M50 Art District

Shanghai's most important contemporary art district — converted factories on Suzhou Creek

Shanghai, ShanghaiYear-round
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By Qianyi·Updated March 2026·10 min read

Intro

M50 is Shanghai's leading contemporary art district, occupying a cluster of 1930s textile mills on Moganshan Road along Suzhou Creek. Over 100 galleries and artist studios occupy the converted industrial buildings, ranging from established international names to emerging Chinese artists. Unlike Beijing's 798, M50 retains a rougher, more genuinely creative edge — less commercial, more studio-focused. The Suzhou Creek waterfront setting adds to the atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit

Highlights

Getting There

Metro Line 13 to Jiangning Road. Short walk to Moganshan Road.

Tickets & Entry

Practical Tips

Most galleries free. Tuesday–Friday mornings quietest. Several excellent independent cafes on site.

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