Lion City Museum

Introducing Lion City Museum

The Lion City Museum is located on the east side of the Lion City Road Tourist Wharf in Jiangjia Town, Qiandao Lake. It is a " Millennium Lion City" cultural theme museum that integrates sightseeing, collection, integration, design and education through the excavation , collection, integration, design and display of the world-renowned 1,339 -year -old underwater ancient city of Qiandao Lake - Lion City culture. It features historical buildings, Lion City scenery and pagoda culture .

The Lion City Museum is divided into five major areas: the Kuiwen Pagoda, the main exhibition hall, the secondary exhibition hall, the reception room, and the audio-visual room. Through panoramic models, numerous reliefs, and real objects, it depicts the Lion City of half a century ago. High-tech technology also allows visitors to experience the immersive feeling of diving into the ancient city.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour

Tickets

Included in the ticket price of Wenyuan Lion City

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Most Popular FAQs for Lion City Museum

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

The Lion City Museum in Hangzhou is dedicated to the archaeological findings of the ancient submerged Lion City (Shi Cheng) at Qiandao Lake. This city, believed to have been built around 1,000 years ago during the Eastern Han Dynasty, was intentionally flooded during the construction of a hydroelectric dam in the 1950s. It provides a rare glimpse into ancient Chinese architecture and culture.

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

The museum is located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. You can reach the Lion City Museum by taxi or public transport from Hangzhou city center. The nearest metro station is at least a few kilometers away, so taking a taxi is the most convenient option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Lion City Museum is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during weekdays, especially outside of Chinese holidays, to avoid large crowds.

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

The entrance fee for the museum is usually around ¥50-¥80. Tickets can be purchased both online through the official museum website or onsite at the museum entrance.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays. It's best to book at least a few days ahead to secure a spot for popular times.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the Lion City Museum typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the exhibits, depending on your interest in history and archaeology.

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

• The artifacts retrieved from the Lion City, including statues, pottery, and coins.
• The multimedia presentations that describe the history of the submerged city.
• The section dedicated to the conservation efforts and underwater archaeology of Qiandao Lake.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and some may offer English-speaking guides upon request. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, are available for a more self-paced experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

While photography is often not permitted in some sections of the museum to protect the artifacts, the exhibits featuring underwater photography of the Lion City ruins provide great opportunities for memorable shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the introductory multimedia exhibits to understand the history of the submerged city, followed by a detailed look at the archaeological findings. End the visit with a tour of the conservation area to learn about the preservation efforts.

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

Currently, the museum does not offer night visits or light shows. Special tours may be available by prior arrangement for groups or during special events.

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

The museum can be crowded on weekends and Chinese holidays. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays, particularly in the morning hours.

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

The museum has clean restrooms, a small cafe, and souvenir shops offering books, replicas, and local crafts. Water fountains are available throughout the facility.

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

The museum is accessible for elderly visitors, children, and disabled guests. It features ramps and elevators for easy access to all areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Credit cards and mobile payment options such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• The museum has a small on-site cafe serving light snacks and beverages.
• Nearby, there are local Chinese restaurants offering regional Zhejiang cuisine, such as Dongpo pork and freshwater fish dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Many local restaurants around the museum offer vegetarian options, and some may offer halal dishes, particularly in the more tourist-friendly areas of Hangzhou.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Hotel, offering luxury accommodations with easy access to the museum.
• Courtyard by Marriott Hangzhou, providing comfortable stays for tourists visiting the museum and surrounding attractions.

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

• West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its scenic beauty and historical significance.
• Lingyin Temple, one of the largest and most famous Buddhist temples in China.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The museum has a souvenir shop offering replicas of archaeological artifacts, books about the Lion City, and local crafts such as tea sets and silk products.

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

• The Hangzhou Metro provides convenient access to other attractions like West Lake and the Lingyin Temple.
• Taxis or ride-sharing services such as Didi are available for further exploration around Hangzhou.