Shadow Puppet Art Museum of China Academy of Art

Introducing China Academy of Art Shadow Puppet Art Museum

The China Academy of Art Shadow Puppet Art Museum is located on Nanshan Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, next to the Nanshan Campus of the China Academy of Art . It was established based on a collection of more than 47,000 shadow puppets and related cultural relics donated by the famous collector Professor Zhao Shutong . A variety of shadow puppets and shadow puppet props can be appreciated here, and shadow puppet performances are held regularly on the second floor.

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

free

Attraction opening hours

9 : 30-16 : 30, closed on Mondays

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Most Popular FAQs for Shadow Puppet Art Museum of China Academy of Art

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

The Shadow Puppet Art Museum of China Academy of Art in Hangzhou is dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional Chinese art of shadow puppetry, which dates back over 2,000 years. The museum showcases various puppets, performance techniques, and the cultural importance of this folk art in Chinese history.

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

The museum is located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. It can be accessed by taxi or public bus. The nearest metro station is approximately 20 minutes away, and you can take a short taxi ride from there to the museum.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day. It is best to visit in the morning on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during weekends or national holidays when it may get busy.

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

The entrance fee is around 50 CNY for adults. Tickets can be purchased both on-site and online via the museum's official website or third-party ticketing platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or special events. A few days in advance should be sufficient, but it's always a good idea to check availability beforehand.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the museum can take around 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the exhibits and attending any live performances or workshops.

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

The must-see highlights include the collection of traditional shadow puppets, the exhibitions detailing the history of this art form, and the live puppet performances if available. The hands-on experience section where you can try manipulating puppets is also highly recommended.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there may be audio guides available in English. It's advisable to check in advance for language options and availability.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are near the displays of puppets and during live puppet performances. The intricate details of the puppets make for great close-up shots. However, taking photos during the performances may require permission, so check with museum staff first.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the introductory exhibition to understand the history of shadow puppetry, followed by exploring the different regional variations of puppets. If available, watch a performance or participate in a workshop towards the end of your visit for a hands-on experience.

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

The museum does not typically offer night visits or light shows. However, special tours or performances may be available depending on the schedule, so it’s a good idea to inquire in advance or check the museum's event calendar.

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

The museum can get crowded on weekends and during holidays. The least crowded times are typically on weekdays, particularly in the morning hours.

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

The museum has basic facilities including restrooms and a small shop selling souvenirs and shadow puppetry-related items. There is no dedicated restaurant, but nearby areas offer dining options.

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

The museum is generally accessible to elderly and children, with elevators available for easy access to different floors. However, it’s recommended to check with the museum for specific accessibility requirements for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted at the museum, as well as credit/debit cards. Cash payments are also accepted but less common.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several cafes and restaurants in the vicinity of the museum offering local Zhejiang cuisine and international options. For a quick snack, try one of the local tea houses serving traditional Hangzhou tea and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants, especially those serving traditional Chinese vegetarian dishes. Halal food can be found in some of the local eateries catering to Muslim customers.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near the Shadow Puppet Art Museum, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Some nearby hotels include the Hangzhou Hyatt Regency and the Sofitel Hangzhou.

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

Other nearby attractions include West Lake, one of China's most famous scenic spots, as well as the China National Silk Museum and the Zhejiang Provincial Museum. All are easily accessible by taxi or public transport.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The museum has a small souvenir shop where you can purchase shadow puppetry-related items such as miniature puppets, traditional masks, and art books about the history and techniques of shadow puppetry.

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 public transport to explore nearby attractions like West Lake or the silk museum. Hangzhou's public transit system, including buses and metro, provides convenient options for getting around the city.