Live Your Best Lives
The Tianjin Museum of Broken Relationships is a unique museum showcasing personal items donated by people around the world that represent lost or broken relationships. Visitors can explore emotional artifacts, read stories, and reflect on the complexities of human relationships. It’s a thought-provoking and introspective experience.
Located on the third floor of Joy City, 189 Nanjing Road, Heping District, Tianjin, the Tianjin Museum of Broken Relationships offers purpose to these otherwise lost gifts. Behind each piece lies a memory and experience shared between two individuals. It's a worthwhile place to experience unique emotions and, in essence, a unique form of growth.
The collection at the Museum of Broken Relationships includes love letters, engagement rings, massage oil, scooters, and empty wine bottles left over from past relationships. Each exhibit has a caption written by the donor, explaining its origin and significance.
The founders invite people to contribute mementos of love and the stories behind them, hoping to help those who have suffered a broken heart find peace and heal. They hope to offer their own romantic journeys, perhaps less bumpy than those of other lovers who have also experienced the same fate. The exhibits, sourced from around the world, reveal that despite differences in culture, customs, and religion, people share a common appreciation for love and a pursuit of happiness. Therefore, "we can call it a love museum, just in a different way of expressing it." In other words, this museum itself is a product of a broken heart.
Temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate; Tianjin Museum of Broken Relationships is a venue that collects and exhibits many historical items of broken relationships, and is suitable for travel in all seasons.
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
45 yuan/person
10:00-21:30
The museum is part of a global movement, with similar locations around the world. It started in Croatia and has been adopted in various cities, including Tianjin. The museum’s significance lies in its exploration of human emotions and personal experiences, offering a glimpse into how relationships shape our lives.
The Tianjin Museum of Broken Relationships is located in Tianjin, China. It can be easily accessed by taxi or public transportation. The nearest metro stations are within a short walking distance, and the museum is well-signposted for visitors arriving by bus.
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during weekdays, especially in the morning, when it is less crowded, allowing for a more personal and reflective experience.
The entrance fee is relatively affordable, usually around 30–50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased both online and at the museum’s ticket counter. It’s recommended to check the official website for updates on pricing and online booking options.
Booking in advance is not necessary but can be a good idea during peak tourist seasons or weekends. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, booking a day or two in advance is sufficient.
It typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the museum fully. Depending on your interest in reading the stories behind the artifacts, it could take a bit longer for a deeper experience.
The main highlight of the museum is the collection of personal objects tied to broken relationships, each accompanied by touching stories. The museum is divided into sections based on different themes, such as love, betrayal, and heartbreak, providing a deep emotional journey.
Currently, the museum does not offer formal guided tours, but audio guides in multiple languages are available, including English and Chinese. These guides provide a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
The museum’s exhibits are all very personal and reflective, making it a place best suited for quiet contemplation rather than traditional photography. However, the stories and items themselves are highly photo-worthy for anyone wanting to capture the emotional significance.
Start by exploring the introductory section to understand the museum’s concept, then move through the exhibits in a chronological order. Each section tells its own story, so taking time to read the descriptions will enhance your experience.
The museum operates during the day only and does not offer light shows or night visits. Special events or exhibitions may occur from time to time, so it’s worth checking the museum’s schedule for any updates.
The museum tends to be less crowded during weekdays, especially in the early mornings. Weekends and public holidays can be busier, so visiting on weekdays is recommended for a more peaceful experience.
The museum offers basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There are no major food or shopping areas inside the museum, but there are cafes and souvenir shops nearby in the city center.
The museum is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available. However, it may not have extensive facilities for children, as the museum’s content is generally more suited for adults and those interested in relationship-themed exhibitions.
Both cash and mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted. It’s advisable to use mobile payments for convenience, though cash can also be used.
There are several restaurants and cafes near the museum, offering a variety of cuisines. Popular options include Chinese, Western, and local Tianjin dishes.
Yes, there are vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options available in nearby restaurants. It’s easy to find restaurants catering to dietary preferences in the Tianjin city area.
There are numerous hotels near the museum, ranging from budget to luxury accommodations. Popular hotels include international chains and local boutique hotels in the city center.
Other nearby attractions include the Tianjin Ancient Culture Street, the Tianjin Eye, and the Nanshi Cuisine Street. These landmarks are easily accessible and can be visited together as part of a full day trip.
There are no souvenir shops directly in the museum, but nearby shopping areas in Tianjin offer traditional souvenirs such as local snacks, cultural items, and handmade crafts.
After visiting the museum, you can easily take a taxi, metro, or bus to nearby attractions like the Tianjin Ancient Culture Street or the Tianjin Eye. The city’s public transport system is efficient and well-connected.
