visit in spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November) for comfortable weather (China Highlights).
Cultural etiquette: Respect hospital policies, patient privacy, and local customs.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Red House Hospital is both a living monument to Shanghai’s medical heritage and a vibrant center for women’s healthcare innovation. Its storied past, architectural beauty, and ongoing role in community health make it a must-visit site for those interested in Shanghai’s evolution and cultural fusion. Whether you are exploring its historic corridors, learning from its exhibitions, or simply admiring its façade, your visit will offer a unique window into the city’s spirit of progress.

For the latest updates, downloadable guides, and to plan your visit, download the Audiala app. Stay connected through our social media channels and discover more about Shanghai’s fascinating historical sites.