Location: 128 Macau Road, Putuo District, Shanghai, China
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Admission: Free (Some special exhibitions may require a fee)
Overview
The Shanghai Textile Museum is a specialized museum established on the historic site of the former Shenxin Textile No. 9 Factory, a century-old textile mill that played a significant role in China’s industrial development. Opened in 2009, the museum showcases the evolution of Shanghai’s textile industry, from ancient hand-weaving techniques to modern textile technology, highlighting the city’s contributions to China’s textile heritage.
Main Exhibition Areas
1. History Hall
Traces the development of Shanghai’s textile industry, from traditional handicraft weaving (including the influence of Huang Daopo, a pioneer in cotton textile technology) to the rise of modern industrialization (featuring the Shenxin Textile Mills founded by the Rong family).
2. Technology Hall
Displays advancements in textile machinery, from ancient spinning wheels to early 20th-century looms and contemporary automated equipment.
3. Fiber Hall
Introduces different textile materials, including cotton, wool, silk, linen, and synthetic fibers, with interactive exhibits.
4. Fashion Hall
Exhibits traditional and modern textile fashion, such as cheongsams (qipao) and contemporary designs, showcasing the fusion of textiles and style.
5. Special Exhibition Zone
Hosts rotating exhibitions on textile art, intangible cultural heritage (e.g., Gu embroidery and kesi silk tapestry), and more.
Highlights
✅ Historic Factory Site – The museum is housed in the original Shenxin No. 9 Factory (built in 1921), a key industrial heritage site.
✅ Vintage Textile Machinery – Features authentic spinning and weaving machines from different eras.
✅ Hands-on Experiences – Visitors can try traditional weaving, dyeing, and other textile crafts.
✅ Rong Family Legacy – Explores the contributions of industrialists Rong Zongjing and Rong Desheng, founders of Shenxin Textile.
Visitor Information
Address: 128 Macau Rd, Putuo District (Near Changhua Road)
Transport: Metro Line 13 (Jiangning Road Station) or Bus No. 76/105
Recommended For:
History enthusiasts interested in Shanghai’s industrial past
Fashion/textile students studying fabric technology
Families with children (interactive activities available)
The Shanghai Textile Museum offers a fascinating journey through China’s textile history, blending industry, culture, and innovation in a unique heritage space. A must-visit for those exploring Shanghai’s economic and artistic legacy!