Dinosaur Museum

Introducing Dinosaur Museum

The discovery of the Dashanpu dinosaur fossils astonished the paleontological community and garnered the attention of scholars and tourists both domestically and internationally. Their discovery filled a gap in the history of dinosaur evolution, excavation, and research, attracting experts, scholars, and tourists from both China and abroad like a magnet. Since the fossils were discovered, no fewer than 200,000 visitors have flocked to the site annually. The dinosaur fossils have also been exhibited numerous times in Europe, Japan, and Southeast Asia. To recreate this glorious chapter in Zigong's geological history, the state invested tens of millions of yuan in 1984 to build the Zigong Dinosaur Museum, Asia's largest dinosaur museum, at the Dashanpu dinosaur fossil site. It is one of the world's three largest dinosaur museums, following Dinosaur National Park in the United States and Dinosaur National Park in Canada, and is known as the "Dragon Palace of the East." In 1991, the Zigong Dinosaur Museum was named one of China's "Top 40 Tourist Attractions" and nominated for World Geological Heritage status. In 2002, it became one of the first national geoparks, and in February 2008, it was approved by UNESCO as a member of the Global Geopark Network. It has become a sought-after tourist destination for both Chinese and international visitors.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Zigong Dinosaur Museum boasts a novel and unique architectural design, comprised of several stone buildings of varying sizes, shapes, and functions, resembling large sandstone structures scattered among a grove of subtropical flora. One of these hollow, elliptical spherical structures, nestled within a ring of green lawns, resembles a gigantic dinosaur head or a giant egg from a distance. This is the large stone sculpture, "Prehistoric Soul." The main building of the museum is ruggedly simple, elegant, and imposing, its cave-like form resembling a pile of yellow boulders from afar. This contrasts beautifully with the surrounding Mesozoic remnants of vegetation, evoking an impression of ancient desolation.

Entering the Dragon Palace's main gate, one steps back through millions of years into the ancient age of dinosaurs. A magnificent prehistoric scene unfolds before one's eyes: the central hall, basement, and fossil burial hall resemble a vast "dinosaur cemetery," with numerous animal remains reminiscent of the "Ten Thousand Dragon Pit," where animals were brutally slaughtered and "buried alive." This remarkable natural spectacle is breathtaking. The fossil burial hall, the centerpiece of the Zigong Dinosaur Museum, covers approximately 1,000 square meters. Approximately 40 individual dinosaur and symbiotic animal fossils have been uncovered, overlapping and intertwined. All fossils remain in their original burial condition.

The second floor of the museum houses the Dinosaur Age Flora and Fauna Hall, showcasing nearly 20 animal fossils unearthed from the site. These diverse dinosaurs and their symbionts, including fish, turtles, amphibians, plesiosaurs, pterosaurs, and triserodonts, showcase the ecological landscape and assemblage characteristics of the Jurassic dinosaur fauna at Dashanpu. Entering this hall is like stepping into an ancient "dragon world."

Tickets

1. Tickets:

1. Adult: 42 yuan/person

2. Minors (under 18 years old): 22 yuan/person. Every Monday (excluding statutory holidays), groups of minors who make reservations three days in advance are free of charge. Each group cannot exceed 200 people, and the maximum number of people per day is 500.

3. Students aged 18 and above (excluding adult education): RMB 22 per person

4. Children under 1.2 meters: free of charge

5. Senior citizens: 22 yuan per person for those aged 60 to 69; free of charge for those aged 70 and above

6. Disabled persons and active military personnel: free of charge

Special note: Audiences who enjoy free tickets or half-price tickets must present their valid relevant certificates.

2. Tour Guide Ticket: (no more than 20 people per batch)

1. Weekdays:

Mandarin explanation 60 yuan/batch

Foreign language (English, Japanese) explanation: 150 yuan/batch

2. During the Spring Festival, May Day, National Day Golden Week and Lantern Festival:

Mandarin explanation 80 yuan/batch

Foreign language (English, Japanese) explanation: 180 yuan/batch

Attraction opening hours

08:30-17:30 (Ticket sales stop at 17:00)

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Most Popular FAQs for Dinosaur Museum

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

The Dinosaur Museum in Zigong is famous for its extensive collection of dinosaur fossils, particularly from the Late Jurassic period. The museum plays a key role in the study and preservation of paleontological findings in China, showcasing significant dinosaur discoveries from the Sichuan Basin.

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

The Dinosaur Museum is located in Zigong, Sichuan Province. To reach the museum, you can take a taxi from the city center or use public buses that go to the museum area. It's about 15 minutes by car from the city center, and walking is possible if you're staying nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during weekdays or early in the morning to avoid large crowds, especially during weekends or Chinese holidays.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 80 RMB for adults. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter or online through the museum's official website for convenience.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, except during peak seasons such as national holidays. Booking a few days in advance is recommended if you plan to visit during busy periods.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can fully explore the Dinosaur Museum in about 2 to 3 hours, depending on how thoroughly you wish to engage with the exhibits. If you're keen on reading all the information and interacting with multimedia displays, plan for an additional 30 minutes to an hour.

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

The must-see highlights include the dinosaur skeletons, particularly the giant Mamenchisaurus. The fossil exhibitions, the life-sized dinosaur models, and the multimedia displays about paleontological discoveries are also key attractions.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be provided in both Mandarin and English, offering a more immersive experience to understand the exhibits better.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the large dinosaur skeletons on display, especially the Mamenchisaurus. The interactive dinosaur models and the outside area with life-sized replicas of dinosaurs also provide great opportunities for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the fossil exhibitions to learn about the history of dinosaurs, then move on to the life-sized dinosaur models and interactive displays. The museum also has a dedicated section for dinosaur research, which is worth visiting if you're interested in paleontology.

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

Currently, night visits and light shows are not available. The museum operates during daylight hours, and the exhibits are best viewed in natural light.

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

The museum can be crowded during weekends and national holidays. To avoid large crowds, it is best to visit during weekdays, particularly in the early morning when the museum first opens.

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

The museum has clean and well-maintained toilets. There are a few rest areas to sit and relax. Small shops are available where visitors can purchase souvenirs, and a café offering snacks and drinks is located inside the museum.

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

The museum is accessible for elderly visitors and children, with ramps and elevators available for easy access. However, there are some areas with stairs, so those with mobility issues may need assistance in navigating these sections.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are accepted at the museum. It's recommended to use mobile payments for convenience, but cash is also accepted for ticket purchases and souvenirs.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants near the museum serving Sichuanese cuisine. Inside the museum, there is a small café where you can grab snacks and drinks, but for a more substantial meal, head to nearby restaurants in Zigong city.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in most local restaurants near the museum, offering dishes like tofu and vegetables. Halal food options are less common, but there are some halal restaurants in Zigong city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near the Dinosaur Museum, ranging from budget options to mid-range hotels. For a more luxurious stay, there are also high-end hotels in Zigong city center, about 15-20 minutes from the museum.

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

Nearby attractions include the Zigong Salt History Museum, the Zigong Lantern Park, and the Fuxi Temple. These can easily be combined in a day trip from the Dinosaur Museum.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The museum has a gift shop where visitors can purchase dinosaur-themed souvenirs such as plush toys, figurines, T-shirts, and postcards. Local handicrafts are also available in nearby markets.

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

After visiting the Dinosaur Museum, taxis and buses are readily available to continue your journey. For a more flexible experience, you can also hire a private car to explore nearby attractions like Zigong Lantern Park and Fuxi Temple.