Saint Vincent pavilion of the Sainte Marie Hospital facade with greenery and blue sky

Ruijin Hospital

Ruijin Hospital Shanghai Visiting Guide: Tickets, Hours, and Tips

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: Overview and Visitor Information

Ruijin Hospital, at 197 Ruijin Er Road in Shanghai’s Huangpu District, stands as one of China’s most prestigious and historically significant medical institutions. Established in 1907 by the French Catholic Church’s Kiangnan Mission as Hôpital Sainte-Marie (Guangci Hospital), Ruijin has evolved over more than a century into a top-tier “3A” general hospital affiliated with the Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine. The hospital is renowned for medical breakthroughs—including pioneering burns treatment, innovative leukemia therapies, and Asia’s first successful abdominal multi-organ transplantation—but also for its rich cultural legacy and distinctive architecture (Ruijin Hospital Visiting Hours, History & Visitor Information in Shanghai).

Easily reached via Shanghai Metro Lines 1 and 10 or several city bus routes, Ruijin Hospital accommodates patients, families, and visitors with modern amenities, accessible facilities, cafes, and pharmacies. Its International Medical Center delivers specialized services for foreign patients, including multilingual support, visa assistance, and digital appointment scheduling, making it one of Shanghai’s foremost destinations for international healthcare (Ruijin Hospital: Visiting Information, History, and Medical Tourism Guide, Shanghai).

While Ruijin Hospital is primarily a working medical center, it also serves as a hub for academic excellence and global collaboration, regularly hosting international symposiums and embracing digital transformation initiatives such as AI-powered pathology. Although public guided tours are not routinely offered, special events and academic open days occasionally provide unique access to explore the hospital’s storied legacy. Its proximity to notable Shanghai attractions—such as Xujiahui Shopping District, the Shanghai Botanical Garden, and the former French Concession—further enhances its appeal for visitors.

This guide provides comprehensive information for visiting Ruijin Hospital, including practical tips, historical context, medical achievements, and cultural insights. For the latest updates, always consult the official hospital website and Shanghai Government hospital directory.

Sainte Marie Hospital isolation pavilion exterior view

Sainte Marie Hospital maternity pavilion building exterior with clear blue sky

Welcome to Ruijin Hospital: A Historic Medical Landmark
Location and Transportation
Visiting Hours and Entry Information
Historical Overview and Medical Innovations
Visitor Tips and Nearby Attractions
Academic Programs and Global Initiatives
Digital Transformation and Smart Hospital Features
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visiting Experience and Cultural Insights
Hospital Environment
International Patient Services
Practical Tips
Cultural Etiquette
Amenities and Technology
Medical Achievements and Community Impact
Emergency and Safety
Summary Table: Key Visitor Information

Welcome to Ruijin Hospital: A Historic Medical Landmark in Shanghai

Ruijin Hospital is not just a premier medical institution but also a site of historic importance and innovation. Whether you’re a patient, a family member, or a visitor interested in Shanghai’s healthcare heritage, this guide aims to enrich your experience and understanding of Ruijin Hospital’s role in the city.

Location and Transportation

Address: 197 Ruijin Er Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai

Access:

Metro: Lines 1 or 10 to Xujiahui Station. From there, it’s a 10-minute taxi ride or a 20-minute walk.
Bus: Routes 37, 48, 927, and others stop nearby.
Taxi/Rideshare: Readily available across Shanghai.

Visiting Hours and Entry Information

General Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily (hours may vary by department; check with the specific ward, especially for ICU or specialized units).
Admission: Entry is free for patient visits. Appointments are required for consultations or treatments.
Accessibility: Facilities include ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms for visitors with disabilities.
Guided Tours: Not routinely available due to hospital operations; check the hospital website for academic open days or special events.

Brief Historical Overview and Medical Achievements

Founded as Hôpital Sainte-Marie (Guangci Hospital) in 1907, Ruijin Hospital has been pivotal in Shanghai’s medical evolution. The name “Guangci” (广慈) reflects its origins of compassion and care. Now a leading public institution affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Ruijin has achieved:

Development of the “Ruijin formula” for burns treatment
Revolutionary therapies for acute promyelocytic leukemia
Leading intensive care for acute pancreatitis
Asia’s first successful abdominal multi-organ transplantation

Ruijin’s legacy is further strengthened by its leadership in emergency medicine and air rescue services.

Visitor Tips and Nearby Attractions

Facilities: Onsite cafes, pharmacies, and rest areas.
Photography: Restricted in clinical areas; permitted for exterior architecture.
Nearby Attractions: Xujiahui Shopping District, Shanghai Botanical Garden, and the former French Concession are all within easy reach.

Academic Programs and Global Initiatives

Ruijin Hospital offers 23 doctoral and 16 graduate specialties and frequently hosts international medical symposiums, strengthening global collaboration.

