Qinghai Provincial Cultural Center

What are the most recommended things to do in Qinghai Provincial Cultural Center?

  • Explore the diverse exhibits showcasing the culture, arts, and history of Qinghai province.
  • Attend cultural performances or exhibitions that highlight local traditions.
  • Visit the various galleries dedicated to showcasing regional art and history.
  • Take part in workshops or interactive experiences focusing on local crafts and traditions.

Introducing Qinghai Provincial Cultural Center

The Qinghai Provincial Cultural Center is located in Chengdong District, Xining City. It was built in 1957. In recent years, with the care of the Provincial Party Committee and the Provincial Government, and the support of the Provincial Party Committee Propaganda Department, the Provincial Finance Department, and the Provincial Culture, Press and Publication Department, the new Qinghai Provincial Cultural Center was opened for trial operation on December 29, 2016 as a key cultural project for the benefit of the people during the "12th Five-Year Plan" period.

During the 12th Five-Year Plan period, the Qinghai Provincial Cultural Center has made unremitting efforts in exploring, inheriting and promoting Qinghai's ethnic folk art; organizing, planning and promoting various large-scale cultural activities across the province; and carrying out various art training, creation and theoretical research, which has been recognized by leaders at all levels and praised by all sectors of society.

In December 2015, based on the fact that the new museum’s facilities met the standards of a provincial-level first-class museum and the achievements made by the Qinghai Provincial Cultural Center in providing public cultural services to the society, the Qinghai Provincial Cultural Center was rated as a provincial-level first-class museum by the Ministry of Culture.

Climate and best time to travel

The plateau has a continental climate with abundant sunshine, long cold winters and cool summers. Summer is the best time to travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Qinghai Provincial Cultural Center has four functional areas:

The first is the three exhibition areas for displaying the achievements of mass culture, namely the mass cultural training exhibition area, the Qinghai characteristic culture exhibition area and the corridor exhibition area;

Secondly, there are facilities such as the photography exchange room, static training classroom, and dance (comprehensive) rehearsal room that provide various public counseling, training, and communication functions;

The third is online mass cultural service activities such as electronic reading rooms and digital cultural service centers, which provide functional facilities for digital information browsing platforms;

Fourth, there is the Star Theater with 457 seats and the Multi-Function Hall with 126 seats, which provide cultural and artistic popularization for people of all ages and levels all year round.


It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Monday-Friday: 09:00-12:00

15:00-18:00

Closed on Saturdays and Sundays


Most Popular FAQs for Qinghai Provincial Cultural Center

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

The Qinghai Provincial Cultural Center in Xining serves as a major hub for preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Qinghai Province. It features exhibitions on local traditions, art, and history, playing a significant role in fostering appreciation for the diverse ethnic groups in the region.

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

The center is located in Xining, the capital city of Qinghai Province. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from the city center. Public buses and local transport may also be available, but taxis are the most convenient option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The center is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during weekdays, particularly in the morning when it's less crowded. Avoid weekends and public holidays if you prefer a quieter experience.

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

The entrance fee is typically ¥40. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and online booking may be available via local ticketing platforms for convenience.

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

Booking in advance is not necessary, though it's advisable to check availability during peak tourist seasons. If you are visiting during a special exhibition or event, consider booking a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A typical visit lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the exhibits and performances you choose to explore. If attending a special event, you might want to allocate more time.

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

  • The main exhibition halls showcasing Qinghai’s ethnic cultures, history, and regional art.
  • The interactive cultural workshops where visitors can experience traditional arts.
  • The performance hall that hosts local music and dance performances.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available in Chinese, and some limited availability in English, but it's best to confirm in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are the open spaces outside the cultural center with views of the surrounding area, and the exhibition halls showcasing traditional crafts and artwork.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the main exhibition halls to get an overview of the province’s culture and history, followed by a visit to the workshops and then to the performance hall if time allows.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available. However, special cultural performances and exhibitions are occasionally scheduled in the evenings, so it’s worth checking the schedule in advance.

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

The center is generally not very crowded, especially on weekdays. To avoid crowds, visit in the morning or late afternoon on weekdays, and avoid weekends or public holidays.

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

The center has clean toilets and water fountains. There is a small café inside, offering refreshments. Rest areas are available, but food and dining options are more limited, with larger options available outside the center.

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

The cultural center is generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available. However, some areas may require extra assistance for mobility-impaired visitors, so it's advisable to inquire in advance for full accessibility details.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payment methods such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted. Credit cards are also commonly accepted at the main counter and shop.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There is a small café inside the cultural center, offering basic snacks and drinks. For more dining options, you can find a variety of restaurants and cafés around Xining's city center, within a short taxi ride.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants. Halal food can be found in some of the local eateries in Xining, particularly in the Muslim quarter.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • There are several hotels in Xining city center, ranging from budget to mid-range options, all within 15-20 minutes by car from the center.
  • Higher-end hotels such as the InterContinental Xining offer more luxurious accommodations for tourists.

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

  • The Kumbum Monastery, located about 30 minutes by car, is a must-see for visitors interested in Tibetan Buddhism and culture.
  • Take a trip to the Qinghai Lake, which is a bit further out, but perfect for a scenic day trip.
  • The Xining Tibetan Medicine Museum is another cultural destination worth visiting nearby.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops inside and around the cultural center, selling traditional Qinghai crafts, Tibetan jewelry, art, and cultural trinkets such as prayer beads and woven items.

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

Taxi is the most convenient option for continuing your trip to other attractions in Xining or nearby destinations. Public buses are available, but taxis offer a faster and more comfortable experience.