At the Zhejiang Wuyue Ancient Ceramics Museum, visitors can explore the extensive collection of ancient ceramics, including pieces from various Chinese dynasties. The museum offers a deep dive into the craftsmanship and history behind ceramic art, as well as interactive exhibits to engage visitors of all ages. It's a great place to learn about traditional Chinese pottery techniques and cultural heritage.

The Zhejiang Wuyue Ancient Ceramics Museum, located on Hefang Street in Wushan, Hangzhou, is a provincial-level private museum dedicated to showcasing 7,000 years of ancient pottery culture and the dawn of 5,000 years of civilization. The museum houses over 2,000 prehistoric artifacts from the Hemudu and Liangzhu cultures.
The museum's collections are divided into several categories: pottery, bone, stone, and wooden artifacts. They demonstrate the 5,000-year history of Chinese civilization from multiple perspectives, including food culture, drinking culture, agricultural production, textile technology, ancient art, primitive writing, and the calendar of the sun, moon, and stars.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour
free
9:30-17:00
The Zhejiang Wuyue Ancient Ceramics Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of ceramic art from the Wuyue region, which has a longstanding tradition of pottery making. The museum features rare collections that highlight the evolution of ceramics over several centuries, making it a key location for art lovers and historians alike.
The museum is located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. Visitors can reach the museum by taking a taxi or public transport (bus or metro) from the city center. The nearest metro station is about a 10-minute walk from the museum.
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon during weekdays when it is less crowded.
The entrance fee is typically around 30-50 RMB, depending on the time of visit or special exhibitions. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the museum or through their official website if available.
While tickets are generally available onsite, it is recommended to book in advance during peak tourist seasons or for special exhibitions, ideally 1-2 days in advance.
It typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum, depending on your interest in the exhibits and whether you choose to attend any special presentations or activities.
The must-see highlights include the ancient ceramic collections from different dynasties, especially those from the Tang, Song, and Yuan periods. The museum’s special exhibitions, such as pottery making techniques and the history of ceramics in Zhejiang, are also highly recommended.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides are provided in both Chinese and English. You can rent them at the entrance or book in advance for larger groups.
The best photography spots are around the main exhibit halls, where you can capture detailed close-ups of the ancient ceramics. The museum’s architecture, with its traditional design, also provides a picturesque backdrop for photos.
Start with the introduction to ceramic history in the main hall, then move on to the thematic galleries showcasing the different dynastic periods. End your visit with the ceramics restoration exhibit, where you can see preservation techniques in action.
Currently, night visits are not available, and there are no regular light shows. Special tours or events may be organized, such as pottery-making workshops or exhibitions, so it’s worth checking the museum’s schedule before visiting.
The museum can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon.
The museum has basic facilities, including restrooms and water fountains. There are no large food courts, but a small café offering drinks and snacks is available. Souvenir shops offer a selection of ceramic-based items and local crafts.
The museum is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available for easier access. It is also family-friendly, offering educational activities for children.
Mobile payment options such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Cash and credit cards may also be used for ticket purchases and in the museum shop.
Inside the museum, there is a small café offering tea, coffee, and light snacks. For larger dining options, several restaurants serving local Hangzhou cuisine are located nearby.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants. Halal food is not widely available in the immediate vicinity, but there are a few restaurants in Hangzhou offering halal options.
There are several hotels near the museum, ranging from budget to luxury options. Popular choices include the Hangzhou Tower Hotel and the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou, which are both within a 15-minute drive from the museum.
Nearby attractions include West Lake, Lingyin Temple, and the China National Silk Museum. These can all be visited in a single day, with West Lake being a particularly popular spot for relaxation and sightseeing.
The museum shop offers a range of souvenirs, including ceramic replicas, traditional tea sets, and handcrafted pottery items. Local arts and crafts are also available for purchase.
After visiting the museum, you can take a taxi or public transport (bus or metro) to explore nearby attractions such as West Lake. Bicycles are also available for rent in the area for a scenic ride around the lake.