The M50 Art Precinct is a must see during your stay in Shanghai.
Parks, cultural centres, and tourist sites throughout Shanghai have experienced closures due to continuing Covid-19 restrictions. Even Shanghai Disney Resort, ‘The happiest place on earth,’ closed their gates for a time.
The M50 Art Precinct has something for everyone
For something a little different, and still accessible even if restrictions are in place, visit Moganshan Lu. Take in the amazing street art, grab a coffee, wander through the art galleries or just relax on the lawn by Suzhou Creek.
What will I find at the M50 Art Precinct?
Located on Moganshan Lu (Road) in Jing’an, the M50 Art Precinct is an impressive contemporary art complex. The former industrial site now houses over 100 galleries, exhibition halls, artist studios and workshops, in addition to coffee shops, restaurants, tearooms and bars.
Even if the Art Centre is closed, you can still enjoy a walk on the newly rejuvenated Suzhou Creek walking path. Furthermore, walking along Moganshan Lu is never dull, with all the fantastic street art and graffiti.
Since my first visit to Moganshan Lu in 2017, the area has had a face-lift. The old dusty road resurfaced, and the hodge-podge footpath rectified. With a lot of construction continuing in the surrounding area, and graffiti on every available surface, the street has kept its former gritty charm.
You can see all the photos from our walk along Moganshan Lu, and more street art from M50 and the surrounding area in the gallery.
With Covid restrictions being relaxed, it won’t be long before the city of Shanghai is back to its vibrant self. When it is, I highly recommend a visit to M50. Until then, a walk along Moganshan Lu is still a visual feast with lots of Instagram worthy snaps to be found.
How to get to the M50 Art Precinct
To visit M50: Take Line 13 to Jiangning Lu Metro Stop (corner of Changhua Lu/Changshou Lu). Walk North along Changhua Lu (5-7 minutes) and turn right onto Moganshan Lu. Follow the graffiti down the street and around to the right. You will find the entrance to the galleries at the end of the road on your left.
What else is there to do nearby?
After visiting the M50 Art Precinct, you can walk to Changshou Park, and the Jade Buddha Temple on Anyuan Lu. Both the park and the temple are approximately a 10-minute walk from Moganshan Lu.
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