Nanjing Aviation and Space Museum

Introducing Nanjing Aviation and Space Museum

Nanjing Aerospace Museum, located in Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, was officially established and opened to the public in 1992. The museum displays three types of collections: aircraft, other spacecraft, and aircraft parts.

The main exhibition hall features complete aircraft. In the southwest corner of the hall, a 20- meter-long supersonic fighter jet — the J-8, a Chinese-designed and manufactured aircraft—stands at an angle. This aircraft, one of the three earliest prototypes developed in China, holds great historical value. It was donated by the Aviation Flight Test Research Institute in 1992 .

The exhibition hall also houses a miniature model of the " Great Wall " rocket used to launch satellites and a large number of domestic and foreign aircraft models, including the most advanced military and civilian aircraft in the world today.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour

Attraction opening hours

Closed to the public on weekdays

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Most Popular FAQs for Nanjing Aviation and Space Museum

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

The Nanjing Aviation and Space Museum is dedicated to showcasing the achievements of China in aviation and space technology. It houses a large collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and related exhibits, highlighting the nation's technological advancements and its role in the global aerospace industry.

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

The museum is located in the Nanjing area, easily accessible by taxi or public transport. The nearest metro station is Line 10, from which a short taxi ride or bus ride will take you directly to the museum. Buses and taxis are the most convenient modes of transport.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. It is recommended to visit in the early morning on weekdays to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends when the museum can become quite busy with families and school groups.

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

The entrance fee for the museum is typically free, but there may be fees for special exhibitions or events. Tickets can be purchased at the museum entrance or online through the museum’s official website for specific events.

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

Booking in advance is recommended for special exhibitions or events. You can book tickets online a few days before your visit, especially for high-demand events.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Typically, visitors spend around 2-3 hours exploring the museum, depending on their interest in the exhibits. If you plan to attend special events or participate in interactive exhibits, you may want to allocate more time.

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

• The collection of historic and modern aircraft on display, including military jets and commercial airliners.
• The space exploration exhibits, showcasing China’s space missions, satellites, and space modules.
• The interactive flight simulators and space exploration stations where visitors can experience piloting aircraft and exploring outer space.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. For English-speaking visitors, it’s best to inquire about English-language guides in advance, as they are not always available. Audio guides are typically available in Mandarin, and some displays may have English translations.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the outdoor aviation park, where large aircraft are displayed. Additionally, there are several indoor displays of spacecraft and aircraft that provide excellent photo opportunities. Be mindful of lighting conditions when photographing aircraft indoors.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by exploring the main halls dedicated to aviation history, then move to the space exploration exhibits.
• Afterward, visit the interactive sections, including the flight simulators.
• Finish your visit with a tour of the outdoor aviation park to see full-sized aircraft up close.

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

The museum does not offer night visits, but it occasionally hosts special evening events or lectures related to aviation and space exploration. Check the museum’s schedule for such events.

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

The museum is least crowded on weekdays, particularly in the mornings. Weekends and holidays tend to see larger crowds, especially with school groups and families.

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

The museum has basic amenities such as clean restrooms, a small café offering light refreshments, and water fountains. There is also a souvenir shop where you can purchase aviation-themed merchandise and memorabilia.

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

The museum is wheelchair accessible, and there are rest areas for visitors to take breaks. The exhibits are designed to be engaging for both children and adults, making it suitable for family visits.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted at the museum, including for tickets, souvenirs, and refreshments. Credit cards and cash are also accepted, but mobile payments are more commonly used.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• The museum has a small café offering snacks and beverages.
• Nearby, you can find a variety of restaurants offering both Chinese and Western cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at the café. For vegan and halal food, there are several nearby restaurants in the area that cater to these dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are a variety of hotels in Nanjing, with options ranging from budget accommodations to luxury hotels. The Nanjing Grand Hotel and Hilton Nanjing are two nearby upscale options.

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

• The Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge
• Confucius Temple
• The Nanjing Museum

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The museum has a souvenir shop where you can find aviation-themed memorabilia, including model aircraft, books, and space-related items.

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

Taxi and bus services are readily available to continue your trip. The Nanjing metro system is also a convenient option for further exploration of the city.