Nanjing Geological Museum

Introducing Nanjing Geological Museum

Founded in 1935, the Nanjing Geological Museum is my country's first specialized museum focused on geology and mineral resources, and one of the oldest natural science museums. It has become a comprehensive exhibition hall covering all areas of geoscience, renowned both domestically and internationally for its long history and rich collections. Its collections cover the history of modern Chinese geology, the origins of the Earth and life, rock and mineral analysis, and the restoration of the dinosaur world. It is a lively and engaging comprehensive geoscience museum rich in educational significance and the dissemination of geoscience knowledge.

When you come to Zhujiang Road and walk into the gate of Jiangsu Provincial Bureau of Geology and Mineral Exploration, you can see a red three-story building with German style. This is the Nanjing Geological Museum. The first floor mainly introduces the development history of the Geological Research Institute, the second floor focuses on Chinese stone culture, and the theme of the third floor is mineral resources and geological environment.

The most attractive part is the "Dinosaur World" on the second floor. When you walk into the second-floor lobby, a giant dinosaur skeleton appears in front of you, making you feel as if you have arrived in the Cretaceous period. In addition to the dinosaur skeleton model, precious dinosaur fossils are also displayed here.

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 1 to 2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Wednesday-Friday 9:30-16:30 (last admission at 16:00);

Saturday and Sunday 9:00-16:30 (last admission at 16:00);

Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays

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Most Popular FAQs for Nanjing Geological Museum

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

The Nanjing Geological Museum is a key institution for studying the geological history of the region. The museum's collection includes fossils, rocks, and mineral samples from different geological periods, offering valuable insight into the natural evolution of the Earth and the local environment.

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

The museum is located in the center of Nanjing, Jiangsu. It is easily accessible by public transport: take Metro Line 1 to the Nanjing East Railway Station and transfer to a local bus. Taxis and walking are also viable options if you're staying nearby.

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, especially in the morning when the museum is less crowded.

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

Tickets to the museum are typically affordable. You can buy them at the entrance on the day of your visit, or in some cases, you may be able to purchase tickets online through local tourism websites.

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

Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary, except during peak tourist seasons or special events. It’s always a good idea to check online for availability before your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the Nanjing Geological Museum takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. This allows time to go through the exhibits and enjoy the interactive displays.

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

The must-see highlights include the dinosaur fossils, mineral collection, and interactive geological models. The exhibits provide a comprehensive look at Earth’s geological processes, from ancient times to the present.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some audio guides may be offered in English. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter for availability.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The main photography spots include the dinosaur fossil display, the mineral exhibits, and the panoramic view of the museum’s interior. Be sure to capture some shots of the interactive exhibits and models.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the dinosaur fossils section, then explore the mineral displays before moving on to the interactive geological models. The exhibits are well laid out, so following the flow from one section to the next is recommended.

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

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available. The museum operates during daylight hours, and special tours may be available for school groups or special occasions.

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

The museum can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit on weekdays, especially early in the morning.

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

The museum offers basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There are no food or drink facilities inside, but nearby cafes and restaurants provide plenty of options.

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

The museum is wheelchair accessible, and it is suitable for elderly visitors and children. However, some areas may have stairs, so it's worth checking for any accessibility concerns before visiting.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted at the museum. Cards may also be usable in some cases, though it's recommended to use mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

While there are no cafes inside the museum, several restaurants and cafes are nearby, offering a variety of local and international cuisines. You can find options around Nanjing's bustling shopping areas.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available at many restaurants in the vicinity of the museum. Halal food can be found at certain restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby accommodations include the Nanjing Marriott Hotel, Jinling Hotel, and other mid-range hotels that offer convenient access to the museum and other local attractions.

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

Nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, Nanjing Museum, and the Confucius Temple. These can easily be combined into a day trip, offering a full experience of Nanjing’s cultural and historical highlights.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no dedicated souvenir shops inside the museum, but nearby areas offer shops selling local handicrafts, geology-related souvenirs, and traditional Nanjing items like silk products and tea.

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

Taxis, local buses, and the Nanjing Metro are all convenient options for continuing your trip after visiting the museum. The museum’s central location makes it easy to access other landmarks in Nanjing.