Explore the museum's exhibits that showcase the history of overseas Chinese in Quanzhou. Take a deep dive into the cultural and historical significance of the region's connection with the Chinese diaspora. Don't miss the special exhibitions on migration, trade, and cultural exchange.

The Quanzhou Overseas Chinese History Museum is located at No. 732 Donghu Street in Quanzhou City. It is a museum that mainly displays the history of Quanzhou overseas Chinese immigration and their survival and development overseas, reflecting the main characteristics of the overseas Chinese community and their status and role in the development of human civilization.
The Quanzhou Overseas Chinese History Museum consists of a main building, a comprehensive building, and two ancillary buildings in the front area. Since its establishment, the museum has launched two key exhibitions: "History of Overseas Chinese" and "Quanzhou People in Southeast Asia." The "History of Overseas Chinese" exhibition focuses on the reasons, types, methods, processes, and impacts of overseas migration by Quanzhou-born overseas Chinese during different historical periods since the Tang Dynasty. The "Quanzhou People in Southeast Asia" exhibition explores the history of Quanzhou-born overseas Chinese's survival and development, as well as the social changes and current situation of overseas Chinese.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for about 2 hours
free
9:00-17:00, closed on Mondays
The Quanzhou Overseas Chinese History Museum highlights the contributions of overseas Chinese, especially those from Quanzhou, to global trade, culture, and society. It showcases the history of migration and the influence of Quanzhou's merchants across the world.
The museum is located in the heart of Quanzhou city, Fujian Province. It can be reached by bus or taxi, with the nearest bus stop being just a short walk away. There are also walking routes from major local landmarks.
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. It is best to visit in the morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
Entrance to the museum is typically free of charge, though special exhibitions may require a ticket. Tickets can be purchased at the museum entrance or online via the museum's website during special events.
No advance booking is required for general admission. However, for special events or exhibitions, it’s advisable to book at least one day in advance.
To fully explore the museum, you will need about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and whether you participate in guided tours.
The must-see highlights include the galleries on Quanzhou’s historical maritime trade, the exhibits on overseas Chinese communities, and the section dedicated to cultural exchange through the centuries. Don't miss the interactive displays that provide a deeper understanding of migration and trade.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides can be rented for an enhanced experience. English language options may be available, so it's best to check in advance.
The best photography spots are near the large interactive maps, the traditional artifacts on display, and the scenic views from the museum windows that offer glimpses of the surrounding city.
Start with the main exhibition on overseas Chinese history, then move through the maritime trade section, followed by the cultural exchange displays. Finish with the museum's temporary exhibits if time allows.
Night visits or light shows are not available. Special tours can be arranged for group visits or educational purposes, but they generally take place during the day.
The museum can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially in the morning or just after lunch.
The museum has rest areas and basic facilities like toilets. There are no food or drink services inside the museum, but there are several restaurants and cafes nearby.
The museum is fully accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available. It is also family-friendly, with interactive exhibits that children will find engaging.
While cash is accepted, mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used and accepted throughout the museum.
There are no cafes inside the museum, but you can find a variety of restaurants and cafes within walking distance in Quanzhou city center.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the restaurants around the museum, but halal food may be limited. It's recommended to check the menus of nearby eateries before visiting.
Several hotels are located near the museum, including the Quanzhou Grand Hotel and more budget-friendly options such as local guesthouses.
Nearby attractions include the Kaiyuan Temple, the Quanzhou Maritime Museum, and Qingjing Mosque. These landmarks can be easily combined in a day trip to explore Quanzhou's rich cultural history.
There are souvenir shops near the museum where you can purchase traditional Chinese arts and crafts, including tea sets, porcelain, and small cultural artifacts that reflect the region’s maritime heritage.
Taxis, buses, and bike rentals are available nearby for easy transport to other parts of Quanzhou. You can also walk to nearby attractions if you’re up for it.