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The Henan Provincial Geological Museum, a newly established public welfare institution, was approved by the Henan Provincial Organization Committee (Document No. 19 [2001]) and was formed from the library, information center, and geological museum of the former Henan Provincial Department of Geology and Mineral Resources. Its primary responsibilities include: managing and exhibiting geological resources throughout the province; and managing land and mineral resource data and archives. The Henan Provincial Geological Museum serves as a window to the outside world regarding the province's land and resources, and is a key venue for popularizing land and resources knowledge and managing land and mineral resource data and archives.
The museum currently houses over 5,000 fossil, rock, and mineral specimens; 7,114 sets of geological data; and over 90,000 books and documents in both Chinese and foreign languages. The museum's geological exhibition features seven exhibition rooms: Metal Minerals, Energy Minerals, Non-metallic Minerals, Medicinal Minerals, Rock Minerals, Paleontology, and Gemstones, as well as a film room. The museum displays 2,193 mineral and rock specimens. The geological data collection encompasses historical geological reports from various industries across the province, including geology, mining, nonferrous metals, metallurgy, coal, building materials, and chemicals.
Currently, the library has a war preparedness library and an external loan library, and is currently developing a geological graphic and text information system. The library currently has a collection of more than 60,000 natural science books, including more than 5,000 geological professional documents before 1935, and more than 30,000 social science books.
With a temperate monsoon climate featuring moderate temperatures and four distinct seasons, the Henan Geological Museum is a popular science museum dedicated to the general public, with a focus on young people and those working in resource and environmental affairs, while also catering to the needs of scientific researchers. It is an ideal destination for scientific research, popular science, leisure, entertainment, and stone appreciation, making it a great place to visit in all seasons.
The museum features a Hall of Earth, a Hall of Dinosaurs, a Hall of Biological Evolution, a Hall of Ancient Elephants, a Hall of Mineral Resources, a Hall of Geological Environment, a Hall of Minerals, a 4D Motion Theater (Multi-Purpose Hall), and an Earthquake and Tsunami Experience Theater. Outside, there's a mineral forest, a science plaza, and dinosaur sculptures. Currently, the museum holds 7,357 records (types) and 13,328 sets of geological materials; over 90,000 volumes of Chinese and foreign books and documents, as well as specialized geology books and documents; and over 50,000 fossil, rock, and mineral specimens, 2,193 of which are on display. Here, visitors can fully appreciate the natural wonders created by the Earth's movements.
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
free
Tuesday-Sunday: 9:00-16:30
Open as usual on holidays
The Henan Provincial Geological Museum is one of the largest geological museums in China. It highlights the rich geological history of the Henan Province, including its significant mineral deposits, fossils, and tectonic activity. The museum plays a key role in educating the public about earth sciences and the natural world.
The Henan Provincial Geological Museum is located in Zhengzhou, the capital of Henan Province. It can be accessed by taking a taxi or bus from the city center. There are also metro stations nearby, making it easily accessible for visitors.
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. The best times to visit are on weekdays, especially in the morning, to avoid crowds and enjoy a more leisurely experience.
The entrance fee is typically around ¥20-¥30 per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the museum's ticket counter. It's advisable to check online for any special exhibitions that may require advanced booking.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required unless there is a special event or exhibition. During peak times like holidays, it's a good idea to book tickets a few days in advance.
Most visitors spend about 2-3 hours exploring the museum. If you wish to participate in additional workshops or attend special exhibitions, plan for extra time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and an audio guide is also offered in Chinese. It is advisable to book a guided tour in advance if you need services in other languages.
Start by exploring the main exhibition hall with fossils and minerals, then move to the interactive geological displays. Conclude with a visit to the educational section for hands-on activities or a special exhibition if available.
Night visits are not available. However, the museum occasionally hosts special exhibitions or evening lectures, which may require advanced booking.
The museum tends to be less crowded on weekdays, particularly in the morning. Weekends and public holidays can be busy, so it's best to visit during the week if you prefer a quieter experience.
The museum has clean and accessible restrooms. There are no major food services inside, but there are water dispensers. A small shop offers souvenirs related to geology and earth sciences.
The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators for easy access to all floors. It's also family-friendly with interactive exhibits suitable for children.
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted. Credit cards may also be used in the gift shop or for purchasing tickets.
Vegetarian food options are available at many local restaurants. Halal food options can be found in some parts of Zhengzhou, particularly in the city center.
The museum has a small gift shop offering geology-related souvenirs, such as fossils, rocks, and educational books about earth sciences.
