National Museum of China, Beijing

Discovering the Rich History of China: A Guide to the National Museum of China in Beijing

As the capital city of China, Beijing is a treasure trove of history, culture, and architecture. One of the must-visit attractions in this vibrant city is the National Museum of China, located on the eastern side of Tiananmen Square. This iconic museum showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage, with a collection of over 1 million artifacts and relics.

Where to Visit

National Museum of China

  • Address: 16 East Chang’an Avenue, Dongcheng District, Beijing
  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)
  • Admission Fee: Free, but some special exhibitions may require a ticket

The museum’s collection is divided into three main sections:

  1. Ancient China: Explore the earliest civilizations in China, including the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties.
  2. Imperial China: Learn about the Qin, Han, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, which shaped China’s imperial history.
  3. Modern China: Discover the country’s transformation from a feudal society to a modern nation-state.

Other Attractions Nearby

  • Tiananmen Square: The largest city square in the world, surrounded by iconic landmarks like the Great Hall of the People and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.
  • Forbidden City: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and former imperial palace, featuring over 980 buildings and more than 8,700 rooms.

Where to Eat

Traditional Chinese Cuisine

  • Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant: Savor Beijing’s signature dish, Peking roast duck, at this renowned restaurant.
  • Dadonghai Hot Pot: Warm up with a steaming hot pot and enjoy the local flavors.

International Options

  • The Courtyard: Offers international cuisine in a cozy setting.
  • ** Element Fresh**: A health food cafe serving salads, sandwiches, and smoothies.

Where to Stay

Budget-Friendly

  • Beijing Heyuan Courtyard Hotel: A traditional courtyard hotel with comfortable rooms and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • City Central International Hostel: A popular hostel with dorms and private rooms, featuring a rooftop bar and lounge area.

Mid-Range

  • Hotel Jen Beijing: A modern hotel with stylish rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.
  • Novotel Beijing Peace: Offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, located near Tiananmen Square.

Tips and Activities

Guided Tours

  • Join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the museum’s collection and Chinese history.
  • Audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish.

Photography

  • Be respectful of the exhibits and do not use flash photography.
  • Take advantage of the natural light in the museum’s atrium for stunning photos.

Shopping

  • The museum’s gift shop offers a range of souvenirs, from traditional Chinese crafts to replica artifacts.
  • Explore the surrounding streets for local markets and shopping areas.

Other Things of Interest

Accessibility

  • The museum is wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps connecting the various floors and exhibitions.
  • Wheelchairs are available for loan at the museum’s entrance.

Events and Exhibitions

  • Check the museum’s website for temporary exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events.
  • Join in on traditional Chinese festivals and celebrations, such as the Dragon Boat Festival or Mid-Autumn Festival.

Conclusion

The National Museum of China is a must-visit attraction in Beijing, offering a comprehensive look at the country’s rich history and culture. With its convenient location, variety of dining options, and range of accommodations, this museum is an ideal destination for tourists from around the world.