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At the Quanzhou Bay Ancient Ship Exhibition Hall, you can explore the exhibits of ancient Chinese ships, particularly from the Tang and Song dynasties. The museum showcases artifacts, models, and historical documents, offering a deep dive into maritime history. A must-see is the full-sized replica of an ancient ship, where you can learn about China's role in the Maritime Silk Road.
The Quanzhou Overseas Transportation History Museum (Quanzhou Bay Ancient Ship Exhibition Hall) is a specialized museum in China, located east of Kaiyuan Temple in Quanzhou, Fujian Province. Founded on July 15, 1959, it houses over 10,000 items, including 102 first-class items. Examples include a Song Dynasty ship unearthed in Houzhu Harbor in 1974, measuring 24.2 meters long and 9.15 meters wide, divided into 13 watertight compartments. This remains one of the most significant discoveries in the history of Chinese natural science. The stone statue of Vishnu is the only Hindu relic in China, a testament to 14th-century Sino-Indian cultural exchange.
Subtropical monsoon humid climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for 1 to 2 hours
free
8:00-17:30
The Quanzhou Bay Ancient Ship Exhibition Hall highlights the maritime history of Quanzhou, which was one of the most important ports in China during the Tang and Song dynasties. The exhibition focuses on ancient ships and their role in international trade, particularly along the Maritime Silk Road.
The museum is located in Quanzhou, Fujian. It can be accessed via taxi or bus from the city center. There is no direct metro line, so a taxi ride is the most convenient option. If you're close to the bay, it’s also possible to walk to the museum.
The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. The best time to visit is during weekdays or in the early morning to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and public holidays when it can be busier.
The entrance fee is generally around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the museum, and some online platforms may offer tickets in advance for a small discount.
It’s not necessary to book tickets in advance, but doing so can save time, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends. Booking a day or two before your visit is usually sufficient.
A visit to the Quanzhou Bay Ancient Ship Exhibition Hall typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how deeply you wish to explore the exhibits and learn about the maritime history.
Key highlights include the full-sized ship replica, the collection of ancient ship models, and the exhibits on the Maritime Silk Road. Don't miss the historical documents detailing the trade routes and the shipbuilding techniques of the time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are also provided in Mandarin, with limited availability of English guides. It's advisable to check in advance if an English-speaking guide is available.
The best photography spots are around the full-sized ship model, where you can capture the grandeur of ancient Chinese naval architecture. The exhibits with the various ship models also provide excellent photo opportunities.
Start by visiting the introductory exhibit, which gives an overview of Quanzhou's maritime history. Then, head to the main hall to view the full-sized ship replica. Afterward, explore the smaller exhibits featuring ship models and artifacts related to the Maritime Silk Road.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the museum. However, special tours may be offered during festivals or holidays, so it’s worth checking with the museum for any seasonal events.
The museum can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays in the early mornings or late afternoons, particularly from Tuesday to Thursday.
The museum has basic facilities, including restrooms, water fountains, and a small gift shop. There are no large dining facilities, but small snacks and drinks are available in the gift shop.
The museum is generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available. It may be a challenge for those with mobility issues in certain areas, so it's worth checking accessibility needs beforehand.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as Alipay or WeChat Pay) are accepted. Credit cards may be accepted in some cases, but mobile payments are the most commonly used form of transaction in the area.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the museum, offering traditional Fujian cuisine, seafood, and snacks. For a wider variety of dining options, the city center of Quanzhou is just a short taxi ride away.
Vegetarian options are commonly available, especially in local restaurants. Halal food options may be limited, but there are some places in Quanzhou that cater to Muslim visitors.
There are several hotels in Quanzhou, ranging from budget to mid-range, within a 10-15 minute drive from the museum. Some notable options include local guesthouses and larger hotels in the city center.
Nearby attractions include the Kaiyuan Temple, the Quanzhou Maritime Museum, and the Qingjing Mosque. These can easily be combined in a day trip to explore more of Quanzhou’s rich cultural heritage.
The gift shop at the museum offers a variety of souvenirs, including maritime-themed items like ship models, traditional Chinese handicrafts, and books on Quanzhou’s maritime history.
Taxis and buses are available to continue your trip. From the museum, you can easily reach other parts of Quanzhou or even the train station if you're planning to head to another city in Fujian.