Digital Transformation and Smart Hospital Features

As a leader in healthcare digitization, Ruijin Hospital is home to the Shanghai Digital Medicine Innovation Center, featuring AI-driven pathology in partnership with technology companies like Huawei.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can tourists visit Ruijin Hospital as a sightseeing spot?
Ruijin Hospital is primarily a working medical facility. Visitors can access non-clinical areas but must respect patient privacy and hospital rules.

Are guided tours available?
Regular public tours are not available. Academic open days or special events may provide limited access.

Is there parking?
Limited parking is available; using public transport is advisable.

How do I contact Ruijin Hospital for more information?
Visit the Ruijin Hospital Official Site for up-to-date visitor information and contacts.

Visual Gallery

Historic main entrance of Ruijin Hospital
The hospital’s heliport for emergency air rescues
Shanghai Digital Medicine Innovation Center at Ruijin Hospital

Alt tags: “Ruijin Hospital main entrance in Shanghai”, “Ruijin Hospital air rescue heliport”, “Shanghai Digital Medicine Innovation Center at Ruijin Hospital”

Plan Your Visit

Explore Ruijin Hospital’s unique blend of medical innovation and historical heritage. Whether you are a patient, visitor, or medical professional, Ruijin provides a window into Shanghai’s healthcare excellence. For further tips and updates, consider downloading the Audiala app and following us on social media.

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Navigating Ruijin Hospital: Visitor Experience and Cultural Insights

Hospital Environment and Atmosphere

Ruijin Hospital’s flagship Huangpu campus is a dynamic complex serving thousands daily. The environment can feel busy, with efficient digital queueing systems and bilingual signage easing navigation (Shanghai Government hospital directory, ExpatDen).

International Patient Services

As a designated international medical tourism center, Ruijin offers specialized support for foreign patients (Shanghai Observer). The International Medical Department features:

English-language assistance at registration and clinics
Shorter queues and more privacy
Help with insurance and payments
Medical translation services

Ruijin’s role in Shanghai’s “Future Hospital” initiative further enhances its digital and patient-centered capabilities (China Health Trip).

Practical Tips for Visitors

Patient Card: Obtain at registration; required for appointments and payments (ExpatDen).
Appointments: Book online, via WeChat, or in person—international patients should use the International Medical Department.
ID: Bring your passport and insurance documents.
Signage and Maps: Bilingual signs are present; digital kiosks and staff can assist.
Payments: Upfront payment is standard; international cards accepted in the International Clinic.
Insurance: International insurance accepted; keep all receipts for reimbursement.
Hours: Outpatient: Mon–Sat, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm; Emergency: 24/7 (Shanghai Government hospital directory).
Security: Bag checks and ID required at entrances.

Cultural Etiquette and Expectations

Family members often accompany and assist patients.
Staff may communicate directly and efficiently due to high volume—this is not impolite.
Address staff formally; follow instructions carefully.
Dress conservatively; keep a low voice, especially in clinical areas.
Do not take photos inside without permission.

Amenities and Technology

Food: Several cafeterias onsite; additional dining options nearby (SmartShanghai).
Accessibility: Wheelchair access, elevators, accessible restrooms.
Wi-Fi and Digital Services: Free Wi-Fi in the International Clinic; appointments, payments, and test results via WeChat or kiosks (China Health Trip).

Notable Medical Achievements and Community Impact

Ruijin Hospital is home to renowned members of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Engineering, Nobel Prize nominees, and leaders in hematology and oncology (SHSMU). The hospital’s integration of Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine and participation in public health initiatives underscore its social responsibility (China Health Trip).

Emergency and Safety

Emergency Department: Open 24/7, with English-speaking staff in the International section (ExpatDen).
Cleanliness: High hygiene standards; regular disinfection.
COVID-19: Masks required; temperature and health code checks at entry.

Summary Table: Key Visitor Information

Aspect	Details
Address	197 Ruijin Er Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
Main Languages	Chinese, English (International Department)
Hours	Outpatient: Mon-Sat, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm; Emergency: 24/7
Payment	Cash, Chinese bank cards, some international cards (International Clinic)
Insurance	International insurance accepted in International Clinic; retain receipts for reimbursement
Accessibility	Wheelchair accessible, elevators, accessible restrooms
Food	On-site cafeterias, nearby restaurants
Wi-Fi	Available in International Department and some public areas
Emergency	24/7 service, English-speaking staff in International Section

For detailed and current information, visit the official hospital website or consult the Shanghai Government hospital directory.

Summary and Final Tips

Ruijin Hospital exemplifies the intersection of historical heritage, clinical excellence, and healthcare innovation in Shanghai. With its century-old legacy, advanced services, and robust international support, it is an invaluable resource for both local residents and international visitors. To ensure a smooth visit, use public transportation, take advantage of the hospital’s digital platforms, and stay updated via official channels. Respect for hospital protocol and cultural norms will contribute to a positive experience.