Zhejiang Museum of Natural History

Introducing Zhejiang Museum of Natural History

Zhejiang Natural History Museum, located at No. 6 West Lake Cultural Plaza, Hangzhou , is a national first-class museum with the theme of " Nature , Life , and Humanity " and the purpose of improving the public's natural science literacy and awareness of ecological civilization. It integrates the collection and research of natural specimens such as life sciences and earth sciences, exhibition and promotion, popular science education, cultural exchange and intellectual leisure.

The museum has a collection of over 200,000 items (sets), consisting of five exhibition areas: Earth's Life Stories, the Rich and Bizarre World of Biology, Green Zhejiang, Wild Places - Kenneth Belling World Wildlife Exhibition, and Adolescent Health Education Exhibition. It takes the birth and development of the earth and life as the main line, leading the public to explore the magnificence of nature.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

Free, special exhibitions are subject to payment

Attraction opening hours

November 1st - March 31st : 9: 30-17 : 00 , last admission at 16:00

April 1st - October 31st : 9:00-17: 00 , last admission at 16:00

Closed on Mondays. Open as usual on national holidays.

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Most Popular FAQs for Zhejiang Museum of Natural History

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

The Zhejiang Museum of Natural History (ZMNH) was originally founded in 1929 and over time became an independent natural history museum in 1984. It is one of China’s provincial museums specializing in life sciences and geosciences, with a collection of approximately 200,000 specimens. The museum plays an important educational and research role, promoting the theme of “harmony between humans and nature”.

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

It is located at No. 6, West Lake Cultural Square (西湖文化广场), Xiacheng (or Gongshu) District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. You can get there via:

• Metro: Take Hangzhou Metro Line 1 to West Lake Cultural Square Station, exit C, and walk a short distance to the museum.
• Taxi or ride-hailing: just give the address above; the location is central and easy to reach.
• Walking: If you're staying near West Lake or the downtown area, you might walk over from nearby attractions (weather & comfort permitting).

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

For the Hangzhou branch: Opens from 09:00 to 17:00. Admission ends at 16:00. On Mondays it is typically closed (except on national holidays). The best time to visit is right after opening (around 9 am) to avoid crowds, or later in the afternoon before closing.

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

Entrance to the Hangzhou branch is free. Tickets are likely obtained on-site (or via the museum’s official channels if needed) — online booking may be optional depending on special exhibitions.

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

Since admission is free, pre-booking is typically not required for standard entry. However, for special exhibitions or group visits you may want to check in advance via the museum’s website or call ahead.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Allocate 1.5 to 2 hours for a comfortable visit. Some visitors indicate ~1-1.5 hours for a general tour. If you enjoy detailed exploration (especially with children) allow 2–3 hours.

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

The main internal areas include:

• The “Earth Life Story” exhibition (origin of life, dinosaurs, mammal era)
• The “Rich & Fantastic Bioworld” section (variety of ecosystems, species displays)
• The “Green Zhejiang” area (local nature, ecosystems)
• The “Wild Land – Kenneth E. Behring Wildlife Exhibition” (large wildlife dioramas)

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

There is no indication of a comprehensive free guided tour in English mentioned in the sources. One reference notes you can rent a tour guide at the service desk for about 20 yuan. You may want to inquire on-site about language options (Chinese / English).

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The dramatic dinosaur skeletons and prehistoric models make for strong photo-ops (especially in the Earth Life Story section).

• The wildlife dioramas in the Wild Land exhibition provide immersive scenes, good for photos.

• The exterior architecture near West Lake Cultural Square and the museum entrance offer nice wide shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A suggested route:

• Start at the ground floor and view large animal-wall / temporary exhibition.
• Proceed upstairs to the “Earth Life Story” area and spend time with the dinosaur/mammal displays.
• Continue to the next level for the “Bioworld” and “Green Zhejiang” sections.
• Finish with the “Wild Land” section at the top level for immersive wildlife scenes.

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

There is no information found in the sources about night visits, light shows, or late-hours special tours at this museum. So assume standard daytime hours only.

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

Since admission is free and the museum is centrally located, it can become busy — especially with families and school groups. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning soon after opening, or on a weekday (non-holiday) in the afternoon.

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

Facilities mentioned: restrooms, stroller rental, wheelchair rental, baby-care room. There is no detailed listing of food/cafés inside, so perhaps minimal; you may want to eat near or after your visit in the square region.

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

Yes — child-friendly programs and exhibits are mentioned (interactive displays, family focus) Wheelchair rental is stated among amenity listings. The museum appears to have elevators or accessible floors (implied by floor layout). Elderly visitors should be comfortable; children especially will find it engaging.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While free admission reduces the need for a ticket purchase, it is likely that the museum and surrounding vendors accept mobile payments (e.g., Alipay/WeChat) and/or cards, given it is in urban Hangzhou. To be safe, have a mobile payment option or small cash for other services (parking, guide rental).

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby the West Lake Cultural Square there are numerous restaurants and cafés. One source lists options such as “Lao Tou Er You Bao Xia (Wulin branch)”, “1921 Lake View Restaurant”, “Suruga Japanese Restaurant”. Inside the museum may not have extensive dining; plan to eat nearby before or after your visit.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

While specific vegetarian/vegan/halal mentions are not in the source, given the city location, many restaurants nearby will have vegetarian options. For halal, you may need to check specific restaurants in the area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Yes — there are hotels near the museum. One list mentions: Merchant Marco Hotel, Zhongshan International Hotel, SSAW Boutique Hotel Hangzhou Lakeside, Friendship Hotel Hangzhou, Renhe Hotel.

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

Nearby you can also visit:

• West Lake (Xi Hu) — a famous scenic lake in Hangzhou, within reach.
• Zhejiang Provincial Museum (Wulin building) located in the same square area.
• Walking around the West Lake Cultural Square itself, which houses cultural and leisure facilities.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

While a specific souvenir shop is not detailed in the sources, many museums have gift shops near the entrance/exit selling items such as museum-branded stationery, models or toys of dinosaurs, nature-themed souvenirs, books. Ask at the service desk when you enter.

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

After your visit you can:

• Walk to the nearby metro station (West Lake Cultural Square Station) to continue to other parts of Hangzhou.
• Take a taxi or ride-hailing service from the museum’s location to your next destination.
• If you are driving, use the underground parking near the square (mentioned to be available) and then drive onward.