There is an exhibition hall at Yangpu Riverside that perfectly blends exotic classical architecture with advanced water technology. Recently, the Shanghai Waterworks Science & Technology Museum, located at Yangpu Riverside, has returned with a fresh look and is now open for trial operation!

Join us for a tour of this fascinating venue.

The Shanghai Waterworks Science & Technology Museum is located within the century-old water works at Yangpu Riverside - Yangshupu Water Works, a century-old facility that has spanned three centuries. This iconic landmark is not only a symbol of Yangpu Riverside but also a narrator of Shanghai's urban history.

What is new after the renovation?

Established in 2003, the Shanghai Waterworks Science & Technology Museum underwent significant upgrades and is set to be completed by the end of this year. Situated at 830 Yangshupu Road and covering an area of over 1,300 square meters, the museum serves as one of Shanghai's key science education bases. It is an important showcase for the development of Shanghai's water supply industry and a crucial platform for water science communication.

The revamped museum is structured across one underground and two above-ground levels, divided into three thematic sections: "Origin of Water", "Realm of Water", and "Dream of Water". These sections aim to create a distinctive educational "grand classroom" that comprehensively reflects the historical development, technological advancements, and innovative applications of Shanghai's urban water supply sector.

Highlights: Historical Documents and New Technology for Knowledge of the Origin of Water

The first section, "Origin of Water", highlights the evolution of Shanghai's tap water industry from the late 19th century to the present day.

In 1883, with the commencement of operations at China's first water works, Shanghai began to use tap water as we know it today.

This section brings to life old Shanghai's water usage scenarios through a collection of valuable historical documents, photographs, physical artifacts, and lifelike wax figures, recounting the establishment and operational history of China's first water works and vividly narrating the origin of modern tap water in Shanghai.

"Realm of Water" zeroes in on the advancements in tap water technology, service optimization, and quality enhancement amid industrial evolution. It is divided into four main areas: enhancing water quality, seeking out high-quality water sources, improving network systems, and serving the public.

Interactive platforms such as science quizzes, water supply hotline interactions, and clear water traceability offer citizens a direct experience of the technological progress and innovative applications in Shanghai's urban water supply.

The final section, "Dream of Water", paints a new picture of harmonious human-water coexistence through technology and smart solutions, looking forward to a future where Shanghai's water supply industry will embrace intelligence, green practices, and personalization.

The Crown Jewel of the Museum - A Rare 19th-Century Artifact

In the basement of the museum, visitors will find a vintage model of Yangshupu Water Works, created in 1883. That same year, Shanghai's first water works, Yangshupu Water Works, was established in Yangpu, marking a significant milestone in the city's water supply history.

The model reveals that the water treatment processes at the time were backward, featuring only slow sand filters with a daily output of 3,698 cubic meters, yet this was a giant leap forward for the water supply industry.

A Hub of Interactive Experiences - Combining Exhibition, Education, Research, and Culture

The revamped museum now serves as a multifaceted hub, integrating exhibition, science education, research innovation, and cultural exchange. It seamlessly blends the historical wisdom of Shanghai's water supply evolution with a futuristic technological outlook, offering visitors a more diverse and immersive experience.

The museum now features numerous new interactive zones, such as the Virtual Reality Water Source Experience, Water Purification Plant, Water Supply Interactive Area, and Pipe Maze, inviting citizens to explore and engage with these attractions.

These interactive zones combine scientific, knowledgeable, and entertaining content and forms, making the dissemination of scientific knowledge both enjoyable and accessible. They allow visitors to experience the water treatment process in person, delve into the mysteries of water, and appreciate the charm of technology.

The Shanghai Waterworks Science & Technology Museum is currently in trial operation, adopting a fully reserved visit system. The museum will evaluate the trial run and potentially broaden its reservation channels to facilitate a more seamless visiting experience for the public.

Visit Guide

Shanghai Waterworks Science & Technology Museum

Address: 830 Yangshupu Road, Yangpu District, Shanghai

Operating Hours: The museum is open on Tuesdays (closed on national statutory holidays) from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM.

How to Reserve: Both individuals and groups are welcome to make free reservations in advance (not including the day of the visit) by dialing the reservation hotline at 021-65473329. Upon successful reservation, visitors should bring their original ID card or another valid form of identification to gain entry to the museum during their scheduled time slots.