At the Tu Yidao Root Art Collection Museum, visitors can admire intricate root art sculptures, learn about the traditional craftsmanship of root carving, and explore the gallery’s exhibitions on natural forms of artistry. It's an excellent spot for art lovers and photography enthusiasts.

The Tu Yidao Root Art Collection, located in Hongmei Park in Tianning District, Changzhou City, Jiangsu Province, is a complex of antique courtyard-style buildings, featuring whitewashed walls and black tiles, carved beams and painted buildings, a winding bridge, and lush greenery. The museum boasts elegant decor, staggered exhibition booths, and organized displays of the collection.
The museum's director, master of root art, Mr. Tu Yidao, was born in Douxiang, Beimen, Changzhou, in 1913 and later settled in Fuzhou. He currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Root Sculpture Art Committee of the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles and Vice Chairman of the Chinese Flower and Bonsai Root Art Academic Committee.
Mr. Tu Yidao's works are renowned throughout China and abroad, earning him the title of " World Treasure . " They have been highly praised and recognized by Party and state leaders, including former Vice Premier Gu Mu, who personally inscribed the inscription: " Unique ingenuity, natural artistry . "
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The museum showcases the unique art of root carving, where natural roots are transformed into artistic sculptures. Tu Yidao, the artist and founder, has greatly contributed to promoting this traditional Chinese craft, which emphasizes the beauty found in natural shapes and forms.
The Tu Yidao Root Art Collection Museum is located in Jiangsu. It can be reached by taxi or private car, and public buses are also available nearby. Walking may be feasible depending on your proximity to the museum.
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during weekdays, as weekends may be more crowded with tourists. Spring and autumn are ideal for enjoying the surroundings of the museum.
The entrance fee is generally between 30 and 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or in advance via local tourism websites or apps.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons or weekends. A few days in advance should suffice, especially for group bookings.
You can explore the museum in 1 to 2 hours. This allows time to appreciate the art, read about the history of root carving, and enjoy the exhibits at a leisurely pace.
The must-see highlights include the root carving galleries, the exhibit detailing the process of creating root art, and the unique sculptures created from various types of roots. The most intricate and detailed pieces are usually featured in the main hall.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in both Mandarin and English are offered for a more self-guided experience. These provide in-depth explanations of the works and the craft behind them.
The best photography spots include the exhibition halls, where the lighting highlights the textures of the root carvings. Capture the fine details of the sculptures and the unique forms they take in the main gallery.
Start by visiting the introduction area that explains the history and origins of root carving. Then, explore the main gallery to see the sculpted roots. Finish with the exhibition on the artistic process and materials used in root carving.
Currently, the museum does not offer night visits or light shows. Special tours or exhibitions may occasionally be held, so it’s worth checking the museum’s schedule before planning a visit.
The museum can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, especially in the early mornings when it is less busy.
The museum has basic facilities such as clean restrooms and a small shop selling souvenirs and art-related items. Water and snacks may be available in the shop.
The museum is generally accessible, with ramps for wheelchair users and paths suitable for elderly visitors. However, some areas may require assistance for those with limited mobility.
Cards and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted throughout the museum, including for ticket purchases and in the souvenir shop. Cash payments are also possible.
There are several local restaurants nearby offering Jiangsu cuisine, including noodle dishes and steamed dumplings. A café is available inside the museum, offering light snacks and drinks.
Vegetarian options are available at nearby restaurants, though vegan and halal options may be limited. It’s advisable to check with the restaurant in advance for dietary requirements.
There are a few mid-range hotels near the museum. The city center of Changzhou offers a variety of accommodations, including budget and luxury options within a short driving distance.
Nearby attractions include the Changzhou Dinosaur Park and Tianning Temple. These are easy to combine in a day trip for a varied sightseeing experience in the region.
Yes, there is a souvenir shop in the museum where you can purchase traditional Chinese root carvings, art prints, and other locally made crafts, such as decorative items and sculptures.
Taxis, buses, and private cars are the best transportation options for continuing your journey after visiting. The nearby Changzhou city center offers additional transport options to other tourist spots.