Chengdu Natural History Museum
Explore Sichuan's rich past and natural wonders at this expansive museum, featuring dinosaurs, ancient artifacts, and cultural heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Chengdu Natural History Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Sichuan's rich past and natural wonders at this expansive museum, featuring dinosaurs, ancient artifacts, and cultural heritage.
"A must-visit for history buffs and dinosaur lovers, offering free entry to a vast collection of Sichuan's treasures."
✅ Free Entry, But Register!
Admission is free, but you must register online (WeChat recommended) and show your passport. :admission_tickets:
🗣️ Audio Guide Available
Rent an audio guide for 40 RMB to enhance your understanding, though it's primarily in Chinese. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Civilizations Wing
Multiple Floors
Journey through Sichuan's past, from the Neolithic Age to the Republic of China, with over 200,000 artifacts.
Dinosaur Exhibits
Dedicated Halls
A must-see for dinosaur lovers, showcasing impressive fossils and reconstructions of prehistoric giants.
Sichuan Shadow Puppets
Cultural Exhibits
Discover the intricate art of traditional Sichuan shadow puppetry, a unique cultural heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead & Bring Your Passport
Embrace the History (and Dinosaurs!)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✅ Free Entry, But Register!
Admission is free, but you must register online (WeChat recommended) and show your passport. :admission_tickets:
🗣️ Audio Guide Available
Rent an audio guide for 40 RMB to enhance your understanding, though it's primarily in Chinese. :iphone:
Visiting Chengdu for a few days (3 or so). Recommendations on things to do? Any hidden gems or hole in the wall only locals know? Or just go with TripAdvisor recommendations?
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple floors. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Relax at the Tea House
Take a break at the small tea house on the 6th floor to rest your feet. :tea:
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ Free Entry, But Register!
Admission is free, but you must register online (WeChat recommended) and show your passport. :admission_tickets:
🗣️ Audio Guide Available
Rent an audio guide for 40 RMB to enhance your understanding, though it's primarily in Chinese. :iphone:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple floors. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Relax at the Tea House
Take a break at the small tea house on the 6th floor to rest your feet. :tea:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
With 7 floors of exhibits, dedicate at least 3-4 hours to explore thoroughly. :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Chengdu Natural History Museum for its free admission and extensive collection, particularly the impressive dinosaur exhibits and historical artifacts. While the museum is a treasure trove for history buffs, some note that the audio guide is primarily in Chinese, and weekends can be quite crowded.
"Free entrance - you need to show your passport. 3 floors dedicated to Chinese history with some amazing objects. Worth it if you are into history. Audio guide for rent at 40 RMD. A small tea house on the 6th floor to relax. Went on the weekend and it was crowded."
Nata Ro
"You can register with WeChat and get entry tickets free (use passport number).
Many levels of artefacts arranged by theme, story telling by time periods. Also has special exhibition"
Cheok Olivia
"For history buffs, this museum is a gateway to Sichuan’s rich past, showcasing over 200,000 artifacts that trace the region’s journey from ancient civilizations to the modern era. Admission is free, but the museum guide is only available in Chinese. If you don’t speak the language, consider hiring a private guide or bringing a friend who does to make the most of your visit."
leotrails
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is accessible via public transport. Several bus routes stop nearby, and it's a reasonable taxi or ride-sharing destination. Check local transit apps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.
Information on dedicated parking for visitors can be limited. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
From downtown Chengdu, you can take a subway line and then transfer to a bus, or opt for a direct taxi/ride-share. The journey time will vary depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Chengdu Natural History Museum is free! However, you must register in advance, typically through WeChat, and present your passport upon arrival.
Registration is usually done via the museum's official WeChat account or a designated booking platform. You'll likely need your passport number to complete the registration.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the museum is open during daytime hours, Tuesday through Sunday. It's always best to check the official website or WeChat for the most current hours.
Yes, you can visit on weekends, but be prepared for larger crowds. Booking your entry slot in advance is highly recommended to ensure you get in.
While general admission is free, some temporary or special exhibitions might have a separate fee. Check the museum's announcements for details on current special exhibits.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum spans an impressive 7 floors, each dedicated to different aspects of natural history and Sichuan's heritage.
Yes, an audio guide is available for rent for approximately 40 RMB. However, it is primarily in Chinese, so it may be most beneficial if you have a Chinese speaker with you.
Don't miss the extensive dinosaur exhibits, the ancient civilizations wing showcasing Sichuan's history, and the unique collection of traditional shadow puppets.
Absolutely! The dinosaur exhibits are particularly engaging for children, making it a great family outing.
There is a small tea house located on the 6th floor where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most areas for personal use, but flash photography and tripods may be restricted in certain exhibits to protect the artifacts. Always look for signage.
The dinosaur skeletons and the intricately displayed historical artifacts offer fantastic photo opportunities. The architecture of the museum itself is also quite photogenic.
Weekday mornings or late afternoons tend to be less crowded, allowing for clearer shots without too many people in the background.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond dinosaurs, the museum's layout across multiple floors provides plenty of space to explore. While the audio guide is primarily in Chinese, the visual displays are engaging for all ages. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, though there is a tea house available for a break.
🤓 History Buffs & Enthusiasts
The museum's chronological arrangement makes it easy to follow the evolution of the region. While the audio guide is in Chinese, the sheer volume and quality of the exhibits speak for themselves. Enthusiasts might consider hiring a private guide or researching specific periods beforehand to get the most out of their visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Sichuan's Past
Key exhibits include extensive displays on ancient civilizations, showcasing pottery, tools, and art from the Neolithic Age through to the Republic of China period. A particular highlight for many is the dedicated section on paleontology, featuring impressive dinosaur fossils and reconstructions that bring the prehistoric world to life.
Beyond history and paleontology, the museum also celebrates Sichuan's vibrant cultural traditions. The intricate art of Sichuan shadow puppetry is well-represented, offering a glimpse into this unique folk art form. For those seeking a deeper understanding, an audio guide is available, though it's primarily in Chinese, making it a valuable resource for Chinese-speaking visitors or those with a companion who can translate.
Navigating the Museum: Tips from Visitors
With seven floors to explore, comfortable footwear is a must, as you'll be doing a significant amount of walking.
Don't forget to take advantage of the amenities. There's a small tea house on the 6th floor where you can rest and recharge.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit