Early winter is the perfect time to explore museums away from the crowds. Seven lesser-known hidden gems museums in Beijing cover fields like architecture, geology, and arts and crafts. Boasting unique collections and serene visiting experiences, they have become new top picks for residents’ cultural leisure activities.
Beijing Ancient Architecture Museum: China’s first museum dedicated to ancient architecture, featuring the stunning starry caisson ceiling as its centerpiece.
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Closed on Mondays.
Capital Museum: Functions as a comprehensive hub for collection, exhibition, research, archaeology, public education, and cultural exchange. It also host limited-time exhibitions irregularly.
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). Closed on Mondays.
China Customs Museum: It is home to over 32,000 cultural relics, offering an immersive experience on the Customs Vessel 902 and striking exhibits in the anti-smuggling section.
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). Closed on Mondays.
Central Gifts and Artifacts Center: It showcases representative gifts donated to China, such as porcelain, glassware, metal crafts, musical instruments, and more, boasting exquisite designs.
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). Closed on Mondays.
Geological Museum of China: A century-old museum housing rich collections of jade, gemstones, paleontological fossils, and minerals.
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). Closed on Mondays.
Beijing Dabaotai Han Dynasty Tombs Museum: China’s first museum dedicated to Han Dynasty ruins, perfectly preserving a special imperial burial system of the Han Dynasty
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Closed on Mondays.
China National Arts and Crafts Museum: Collects top-tier arts and crafts such as jade carvings and cloisonné, mainly featuring works from the founding of New China. Few visitors ensure an immersive experience.
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). Closed on Mondays.
These venues combine cultural value with great viewing experiences, adding a unique cultural charm to Beijing in early winter.