China Ancient Brick and Tile Museum

Introducing China Ancient Brick and Tile Museum

Kunshan, Suzhou, is known as the hometown of ancient Chinese bricks and tiles, and Jinxi, in turn, is known as the hometown of ancient bricks and tiles in Kunshan. Brickmaking and kiln firing traditions date back to the Western Jin Dynasty. In the early 1980s, the Kunshan Dadong Brick and Tile Factory established an ancient brick and tile exhibition hall, housing over 800 exhibits. Upon its opening, the museum attracted the attention of experts and scholars both domestically and internationally. In 1996, it relocated and expanded, enriching its exhibits and renaming it the China Ancient Brick and Tile Museum, a museum dedicated entirely to bricks and tiles.

Walking into the new museum in Ding's house today, you will see more than 1,000 brick and tile treasures of artistic charm and historical value on display, which is like flipping through a vast scroll of China's 5,000 years of history.

From the "red-baked earth" on the walls of the "semi-hole" houses in the Neolithic period, the brick ornaments of the "Wangyi Palace" of Qin Shihuang's palace, the city bricks of the Han Dynasty, the tiles of the Six Dynasties, the bricks with dates from the Western Jin Dynasty, the mortise and tenon bricks of the Song Dynasty, to the blue bricks of the Ming and Qing Dynasties and the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom, and even the red bricks with the five-star logo, there is everything.

Thin eaves bricks, used as underlay for tiles, palm-sized window tiles, and gold bricks, fired for a hundred days and soaked in tung oil, embody the complete range of Chinese bricks and tiles. Numerous bricks and tiles are engraved with a variety of decorative motifs, such as twin dragons competing for a pearl, a phoenix embracing a peony, and a carp leaping over a dragon's gate. Some depict stories of various characters, while others are inscribed with auspicious characters like "Fu Lu Shou." Each exhibit gleams with wisdom and artistry.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour

Tickets

Included in the Jinxi Ancient Town internal scenic spot combined ticket: 65 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

9:00~17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for China Ancient Brick and Tile Museum

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The China Ancient Brick and Tile Museum showcases the evolution of brick and tile manufacturing techniques throughout Chinese history. It highlights the importance of these materials in the construction of ancient temples, palaces, and residential buildings.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The museum is located in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. You can reach it by taking a local bus or taxi from the city center. The nearest metro station is also within walking distance.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around 50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the museum's ticket counter or online through the official website.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. You can book tickets up to one week in advance online.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need around 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum and enjoy the exhibits.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Do not miss the ancient brick display gallery, which showcases rare and beautifully designed bricks from various dynasties. The restoration area offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional brick-making techniques.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English. Audio guides can be rented for a small fee at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The main exhibition halls and the restored ancient brick-making area offer great opportunities for photography. Be sure to capture the intricate designs of the ancient tiles on display.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance hall to get an overview of the museum. Then, proceed to the historical brick display, followed by the restoration workshops and interactive areas.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at the museum. Special tours are available by appointment.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The museum can be crowded during weekends and holidays. Visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the crowds.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The museum has clean toilets, a small café offering refreshments, and a souvenir shop. There are also rest areas available for visitors to relax.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators for easy access. It is also family-friendly, with interactive exhibits suitable for children.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are accepted. Credit cards are also widely accepted in the souvenir shop and café.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Inside the museum, there is a small café offering snacks and drinks. Nearby, you can find local restaurants serving Jiangsu cuisine, including dumplings and noodles.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Some nearby restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, but halal food might be limited in this area. It’s recommended to check the menu in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in the area, including budget and mid-range options like the Jinjiang Inn and Suzhou Garden Hotel. High-end hotels like the Suzhou Marriott are also nearby.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Suzhou Museum, Tiger Hill, and the Lingering Garden. These can be easily visited in one day by taking a short taxi ride between locations.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The museum has a souvenir shop that sells replicas of ancient bricks and tiles, as well as local crafts and artwork.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the museum, you can take a taxi, bus, or metro to reach other nearby attractions. For longer trips, the Suzhou Railway Station is accessible by bus or taxi.