Shanghai Jiao Tong University is one of the oldest and most distinguished educational institutions in China, situated in the heart of Shanghai. This public research institution is encompassed by the official C9 League of Universities. Thirty-one different departments maintain hundreds of undergraduate through doctoral programs and more than 40,000 students.
The primary Xuhui Campus boasts an impressive main gate constructed in traditional Chinese style that starkly contrasts the otherwise predominantly American architecturally designed buildings. The touristic value of the location lies in the cultural richness contained behind its otherwise seemingly ordinary walls. A popular activity is to stroll through the vast courtyard beyond the main gate, sight see through the department buildings and observe students practising dance or Tai Chi.
From Pudong Airport it is a 45-minute drive to the campus by taxi or car. A metro network routes visitors to the Jiao Tong University stop. There is a huge concentration of public buses serving the campus and surrounding areas. Walking is the most efficient way of getting around.
The modern day Shanghai Jiao Tong University was originally the Nanyang Public School developed in the late 1890s. It went through multiple transitions and name changes until the 1950s when it was finally recognised as Jiao Tong University.