Sui and Tang Grand Canal Museum

Introducing Sui and Tang Grand Canal Museum

The Luoyang Sui and Tang Grand Canal Museum is built within the Shanxi and Shaanxi Guild Hall in Luoyang. Built during the reigns of Emperors Kangxi and Yongzheng of the Qing Dynasty, the Guild Hall boasts a history of over 300 years. Opposite the Guild Hall is the Memorial Hall of the Eighth Route Army's Office in Luoyang. Donated by wealthy merchants from the Qin and Jin dynasties, the Guild Hall served as a social gathering place for reconnecting with hometown ties, exchanging trade information, and honoring Guan Yu.

The guild hall faces south, with a dense front-facing and sparse back layout. It features a screen wall, mountain gate, dance hall, main hall, and worship hall. Two pairs of majestic stone lions stand before the gates. The 12-meter-high screen wall is constructed of carved blue bricks, with three central square panels inlaid with colored glazed bricks. These panels are carved with depictions of dragons playing with pearls, flowers, and figures. This is the largest and most complete glazed screen wall in western Henan.

The mountain gate, echoing the glazed screen wall, spans three bays. The east and west walls, flanked by eight-shaped walls, connect to the east and west ceremonial gates, respectively. A stone plaque inscribed with "Hedong Master" adorns the main gate. The dance hall, separated from the mountain gate by a skylight, is situated due south, facing north. The dance hall, five bays wide and three bays deep, forms a convex shape. Intricately carved wood carvings still remain. The main hall, the principal structure, spans five bays wide and three bays deep, boasts a unique hip-and-gable roof, glazed tiles, and interlocking brackets.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate monsoon climate; the museum displays and interprets the vast time and space span and profound historical influence of the Grand Canal of the Sui and Tang Dynasties in the form of pictures, real objects, models, videos, etc., and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The collections in the East and West Corridors and the East and West Official Halls, as well as the reliefs of the Grand Canal in the central square of the guild hall;

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Tuesday-Sunday: 9:00-17:00, closed on Mondays

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Most Popular FAQs for Sui and Tang Grand Canal Museum

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

The Sui and Tang Grand Canal Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and cultural significance of the Grand Canal, an ancient waterway that played a crucial role in connecting northern and southern China, promoting trade, culture, and economic development during the Sui and Tang dynasties.

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

The museum is located in Luoyang, Henan. It can be easily reached by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transportation options, such as buses, are also available.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during weekdays, especially in the morning to avoid the afternoon crowds.

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

The entrance fee is affordable, and tickets can be purchased at the museum entrance. It is not necessary to buy tickets online in advance.

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

There is no need to book tickets in advance. You can purchase tickets at the entrance when you arrive.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes around 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum, depending on your interest in the exhibits and the amount of time spent reading the information provided.

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

Key highlights include the exhibit on the Grand Canal's construction, the historical maps, and the artifacts from the Sui and Tang dynasties, including tools used in canal construction.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides may also be available, but typically in Chinese, so it is best to check in advance if you require one in a foreign language.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best spots for photography are around the displays of ancient canal artifacts, the scale models of the Grand Canal, and the historical maps detailing its expansion over time.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the introductory section on the history of the Grand Canal, then move through the exhibits about its construction, trade significance, and role in connecting various regions of China. Finish by exploring the detailed displays of artifacts and tools used in canal engineering.

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

Night visits or light shows are not available at this museum. It is best visited during the day to experience the exhibits fully.

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

The museum can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays.

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

The museum has basic facilities such as restrooms. However, there are no restaurants or cafes inside, so it is advised to bring your own water or snacks.

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

The museum is generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and appropriate facilities. However, visitors should check for any specific access needs before visiting.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is typically needed for ticket purchase, though cards and mobile payments may be accepted at the museum's gift shop or cafe.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes inside the museum, but nearby, you can find local eateries offering traditional Chinese food.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants. Halal food may also be found in some of the eateries catering to Muslim visitors in the city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near the city center, including mid-range and budget options. Some hotels offer easy access to public transport for visiting the museum and nearby attractions.

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

Nearby attractions include the Longmen Grottoes, the White Horse Temple, and Luoyang Old Town. These can easily be combined for a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops nearby offering local handicrafts, traditional Chinese artwork, and items related to the Grand Canal's history, such as miniatures of canal boats or historical maps.

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 bus to nearby attractions like the Longmen Grottoes or the White Horse Temple. Public transportation is readily available.