China Railway Museum

Introducing China Railway Museum

Located on Qianmen Street in Dongcheng District, Beijing, the China Railway Museum collects, preserves, and displays railway artifacts, promoting railway culture and disseminating knowledge about railway science and technology. The museum comprises three halls: the Zhengyangmen Hall, the Dongjiao Hall, and the Zhan Tianyou Memorial Hall. These halls house China's earliest surviving steam locomotives, locomotives named after Party and state leaders, various foreign-made locomotives used in old China, and the first generation of diesel and electric locomotives designed and manufactured in China after the founding of the People's Republic of China.

The museum's exhibits fully reflect the development of China's railways, bearing witness to their rise from humble beginnings to modernity. The period platforms, waiting rooms, and yellow, green, and blue trains, steeped in history, have become secret photo spots in Beijing, offering a refreshingly retro feel in every shot.

Climate and best time to travel

The northern temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate is characterized by hot and rainy summers and cold and dry winters.

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for 1 to 2 hours

Tickets

20 yuan/ticket

Attraction opening hours

09:00-17:00 (Ticket sales stop at 16:00) Closed on Mondays

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Most Popular FAQs for China Railway Museum

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

The China Railway Museum, established in 2008, showcases China’s railway history from the late Qing dynasty to the present. It is significant for preserving the development of China’s railroads and their role in the country’s modernization and economic growth.

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

The museum is located in the Fengtai District of Beijing. It can be accessed via the Beijing Subway Line 9, with the Fengtai Railway Station being the nearest stop. Taxis and buses also serve the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. The best time to visit is on weekdays, especially in the morning, to avoid crowds.

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

The entrance fee is generally around 20-30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but it’s recommended to check the official website for online purchasing options or special discounts.

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

Booking in advance is not mandatory, but for special exhibits or during peak tourist seasons, it’s advisable to buy tickets a few days ahead to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan for about 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum, including the exhibits and the outdoor train displays. For a more leisurely visit, allow up to 4 hours.

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

The must-see highlights include the old steam locomotives, the exhibition on the history of the railway, and the replica train stations showcasing the evolution of China’s railway infrastructure.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides are offered in English and Chinese for a more immersive experience. It’s recommended to check for availability in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the outdoor area with the large collection of trains, the historical railway artifacts, and the detailed models inside the museum.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the outdoor exhibit to view the iconic locomotives and then move indoors to explore the history and evolution of rail transport in China. Be sure to visit the model trains section at the end.

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

Night visits are not available, but special tours or events might be organized on occasion. It's best to check the museum’s official website for event schedules.

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

The museum can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays, especially in the morning right after opening.

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

The museum has toilets, water fountains, and a small café. There is also a souvenir shop where visitors can purchase railway-themed memorabilia.

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

The museum is wheelchair accessible, and there are elevators for easier access to the upper floors. It is also family-friendly, with plenty of space for children to explore.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted. It’s advisable to use mobile payment for convenience, but cash is also accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants and cafés around the museum, serving traditional Chinese dishes. The nearby Fengtai District offers a variety of dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are some vegetarian and halal food options available in the nearby eateries, particularly in the surrounding Fengtai District.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby hotels include the Beijing Railway Hotel and the Fengtai District’s local hotels, offering budget to mid-range accommodations.

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

Nearby attractions include the Beijing Planetarium, the Marco Polo Bridge, and the Beijing Zoo. These can easily be combined with a visit to the China Railway Museum for a full day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The museum has a souvenir shop where you can buy railway-themed items, such as model trains, books on Chinese rail history, and postcards.

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

After visiting, you can take the subway (Line 9), buses, or taxis to other key attractions in Beijing such as the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, or Tiananmen Square.