Five Rings Lottery Museum

What are the most recommended things to do in Five Rings Lottery Museum?

  • Explore the history of lotteries and how they have evolved over time in China.
  • Take a guided tour through the museum’s exhibits, which showcase lottery-related artifacts.
  • Learn about the social impact of lotteries through interactive displays and videos.
  • Participate in some of the hands-on activities or simulations related to lottery games.
  • Discover the various lucky number systems used throughout history in different cultures.

Introducing the Five Rings Lottery Museum

The Wuhuan Lottery Museum, located at the foot of Qingliang Mountain in Nanjing, near the Stone City and on the banks of the Qinhuai River, is a sports lottery-themed museum integrating displays, exhibitions, and collections.

The museum, renovated from a European-style villa, covers an area of ​​922 square meters. The museum's lobby is located on the right side of the first floor, followed by a display hall on the second floor and an exhibition hall on the third floor. The exhibition hall is used for exhibitions, lectures, and academic exchanges. The remaining rooms are used for library and ancillary facilities.

The Lottery Museum’s featured collections include not only the complete set of China Sports Lottery from 1994 to 2008 issued by the Sports Lottery Management Center of the State General Administration of Sport and unpublished sports lottery tickets, but also sports lottery tickets from the Republic of China period with rich content.

It covers sports lotteries in Shanghai, Tianjin, Wuhan, Hebei, Shanxi, Shandong where horse racing was popular before the founding of the People's Republic of China, Fengtian, Jilin, Anshan during the Kant period, as well as Hong Kong and Macao. The sports lottery items include traditional champagne tickets, lottery tickets, horse racing tickets with guessing, and lotteries with different game modes such as dog racing and racquetball.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: about 1 hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Monday - Friday: 9:00-15:00

Closed on weekends, except holidays


Most Popular FAQs for Five Rings Lottery Museum

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

The Five Rings Lottery Museum is dedicated to the history and development of lotteries in China, with a focus on the national lottery system. It holds a collection of lottery-related memorabilia, highlighting the impact of these games on Chinese society, culture, and economy. It is significant for anyone interested in China’s modern history and the role lotteries play in social welfare funding.

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

The museum is located in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. It can be accessed via taxi or public transportation, such as buses and the metro. The nearest metro station is Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, from which a short taxi ride can take you to the museum.

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 weekdays during the morning hours when the museum is least crowded. Avoid weekends and public holidays if you want a quieter experience.

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

The entrance fee is typically 30 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local ticketing platforms. It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance during peak seasons.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended, especially during busy seasons like holidays. You can book tickets a few days in advance to ensure availability, particularly on weekends.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the museum. This includes time to browse through the exhibits, participate in interactive activities, and learn about the history of the lottery system in China.

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

  • The history of the Five Rings Lottery and how it began.
  • Interactive exhibits showcasing the various forms of lottery games throughout Chinese history.
  • The gallery featuring lottery tickets, promotional materials, and memorabilia from past lottery draws.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides are provided in both Mandarin and English. These guides provide a deeper understanding of the exhibits and the history behind the lottery system in China.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The main exhibit hall, which features large displays and historical artifacts related to the lottery system.
  • The entrance area, where you can capture the iconic signage of the museum.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the introductory section that explains the origins of the lottery system. Then proceed to the main exhibit hall showcasing the development of lotteries, followed by the interactive zones where you can try your luck. Finish with the gift shop for souvenirs.

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

The museum does not offer night visits or light shows. However, special tours may be available upon request for groups or educational purposes.

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

The museum can be quite busy on weekends and holidays, especially during peak tourist seasons. The least crowded times are weekdays, particularly in the morning before noon.

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

The museum has basic facilities including clean toilets. There is no food court inside, but you can find water vending machines. A small gift shop is located near the exit, offering souvenirs and educational materials.

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

The museum is wheelchair accessible and provides facilities for elderly and disabled visitors. There are also child-friendly sections, including interactive exhibits that engage younger audiences.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are accepted for ticket purchases and in the gift shop. It is recommended to carry cash as a backup, but digital payments are widely available.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • A few local restaurants offering Jiangsu cuisine are located nearby, providing good options for meals before or after your visit.
  • There are also cafés and tea houses in the vicinity where you can relax after exploring the museum.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants. Halal food options may be available in some of the local eateries around the area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • The InterContinental Nanjing offers luxury accommodation close to the museum.
  • For more budget-friendly options, hotels such as the Ibis Nanjing offer convenient locations and affordable rates.

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

  • The Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge is a must-see landmark nearby.
  • The Nanjing Museum, with its impressive collection of cultural artifacts, is a short drive away.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The museum's gift shop offers lottery-themed souvenirs, including replica tickets, books on the history of lotteries, and small trinkets related to the museum's exhibits.

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

After visiting the museum, you can continue your trip by taking a taxi or ride-sharing service. The Nanjing metro system is also a convenient way to get around the city for further sightseeing.